Momentum - Matthew Cork and Friends Southwest by Lifetogether Ministries

Copyright © 2019 by Matthew Cork, Friends Southwest ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Published by LifeTogether Ministries 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. ISBN: 978-1-950007-43-1 Printed in the United States of America

BUT YOU WILL RECEIVE POWER WHEN THE HOLY SPIRIT COMES ON YOU; AND YOU WILL BE MY WITNESSES IN JERUSALEM, AND IN ALL JUDEA AND SAMARIA, AND TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH. ACTS 1:8 MISSION STATEMENT OF FRIENDS SOUTHWEST FUELING A SPIRIT-LED MOVEMENT WHERE JESUS CHANGES PEOPLE WHO CHANGE THE WORLD

CONTENTS Foreword by Heidi Matson Welcome by Matthew Cork Acknowledgments Using This Study (Read This First) Outline for Each Session

6 8 10 13 14

SESSIONS SESSION ONE: Anticipation

SESSION TWO: The Holy Spirit

SESSION THREE: Better Together - Community

SESSION FOUR: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Not about Us - Outreach

SESSION FIVE: World Changer - Jesus

APPENDICES Frequently Asked Questions Life Group Roles Memory Verse Cards (Clip and Review) Life Group Roster

82 86 88 91

LIFE GROUP LEADERS Leading for the First Time Leadership Training 101

93 94

Notes

FOREWORD Have you ever found yourself just going through the motions in life, feeling disconnected? I have. Our culture keeps us “dialed in” and in “constant contact.” We can text, email, instant-message anytime, anywhere. We can relate through social media, phone, video conferencing—and we are busy. Our lives are packed with work, sports, family, church—the list goes on! Despite the fact that many of these things are good and hold the possibility of connection, we can feel isolated and alone; like no one really knows us.

More than ever, we need a group of friends who take the time to know us, encourage us, pray for us, love us, and let us do the same for them. Life Groups can provide that kind of community, especially when we make a commitment to be present and honest in our times together. Momentum focuses on the power and presence of the Holy Spirit to connect us in transformative ways with God, other Christians, and a hurting world that needs Jesus. In this study weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll take our cues from stories of the early church in the first four chapters of the book of Acts. The stories reveal ordinary people like us who felt lost, disconnected, and unsure, until their lives were forever changed by the power of the Holy Spirit and Jesus commissioning them with an eternal purpose in life. We believe the same power that birthed the Church and changed the world is still present today. The Holy Spirit is not absent or subdued, He is waiting for us to give Him more access to our lives so He can empower us to live out the mission Jesus gave us. In our journey together, we will focus on the Holy Spirit, community, outreach and Jesus Himself. It is our prayer that each part of this study will impact our hearts anew with the love Jesus has for us, and the power His Spirit provides to live lives that make His love famous. May we personally, as individual churches and as a family of churches, encounter the Holy Spirit more deeply together so we can be people who are changed to change the world. Heidi Matson Friends Southwest Director of Spiritual Formation and Pastoral Care

WELCOME FROM MATTHEW CORK I really like the word momentum! And I’ve been thinking about it a lot, lately. Momentum is an inviting, intriguing, and challenging word. But what does it mean? Here’s a working definition of momentum: something or someone in motion. Not only that, momentum implies a growing energy that drives something forward. In my world, I’m praying and eager to see God’s people, the Church, experience momentum that is evidence of God at work, moving the Gospel forward through each one of us. Something or someone not moving has inertia. You could say they’re “dead in the water.” It takes an application of inner or outer power to overcome inertia and establish momentum. Most of us in the Church want to see authentic momentum in our individual lives and in our life together. But where does the power come from to overcome spiritual inertia? What or Who gets us moving? The Bible tells us. We can see how God’s power transformed a small group of frightened and overwhelmed disciples into a force that took the world by storm. And we can accept the kinds of promises found in God’s Word: And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. (Ephesians 3:17b-21).

Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s my prayer for all of us during these weeks. Thanks again for taking the time to be a part of this study. We are honored to share it with you. Grace & Peace, Matthew Cork Superintendent, Friends Southwest Lead Pastor, Friends Church Yorba Linda

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS What you hold in your hands is an example of what can be done when a group of diverse people come together and share their gifts for the Kingdom. Momentum is a project that has had many creative minds, diligent hands, and kingdom-oriented hearts pouring over it. We want to thank Brett Eastman from LifeTogether, who challenged and partnered with us in taking on this project, believing in the movement God is calling us to as Friends. His team, Katie Crofford, Neil Wilson, KyLynn Richey, and Joel Gabrielsen offered tremendous creativity, enthusiasm, and guidance along the way. We couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have done it without them! Further thanks go to Heidi Matson, Joe Basile, and Ryan Holleman who brought their passion, wisdom, honesty, and commitment to the video teaching sessions. Your contribution not only made this project a joy to be part of, but I believe will inspire many to fall more deeply in love with Jesus and live as world-changers in His name. Scott Benson served as the Project Manager and did a fantastic job leading a competent and gifted team made up of Heidi Matson, Kathy Verhoeven, Drew Heim, and Jonathan Reider who lovingly labored over the content and structure of this life group curriculum. Additional contributors are Andrea Leach, Jan Lynn, and Ron Prentice who helped manage details from copy editing to product distribution. Thanks to Chris Ward who wrote the sermon outlines and Travis West and his creative team who contributed the artwork. I appreciate each one of you and am so grateful for the privilege of serving together.

Lastly, I’d like to thank you – our life group leaders and members. Thank you for participating in this series. Thank you for joining us in this journey as a family of churches. It is our deepest desire that the Lord will use the solidarity of engaging Momentum together to further fuel a “Spirit-led movement where Jesus changes people who change the world.” Grace & Peace, Matthew Cork

USING THIS STUDY GUIDE TOOLS TO HELP YOU HAVE A GREAT LIFE GROUP EXPERIENCE! 1.

In the Table of Contents there are three sections: (1) Sessions, (2) Appendices, (3) Life Group Leaders. The Appendices and Life Group Leaders sections provide tools for leading your life group.

Use this study guide to facilitate your life group’s discussions. 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. Read the Outline for Each Session on the next pages so that you understand how the sessions will flow.

In the Appendices, you will find an FAQ, Life Group Roles, Memory Verse Cards, and the Life Group Roster.

In the Life Group Leaders section you’ll find some leadership tips that will help you avoid many common obstacles to effective group leading.

Enjoy your life group experience.

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

OUTLINE OF EACH SESSION

WHETHER YOU ARE LEADING OR PARTICIPATING IN A LIFE GROUP, YOUR ROLE IS IMPORTANT AND IT’S WORTH TAKING A MOMENT TO GET FAMILIAR WITH THE FORMAT OF THE SESSIONS. A TYPICAL GROUP GATHERING FOR THE MOMENTUM STUDY WILL INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING SECTIONS: ANTICIPATE. Each week opens with a brief thought to present the big idea of the session and several icebreaker questions to get the group talking. Make it a practice to read these before you meet together.

CONNECT. This section will provide your life group an opportunity to share their responses to last week’s “Daily Reflections” and what God is doing in each other’s lives.

ENGAGE. Includes several interwoven group activities: • • • •

Watch the video teaching. Discuss the content of the video. Read and unpack key Bible passages. Discuss questions and suggestions for putting into practice the spiritual principles of the session.

MEMORIZE. Each week will include a Scripture verse for memorization and meditation that captures the core of the session and prepares your heart to sense God speaking in your life situation.

PRAY. Close the session with matters that can also be noted in the Prayer and Praise section below.

PRAYER AND PRAISE. A location to record requests and answers to prayer. Before you begin praying over the requests shared by your group members, take a moment to listen for how the Holy Spirit might be leading you to pray. This is practicing Paul’s directive to “pray in the Spirit” (Ephesians 6:18).

STUDY NOTES. This section provides additional commentary, background, and insights on the themes you will study in the Engage section.

NOTES. Space allotted for personal notes during the session.

DAILY REFLECTIONS. These daily engagements include Scriptures to read and reflect on, and provide you with a chance to listen and allow the Holy Spirit to speak directly into your life. You will then have the opportunity to journal your response to what you’ve read and how you sense God might be speaking to you. This time should begin and end with prayer. Try not to be in a hurry. Take enough time to hear God’s direction.

MOMENTUM: SESSION ONE

ANTICIPATION ANTICIPATE. Welcome to Momentum. This week we’re organizing for the journey. We’re taking time to get to know the companions who will travel with us during the coming weeks…and beyond! We’re anticipating an amazing experience with God’s Spirit. Enjoy the company on this journey over the next few weeks. By the end we trust we will all realize that the kind of life with God we long for is closer than we ever imagined. It’s our prayer that in these sessions we will begin to notice the Holy Spirit at work in our own lives, our life groups, and the life of the larger church. Our deepest desire is that together we will find fresh momentum to change the world.

CONNECT.

15 MIN

Open your group with prayer. Rotate this role from week to week with those who are comfortable praying aloud.

Have each person in the group share their name and answer this question: What is the furthest location in the world that you have ever visited, and what’s one place in the world you would still like to visit?

As we begin this Momentum study, describe one thing you’re

hoping to experience or learn from these sessions.

If you’ve participated in a life group in the past, in what ways have those experiences been helpful and/or challenging for you as a follower of Jesus?

Whether a life group is new or ongoing, it’s always important at the start of a new study to reflect on and review your values together. Below is a Life Group Agreement with the values we’ve found most useful in sustaining healthy, balanced groups. Let’s review them together.

If your group is new, please make sure to share your contact information with each other. The “Life Group Roster” in the Appendices might be helpful.

Life Group Agreement OUR PURPOSE To provide an engaging environment where participants experience authentic community and spiritual growth.

OUR VALUES Group Attendance – Give priority to the group meeting. We will call, text or email if we will be late or absent. (Completing the Group Calendar on page 19 will minimize this issue.) Safe Environment – Create a safe place where people can be heard and feel loved. (Please, no quick answers, snap judgments, or simple fixes.) Respect Differences – Be gentle and gracious to people with different spiritual maturity, personal opinions, temperaments, or “imperfections” in the group. We are all works in progress. Confidentiality – Information shared is expected to be kept

confidential. Please do not pass along anything that is shared in the group without permission. Encouragement for Growth â&#x20AC;&#x201C; We want to use our God-given gifts to encourage other group members in their spiritual growth.

Shared Ownership â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Every member is invited to be an active participant in the group and to share a small role or responsibility. Some of these roles can include facilitating the group discussion, hosting the group, bringing a snack or meal, or communicating reminders to the group outside of group time.

LIFE GROUP CALENDAR Planning and calendaring can help ensure the greatest participation at every meeting. At the end of each meeting, review this calendar. Consider rotating location, food provider and facilitator.

date Monday January 15

lesson 1

Location Steve and Lauraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Dessert/ meal

Facilitator

Joe

Bill

ENGAGE.

20 MIN

Everything we learn and do during Momentum will be rooted in the Bible. If this is a new experience for you, we approach the Bible with a simple understanding that it is God’s Word and if we’re listening, He will speak to us. Our spiritual habit of engaging with God’s Word improves by practice and also by participating with others in talking about the way the Scriptures impact us.

Read: Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Take a moment to review the Study Notes on page 22 then discuss the following questions:

If someone asked you who the Holy Spirit is, and what role He plays in your life, how could Acts 1:8 help shape your answer?

What are you most curious about when it comes to the Holy Spirit?

Next week, our entire session will focus on the Holy Spirit and His role in the church and in our lives. In what ways have you experienced the Holy Spirit? In what ways is the Holy Spirit unknown or confusing to you? In what ways has the Holy Spirit empowered or comforted you?

MEMORIZE. Read the memory verse aloud as a group.

Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

PRAY. Conclude your discussion with prayer asking God to give you a greater awareness of His Spirit in your lives. • • •

Ask the Lord to help you learn how to listen to the Holy Spirit. Ask God to stir an anticipation and hunger for more connection with His Spirit. Thank God for the gift of the Holy Spirit

STUDY NOTES.

ADDITIONAL NOTES AND INSIGHTS ON OUR SCRIPTURE READING FOR TODAY. Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is described in the Bible with the characteristics of a person and an active member of God’s selfrevelation as Three-in-One (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). My witnesses. Jesus expects those who follow and trust Him to bear witness to others about who He is and what He has done for them. In Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Jesus’ list covers all the areas in our lives where we live, work and play. The point isn’t so much to go somewhere to be a witness as it is to be a witness wherever we might be.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE:

ACTS 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

DAILY REFLECTIONS

TO DEEPEN THE JOURNEY

Each day, review the Weekly Memory Verse, 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 take some time for stillness before God, asking Him to direct, encourage, correct, lead, and instruct you by His Word and by His Spirit. In the Respond section, record what you sense Him saying to you.

DAY ONE REFLECTION Read: Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

REFLECT: What did Jesus indicate was the purpose of the power they were about to receive from the Holy Spirit? If Jesus was saying this to you today, what would be your “Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and ends of the earth”? Ask the Holy Spirit to bring one person’s face or name to mind that He wants you to reach out to in some way.

PRAY: Make it a practice during Momentum to ask God’s Spirit to speak into your life. Anticipate His speaking. Sit quietly and listen for a while. Make note of what He might be saying to you.

RESPOND… (note any personal applications or decisions you make in the space provided below) _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

DAY TWO REFLECTION Read: John 3:5-7 Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You must be born again.’”

REFLECT: How does the Holy Spirit participate in the process of our spiritual rebirth?

PRAY: Flip back to the group roster and pray for each member of the group by name. Lift up any needs you’re aware of in their lives. Sit quietly before the Lord and ask Him to give you love and grace for the others in your group.

DAY THREE REFLECTION Read: John 3:34 For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit.

REFLECT: As you prayerfully think about your understanding and relationship with the Holy Spirit, what do you hear or sense Him saying to you?

PRAY: As you wait for God to speak, use David’s helpful prayer to

prepare your own heart to receive God’s correction and invitation to wholeness: “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:23-24). Give Him time to speak to you.

DAY FOUR REFLECTION Read: Acts 2:1-21 On the day of Pentecost all the believers were meeting together in one place. Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting. Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability. At that time there were devout Jews from every nation living in Jerusalem. When they heard the loud noise, everyone came running, and they were bewildered to hear their own languages being spoken by the believers. They were completely amazed. “How can this be?” they exclaimed. “These people are all from Galilee, and yet we hear them speaking in our own native languages! Here we are—Parthians, Medes, Elamites, people from Mesopotamia, Judea, Cappadocia, Pontus, the province of Asia, Phrygia, Pamphylia, Egypt, and the areas of Libya around Cyrene, visitors from Rome (both Jews and converts to Judaism), Cretans, and Arabs. And we all hear these people speaking in our own languages about the wonderful things

God has done!” They stood there amazed and perplexed. “What can this mean?” they asked each other. But others in the crowd ridiculed them, saying, “They’re just drunk, that’s all!” Then Peter stepped forward with the eleven other apostles and shouted to the crowd, “Listen carefully, all of you, fellow Jews and residents of Jerusalem! Make no mistake about this. These people are not drunk, as some of you are assuming. Nine o’clock in the morning is much too early for that. No, what you see was predicted long ago by the prophet Joel: ‘In the last days,’ God says, ‘I will pour out my Spirit upon all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy. Your young men will see visions, and your old men will dream dreams. In those days I will pour out my Spirit even on my servants—men and women alike—and they will prophesy. And I will cause wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below—blood and fire and clouds of smoke. The sun will become dark, and the moon will turn blood red before that great and glorious day of the LORD arrives. But everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved.’

REFLECT: Imagine you are one of the believers meeting together on the day of Pentecost when they were filled with the Holy Spirit. What are you thinking and feeling? What questions do you have? How do you respond to Peter’s message to the crowd?

PRAY: Not only did Jesus promise the Holy Spirit as an empowering gift to reach the world, God also brought people from all over the world to Jerusalem to be exposed to the Holy Spirit. Pray that you will be open to how the Holy Spirit wants to move in you and through you in the next several weeks as we study together.

RESPOND… (note any personal applications or decisions you make in the space provided below)

DAY FIVE REFLECTION Read: Acts 2:32-33 God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it. Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear.

REFLECT: What would you say are two or three signs of the Holy Spirit’s presence in someone’s life? How would you like to experience more of the Holy Spirit’s presence in your life?

PRAY: Ask God to help you become more aware of the Holy Spirit’s presence in your life. Ask Him to increase your desire for the Holy Spirit’s work in your life.

NOTES.

USE THE FOLLOWING SPACE TO RECORD ANY PERSONAL NOTES, QUESTIONS FOR THE GROUP, OR OBSERVATIONS YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE IN THE NEXT LIFE GROUP SESSION. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MOMENTUM: SESSION TWO

THE HOLY SPIRIT ANTICIPATE. Welcome back to Momentum. We hope this past week’s opportunity to think about and listen to the Holy Spirit encouraged you. Living by the Holy Spirit is one of the distinctive features of the Friends movement. Historically, the Friends movement grew out of a dissatisfaction with the religious expression of the day that was rooted in ritual. It began with an encounter with the Holy Spirit in a man’s life, calling him away from the dry ritual of religion into the life of the Spirit. As some of the pioneers of our movement opened their Bibles, they saw how Jesus didn’t emphasize ritual in His teachings; rather he emphasized a relationship with Himself that is dynamic. It’s the idea of Jesus being right here, right now, with us in every moment through His Holy Spirit. And it was embracing the power of the Holy Spirit— in the same way the early Church did—that made the Friends movement what it was. Momentum is taking us back to our roots.

CONNECT.

15 MIN

Open your group with prayer.

Ask someone to read the paragraph on the history of the Friends movement above. What thoughts come to mind when you read this?

Which day of your Daily Reflections impacted you the most? What was it that got your attention?

Last week’s memory verse was Acts 1:8 – “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

What do you think receiving power from the Holy Spirit means? What questions do you have about the Holy Spirit?

ENGAGE.

30 MIN

Watch the video teaching for this session now. In the Notes space, record any key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember and follow up on. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

What did you hear in the video about the ways the Holy Spirit wants to interact with you and impact your life?

Read: John 16:7 But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.

Referring to Jesus’ words in John 16:7 (this week’s memory verse), how would your daily life be different if God had not sent the Holy Spirit to us and all we had was the historical account of Jesus’ life?

It was mentioned that sometimes the Holy Spirit may seem scary or intimidating because we don’t fully understand Him, nor can we control Him. (John 3:5-8). How do you relate to this? Can you identify ways you might be limiting the Holy Spirit in your life?

Read John 10:27. The panel talked about some of the key ways we hear from God - the Bible, community, prayer, etc. In which of these ways are you most aware of hearing God’s voice? In which of these ways do you desire to hear Him more clearly?

Since God promised that He will never leave us or forsake us, (Matthew 28:20 and Hebrews 13:5-8), Heidi noted that she’s been changing her prayer from asking God to be with her to asking God to help her be with Him. How might you adjust your life to be more aware of Jesus’ presence right here, right now?

What other points or thoughts stood out for you from the panel?

Matthew ended the panel discussion with these words: Right now, if you have put your faith in Jesus, you have the Holy Spirit within you (Acts 2:38-39, Ephesians 1:13-14). You have God living inside you. Jesus told us that we, His followers, would do greater things in this life than ever He did—and that’s all because of the power of the Holy Spirit within us (John 14:12-14). He is the one who fuels us to fuel a movement that changes the world. What is your response to this? Excited? Doubtful? Encouraged? Uncertain? Hopeful?

MEMORIZE. Read the memory verse aloud as a group.

John 16:7 But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.

PRAY. Conclude your discussion with prayer asking God to give you a greater awareness of His Spirit in your life. • • •

Ask God to make you aware of how the Holy Spirit’s power may be limited in your lives. Ask God to help you be present with Him. Ask God to open your eyes to what He is doing in you and in the world around you.

STUDY NOTES.

ADDITIONAL NOTES AND INSIGHTS ON OUR SCRIPTURE READINGS FOR TODAY. John 3:5-8. Our experience with the Holy Spirit will have an unpredictable, wind-like quality that Jesus described to Nicodemus. We should note that the Spirit, like the wind, has clear effects in our lives even though we can’t see Him (like leaves blowing although we can’t see the force doing it). John 10:27. Jesus described the disciples’ ongoing awareness of His presence and His voice while He was still with them. In John 10:14 Jesus talked about knowing His sheep as His sheep know Him. That relationship leads to an increased awareness of His voice as we grow in Him. John 16:7. When He emptied Himself (Philippians 2:5-11) and took on humanness, Jesus limited Himself in a way that the Holy Spirit would never be limited. Although Jesus is physically absent, His Spirit is present everywhere and always (Matthew 28:20). Hebrews 13:5-8. Jesus promised His enduring presence. One of the guaranteeing aspects of that promise is the unchanging and unchangeable nature of God (v.8). We can count on His faithfulness.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE:

JOHN 16:7 But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.

DAILY REFLECTIONS

TO DEEPEN THE JOURNEY

DAY ONE REFLECTION Read: John 16:7 But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.

REFLECT: As you memorize this promise from Jesus, sit quietly in God’s presence. What are some of the great things the Holy Spirit has brought into your life by His arrival and work in you?

PRAY: Take time to thank God for each of the items you just thought about.

DAY TWO REFLECTION Read: Acts 2:1, 4 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all gathered in one place… All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.

REFLECT: What significance do you see in the fact that when the Holy Spirit was poured out as Jesus promised, His followers were gathered rather than separated?

PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to give you a clearer sense about the significance of your connections with other believers. In what ways do other followers of Jesus need you? How do you need them?

DAY THREE REFLECTION Read: Acts 2:42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.

REFLECT: Briefly describe each of the four priorities pursued by the first Christians: 1) the apostles’ teaching, 2) fellowship, 3) breaking bread, and 4) prayer. In what ways are each of these a part of your current spiritual experience with other believers?

PRAY: As you memorize this verse, ask the Holy Spirit to give you a deeper understanding of your need for each of these four elements of community.

DAY FOUR REFLECTION Read: Acts 2:44-45 All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.

REFLECT: The early chapters of Acts make it clear that this kind of sharing was voluntary, not forced. Their generosity flowed out of Christ’s generous love for them. In what ways has receiving Christ’s generous love spurred generosity in your own life?

PRAY: Sit quietly before the Holy Spirit, asking Him to bring to

mind ways in which you can exercise more generosity to those around you with both believers and non-believers.

DAY FIVE REFLECTION Acts 2:46-47 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

REFLECT: What aspects of your relationship with Christ and other believers are an “every day” activity? Looking at these verses, what do you wish we would experience together more often?

PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit for direction in how you might participate in bringing about what you just wished for.

NOTES.

MOMENTUM: SESSION THREE

BETTER TOGETHER - COMMUNITY ANTICIPATE. Welcome back to Momentum. Our theme for this session is the community that was obvious among the early Christians and is in desperate need of being more obvious among us today. The memory verse for this week (Acts 2:42) demonstrates the importance of community. “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” In the original language, a key phrase in the verse is literally “and to the fellowship.” Using the word fellowship alone conveys a warm experience; using it with an article emphasizes the commitment that precedes the experience. The kind of community we are thinking about in this session requires not only a life-changing commitment to Christ, sealed by the Holy Spirit, but also a life-changing commitment to other believers that creates community and deep, nourishing fellowship.

CONNECT.

15 MIN

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

What did you hear the Holy Spirit saying to you about community during this past week’s daily reflections (especially in Day Four and Day Five)?

Share a time when you experienced life-giving connection with other believers.

ENGAGE.

30 MIN

As you watched the panel discuss the importance of community, what personal experiences, both positive and negative, came to mind?

How do you connect with Heidi’s video comment that “family (community) can be messy”?

What other elements of the video stuck out to you?

Read: Acts 2:42-47 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.

Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

What examples of community did you discover in the verses we just read?

Describe how you’ve seen any of these examples lived out in the Church today. In which areas do you think we most need to grow?

Reflecting on what we’ve seen in Acts 2, what can we do to deepen and broaden our sense of community with each other?

How is the Church poised to meet the pressing needs of our culture today?

MEMORIZE. Each week read the memory verse out loud as a group. This will be the central theme of next week’s session.

Acts 2:42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.

PRAY. Conclude your discussion with prayer, asking God to give you a deeper understanding and commitment to community. • • •

Thank God for the ways you see community being expressed in your life group and church. Ask God to make you more aware and willing to meet the needs of others even when its messy. Ask God to show us next steps for expressing community in our group.

STUDY NOTES.

ADDITIONAL NOTES AND INSIGHTS ON OUR SCRIPTURE READINGS FOR TODAY. Acts 2:42. “They devoted themselves” literally means “they were devoting themselves,” indicating not just a stated commitment but a continual, ongoing commitment. “Breaking bread” may be referring to sharing the Lord’s Supper regularly (see v. 46). Acts 2:43. “Everyone” means those inside the community as well as those on the outside. Acts 2:45. “They sold property” doesn’t mean everyone sold everything, or was required to. This was an optional action some intentionally chose in order to help others in need. Acts 2:46. “They broke bread” is different terminology than in v.42, and likely refers to sharing meals together, practicing hospitality. Acts 2:47. “The Lord was adding” summarizes the ultimate positive effect of authentic community in Christ; others are drawn in and welcomed.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE:

ACTS 2:42 They devoted themselves to the apostlesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.

DAILY REFLECTIONS

TO DEEPEN THE JOURNEY

DAY ONE REFLECTION Read: Acts 2:42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.

REFLECT: Reflect on your own devotion to Christ and His Church in these four ways; teaching, fellowship, communion and prayer.

PRAY: Based on how God led you in your reflection, ask Him to help you take a step of growth in one of those four areas.

DAY TWO REFLECTION Read. Acts 2:46-47a Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people.

REFLECT: Notice the priorities and activities of life the early Christians shared together. Observe how their life together impacted the world around them. Reflect on how these priorities and activities may or may not be present in your life.

PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to give you a sense of your current priorities and activities and how He might be calling you into deeper community. Ask Him how you might interact more with those who do not know Christ. Be attentive to His direction.

DAY THREE REFLECTION Read: Romans 12:13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

REFLECT: Consider what it means to “practice” something as an athlete practices a sport, a doctor practices medicine, or musicians practice their instrument. How does this apply to Paul instructing us to “practice hospitality” in community? Think of someone you know who’s an example of hospitality. What do you notice about them?

PRAY: Ask the Lord to bring to mind the names of people with whom you could practice hospitality and to guide you into what that might look like.

DAY FOUR REFLECTION Read. Acts 4:8-13 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: “Rulers and elders of the people! If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a man who was lame and are being asked how he was healed, then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. Jesus is “‘the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone.’ Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus

REFLECT: According to this passage, what made Peter and John’s courage so unusual? What situations are you aware of that may require the power of the Holy Spirit to give you courage?

PRAY: Talk to God about places in your life where you need to practice courage through the power of the Holy Spirit. Ask Him to help you rely on the Holy Spirit – to sense His stirring and follow Him.

DAY FIVE REFLECTION Read: Matthew 28:19-20 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.

REFLECT: These are the ultimate outreach verses. When you read them, how do you take Jesus’ words personally?

PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to speak into your heart and mind about the people to whom He wants you to reach out to where you live, work, and play.

NOTES.

MOMENTUM: SESSION FOUR

IT’S NOT ABOUT US - OUTREACH ANTICIPATE. Welcome back to Momentum. Our study of the launch of the Church in the first four chapters of Acts began with the promise of the Holy Spirit and the development of an amazing community. Right from the start, the purpose of the movement Jesus began was to reach more and more people with the gospel – the Good News of Christ. We believe the movement of the Holy Spirit hasn’t stopped and it never will. We can see the Holy Spirit anywhere that people, fueled by Him, are experiencing transformation that changes them to change their world. The gospel was never intended to stop when we receive it; it must continue to move through us toward others. It’s what Jesus meant when He promised to be with us until the end of the age.

CONNECT.

15 MIN

Open your group with prayer. Make it a point to thank God for what He is doing in your group as He moves through each one of you.

Did you sense the Holy Spirit communicating to you about outreach during this past week’s daily reflections (especially in Day Four and Day Five)? What did you hear Him saying?

Share any experiences you’ve had receiving from others who reached out and served you, or ways you’ve been led to reach out and serve others.

ENGAGE.

30 MIN

How did you relate personally to the hurdles to outreach that Heidi talked about? What other hurdles have you seen that keep Christians from reaching out to others?

In the video, Ryan made the following statement: If you have God’s Spirit within you, as you get to know people and their stories, and as you get to know the needs that people have, I think God gives you His compassion for those people. In what ways have you witnessed or experienced this truth?

What other elements of the video stuck out to you?

Read: Acts 3:1-10 One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer—at three in the afternoon. Now a man who was lame from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, “Look at us!” So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them. Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God. When all the people saw him walking and praising God, they recognized him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate called Beautiful, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.

What do you think motivated Peter and John to respond to the lame man’s request for help?

How did the presence of the Holy Spirit and a strong sense of community in the early Church lead to the kind of boldness and impact recorded in Acts? What would that look like today?

What are some open doors or at least possibilities for outreach that you are aware of right where you live, work, or play?

How can we respond to these possibilities for outreach either personally or as a community?

MEMORIZE. Read the memory verse for this week aloud as a group.

Acts 4:13 When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.

PRAY. Conclude your discussion with prayer, asking God to give you a deeper understanding and commitment to outreach. • • •

Thank God for the people in your life who lived out the gospel and showed you who Jesus is. Pray and ask God to give you opportunities and a willingness to reach out and serve others around you. Be honest about any fears you may have about reaching out with the gospel. Ask God to give you courage.

STUDY NOTES.

ADDITIONAL NOTES AND INSIGHTS ON OUR SCRIPTURE READINGS FOR TODAY. Acts 3:1. “Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer.” They were wading into a crowd of other Jewish people on their way to a daily round of prayers; most of them had rejected or did not know about Jesus. The followers of Jesus were public in their faith. Acts 3:3. “He asked them for money.” The lame man wasn’t expecting to be healed. Most people who ask us for something are expecting less rather than more. However we might help them, when we offer them Jesus, we’re always offering more. Acts 3:10. “The temple gate called Beautiful.” Mentioned twice by name, the gate becomes a meaningful backdrop for God’s amazing work. Acts 3:10. “They were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.” When God works in our lives, the impact on those who know us is real and powerfully illustrates any gospel message we might share with them.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE:

ACTS 4:13 When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.

DAILY REFLECTIONS

TO DEEPEN THE JOURNEY

DAY ONE REFLECTION Read. Acts 4:13 When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.

REFLECT: Do you believe that God uses ordinary people just like us to change the world? What was the source of Peter and John’s courage? How is spending time with Jesus giving you courage to make a difference in people’s lives?

PRAY: As you spend time with Jesus, ask the Holy Spirit to give you courage to carry out His purposes.

DAY TWO REFLECTION Read: Acts 4:29-30 Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.

REFLECT: Instead of praying for safety, the early Christians prayed for boldness. They wanted to reach out with their message and expected God to do His miraculous part. Do you pray this way? Is there an area of your life where you have been afraid to pray like this?

PRAY: Ask God for a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. Express your trust in Him that He will do His part.

RESPONDâ&#x20AC;Ś (note any personal applications or decisions you make in the space provided below) _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

DAY THREE REFLECTION Read: Acts 4:31 After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.

REFLECT: How does the Holy Spirit empower you to be a witness for Christ wherever you are? When was the last time you simply

told someone what Jesus means to you?

PRAY: Ask God to help you trust and expect His power to be present when you witness, rather than waiting to feel empowered before witnessing.

DAY FOUR REFLECTION Read: Romans 10:12-13 For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

REFLECT: Consider how easy it is to put people in categories and not expect Jesus to reach certain individuals. Reflect on the amazing grace that allows anyone to call on the name of Jesus and be saved.

PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to give you the names of at least three people in your life that have not yet called on His name to be saved. Pray for them and be open to God’s leading in how you spend time with them.

RESPOND… (note any personal applications or decisions you make in the space provided below)

DAY FIVE REFLECTION Read: Hebrews 12: 2-3 Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

REFLECT: Consider the person of Jesus. What does it mean to you that He is the pioneer and perfecter of our faith? What was the joy set before Him that enabled Him to endure the cross? How does His example of endurance inspire you to “not grow weary and lose heart”?

PRAY: Spend some time letting your mind consider Jesus and express your thoughts to Him.

NOTES.

MOMENTUM: SESSION FIVE

WORLD CHANGER - JESUS

ANTICIPATE. Welcome back to Session Five of Momentum. In this final session, our theme is Jesus - the person who promised the Holy Spirit, who makes us a community, and who sends us into the world as His witnesses.

CONNECT.

15 MIN

Open your group with prayer. Share how being together and studying the book of Acts has impacted your life. How have you experienced the Holy Spiritâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s presence and leading over the past five weeks? Express your gratitude to God and each other.

ENGAGE.

30 MIN

After hearing Joe and Heidi’s story of coming to Jesus, take a few minutes to share what drew you to Jesus when you first came to faith (feel free to take time with this).

Read: Acts 4:7-13, 18-20 They had Peter and John brought before them and began to question them: “By what power or what name did you do this?” Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: “Rulers and elders of the people! If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a man who was lame and are being asked how he was healed, then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. Jesus is ‘the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone.’ Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus. Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John replied, “Which is right in God’s eyes: to listen to you, or to him? You be the judges! As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.”

The panel talked about how Jesus changes hearts. What was it about Peter and John’s experience with Jesus that compelled them to talk about Him?

Three times in the video, our panel said, “it’s all about Jesus.” How are you currently growing in your relationship with Jesus?

As we’ve focused on the Holy Spirit, Community, Outreach, and Jesus in this Momentum study, what are some new steps of growth God may be calling you to take?

In closing the video, Matthew said, “Imagine what would it would be like if all of us together, took the baton from those early Christians and were just as committed to spreading the life-giving message of Jesus Christ. Can you imagine the impact we could have? We are just ordinary people but with Jesus Christ, we can do extraordinary things because of His power that is alive in us. May we continue to live daily as part of this Spirit-led movement and may Jesus change all of us so that we can change the world together, one life at a time.” Spend a few minutes dreaming together about a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit that brings people to Christ. What might that look like? How could it change you, our life group or our church?

MEMORIZE. Read the memory verse for this week aloud as a group.

Acts 4:12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.

PRAY. Before prayer together, pause for a few minutes of listening.

This is part of practicing Paul’s directive to “pray in the Spirit” (Ephesians 6:18). Then have several group members lead in spontaneous prayer for the group.

PRAYER AND PRAISE REPORT. Ask the group to share any personal prayer requests. Before you begin praying over these requests, take a moment to listen for how the Holy Spirit may be leading you to pray. This is practicing Paul’s directive to “pray in the Spirit” (Ephesians 6:18). _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

STUDY NOTES.

ADDITIONAL NOTES AND INSIGHTS ON OUR SCRIPTURE READINGS FOR TODAY. Acts 4:11. “Jesus is ‘the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone.’” A cornerstone unites two walls at the corner of a building and holds the building together. Peter quotes Psalm 118:22 in noting that although the Jews had rejected Christ, He had now become the cornerstone of the church. Acts 4:12. “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” Jesus is the exclusive Savior of the world and our only means of salvation (John 14:6). But our salvation is fully inclusive and available to all who believe (Acts 10:43). Acts 4:13. “When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.” Although Peter and John had received no formal training, the religious leaders were amazed by their boldness and they recognized how spending time with Jesus had changed their lives. Acts 4:20. “As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” Jesus’ life-changing impact fueled Peter and John’s passion to tell others about Him, giving them courage to speak up even when threatened by the religious leaders.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE: ACTS 4:12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.

DAILY REFLECTIONS

TO DEEPEN THE JOURNEY

DAY ONE REFLECTION Read: Acts 4:12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.

REFLECT: Spend some time thinking about the gift of grace and the authority that Jesus alone has to save. What does salvation mean to you? In what ways is the name of Jesus significant to you?

PRAY: Thank Jesus for saving you. Ask the Holy Spirit to deepen your understanding of what it means to pray in Jesus’ name.

DAY TWO REFLECTION Read. Philippians 3:10-11 I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and

participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.

REFLECT: Is knowing Christ more deeply a cry of your heart? Consider how growing in Christ means both knowing the power of His resurrection and being willing to suffer and sacrifice for the gospel. Ask God what this means in your life right here, right now. How are you growing to know Jesus more deeply?

PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to sharpen your desire to know Christ more deeply. Take time to pray for each of your life group members as they engage with this last week of Daily Reflections.

DAY THREE REFLECTION Read. John 6:67-69 “You do not want to leave too, do you?” Jesus asked the Twelve. Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God.”

REFLECT: Most of us probably wouldn’t think of turning our backs on Jesus, but we do have times of wandering and ignoring Him. How does knowing that Jesus has “words of eternal life” as the “Holy One of God” provide you with spiritual direction and lifegiving truth?

PRAY: If Jesus asked you the same question that He asked His disciples, how would you respond? Express your thoughts in prayer.

DAY FOUR REFLECTION Read. Hosea 2:14 Therefore I am now going to allure her; I will lead her into the wilderness and speak tenderly to her.

REFLECT: Heidi used this verse in her faith story to illustrate how God has worked in various ways to draw her into an authentic, intimate, growing relationship. How have you sensed Jesus gently guiding you into new ways, new thoughts, and new attitudes?

PRAY: As you think of specific experiences, both difficult and delightful, that God has used to “allure” or woo you, express your gratitude for His gracious initiatives in your life.

RESPOND… (note any personal applications or decisions you make in the space provided below)

DAY FIVE REFLECTION Read. Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

REFLECT: The Holy Spirit is the power that fuels us to live in joy with purpose, and He invites us to participate with Him in reaching the world with the Good News. What are some steps you could take to more intentionally partner with Him in reaching your world where you live, work, and play?

PRAY: Pray for the larger group of Friends churches across the Southwest that have also been part of this Momentum journey. Ask God’s Spirit to freshly fill and empower your own life and the lives of others as together we seek to bring the Good News to the “ends of the earth.”

NOTES.

APPENDICES GREAT RESOURCES TO HELP MAKE YOUR LIFE GROUP EXPERIENCE EVEN BETTER!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS WHAT DO WE DO ON THE FIRST NIGHT OF OUR GROUP? Like all fun things in life–have a party! Before diving into Session One, a “get to know you” coffee, dinner, or dessert is a great way to launch a new study. You might ask a fun icebreaker question to help people get to know each other. You can pass out guides, take care of group logistics, and informally begin to develop group cohesion. You may want to review the Group Agreement (pages 17-18) and share the names of a few friends you can invite to join you. But most importantly, have fun the week before your study sessions begin. [For more on this, see Hosting an Open House in the Life Group Leader Helps section.]

HOW DO WE FIND NEW MEMBERS FOR OUR GROUP? This can be difficult, 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’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, changes in life situations, 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? This is up to the group when 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 steppingstones 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 get together with another couple or friend that would enjoy some relational time (perhaps going to the movies or having a quiet dinner) and then walk through this study. Regardless of the number, Jesus will be with you!

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, or any number of reasons. 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 have a chance to grow, share their unique contribution, feel a sense of partnership, 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, the Holy Spirit is your leader each step of the way.

HOW DO WE HANDLE THE CHILDCARE NEEDS IN OUR GROUP? This can be a very sensitive issue. We suggest that you empower the group to openly brainstorm solutions together. 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 donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 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 need and the solution, remembering and respecting that parents may have differing values about care for their children.

LIFE GROUP ROLES The Bible makes it clear that every member, not just the small group leader, is a minister in the body of Christ. In a healthy small group, every member takes on some small role or responsibility. It’s more fun and effective if you team up on these roles. Review the team roles and responsibilities below, and have each group member volunteer for a specific role or place on a team. If someone doesn’t know where to serve or is holding back, have the group suggest a team or role for them. It’s best to have one or two people on each team so that each of the five typical small group functions or purposes are covered. Participating in even a small way will not only help the group leader by sharing logistics and duties, but will also make the group more fun for everyone. Don’t hold back; join a team! The opportunities below are broken down by the five purposes that roughly parallel the session components and aspects of an effective small group. The duties are organized by weight or experience, allowing team members to gradually assume greater responsibilities as they develop spiritually. These phases are listed as crawl (initial roles); walk (greater roles); run (advanced roles). As the group organizes, try to have the crawl and walk categories assigned, keeping in mind the group’s history and each person’s gifts and maturity.

CONNECT TEAM (Fellowship and Community Building) Crawl: Host a social event or group activity in the first week or two. Walk: Create a list of uncommitted members and then invite them to an open house or group social. Run: Plan a 24-hour retreat or weekend get-away for the group. Lead the connecting team each week for the group.

GROW TEAM (Discipleship and Spiritual Growth) Crawl: Coordinate the Spiritual Partners for your Life Group. Facilitate a three- or four-person discussion circle during the Bible study portion of your meeting. Coordinate the discussion circles. Walk: Encourage personal devotions through group discussions and pairing up with spiritual partners. Run: Guide the group on a prayer-walk, or plan a day of solitude, fasting, or spiritual retreat for the group.

SERVE TEAM (Discovering Your God-given Design for Ministry) Crawl: Ensure that every member finds a group role or team he or she enjoys. Walk: Have every member take a gift test and determine your group’s gifts. Plan a ministry project with others. Run: Help each member decide on a way to use his or her unique gifts somewhere in the church.

SHARE TEAM (Sharing and Evangelism) Crawl: Coordinate the group’s Prayer and Praise Report of friends and family who don’t know Christ. Walk: Search for group mission opportunities and plan a crosscultural group activity. Run: Take a small-group “vacation” to host a six-week group in your neighborhood or office. Then come back together with your current group.

WORSHIP TEAM (Surrendering Your Heart to Worship) Crawl: Maintain the group’s Pray and Praise Report or journal. Walk: Lead a brief time of worship each week (at the beginning and end of your meeting, either a cappella or using a recorded song such as from the LifeTogether Worship DVD/CD. Run: Plan a unique time of worship through Communion, foot washing, night of prayer, or nature prayer-walk.

MEMORY VERSE CARDS CLIP & REVIEW

SESSION ONE But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Acts 1:8

SESSION TWO They devoted themselves to the apostlesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Acts 2:42

SESSION THREE Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. Acts 2:46

SESSION FOUR Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved. Acts 4:12

SESSION FIVE Review the previous four verses

LIFE GROUP ROSTER NAME:

CONTACT (PHONE, EMAIL):

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LIFE GROUP LEADER HELPS KEY RESOURCES TO HELP YOUR LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE BE THE BEST IT CAN BE.

LEADING FOR THE FIRST TIME TEN COMMON LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCES. WELCOME TO LIFE OUT IN FRONT! •

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.

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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.

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Bring your uniqueness to the study. Lean into who you are and how God wants you to uniquely lead the study.

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Prepare. Prepare. Prepare. Go through the session several times. If you are using the video, listen to the teaching segment. 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Prayerfully consider to 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.

LEADERSHIP TRAINING 101 TOP TEN IDEAS FOR NEW LEADERS 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.

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 think or 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.

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 will probably be surprised at the response.

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!

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 will know how it works. Finally, review “Outline for Each Session” so you will remember the purpose of each section in the study.

Pray for your group members by name. Well 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!

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.

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.

The likelyhood of people returning to the group week after week is much better if you break up into smaller groups each week. If your group has more than seven people, we strongly encourage you to have the group sometimes gather in discussion circles of three or four people during the GROW 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 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.

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. If you prefer, you can use the Life Group Calendar to fill in the names of all the meeting facilitators.

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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 shepherdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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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