The Calling by Lifetogether Ministries

JOSH AMSTUTZ

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Copyright © 2018 by Josh Amstutz All Rights Reserved. Published by Lifetogether Ministries ISBN 978-1-7326688-7-4 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. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated are taken from Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Printed in the United States of America. Photos courtesy of Lakeland Community Church

CONTENTS Foreword by Brett Eastman Defining the WIN in Small Group Ministry Welcome from Josh Amstutz Using This Conversation Guide (Read This First) Outline for Each Week

6 8 9 10 12

SESSION ONE: You Are Called

SESSION TWO: Relevant

SESSION THREE: Reaching

SESSION FOUR: Authentic

SESSION FIVE: Simple

SESSION SIX: Excellence

SESSION SEVEN: Exciting

102

APPENDICES Frequently Asked Questions Building Community through Communion Ground Rules for Small Group Meetings Memory Verses (Clip and Review)

115 117 119 121

SMALL GROUP LEADERS Prayer List Small Group Roster Notes

123 124 125

FOREWORD

BY BRETT EASTMAN

THE CALLING

Have you ever found yourself just going through the motions in life, and feeling disconnected? Our culture keeps us dialed in and “connected” through technology: we can text, email, instant message. We can connect through social media, phone, video conferencing—or even in person. But sometimes, despite all these opportunities, we can feel isolated or alone. We could have 200 friends on Facebook but still feel like no one really knows us. More than ever, we need a group of friends who can encourage us, pray for us, love on us. Small Groups provide that kind of relational environment. It’s life-changing—and electronic connections can’t compare! This series focuses on connections—with God and with others. You’ll learn about community, but more importantly, you’ll experience it in your small group. Through that experience, you’ll understand and appreciate community in a deeper way. In this guide, you’ll find seven weeks of guided conversations that you can use with your small group to explore various aspects of community even as you grow personally. You’ll also find some unique daily reflection opportunities. Each will remind you of Jesus’ deep love for you, and encourage you to grow closer to him even as you’re also growing closer to those in your small group. Here at LifeTogether, we believe life change happens in small groups. We’ve created resources that have changed millions of people’s lives, and we’d like to invite you to experience something equally profound.

BRETT EASTMAN

President and Founder: LifeTogether Ministries

FOREWORD

DEFINING THE WIN

IN SMALL GROUP MINISTRY Small Groups at Lakeland exists to make disciples who make disciples in relational environments as we seek to live out the four habitsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; Shepherding, Accountability, Developing Others, and On Mission. A disciple is someone who is following Jesus, being changed by Jesus, and committed to the mission of Jesus (Matthew 4:19). You are called to be a disciple of Jesus and to make disciples of others. All of this is accomplished when God shows up in a relational environment of a small group. In relational environments that champion the four habits, we believe that strangers become friends, friends become disciples, and disciples become disciple-makers. The Calling is an incredible opportunity to make all of this a reality in your life and in your small group. Step into it and see what God does!

THE CALLING

WELCOME FROM JOSH AMSTUTZ Have you ever considered that God has given you a calling? Now, some might think that a calling only applies to pastors or those in full-time ministry, but a calling is not limited to those roles. A calling is something you gravitate toward. Something you are drawn to that just clicks with you. Your natural ability is partly involved, but there is a Divine element to a calling as well. We believe that every believer has a calling. There is a specific calling for every person based on their gifts, abilities, and passions. But, there is also a general calling to the things we value as a church. These are things like relevance. We believe that the Bible and Jesus Himself are relevant for today because they are alive. Our calling includes reaching others, being authentic, and striving for excellence and a balanced life simultaneously. Our calling is an exciting adventure into all that God has for us, our church, and our community. Over the next seven weeks, we will explore every aspect of our calling to serve God and to reach the world. In your group time, you will have the opportunity to discuss each of these parts of calling and to figure out how they apply to your life. It’s one thing to know you’re called. It’s another thing to live it out. We believe we are called to lead people to follow Jesus, be changed by Jesus, and commit to the mission of Jesus… because lives are at stake. This tells us both the what and the why of our calling. I am so glad you have joined us for this study. I hope you take these sessions to heart as you look for your calling. Called with you,

JOSH

WELCOME

USING THIS CONVERSATION GUIDE

THE CALLING

TOOLS TO HELP YOU HAVE A GREAT

SMALL GROUP EXPERIENCE!

1. N otice in the Table of Contents there are three sections: (1) Sessions; (2) Appendices; and (3) Small Group Leaders. Familiarize yourself with the Appendices. We will refer and use some of them in our weekly discussions.

2. I f you are a Small Group Leader or Apprentice in a small group, the sec-

tion ‘Small Group Leaders’ will give you some hard-learned experiences of others that will encourage you and help you avoid many common obstacles to effective small group leadership.

3. Use this resource as a guide, not a straightjacket. If the group responds to the conversation in an unexpected but honest way, go with that. If you think of a better discussion question than the next one, ask it. Take to heart the insights included in the Small Group Leaders section.

4. Enjoy your small group experience. 5. Pray before each group time—for your group members, for your time together, or wisdom and insights.

6. Read the Outline for Each Week on the next pages so that you understand how each group time will flow....

us i n g th i s wor k boo k

OUTLINE OF

EACH WEEK

THERE ARE MANY PEOPLE WHO DESIRE TO BE STRONG DISCIPLE OF JESUS, BUT FEW PEOPLE ACTUALLY EXPERIENCE THIS ON A CONSISTENT BASIS. THAT’S WHY WE’VE INCLUDED DISCUSSION ELEMENTS IN EACH SMALL GROUP SESSION TO HELP GROUPS GET TO THE HEART OF BOTH GOD’S WORD AND OUR OWN STORIES. THIS WILL PROPEL NOT ONLY THE CONVERSATION FORWARD, BUT ALSO CREATE THE RELATIONAL ENVIRONMENT NEEDED TO MAKE DISCIPLES. WHEN YOU SEE THE FOLLOWING SECTIONS IN THIS BOOK, YOU WILL KNOW THAT THE QUESTIONS AND EXERCISES ARE PURPOSEFUL IN ACHIEVING OUR WIN.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSES. Each session opens with a Memory Verse that emphasizes an important truth from the teaching. This is an optional exercise, but we believe that memorizing Scripture can be a vital part of growing in our love for God as we use His Word as a plumb line for our lives. GETTING STARTED. Jesus showed us that disciple making happens best in relationship and healthy biblical community. The disciples (His closest friends) continued living out intentional relationships in the New Testament and they ended up changing the world! This section of each session typically offers you two options. You can get to know your whole group by using the icebreaker question(s), or you can break up into even smaller groups for a deeper connection and encouragement in your spiritual journey. Both options lay the foundation for the relational environment for group members. As your group begins, use the Ground Rules for Small Group Meetings to help start right and establish a safe culture for relational discipleship to happen. As the group develops intimacy, use Prayer List pages to keep the group connected. VIDEO TEACHING SEGMENT. Serving as a companion to The Calling

small group conversation guide is The Calling video resource. The video is designed to combine teaching segments from Josh Amstutz, Lisa Amstutz, and Jeff Tillson. Using the teaching video will add value to this 7-week journey of doing life together and discovering how following your calling changes everything. This video resource has been given to each Small Group Leader.

THE CALLING

DISCOVERING GOD’S WORD TOGETHER. Here is where you will

process as a group the teaching you heard and saw. The focus won’t be on accumulating information but on how we should live as disciples of Jesus in light of the Word of God. We want to help you apply the insights from Scripture practically, creatively, and from your heart as well as your head. At the end of the day, the timeless truths of the Bible call us to action and into accountability as we become more like Jesus.

DIGGING DEEPER (Optional). If you have time and want to dig deeper into more Bible passages about the topic at hand, we’ve provided additional passages and questions. Your group may choose to work through these passages between meetings and continue the conversation outside of small group (“between the Tuesdays”). If you prefer to discuss this within your small group time, the Digging Deeper section will provide you with plenty to discuss. Both options allow individuals or the whole group to expand their study of The Calling. DEVELOPING YOUR GIFTS TO SERVE OTHERS. Most people want to know

how God has uniquely wired them for Kingdom work and for serving others. This section will help make that desire a reality. With each question, we are developing others to walk in their gifts. us i n g th i s wor k boo k

GOING ON MISSION EVERY DAY. Disciples of Jesus

grow in their ability to witness. In court, a witness commits to telling the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. We, too, have been called to allow the truth we know to influence our actions, words, and plans. Jesus left his disciples with this command: “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8) No doubt, God has a plan for your neighborhood, workplace, and community—and He wants to use you to make it happen. This doesn’t necessarily mean preaching on street corners but it doesn’t mean sitting on the bench either. This section will invite your group to join Jesus on mission wherever you go.

SURRENDERING YOUR WEEK TO GOD. A surren-

dered heart is what pleases God most. Each small group session will give you a chance to surrender your heart to God and pray for each other. As you walk through this section, look for shepherding moments as a group to care for one another. In addition, you’ll be introduced to several forms of small group worship, including using recorded worship songs, singing together, reading psalms, and participating in Communion. This portion of your meeting will transform your life in ways you never thought possible. If you’re new to praying in a small group, you won’t be pressed to pray aloud until you feel ready.

REFLECTIONS. Each week on the REFLECTIONS

pages we provide scriptures to read and meditate on between sessions—over a month’s worth of reflections to keep God’s word near your heart. This provides you with a chance to slow down, read just a small portion of Scripture each day, and reflect and pray through it. You’ll then have a chance to journal your response to what you’ve read. Use this section to seek God on your own throughout the week. This time at home should begin and end with prayer. Don’t get in a hurry; take enough time to hear God’s direction.

THE CALLING

us i n g th i s wor k boo k

SESSION 1

YOU ARE CALLED When Jesus called His first disciples, He called them to several things. First, He called them into relationship with Him. They spent a lot of their time together. This gave Jesus the opportunity to develop relationships and show them a better way. In order to receive what Jesus wanted to give them, they had to leave what they previously thought was important. For Simon, Andrew, James and John, Jesus offered a change from fishermen to fishers of men. Instead of investing their time in providing meals for people, Jesus called them to invest their time in offering a new life and eternity in heaven to people. What are you called to do? Some may hesitate at this point and assume that a calling is only for fulltime pastor-people. Here’s the deal—none of Jesus’ original disciples were full-time pastor-people. Part of their calling was to ministry in the world and leadership of the church—this was their mission, not their job. You have a ministry and a mission that Jesus has called you to. Do you know what it is? If not, are you ready to find out?

SESSION ONE

MEMORY VERSE

FOR I HAVE COME DOWN FROM HEAVEN NOT TO DO MY WILL BUT TO DO THE WILL OF HIM WHO SENT ME. JOHN 6:38

YOU ARE CALLED

GETTING STARTED 10 MIN. • OPEN YOUR GROUP WITH PRAYER.

• If your group is new or new members have joined your group, take a few minutes to introduce yourselves. Make sure you have contact information so you connect throughout the week. • Whether your group is new or ongoing, it’s always important to reflect on healthy group practices together. On page 119 you will find Ground Rules for Small Group Meetings. We recommend that you read and review these together for the next several weeks.

SESSION ONE

WATCH THE VIDEO. We have provided a Teaching Notes section below.

There you can record any key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Discovering section and direct the discussion among the group. As you go through each of the subsequent sections, ask someone else to read the questions and direct the discussion.

NOTES:

YOU ARE CALLED

DISCOVERING GOD’S WORD TOGETHER 20 MIN.

Do you have those days when you think “everybody wants a piece of me”? There is a battle over you and the course of your life every day. Jesus wants you to live out a calling that will bring fulfillment and Kingdom results. The enemy wants to distract you and divert your efforts to meaningless pursuits. You are incredibly valuable. While every believer wants to go God’s way, it’s very easy to get caught up in the busyness of life and get involved in things that move you in another direction. Which way will you go?

SESSION ONE

So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ. Colossians 2:6-8

1. H OW DO YOU SEE BELIEVERS ATTEMPTING TO LIVE IN BOTH WORLDS?

2. WHERE DO YOU FEEL THE TENSION BETWEEN FOLLOWING JESUS AND FOLLOWING THE WAYS OF THE WORLD?

As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.” 1 Peter 1:14-16

3. IF GOD IS WORKING IN YOU TO KEEP YOUR LIFE ALIGNED WITH HIS PURPOSE, WHAT CAUSES YOUR LIFE TO BECOME OUT OF LINE WITH HIS PURPOSE?

YOU ARE CALLED

4. W HAT DO YOU NEED TO DO TO STAY ALIGNED WITH HIS PURPOSE?

Jesus gave them this answer: “Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does. John 5:19

5. A RE THERE THINGS WE TRY TO DO WITHOUT GOD’S HELP? IF SO, WHAT ARE THOSE THINGS?

6. IF JESUS, BEING FULLY GOD, COULD DO NOTHING BY HIMSELF, WHY DO WE THINK WE CAN DO THOSE THINGS BY OURSELVES?

SESSION ONE

THEREFORE, MY DEAR FRIENDS, AS YOU HAVE ALWAYS OBEYED—NOT ONLY IN MY PRESENCE, BUT NOW MUCH MORE IN MY ABSENCE—CONTINUE TO WORK OUT YOUR SALVATION WITH FEAR AND TREMBLING, FOR IT IS GOD WHO WORKS IN YOU TO WILL AND TO ACT IN ORDER TO FULFILL HIS GOOD PURPOSE. PHILIPPIANS 2:12-13 YOU ARE CALLED

SESSION ONE

DIGGING DEEPER (OPTIONAL)

For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me. John 6:38

1. W HAT ACTIONS OR ATTITUDES DEMONSTRATE HOW BELIEVERS DO THINGS BY THEMSELVES?

2. WHAT ACTIONS OR ATTITUDES DEMONSTRATE HOW BELIEVERS DO THINGS WITH GOD?

3. HOW CAN YOU INTEGRATE THOSE THINGS INTO YOUR DAILY LIFE?

YOU ARE CALLED

DEVELOPING YOUR GIFTS TO SERVE OTHERS 10 MIN. • Developing our ability to serve God according to the leading of the Holy Spirit takes time and persistence in getting to know our Lord. We must take time in prayer, in God’s Word, and in meditation, to let God speak to us daily. Which of the following next steps are you willing to take for the next few weeks? • P RAYER . Commit to personal prayer and daily connection with God. You may find it helpful to write your prayers in a journal. •R EFLECTIONS . The Reflections provided in each session of this study are an opportunity for reading a short Bible passage five days a week during the course of this study. Write down your insights on what you read each day. On the sixth day summarize what God has shown you throughout the week. •M EDITATION . Try meditation as a way of internalizing God’s Word more deeply. Copy a portion of Scripture on a card and tape it somewhere in your line of sight, such as your car’s dashboard or the kitchen table. Think about it when you sit at red lights, or while you’re eating a meal. Reflect on what God is saying to you through these words. Several passages for meditation are suggested on the Reflections pages in each session.

SESSION ONE

4. H OW ARE YOU LIVING OUT THE MISSION DAILY? HOW ARE YOU BRINGING THE KINGDOM INTO YOUR EVERY DAY?

5. P ENCIL IN YOUR TO-DO LIST. WHAT THINGS IN YOUR LIFE HAVE YOU WRITTEN IN PEN—THINKING GOD CAN’T ENTER INTO THIS TIMEFRAME, THIS PLACE, OR THIS RELATIONSHIP?

YOU ARE CALLED

GOING ON MISSION EVERY DAY 15 MIN.

This section is where the rubber meets the road. It’s one thing to agree with what the Bible says. It’s another thing to live it out. Challenge each member to name their next step in this section and live it out this coming week.

1. W HAT DO YOU BELIEVE JESUS IS CALLING YOU TO? IF YOU DON’T HAVE AN ANSWER RIGHT NOW, THAT’S OKAY. BUT ASK GOD THROUGH PRAYER TO SHOW YOU.

2. W HAT IS YOUR FIRST STEP IN WALKING INTO YOUR CALLING? WHAT CAN YOU START DOING THIS WEEK?

SESSION ONE

SURRENDERING YOUR WEEK TO GOD 15 MIN.

You cannot do God’s Work without God’s power. You cannot fulfill God’s calling on your life without God. That doesn’t even make sense. As you seek God’s help, He will work in you to produce the results He wants to see in you.

• Allow everyone to answer this question: “How can we pray for you this week?” Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer List on page 123. • What kind of worship fits your group? Spend a few minutes worshiping God together. Here are two ideas: • Have someone use their musical gifts to lead the group in a worship song. Try singing a cappella, using recorded audio or video worship music, or have someone accompany your singing with a musical instrument. • Read a passage of Scripture together, making it a time of praise and worship as the words remind you of all God has done for you. Choose a Psalm or another favorite verse. • Every believer should have a plan for spending time alone with God. At the end of each session we provide Reflections for you to use in your daily time with Him. There are five daily Scripture readings with space to record your thoughts. On the sixth day there is space to record your summary of the five reflections. These will offer reinforcement of the principles we are learning, and develop or strengthen your habit of time alone with God throughout the week.

YOU ARE CALLED

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

SESSION ONE

DAY 1 Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. Philippians 2:12. REFLECT: WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO “WORK OUT” YOUR SALVATION?

DAY 2 . For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. Philippians 2:13 REFLECT: HOW DO YOU SENSE GOD WORKING IN YOU TO FULFILL HIS PURPOSE? WHAT IS HE CALLING YOU TO? WHAT IS HE CALLING YOU AWAY FROM?

YOU ARE CALLED

DAY 3. So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him. Colossians 2:6 REFLECT: WHEN IS IT HARD FOR YOU TO FOLLOW JESUS? WHY? WHAT CAN YOU DO TO MAKE IT EASIER?

DAY 4. … rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness Colossians 2:7 REFLECT: WHAT IS THE #1 THING THAT PROPELS YOU FORWARD IN FAITH? HOW CAN YOU MAKE SURE TO PRIORITIZE THAT?

SESSION ONE

YOU ARE CALLED

SESSION ONE

DAY 5. Then [Jesus] said to them all: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. Luke 9:23 REFLECT: WHAT COULD LIVING OUT THE MISSION DAILY LOOK LIKE IN YOUR LIFE? WHAT DO YOU NEED TO LAY DOWN OR GIVE UP TO ACCOMPLISH THIS?

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

YOU ARE CALLED

SESSION TWO

RELEVANT

What’s of more use to you: a living Savior or a dead example? Scripture tells us to imitate Jesus’ life, but Jesus lived a perfect life. How can imperfect human beings live a perfect life? We can’t. So, has God challenged us with the impossible? In our natural selves, it is not possible to live a perfect life. In fact, our natural selves tend toward sin, distraction, and disobedience. To imitate Jesus’ example, we need supernatural help. We need, “Christ in [us], the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27). With Jesus in us, we have the same power in us that raised Jesus from the dead (Ephesians 1:18-20). With these resources, Jesus can live His life through us. We can imitate Him.

SESSION TWO

MEMORY VERSE

BUT GOD RAISED [JESUS] FROM THE DEAD, FREEING HIM FROM THE AGONY OF DEATH, BECAUSE IT WAS IMPOSSIBLE FOR DEATH TO KEEP ITS HOLD ON HIM.Â ACTS 2:24

RELE VANT

GETTING STARTED 10 MIN. • OPEN YOUR GROUP WITH PRAYER.

• Review the Ground Rules for Small Group Meetings on page 119. Each person in the group read one of the statements until you’ve read through the whole list. • Why do some people feel the Bible is irrelevant for today? • At the end of the study last week, you were asked about taking the first step toward walking into your calling. Break up into groups of two or three people and share more.

SESSION TWO

WATCH THE VIDEO. We have provided a Teaching Notes section below.

NOTES:

RELE VANT

DISCOVERING GOD’S WORD TOGETHER 20 MIN.

But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him. Acts 2:24 Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Romans 8:34-35

SESSION TWO

1. IF JESUS WAS NOT ALIVE, WHAT WOULD LIFE BE LIKE?

2. H OW DO YOU KNOW PERSONALLY THAT JESUS IS STILL ALIVE? IF YOU DON’T, THEN SAY THAT.

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12

3. ACCORDING TO 2 TIMOTHY 3:16, THE BIBLE IS USEFUL FOR SEVERAL THINGS: TEACHING, REBUKING, CORRECTING, AND TRAINING IN RIGHTEOUSNESS. HOW HAS THE BIBLE SPECIALLY BEEN USEFUL TO YOU THIS LAST WEEK? AT ANY TIME THIS YEAR?

RELE VANT

4. TALK ABOUT A TIME WHEN YOU READ A VERSE THAT SPOKE DIRECTLY TO YOU AND YOUR SITUATION.

5. IN THE VIDEO, LISA SAID, “GOD HAS REGULARLY BEEN SHOWING ME WHAT I’M

THINKING IS NOT ALWAYS WRONG, JUST INCOMPLETE.” TELL ABOUT A TIME WHEN YOU EXPERIENCED THIS.

SESSION TWO

RELE VANT

DIGGING DEEPER (OPTIONAL)

I want to know Christâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;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. Philippians 3:10-11

1. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN KNOWING ABOUT SOMEONE AND KNOWING SOMEONE?

2. T HINK ABOUT A TIME WHEN YOU FELT JESUS SHOW UP IN YOUR LIFE. WHAT WAS GOING ON THEN? WHAT HAPPENED?

3. HOW DOES THE WORD OF GOD (BOTH JESUS AND THE BIBLE) CORRECT YOUR THINKING?

4. W HEN HAS THE WORD OF GOD REVEALED SOMETHING TO YOU THAT YOU HAD AN

INCOMPLETE VIEW OF OR INCORRECT VIEW OF? HOW DID THE WORD TEACH YOU IN A REAL AND RELEVANT WAY?

SESSION TWO

DEVELOPING YOUR GIFTS TO SERVE OTHERS 10 MIN.

HOW CAN JESUS’ MODEL AND THE BIBLE EFFECT YOUR ORDINARY DAYS—A BUSINESS MEETING, A CONVERSATION, AN AFTERNOON WITH YOUR CHILDREN, OR SOMETHING ELSE IN YOUR DAY?

RELE VANT

GOING ON MISSION EVERY DAY 15 MIN.

One step toward bringing people to Jesus is bringing them to your group. Who in your life would enjoy or benefit from this study? Who needs to meet a living Jesus and learn from his living book, the Bible? T AKE A LOOK AT THE CIRCLES OF LIFE DIAGRAM BELOW AND WRITE THE NAMES OF TWO OR THREE PEOPLE YOU KNOW WHO NEED TO KNOW CHRIST. COMMIT TO PRAYING FOR GOD’S GUIDANCE AND AN OPPORTUNITY TO SHARE WITH EACH OF THEM.

FAMILY

(immediate or extended) _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________

FAMILIAR

FRIENDS

(neighbors, kids’ sports teams, school, and so forth)

_______________________

_______________________ _______________________

_______________________

FUN

FIRM

_______________________

(gym, hobbies, hangouts)

SESSION TWO

(work)

SURRENDERING YOUR WEEK TO GOD 15 MIN.

• Share your prayer requests in your group and then gather in smaller circles of three or four people to pray. Be sure to have everyone write down the personal requests of the members to use as a reminder to pray for your group throughout the week. (The Prayer List is on page 123.) • Then pray for one another in your circle. Don’t put pressure on anyone to pray aloud. When you pray for each person, you may find it meaningful to hold hands or place your hands on another person’s shoulder. Jesus often touched those He healed to communicate His care for them. • Take a few minutes to talk about what it would take to make time with God a priority every day or even five or six days a week. Don’t demand an hour or even a half-hour of time; consider drawing near to God for a few minutes each day and gradually you will desire more. Use the Reflections at the end of each session for drawing near to God.

RELE VANT

SESSION TWO

DAY 1. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Romans 8:34

REFLECT: I F JESUS WAS NOT ALIVE TODAY, HOW DIFFICULT WOULD IT BE TO FOLLOW HIS EXAMPLE? WHAT WOULD BE MISSING?

DAY 2. In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope

through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 1 Peter 1:3

REFLECT: W HAT WORDS JUMP OUT AT YOU FROM THIS PASSAGE? WHAT DO THEY MEAN TO YOU?

DAY 3. For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets,

though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.2 Peter 1:21

REFLECT: T HE BIBLE IS A MIRACULOUS BOOK THAT WAS COMPLETED CENTURIES AGO. WHAT IS GOOD ABOUT THE BIBLE BEING AN OLD BOOK?

RELE VANT

DAY 4. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking,

correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17

REFLECT: T HE BIBLE THOROUGHLY EQUIPS GOD’S SERVANTS. HOW WELL EQUIPPED DO YOU FEEL RIGHT NOW?

DAY 5. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13:8 REFLECT: HOW HAS YOUR PERSPECTIVE OF JESUS CHANGED OVER THE YEARS?

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

SUMMARY:

SESSION TWO

RELE VANT

SESSION THREE

REACHING

You are sitting in this small group because someone reached out to you. Whether you were invited recently to participate in the group or years ago someone explained what it meaned to follow Jesus, you were reached. The Church—not the building or the Sunday service—but, the Church, God’s people were made to reach.

SESSION THREE

MEMORY VERSE

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

REACHING

GETTING STARTED 10 MIN. • OPEN YOUR GROUP WITH PRAYER.

Turn to the Ground Rules for Small Group Meetings on page 119 and each person share which ground rule is most important to you in a small group. Telling our personal stories builds deeper connections among group members. Choose one of the activities below to build your connections within the group. • Have you ever been called to be a witness in court? Tell about your experience. If no one in your group has had this experience, then ask: What is a witness? How is a witness different from an evangelist? • Share (maybe in a smaller group) how your time with God went this week. What is one thing you discovered? Did you make a commitment to a next step that you can share? What obstacles hindered you from following through this week?

SESSION THREE

WATCH THE VIDEO. We have provided a Teaching Notes section below.

NOTES:

REACHING

DISCOVERING GOD’S WORD TOGETHER 20 MIN.

Jesus’ life started in an obscure place. Born in Bethlehem, his ancestral home, he lived in Nazareth with his family. Joseph, his earthly father, was a carpenter, who taught Jesus the trade. Yet out of that obscure place, Jesus recruited his disciples one by one. First, there were twelve followers. This grew to 72 or so. Then, many more disciples were added by invitation or word of mouth. The big crowds came out of interest, but didn’t stay out of commitment. After his resurrection, Jesus ascended into heaven leaving 120 followers with instructions to stay in an upper room. On the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit filled them with power. The Gospel was preached. And, some 3,000 were saved in one day. The message, the Gospel, and Jesus’ messengers, the Church, eventually spanned the globe. One day at a time, one life at a time, the church is built. One day someone explained the Good News to you. You decided to surrender your life to Christ and were saved. Now, you have a story to tell. Who will you tell?

SESSION THREE

1. W HO INFLUENCED YOU TO RECEIVE CHRIST?

They had Peter and John brought before them and began to question them: “By what power or what name did you do this?” Acts 4:7 Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Colossians 4:5

2. DO PEOPLE ASK YOU ABOUT HOW YOU LIVE YOUR LIFE? IF SO, WHAT HAVE THEY SAID?

3. W HEN YOU THINK ABOUT REACHING PEOPLE, WHAT COMES TO MIND?

4. H OW IS YOUR SENSE OF URGENCY WHEN IT COMES TO REACHING OTHERS? RATE

YOURSELF ON A SCALE OF 1 TO 10. 1 BEING “DON’T GIVE IT A THOUGHT” AND 10 BEING “LET’S GO WITNESS TO SOMEONE RIGHT NOW” (AND YOU CAN’T USE 4, 5, OR 6).

5. S HARE HOW YOUR ACTIONS JUSTIFY THE RATING YOU GAVE YOURSELF.

REACHING

DIGGING DEEPER (OPTIONAL)

But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.1 Peter 3:4-6

IN THIS PASSAGE, PETER INSTRUCTS BELIEVERS TO GIVE A REASON FOR THEIR HOPE, NOT A REASON FOR THEIR FAITH. WHY SHOULD BELIEVERS ANSWER FOR THEIR HOPE?

2. H OW HAVE YOU SEEN PEOPLE WITNESS IN A RUDE OR DISRESPECTFUL WAY?

3. W HAT DOES A WITNESS WITH GENTLENESS AND RESPECT LOOK LIKE?

4. W HAT ARE THE KEYS TO LIVING A LIFE BEYOND REPROACH—A LIFE WHERE NO ONE COULD MALIGN YOU?

SESSION THREE

DEVELOPING YOUR GIFTS TO SERVE OTHERS 10 MIN.

IS THERE AN AREA OF SERVICE THAT GOD HAS PUT ON YOUR HEART TO SERVE THIS GROUP OR AT LAKELAND? COMMIT TO TAKING THE FIRST STEP AND BE WILLING TO LET GOD LEAD YOU TO THE MINISTRY THAT EXPRESSES YOUR PASSION. IF YOU ARE NOT CURRENTLY SERVING, TALK ABOUT ONE AREA WHERE YOU WILL CONSIDER SERVING.

REACHING

GOING ON MISSION EVERY DAY 15 MIN.

• Pair up with another person in your group. Take a few minutes to tell each other how and when you came to Christ. • If someone asked you about your faith, can you tell the elevator version of your story in 90 seconds or less? This week, in the space provided, write out the 90 second version of your story. Have this ready for the meeting next week. • In the last session we asked you to write some names in the Circles of Life diagram. Who did you identify as the people in your life who need to meet Jesus? Go back to the Circles of Life diagram on page 46 to help you think of the various people you come in contact with on a regular basis who need to know Jesus more deeply. Consider the following ideas for action and make a plan to follow through on one of them this week. • If your group has availability (less than 12 participants), this is a great time to welcome a few friends into your group. Which of the people you listed could you invite? It’s possible that you may need to help your friend overcome obstacles to coming to a place where he or she can encounter Jesus. Does your friend need a ride to the group? Help with child care? • Consider inviting a friend to attend a weekend service with you and possibly plan to enjoy a meal together afterward. This can be a great opportunity to talk with someone about your faith in Jesus. • Is there someone who you wouldn’t invite to your group but who still needs a connection? Would you be willing to have lunch or coffee with that person, catch up on life, and share something you’ve learned from this study? Jesus doesn’t call all of us to lead small groups, but he does call every disciple to spiritually multiply his or her life over time.

SESSION THREE

SURRENDERING YOUR WEEK TO GOD 15 MIN.

• Share your praises and prayer requests with one another. Record these on the Prayer List on page 123. Then, spend time now praying for each other. •E nd your meeting by singing a song together or with someone closing the evening with a prayer.

REACHING

SESSION THREE

DAY 1. 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

REFLECT: WHAT IS THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN RECEIVING GOD’S POWER AND BEING JESUS’ WITNESSES? HOW OFTEN DO YOU ASK FOR GOD’S POWER?

DAY 2. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. Acts 8:1 REFLECT: THE FULFILLMENT OF ACTS 1:8 IS FOUND IN ACTS 8:1. WHAT MOTIVATED THE DISCIPLES TO FOLLOW JESUS’ COMMAND? WHAT MOTIVATES YOU? HOW DOES YOUR MOTIVATION NEED TO INCREASE?

DAY 3. He also said, “This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the ground. Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how. All by itself the soil produces grain—first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head. As soon as the grain is ripe, he puts the sickle to it, because the harvest has come.” Mark 4:26-30 REFLECT: HOW DO YOU “SCATTER SEED” WHEN IT COMES TO WITNESSING TO OTHERS? AFTER THE SEED IS SCATTERED, WHAT IS THE WORK OF THE PLANTER?

REACHING

DAY 4. I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. 1 Corinthians 3:6 REFLECT: WHAT DOES THIS VERSE SAY ABOUT THE PROGRESSION OF SOMEONE COMING TO FAITH? WHO PRODUCES THE RESULT? WHAT HAS INTIMIDATED YOU ABOUT WITNESSING TO OTHERS?

DAY 5. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Colossians 4:5

REFLECT: WHAT OPPORTUNITY DO YOU HAVE RIGHT NOW TO INFLUENCE SOMEONE FOR CHRIST? IF NOTHING COMES TO MIND, PRAY FOR GOD TO PROVIDE AN OPPORTUNITY, THEN PAY ATTENTION TO WHAT HAPPENS.

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

SESSION THREE

REACHING

SESSION FOUR

AUTHENTIC

Authentic—genuine, real. It sounds refreshing doesn’t it. But, how do you know if someone is the real deal? Some people appear very real and genuine. You probably wouldn’t doubt their authenticity. But, later you might realize they were putting up a front. Who they appeared to be was not who they really were. Everyone ends up disappointed. What is the true test of authenticity? How do you know who’s genuine? How do others know you are?

SESSION FOUR

MEMORY VERSE

BE DEVOTED TO ONE ANOTHER IN LOVE. HONOR ONE ANOTHER ABOVE YOURSELVES. ROMANS 12:10

AUTHENTIC

GETTING STARTED 10 MIN. • OPEN YOUR GROUP WITH PRAYER.

Without looking at the Ground Rules for Small Group Meetings, share about how many of the ground rules your group can remember. (Hint: There are 12 of them.) Telling our personal stories builds deeper connections among group members. Choose one of the activities below to build your connections within the group. • What helps people to open up about themselves? • Last week, you were asked to write out a 90 second elevator pitch version of your story. Share your stories with the group.

SESSION FOUR

WATCH THE VIDEO. We have provided a Teaching Notes section below.

NOTES:

AUTHENTIC

DISCOVERING

GOD’S WORD TOGETHER 20 MIN.

Authenticity comes from vulnerability. Have you ever heard someone say, “He is exactly the same everywhere he is”? There’s no pretending. There’s no façade. He’s the real deal. While authenticity sounds good, vulnerability might sound scary. “If people knew the real me, would they like me—would they accept me.” Being guarded and inauthentic seems safe, yet it’s more dangerous than you would think. You can only pretend for so long; then it all unravels. Now, imagine a group who creates a secure, loving, accepting environment where everyone can be themselves and no one will be rejected. This is the community Jesus imagined. This is the kind of community we want you to experience. A place where good, bad, or otherwise, you can be you. No hiding. No faking it. Authentic lives in genuine community—warts and all. How does that sound? Moses said to Joshua, “Choose some of our men and go out to fight the Amalekites. Tomorrow I will stand on top of the hill with the staff of God in my hands.”

SESSION FOUR

So Joshua fought the Amalekites as Moses had ordered, and Moses, Aaron and Hur went to the top of the hill. As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning. When Moses’ hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset. Joshua overcame the Amalekite army with the sword. Exodus 17:9-13

1. W HEN WOULD IT BE HELPFUL TO HAVE SOMEONE “HOLD UP YOUR HANDS” LIKE AARON AND HUR DID FOR MOSES?

2. T HINK ABOUT A TIME WHEN YOU LET YOUR GUARD DOWN. WHAT HAPPENED? HOW DID OTHERS HELP YOU? HOW DID JUST SHARING HELP YOU?

3. W HEN ARE YOU TEMPTED TO BE INAUTHENTIC?

4. W HAT DOES IT FEEL LIKE TO BE FULLY ACCEPTED?

5. A DD THE THINGS THAT MIGHT HINDER OPENNESS IN THE GROUP TO YOUR GROUP AGREEMENT, IF THEY ARE NOT ALREADY MENTIONED.

AUTHENTIC

DIGGING DEEPER (OPTIONAL)

After six days Jesus took Peter, James and John with him and led them up a high mountain, where they were all alone. There he was transfigured before them. Mark 9:2 They went to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus said to his disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” He took Peter, James and John along with him, and he began to be deeply distressed and troubled. “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,” he said to them. “Stay here and keep watch.” Mark 14:32-34

1. W HAT EVENTS DID JESUS ONLY INCLUDE PETER, JAMES, AND JOHN?

2. W HY DID JESUS EXCLUDE THE OTHER NINE DISCIPLES?

SESSION FOUR

3. W HAT DOES JESUSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; EXAMPLE SAY ABOUT YOUR RELATIONSHIPS?

4. O THER THAN FAMILY MEMBERS, WHO WOULD YOU INCLUDE IN YOUR MOST SIGNIFICANT LIFE EVENTS?

5. W HO KNOWS YOU BETTER THAN ANYONE ELSE?

6. W HAT THINGS DOES NO ONE KNOW ABOUT YOU? WHY?

HE DID NOT LET ANYONE FOLLOW HIM EXCEPT PETER, JAMES AND JOHN THE BROTHER OF JAMES. MARK 5:37 AUTHENTIC

DEVELOPING YOUR GIFTS TO SERVE OTHERS 5 MIN.

IN MARK 5:37, JESUS DIDNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T LET ANYONE FOLLOW HIM EXCEPT FOR PETER, JAMES, AND JOHN. IMAGINE WHAT QUALITIES THESE THREE MUST HAVE HAD THAT JESUS WOULD INCLUDE THEM AND NOT THE OTHERS. HOW CAN YOU BE A TRUSTED FRIEND TO SOMEONE?

GOING ON MISSION EVERY DAY 10 MIN.

EACH OF YOU SHARE HOW YOU HAVE DONE WITH INVITING THE PEOPLE ON THE CIRCLES OF LIFE TO CHURCH OR YOUR SMALL GROUP.

SESSION FOUR

SURRENDERING YOUR WEEK TO GOD 15 MIN.

• Share your praises and prayer requests with one another. Record these on the Prayer List on page 123. • This week invite someone in your small group to join you outside of the group to spend time together and get to know each other better. Work on the areas of your life where you feel you are inauthentic. • IMPORTANT: FOR NEXT WEEK’S MEETING, EACH GROUP MEMBER NEEDS TO BRING 24 PENNIES. (Not two dimes and four pennies, but 24 pennies). LEADER: Have some extra sets of 24 pennies available for those who weren’t in today’s meeting.

AUTHENTIC

DAY 1. One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. Luke 6:12

REFLECT: JESUS SPENT THE NIGHT PRAYING BEFORE HE CHOSE HIS DISCIPLES. WHAT SIGNIFICANT THING IN YOUR LIFE RIGHT NOW DESERVES THIS LEVEL OF PRAYER?

DAY 2. After six days Jesus took Peter, James and John with him and led them up a high mountain, where they were all alone. There he was transfigured before them. Mark 9:2 REFLECT: WHEN YOU THINK ABOUT YOUR GROUP MEMBERS, WHO SHOULD YOU GIVE CLOSER ACCESS TO YOUR LIFE?

DAY 3. But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. John 16:7

REFLECT: SOME RELATIONSHIPS ARE ONLY FOR A SEASON. WHAT RELATIONSHIPS DO YOU FEEL BAD ABOUT ENDING? IF THERE WAS AN OFFENSE OR ISSUE, WHAT CAN YOU DO TO SEEK OR OFFER FORGIVENESS?

SESSION FOUR

DAY 4. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I

will send him to you. John 16:7

REFLECT: IF JESUS HADN’T GONE AWAY, THE HOLY SPIRIT WOULD NOT HAVE COME. YESTERDAY, YOU WERE REFLECTING ON A RELATIONSHIP THAT ENDED. WHAT OPPORTUNITY WAS PRODUCED BY THE ABSENCE OF THAT RELATIONSHIP?

DAY 5. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset. Exodus 17:12

REFLECT: WHO DO YOU HAVE IN YOUR LIFE THAT COULD SUPPORT YOU LIKE AARON AND HUR SUPPORTED MOSES? WHAT WOULD IT TAKE FOR YOU TO PROVIDE THAT KIND OF RELATIONSHIP TO SOMEONE ELSE?

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

AUTHENTIC

SESSION FIVE

SIMPLE

In many cities and towns across the country, one industry is booming among many others—mini-storage. People have so much stuff, they can’t park their cars in their garages. Now, their garages aren’t even big enough. That’s a lot of stuff. What is this stuff? It’s the fruit of our labors. Stuff is the end result of our time, talent, and treasure. Now, the continuing cost of stuff is the storage of stuff. Stuff complicates our lives and still doesn’t make anyone happy. Face it, if stuff could make you happy, you’d be happy, right? Oh, for simpler times.

SESSION FIVE

MEMORY VERSE

TEACH US TO NUMBER OUR DAYS, THAT WE MAY GAIN A HEART OF WISDOM. PSALM 90:12

SIMPLE

GETTING STARTED 10 MIN. • OPEN YOUR GROUP WITH PRAYER.

Telling our personal stories builds deeper connections among group members. Choose one of the activities below to build your connections within the group. • Each group member should have 24 pennies to represent the 24 hours in a typical weekday. Divide your pennies by answering this question: How do I “spend” my time? Think about work, sleep, exercise, quiet time, morning routine, meals, recreation, family, screen time and phones, household maintenance and chores, sports and activities, commutes and carpooling, hobbies, God, others. Share how you divided your pennies.

SESSION FIVE

WATCH THE VIDEO. We have provided a Teaching Notes section below.

NOTES:

SIMPLE

DISCOVERING

GOD’S WORD TOGETHER 20 MIN.

You can never get more time. You can get more money. You can get more education. You can get more help and more stuff. But, no one can get more time. Everyone is limited to 24 hours in a day and 365 days in a year. No exceptions. Your life is an accumulation of your days. How’s your life? Is it what you want? Are you getting a good return on your investment? If today is the end result of all of your previous day combined, does that make you excited or depressed? To change things, you have to start today. What do you want to be known for? What do you want to be remembered for? What impact do you want to leave on the world? What part of your legacy involves building God’s Kingdom? To get to where you want to go, you have to do things differently every day.

SESSION FIVE

Show me, Lord, my life’s end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting my life is. You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you. Everyone is but a breath, even those who seem secure. Psalm 39:4-5 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore, do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Ephesians 5:15-17

1. H OW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT WHERE YOU TIME GOES?

2. W HAT COULD YOU STOP DOING TODAY THAT NO ONE WOULD NOTICE?

3. W HAT IS YOUR RETURN ON INVESTMENT (ROI) ON YOUR CURRENTLY INVESTING

YOUR TIME, TALENT, AND TREASURE? IS YOUR LIFE WHERE YOU WANT IT TO BE? IS YOUR MARRIAGE WHERE YOU WANT IT TO BE? IS YOUR FAMILY WHERE YOU WANT IT TO BE? HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT YOUR CURRENT QUALITY OF LIFE?

4. IF SOMEONE EXAMINED YOUR CALENDAR AND YOUR BANK ACCOUNT, WHAT WOULD THEY DISCOVER ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS TO YOU?

SIMPLE

5. IN THE VIDEO, LISA SAID, “ONE OF THE WAYS WE HELP OUR FAMILY BALANCE OUR TIME

AND TALENT IS THAT WE SET A STANDARD THAT OUR KIDS CAN DO ONE SPORT AND ONE MUSIC THING A YEAR.” HOW WOULD A STANDARD LIKE THIS HELP YOUR FAMILY?

6. IF YOU ONLY HAD 30 DAYS LEFT TO LIVE, WHAT WOULD YOU DO? WHO WOULD YOU SPEND TIME WITH?

SESSION FIVE

DIGGING DEEPER (OPTIONAL)

Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil. If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them. James 4:13-17

1. W HAT IS MOST IMPORTANT TO YOU?

2. H OW DOES WHAT YOU SAY IS MOST IMPORTANT COMPARE TO WHAT YOU DO?

3. W HEN YOU THINK ABOUT THE COMPLEXITY OF YOUR LIFE RIGHT NOW, HOW DID YOU GET HERE?

4. T HINK THE CHOICES YOU MADE WITH YOUR TIME, TALENT, AND TREASURE THIS

PAST WEEK. FOR EVERYTHING YOU SAID, “YES” TO, YOU HAD TO SAY, “NO” TO SOMETHING ELSE. WHAT DID YOU EFFECTIVELY SAY, “NO” TO? HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THAT CHOICE NOW?

SIMPLE

DEVELOPING YOUR GIFTS TO SERVE OTHERS 10 MIN.

What is one thing you can do this week that will help to simplify your life? Share this goal with your prayer partner(s), so they can pray for you and encourage you this week (and ask you how it went next week).

SESSION FIVE

SURRENDERING YOUR WEEK TO GOD 10 MIN.

â&#x20AC;¢ Share your praises and prayer requests with one another. Record these on the Prayer List on page 123. Then pray together for each other.

SIMPLE

DAY 1. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33

REFLECT: IF YOU LOST ALL OF YOUR POSSESSIONS OR INCOME, WHAT WOULD YOU BE GRATEFUL FOR?

DAY 2. Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, Ephesians 5:15 REFLECT: HOW ARE YOU LIVING WISELY? WHAT PART OF YOUR LIFE IS LIVED UNWISELY?

DAY 3. … making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:16

REFLECT: HOW ARE YOU MAKING THE MOST OF OPPORTUNITIES FOR KINGDOM PURPOSES? WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE IN FRONT OF YOU RIGHT NOW?

SESSION FIVE

DAY 4. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Ephesians 5:17 REFLECT: THE IMPLICATION OF THIS VERSE IS THAT NOT UNDERSTANDING THE LORD’S WILL IS FOOLISH. HOW CAN YOU BETTER UNDERSTAND THE LORD’S WILL FOR YOU?

DAY 5. Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Psalm 90:12

REFLECT: EVERYONE HAS A LIMITED NUMBER OF DAYS ON THIS PLANET. HOW ARE YOU MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR DAYS?

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

SIMPLE

SESSION SIX

EXCELLENCE There’s a big difference between half-hearted and wholehearted. Think about the last time you were disappointed in a restaurant. You weren’t disappointed by the price. You knew what you were getting into. You weren’t disappointed by the company. You picked them. You were either disappointed by the attentiveness of the server or the quality of the food. Whether your menu choice involved words like “Would you like fries with that?” or an explanation of an entrée from another culture, good experiences involve an expectation of excellence. Anything less would be disappointing.

SESSION SIX

MEMORY VERSE

WHATEVER YOU DO, WORK AT IT WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AS WORKING FOR THE LORD. COLOSSIANS 3:23

EXCELLENCE

GETTING STARTED 10 MIN. • OPEN YOUR GROUP WITH PRAYER.

Telling our personal stories builds deeper connections among group members. Choose one of the activities below to build your connections within the group. • Where do you see excellence in the world around you? • Last week you set a goal to do one thing to simplify your life. Share with one or two others how you did or didn’t accomplish your goal. • Our next session is the last in this study. In the Surrendering section of session six on page 99, you will have an opportunity to share Communion together, or participate in the Surrender at the Cross exercise. Read the instructions and talk about your plans for that meeting before you leave today.

SESSION SIX

WATCH THE VIDEO. We have provided a Teaching Notes section below.

NOTES:

EXCELLENCE

DISCOVERING

GOD’S WORD TOGETHER 20 MIN.

You are part of something much bigger than yourself. You are part of the Church. As we’ve said before, by Church, we don’t mean a building or a weekend worship experience. Together, we are the Church. We need each other. There is a unique contribution that only you can make that is needed by everybody else. What is that contribution? Well, it’s different for everyone. An exciting part of the pursuit of excellence is God’s pursuit of you and discovering how He has equipped you to make your unique contribution. Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many.

SESSION SIX

Now if the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. If they were all one part, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, but one body. 1 Corinthians 12:12-20

1. W HAT HAS SOMEONE SAID THAT YOU ARE GOOD AT?

2. W HAT ARE THE UNIQUE PARTS OF YOUR STORY THAT GOD HAS USED?

3. H OW HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED OTHERS SPEAKING INTO YOUR LIFE TO HELP YOU FIND WHERE YOU’RE MEANT TO BRING SOMETHING TO EXCELLENCE?

4. IF YOU KNEW YOU COULDN’T FAIL, WHAT WOULD YOU ATTEMPT FOR GOD?

EXCELLENCE

DIGGING DEEPER (OPTIONAL)

For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. Romans 12:3-8

1. HOW ARE YOU CURRENTLY SERVING WITH EXCELLENCE? IF YOU’RE NOT CURRENTLY SERVING IN THE CHURCH OR THE COMMUNITY, WHAT IS YOUR NEXT STEP TOWARD SERVING?

2. H OW ARE YOU SERVING WITH EXCELLENCE?

3. W HEN DO YOU FEEL LIKE SERVING IN A LESS THAN EXCELLENT WAY?

WHEN CAN

YOU GET BY WITH JUST “GOOD ENOUGH”?

4. HOW CAN YOU IMPROVE HOW YOU SERVE?

MORE REST? MORE CONCENTRATION? FEWER DISTRACTIONS? WHAT IS YOUR NEXT STEP TOWARD SERVING WITH EXCELLENCE?

SESSION SIX

DEVELOPING YOUR GIFTS TO SERVE OTHERS 10 MIN.

WHAT MINISTRY WOULD YOU LIKE TO TRY THAT YOU’VE NEVER TRIED BEFORE? WHAT’S HOLDING YOU BACK? WHAT YOUR NEXT STEP?

EXCELLENCE

GOING ON MISSION EVERY DAY 10MIN.

1. W HEN YOU THINK ABOUT THE COMMUNITY AROUND YOU, WHAT NEEDS ARE YOU DRAWN TO?

2. W HAT IS ONE THING YOU CAN DO THIS WEEK TO MOVE TOWARD MEETING THAT

NEED? NOT THE NEXT 10 STEPS, WHAT’S THE FIRST STEP? IF IT’S A NO BRAINER, THEN JUST GO DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT.

SESSION SIX

SURRENDERING YOUR WEEK TO GOD 15 MIN.

â&#x20AC;¢ Share your praises and prayer requests with one another. Record these on the Prayer List on page 123. Then pray together for each other.

EXCELLENCE

DAY 1. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble,

whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8 REFLECT: ACCORDING TO THIS VERSE, ADMIRABLE THOUGHTS ARE EXCELLENT AND PRAISEWORTHY. OUR THOUGHTS, THEN, PRODUCE OUR ACTIONS. HOW ADMIRABLE ARE YOUR THOUGHTS THESE DAYS? WHAT MIGHT BE LESS THAN ADMIRABLE?

DAY 2. Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:12 REFLECT: WHAT IS YOUR PART IN CHRIST’S BODY?

DAY 3. Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many. 1 Corinthians 12:14

REFLECT: HOW DO THE OTHER PARTS OF CHRIST’S BODY, BELIEVERS WITH OTHER GIFTS, FIT WITH YOUR PART? WHEN IS THERE TENSION? WHEN IS THERE HARMONY?

100

SESSION SIX

DAY 4. But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. 1 Corinthians 12:18 REFLECT: HAVE YOU EVER BEEN GUILTY OF “GIFT ENVY” WHEN YOU WISHED YOU HAD THE GIFT SOMEONE ELSE DOES? WHERE IN YOUR LIFE DO YOU STRUGGLE WITH ENVY?

DAY 5. However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace. Acts 20:24

REFLECT: WHILE PAUL UNDERSTOOD HIS TRUTH WORTH AND IDENTITY WAS IN CHRIST, HE USED HIS GIFTS FOR KINGDOM PURPOSES AND NOT HIS OWN PURPOSES. HOW ARE YOU USING YOUR GIFTS—FOR YOURSELF OR FOR THE KINGDOM? SINCE GOD GAVE YOU THE GIFTS, WHO DO THEY RIGHTFULLY BELONG TO? HOW DOES THAT CHANGE YOUR PERSPECTIVE?

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

EXCELLENCE

101

SESSION SEVEN

EXCITING

When was the last time you witnessed genuine excitement? Children are frequent partakers of excitement. Small children especially use their entire bodies to express their excitement. As they wait for their birthday or Christmas, they get so excited they are just about to burst. Then, we grew up.? Believe it or not, your most exciting days are still ahead of you. God has something very exciting mission prepared for you, if you are willing to accept it.

102

SESSION SEVEN

MEMORY VERSE

AT ONCE THEY LEFT THEIR NETS AND FOLLOWED HIM. MATTHEW 4:20

EXCITING

103

GETTING STARTED 10 MIN. • OPEN YOUR GROUP WITH PRAYER.

Open your group with prayer. • Tell the group about a time when you experienced a real adventure in your life. • Take time in this final session to connect with one or two others. What has God been showing you through these sessions What has God been showing you through these sessions?.

104

SESSION SEVEN

WATCH THE VIDEO. We have provided a Teaching Notes section below.

NOTES:

EXCITING

105

DISCOVERING

GOD’S WORD TOGETHER 20 MIN.

Risk brings excitement. Risking one’s life to free climb the granite face of a mountain without the benefit of any gear is exhilarating. Risking one’s limbs by scuba diving in a cage and interacting with sharks that see you as their next meal is exciting. While both of these things would definitely be memorable experiences, in the grand scheme of things, these activities really don’t make much difference in the world. But, there is something inspiring about leaving behind safety and comfort in a quest for the unknown. We see this in the disciples Jesus challenged to leave their nets behind and follow Him. They did without looking back. What about you? What would cause you to swing from the flying trapeze of ministry without a safety net? What might propel you from the comfort of your recliner into something that will change the world? Have you ever heard of one-way missionaries? These brave souls packed their few belongings in coffins to head out to foreign lands in the 18th and 19th centuries with no intention to ever leave the place God was calling them to. No exit strategy. No retirement plan. No return fare. They were all in. God may not be calling you to that level of risk, but He is calling you to something much bigger than yourself. How do we know? Because God is calling every believer to live a life and serve in ways that are far beyond their natural ability or resources. These callings require complete dependence on God. These callings have no safety net. These callings are to God’s great adventure to build His Kingdom on this earth. Are you in?

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SESSION SEVEN

As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” At once they left their nets and followed him. Matthew 4:18-20

1. W HEN YOU THINK ABOUT GOD HAVING AN ADVENTURE FOR YOU, WHAT IS YOUR INITIAL REACTION?

2. W HAT WOULD CONCERN YOU ABOUT AN ADVENTURE FROM GOD? WHAT WOULD EXCITE YOU?

3. W HAT IS THE MOST EXCITING THING IN YOUR LIFE RIGHT NOW?

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4. IF GOD CALLED YOU INTO A TRULY EXCITING AND FULFILLING ADVENTURE, WHAT MIGHT HOLD YOU BACK?

5. W HEN HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED GOD CALLING YOU TO SACRIFICE SOMETHING IN YOUR LIFE? WHAT DID YOU DO? WHAT WAS THE RESULT?

6. IN WHAT WAYS MIGHT THE LORD WANT YOU TO OPEN YOUR HANDS?

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SESSION SEVEN

DIGGING DEEPER (OPTIONAL)

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Romans 12:10-12

1. W HEN IT COMES TO MINISTRY AND CALLING, WHAT IS YOUR “ZEAL LEVEL” THESE

DAYS? ON A SCALE FROM 1 TO 10, IF 1 IS NON-EXISTANT AND 10 IS A RAGING INFERNO, WHERE WOULD YOU PLACE YOURSELF?

2. GOD’S CALLING INVOLVES BOTH POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE THINGS. HOPE BRINGS

JOY. AFFLICATION BRINGS PATIENCE. PRAYER DEMONSTRATES FAITHFULNESS. WHAT ARE YOU EXPERIENCING IN YOUR LIFE RIGHT NOW? HOW IS GOD USING THE CIRCUMSTANCE TO FUEL YOUR EXCITEMENT FOR HIS WORK?

3. H OW DO YOU KEEP YOURSELF INSPIRED? WHO OR WHAT INSPIRES YOU THE MOST? HOW DO YOU MAKE TIME FOR INSPIRATION?

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DEVELOPING YOUR GIFTS TO SERVE OTHERS 10 MIN.

Review the Ground Rules on page 119 and evaluate how well your group met these guidelines. Discuss any changes you want to make as your group moves forward. As your group starts a new study, this is a great time to take on a new role or change roles of service in your group. What new role will you take on? If you are uncertain, maybe your group members have some ideas for you. Remember you aren’t making a lifetime commitment to the new role; it will only be for a few weeks. Maybe someone would like to share a role with you if you don’t feel ready to serve on your own.

GOING ON MISSION EVERY DAY 15 MIN.

1. W HAT MIGHT GOD BE CALLING YOU TO? WHAT WOULD BE THE COST?

2. W HEN YOU THINK ABOUT THE PEOPLE WHO NEED CHRIST AND THE WORK THAT

NEEDS TO BE DONE, WHAT MAKES YOU THE MOST EXCITED? HOW CAN YOU START SERVING TO MEET THAT NEED TODAY?

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SURRENDERING YOUR WEEK TO GOD • If you have chosen to share communion with one another, you may do that now. Instructions for these activities are found on page 117. • Close by praying for your prayer requests and take a couple of minutes to review the praises you have recorded over the past five weeks on the Prayer List on page 123. Thank God for what He’s done in your group during this study.

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DAY 1. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9

REFLECT: WHEN DO YOU FIND YOURSELF WEARY FROM SERVING?

DAY 2. In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (in Greek her name is Dorcas); she was always doing good and helping the poor. Acts 9:36 REFLECT: HOW ARE YOU DOING GOOD AND HELPING THE POOR? WHAT DO YOU RECEIVE FROM GIVING TO THE “LEAST OF THESE”? IF NOT, WHAT’S ONE THING YOU CAN START DOING?

DAY 3. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us. 1 Peter 2:22

REFLECT: WHAT ARE YOU KNOWN FOR? IF IT’S NOT GOOD, THEN WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH GOD’S HELP TO CHANGE THAT?

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DAY 4. For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 2 Timothy 1:6 REFLECT: HOW CAN YOU STIR UP WHAT GOD HAS GIFTED AND CALLED YOU TO DO?

DAY 5. Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people, because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do... Ephesians 6:7-8

REFLECT: WHEN IS IT HARD TO SERVE PEOPLE WHOLEHEARTEDLY? WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S EXCITING ABOUT SERVING THE LORD?

DAY 6. Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your

heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your Reflections time this week. SUMMARY:

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APPENDICES

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THE CALLING

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS I’M NEW TO LAKELAND. HOW DO I FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE CHURCH? Welcome to Lakeland! We are so glad you are here and in a small group. God is doing incredible things at Lakeland to lead people to follow Jesus, be changed by Jesus, and commit the mission of Jesus...because lives are at stake! There are several opportunities to learn more including visiting our website, stopping by Next Steps on the weekends, attending Lunch with the Staff, or contacting the church office with any questions you might have. Our team would love to help you get more connected at Lakeland!

I FEEL A CALLING TO SERVE AND USE MY GIFTS AT LAKELAND. WHERE DO I START? Serving is one of the things we are most passion-

ate about at Lakeland! Whether Lakeland Kids, Guest Service, Lakeland Students, helping with facilities, or on campus during the week—we have a lot of different opportunities for you to explore. Stop by Next Steps on the weekend or email info@lakeland.church to begin your serving journey!

WHAT ARE WE GOING TO STUDY AFTER THE CALLING? Talk to your small group leader about this. At Lakeland, we empower every small group leader to decide what their next study we will be. Whether your group continues with a sermon-based approach, studying a book of the Bible, or reading through a Christian book together, keep relationships (not the curriculum) as the most important aspect of your small group.

HOW DO I BECOME A SMALL GROUP LEADER AT LAKELAND? The process of becoming small group leader includes a few simple steps… • THE CALL: The process begins with prayer and a keen desire to hear God’s will for you. The call to be a small group leader might begin with an ICNU (“I see in you”) encouragement from someone else. Many small group leaders start their journey by apprenticing with their small group leaders and then multiplying to form a new group.

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• THE APPLICATION: All potential small group leaders complete an application found on our church website. This allows us to hear some of your faith story, get to know you better, and obtain your commitment to Lakeland’s Statement of Faith. • THE INTERVIEW AND TRAINING: New leaders interview with the Small Group Pastor and /or a Small Group Coach. The interview gives us a chance to review your application with you and answer any questions you might have. If it is a good fit, the Small Group Pastor will follow up with appropriate training and Partnership information. • COACH ASSIGNMENT AND GROUP BUILDING: The Small Group Pastor will assign an awesome Small Group Coach to each new leader. The Coach’s role is to encourage, shepherd, instruct, and love on their leaders! During this phase, new leaders build their group through personal invites and promoting through church. • THE LAUNCH: We launch new groups in September, after the New Year, and after Easter. This is when the fun really begins! If you want to start the process or have a question, contact Small Group Ministry at groups@lakeland.church

WHAT IS CELEBRATE RECOVERY? Celebrate Recovery helps people address their hurts, habits and hang-ups through a series of biblically-based lessons designed to take you into a deeper relationship with Jesus. We deal with people who struggle with addictions, but also with people with hurts and pain from the past, codependent behavior, obsessive/compulsive actions, control issues, anger and a lot of other things. Celebrate Recovery meets each Friday night for a General Meeting and on Tuesday night for intensive, gender-specific Step Studies. Contact Mike Flick (Celebrate Recovery Director) at mike@lakeland.church for more information. Find hope, healing, and freedom again through Celebrate Recovery!

I HAVE OTHER QUESTIONS. WHO DO I CONTACT?

You can contact contact the church at info@lakeland.church. If you have a small group questions, you can email groups@lakeland.church.

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BUILD COMMUNITY

THROUGH COMMUNION We love communion and practice it monthly in our weekend worship service. Communion has a unique symbolic purpose for disciples of Jesus. We take the bread to remember Jesus’ broken body and the cup to remember His blood poured out for us. We take communion to remember the cross. At Lakeland, we practice “open communion” which simply means that everyone who is a follower of Christ is invited to take communion with us. If your small group has never done this before, the idea certainly seems daunting, but here is a simple form by which your group can share this biblical practice.

STEPS IN SERVING COMMUNION 1. Out of the context of your own experience, say something brief about God’s love, forgiveness, grace, mercy, commitment, tenderheartedness or faithfulness. Connect your words with the personal stories of the group. For example, “These past few weeks I’ve experienced God’s mercy in the way he untangled the situation with my son. And I’ve seen God show mercy to others of us here too, especially to Jean and Roger.” If you prefer, you can write down ahead of time what you want to say. 2. Read 1 Corinthians 11:23-26*: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes. 3. Pray silently, and pass the bread around the circle. While the bread is being passed, you may want to reflect quietly, sing a simple praise song, or listen to a worship song. 4. When everyone has received the bread, remind them that this represents Jesus’ broken body on their behalf. Simply say, “This is Christ’s body broken for you,” and eat the bread as a group. APPENDICES

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5. Pray silently, and serve the cup. You may pass a small tray, serve people individually, or have them pick up a cup from the table. 6. When everyone has been served, remind them that the cup represents Jesus’ blood shed for them. Simply say, “This is Christ’s blood shed for you. Jesus said, ‘Do this in remembrance of me.’” Then drink the juice in a group. 7. Conclude by singing a simple song, listening to a worship song, or having a time of prayer in thanks to God.

PRACTICAL TIPS IN SERVING COMMUNION 1. Prepare the elements simply, sacredly, and symbolically. 2.Be sensitive to timing in your meeting. 3. Break up pieces of cracker or soft break on a small plate or tray. Don’t use large servings of bread or grape juice. In order to be sensitive to others preferences or convictions, use juice—not wine. 4. Have all of the elements prepared beforehand, and just bring them into the room or to the table when you are ready. *Here are some other good Communion passages: Matthew 26:26-29, Mark 14:22-25, Luke 22:14-20, 1 Corinthians 10:16-21 or 1 Corinthians 11:17-34.

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GROUND RULES FOR

SMALL GROUP MEETINGS It’s important to share ground rules with your group members regularly. Ground rules give boundaries for people to operate within; they help with the flow and the pace of discussions; they help us value one another; and they help people to be more comfortable sharing deep and meaningful things. Use these ground rules or create your own. Share and re-share often with you group, especially when any guests attend.

SAFE GROUP This is a safe group.

We will do our part to create an environment where everyone can be real, open, and honest with their struggles and victories.

CONFIDENTIALITY Confidentiality is key.

What is said in the group stays in the group. Leaders may need to break confidentiality to seek pastoral support if someone is at danger of harming themselves or others.

LISTEN Be sure to listen well. Let’s value one another during our discussions by really listening to what is being shared. Try to avoid thinking about how you’re going to respond or what you’re going to say next. PAUSE Allow a pause in conversation after someone shares to give them

a chance to finish. This gives the group an opportunity to consider what was just shared before responding.

SILENCE Allow silence in the group.

This provides an opportunity for someone to share and for members in the group to mentally process the topic or the question being considered.

NO “CROSSTALK” Be considerate of others as they are sharing—no side conversations.

NO FIXING We are not here to fix each other; Jesus does that part. Encourage comment, speak truth, and point to Jesus. NO RESCUING When people are sharing something deeply personal you may want to try to make them feel better about themselves or the situation by providing immediate condolences. This will often cause them to stop sharing. APPENDICES

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BE SELF-AWARE Be aware of how you personally affect the environment through your words, actions, and non-verbal communication. “I” STATEMENTS Use “I” statements. It’s easy to talk about the issues of others, but we need to share personally. Try to use “I” statements rather than “them”, “they”, “we”, “other Christians”, “the church”, etc. SHARING Be sensitive about the amount of time that you share, so that everyone has a chance to share.

CONFLICT RESOLUTION We will commit to resolve conflict biblically.

When conflict or sin issues between group members arise, we want to make sure that we are honoring God and each other in the way we deal with their issues. The following are a few key Scripture references regarding conflict resolution: someone has sinned against you (Matthew 18:1520), restoring someone who is in sin (Galatians 6:1-5), forgiving a sinner (Colossians 3:12-13), and reconciling differences (Matthew 5:23-24; Matthew 7:1-5)

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MEMORY VERSES WEEK 1 For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me.John 6:38

WEEK 2 But God raised [Jesus] from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him. Acts 2:24

WEEK 3 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

WEEK 4 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Romans 12:10

WEEK 5 Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Psalm 90:12

WEEK 6 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord. Colossians 3:23

WEEK 7 At once they left their nets and followed him. Matthew 4:20

APPENDICES

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SMALL GROUP LEADERS

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THE CALLING

PRAYER LIST

SMALL GROUP LEADERS

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SMALL GROUP ROSTER

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THE CALLING

NOTES

SMALL GROUP LEADERS

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THE CALLING

The Calling

Articles inside

Defining the Win