Momentum | September 2013

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ISSUE 9 // SEPTEMBER 2013

WHY SMALL GROUPS? BY C.J. MAHANEY


September WE’RE GLAD YOU’RE HERE!

We are a church with a mission. Our mission is to proclaim, embody, and enjoy the gospel of Jesus Christ so that unbelievers are convinced of the gospel, believers are built up in the gospel, and culture is transformed by the gospel to the glory of God. Because the gospel is at our heart, we want all that we say and do as a church to honor and reflect Christ. Part of that includes making sure you are able to consistently and clearly know the vision and direction of Redeemer. That’s where Momentum comes in. On the first Sunday of every month, everyone will receive a copy and be able to stay connected to the pulse of Redeemer. Inside each monthly issue, you will find a meditation from Pastor Glenn, an update on the church’s vision goals, and learn more about a different ministry. You’ll also read about where you can help serve and get involved, as well as be updated on things like church finances, new members, and church activities and programs throughout the month. Redeemer is a church on the move, and it’s the gospel that is moving it forward. The gospel is our passion, our motivation, our moving force. It’s our momentum.

THE GOSPEL IS THE GOOD NEWS OF WHAT GOD HAS DONE FOR US THROUGH HIS SON, JESUS. When God created the world, he created us in his image to rule the earth under his authority. Instead, through Adam who represented us, we preferred to be the rulers ourselves and rebelled against God by breaking his command Because of that, God brought about consequences, namely death and hell, for people who are rebels, which is all of us. But because God is loving, he didn’t choose to forget his creation, of which we are a part. Instead, he decided to remake it. He chose to remake everything through Jesus Christ, the eternal son of God who became man. Jesus was the one who lived the life we ought to have lived, and died the death we deserved to die, so that, if we put our faith and trust in him, turning from our sins and our rebellion, he remakes us new. He remakes our vision for the world and enables us to fulfill our calling in the world. Through Jesus, God is restoring everything.


8

WHY SMALL GROUPS?

“Small groups provide the encouragement, correction, and accountability that keep us from drifting. As important as it is to cultivate a personal relationship with God by practicing the spiritual disciplines, we need others to help us in our pursuit of sanctification. If you have a passion for personal change—and every Christian should—then you will be glad when others challenge you to grow. This should not be seen as abnormal, or as the domain of those with an unusual level of maturity. It should be viewed as the normal process that follows new birth, expressed in a desire to conform to the image of Jesus Christ.” - C.J. MAHANEY

MEDITATE ON THIS 4 | So what are we talking about when we say “personal evangelism”?

CREDITS Design/Direction: Chuck Forsberg Content Manager: Lorie Schnell Writer: Brittney Westin Copy Editor: Anne Lynn

Q & A // COMMUNITY GROUPS 6 | Meet Pastor Boomer Peel and learn more about what Community Groups are like at Redeemer.

REDEEMER KIDS CORNER 17 | Hey kids! Here is a

MISSIONS UPDATE 18 | Find out more about

whole page just for you. This month you can color away to your heart’s content with the first family.

what happened in Ecuador and how we are equipping God’s people there.

BLOG HIGHLIGHT 20 | Check out our

NEW MEMBERS 21 | Meet the new members

blogs online: get gospel encouragement and find out what’s going on in our community.

of Redeemer and sign up for our next Memership Class if you want to learn more.

VOLUNTEER // GET INVOLVED 21 | Redeemer needs

FINANCIAL UPDATE 22 | How is our church

your help! There are many volunteer positions available.

doing financially? Get a year to date snapshot here.


meditate on this

PERSONAL EVANGELISM

BY: PASTOR MARK SUCHTA

A hear

few days ago, I was given the

assignment

to

write

an article on “personal evangelism.” When you

that

word

“evangelism”

what comes to mind? Guilt, fear, anxiousness, all the above?

patient

Relax, you are in good company!

you are (and if

When

I

hear

the

they aren’t it is

word of

only because of

uncomfortable conversations in

God’s restraining

“evangelism”

I

think

hand

which both the Christian and the

Humility

butter knife. Part of why I think that,

Jesus

is because that has been me on several

to

save

Humility because that is the only

So what are we talking about when we say

MOMENTUM // SEPTEMBER 2013

came

because

sinners, not the righteous.

occasions. Not fun.

good news of Jesus Christ with a person. Still sound scary? It doesn’t

your

room for boasting).

and you can cut the tension with a

“personal evangelism”? We are talking about sharing the

on

life so there is no

unbeliever don’t want to be there,

4

than

way the Gospel works. God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.

have to be. Because sharing the Gospel with a person is meant

3) JOY: Joy because you have been rescued.

to be done, like everything else in life, as an overflow. Overflow in

YOU HAVE BEEN RESCUED! You have been

what? Overflow of gospel intake. Let me explain.

plucked from death row, and brought into

As we are taking in our daily doses of the Gospel through

the family of God. Joy because the heavenly

repentance (turning from sin/self-righteousness and turning to

Father’s disposition towards you is nothing

Christ alone for forgiveness in joy)? This is then meant to give us

but love and joy because of what Jesus has

the three things necessary for Gospel conversations: boldness,

done for you.

humility and joy.

When you allow the Gospel to propel you

1) BOLDNESS: Boldness because people are going to hell every

towards unbelievers with boldness, humility

day. There is a lot on the line. Boldness because you are standing on

and joy, it will become more and more natural.

the word of God, which is true regardless of a person’s indifference

It will be something that you “get” to do. You

to it. Boldness despite opposition, because you love that person

get to be a part of God’s rescue plan for the

and they need to hear the truth of the Gospel.

world!

2) HUMILITY: Humility because you didn’t choose God, God chose you and it had nothing to do with your morality. Humility because the person you are speaking to is probably much more loving and

//RBC


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q & a with

COMMUNITY GROUPS

MINISTRY DIRECTOR: PASTOR BOOMER PEEL

Boomer Peel

INTERVIEWED BY: BRITTNEY WESTIN

FOR THOSE WHO ARE NEW TO REDEEMER, CAN YOU

responders to meet spiritual needs as they

EXPLAIN WHAT COMMUNITY GROUPS ARE AND HOW THEY

arise in the lives of our members.

FUNCTION?

MOMENTUM // SEPTEMBER 2013

6

Community Groups are at the heart of what the Lord is doing

WHY DOES REDEEMER PLACE SUCH AN

at Redeemer Bible Church. It’s the place where the gospel is

IMPORTANT EMPHASIS ON COMMUNITY

being brought to bear in the lives of our members. But how

GROUPS?

Community Groups have functioned in the past is changing a

Community Groups are going to be the

bit. What we’ve typically done in the past as we come together

most applicable place for us to practice the

is have a time of worship and fellowship with one another. We

one-anothers of Scripture, and is where

open up God’s word together and go over the recent sermon,

that practice will be the most fruitful. That’s

talking about how it applies to our lives. We pray for one

because your Community Group is the place

another, share praises, sin struggles and prayer requests with

where you’re getting together with other

one another, and some groups also eat together. Currently, one

believers who live near you, who worship with

of the main focuses of Community Groups is shepherding. This

you every Sunday morning, who are able to be

isn’t only the mechanism by which we shepherd the church,

there in a moment’s notice if need be. So when

from the eldership down through the Community Groups, but

we look at the commands of Scripture, and

it’s one of the main ways we shepherd one another.

we look at the opportunities we have within our church, or just the universal church as a

CAN YOU EXPLAIN WHAT EXACTLY SHEPHERDING IS? Basically, shepherding is a term for leading. We as pastors

whole, having Community Groups just makes the most sense.

are called to oversee the flock and we will have to one day give an account for our people. So one way that we do that,

WE TALK A LOT ABOUT THE “ONE-

which becomes more and more important as we become a

ANOTHERS” OF SCRIPTURE AT REDEEMER.

bigger church, is by shepherding through Community Groups.

CAN YOU EXPLAIN WHAT THOSE ARE AND

The groups are one of the pastures into which the shepherds

HOW OUR COMMUNITY GROUPS SEEK TO

of Redeemer are leading God’s people, leading the members,

PUT THEM INTO PRACTICE?

since the elders can’t meet one on one on a regular basis with

They’re the commands of Christ in how we

all the members. Community Groups are meant to be the first

should be with each other. There are dozens


of them in Scripture, but a few that really sum

and all of our ministries. What we want to happen is life-on-life

up Community Groups are: fellowshipping

discipleship, or disciples making disciples. So for Community

with one another, praying for one another,

Group leaders, that’s going to mean trying to foster connections

confessing our sins to one another, ministering

within our groups. Whether it’s two guys in my group discipling

gifts to one another, spurring one another on,

one another, or a guy from my group and a guy from another

building up one another, encouraging one

group discipling one another, or a guy in my group discipling

another, forgiving one another, and carrying

through the men’s ministry, it doesn’t really matter. We just

one another’s burdens. In Community Groups,

want to make sure that everyone is being discipled and is

we want to live those out with each other.

discipling someone else. We’re also trying to minimize, as much

Ultimately, the biggest one is to love one

as humanly possible, the shuffling around of groups. The last

another. John 13:34 says if you’re going to love

few years we’ve had to do a lot of reorganization and this year

one another, then you’re going to do all of

we’re trying to do zero. That’s what we want to continue to

these other things that Scripture tells us to do

do in the future. But the biggest challenge we have right now

regarding the one-anothers.

is getting enough leaders and hosts to get our Community Groups down to an appropriate size, where it’s like 8 to 14

HOW CAN WE CREATE AN ATMOSPHERE

people or something along those lines. Having large groups is

OF RELATIONAL HONESTY WITHIN

what makes it necessary for us to do more reorganization. So

OUR GROUPS WHERE PEOPLE FEEL

as the church is getting bigger and we’re getting more people,

COMFORTABLE BEING VULNERABLE WITH

I’m praying, and I’d love other people to be praying, that we’d

OTHERS?

get more leaders and hosts.

In having conversations with the Community Group leaders and with the elders, we came to

HOW CAN COMMUNITY GROUPS SEEK TO TRANSFORM

the realization that people aren’t going to go

THEIR OWN NEIGHBORHOODS AND COMMUNITIES?

deep and be transparent if Community Group

To be honest, I don’t think they play enough of a role in that

is simply an event that happens on a Sunday

right now. I think we need to do more to be looking out to our

afternoon. So we need to make Community

neighbors and our communities. Sometimes we can tend toward

Groups a lifestyle. Because of what Jesus

being inward focused, which is not always a bad thing, but we

did, He made us into a community, so we’re

get together for Community Group and we want to be with one

already a community. The problem that we’ve

another and help one another. But that’s never supposed to be

had up until now is that Community Groups

the end of it. We are supposed to be spurred on to reach out to

haven’t felt this way. It’s always been an event,

our unbelieving friends and family members and neighbors. So

so we want to make it a lifestyle by having

that’s why in the next year another focus of Community Groups

Community Groups become part of a natural

will be making sure that we’re being really intentional about

rhythm of life. For example, if I get together

praying for our unbelieving friends and family members, and

with my family, we don’t just go to the same

then discussing that within our groups. For instance, every time

place at the same time on the same day.

we get together, I’m going to have a list of one or two people,

Sometimes we’ll go to a restaurant, sometimes

and you’re going to have a list of one or two people, and we’re

we’ll go to a sporting event, sometimes we’ll

going to be praying for them on a regular basis. Each week we

go to a kid’s recital or something like that. So

might have two people out of the group share what’s going on

that’s what we want to do more of; we want to

with those relationships. So we’re going to be more intentional

do the one-anothers where each of us is at in

about that to get us looking outward. We’re also going to be

our normal rhythm of life. I think that change,

encouraging groups to get into their communities and serve in

along with others we plan to make, is going to

various ways. Maybe go to a local restaurant and get to know a

be a big part of getting people to go deeper

server. We want to know the people in our communities, which

and be more transparent in our groups.

is again that natural rhythm of life.

Hopefully it will cause us to get to know each HOW HAVE YOU SPECIFICALLY SEEN THE GOSPEL AT

just an event.

WORK THROUGH OUR COMMUNITY GROUPS? One thing that has been huge for Community Groups is that

WHAT OTHER CHANGES ARE TAKING

it’s also at the front line of the Mercy Ministry. We have dozens

PLACE WITHIN THE GROUPS FOR NEXT

of testimonies of people receiving mercy help through their

YEAR?

Community Groups and in pretty significant ways. We could

Besides the change in flexibility, which will

end up having a lot of people give testimonies of how the

not only be in the days and times that we’re

Lord is using their Community Groups to give them a greater

meeting, but also where we meet, there’s

understanding of God’s love for them. //RBC

also a discipleship piece that’s going to end up being a big focus across all of Redeemer

MOMENTUM // SEPTEMBER 2013

other more and Community Group won’t be

7


feature article

WHY SMALL GROUPS?

BY: C.J. MAHANEY


Y

ou see, but you do not observe,”

simply because they were popular—the latest

said Sherlock Holmes to his loyal

church trend. Obviously, that isn’t a sufficient

friend, Dr. Watson. “The distinction

motive. Current trends rarely provide a church

is clear. For example, you have

with

frequently seen the steps which

ministry won’t ultimately be effective unless it

lead up from the hall to this room.”

strong

foundations.

A

small-group

exists to achieve biblical purposes.

“Frequently.”

For lack of a biblical purpose and mandate,

“How often?”

many small groups have floundered. Other

“Well, some hundreds of times.”

groups

“Then how many are there?”

handicapped

“How many? I don’t know.”

good resources available. It is no

“Quite so! You have not observed. And yet

exaggeration to say that most

you have seen. This is just my point. Now, I

popular books and guides dealing

know that there are seventeen steps, because

with the topic of small groups are

I have both seen and observed.”1

shockingly deficient in sound doctrine. I don’t

have

been by

the

seriously lack

of

say this lightly. I have reviewed them for years, If you have read any of Sir Arthur Conan

and have found a greater emphasis on modern

Doyle’s classic detective stories, you know

psychology and sociology than on thorough,

that Sherlock Holmes often rebukes Dr.

biblical theology.

Watson for his oversight. But Watson was no

Most of these materials are well-produced.

fool. Like me, and probably you, he simply

They feature numerous thought-provoking

lacked Holmes’ unusually strong gifts of

questions and illustrations. Undoubtedly the

observation and deduction. He could see

publishers want to help Christians grow. But

the very same situations as Holmes without

without solid biblical content, these materials

noticing important details. As Holmes stated,

can actually hinder God’s intentions for us as

Watson saw…but he did not observe.

individuals and groups.

By the way—if I had been in Watson’s place,

Despite these concerns,

I might have answered the famous detective

I see small groups as a

a bit differently. I would at least have been

priority for every Christian

tempted to say, “How many steps? Who cares!

and every church. Why?

Just solve the case, pal.”

Because

the

Scripture

Sherlock Holmes cared. Observation was a

constantly underscores the

critical tool of his trade. It’s critical for us as

centrality of relationships.

well as we examine the subject of small groups.

J.I. Packer agrees:

You see, too many of us view small groups the

We should not think of

way Watson viewed the staircase. We see but

our fellowship with other

we don’t observe. We attend a group without

Christians as a spiritual

understanding its real purpose. We fail to

luxury, an optional addition

understand why our small group exists.

to the exercises of private

And if we don’t know God’s purpose for small groups, we’re never going to achieve it.

devotions. Fellowship is one of the great words of the New Testament: it denotes

SMALL GROUPS ARE ELEMENTARY, MY

something that is vital to a

DEAR WATSON

Christian’s spiritual health,

Since at least the mid-1970s, the church

and central to the Church’s

in America has been fascinated with small

true life…The church will

groups. The majority of churches have at least

flourish and Christians will

experimented with small groups, and many

be strong only when there

still maintain active small-group ministries of

is fellowship.2

various kinds.

Genuine fellowship isn’t

However, from my limited perspective, a

practical in a crowd of 200

number of these churches never hammered

or 2,000. That’s why I feel

out a clear purpose and set of biblical goals

so strongly that churches

when beginning their small groups. Some did,

must create small groups

and I commend them. It is these churches that

where

no doubt have had the greatest success with

develop intimate relationships, where they

their small groups. But others started groups

can “know and be known.” A church following

Christians

can


a biblical model will not just “have” small groups. It will not merely “offer” small groups. Rather, it will be built with small groups.

two doctrines. I have given Dr. Grudem’s definition of sanctification above. He defines the doctrine

As I stated before, though, small groups will

of justification this way:

only serve the church if they are founded on

Justification is an instantaneous legal act of

sound doctrine and sustained

God in which he 1) thinks of our sins as forgiven

by a clear biblical purpose. That

and

brings us to the title of this

righteousness

chapter and this book: Why Small

as

Groups?

to

Christ’s belonging us,

and

2)

To answer the question posed

declares us to be

by that title, let me present what I consider to

righteous in his

be four clear goals from Scripture: progressive

sight.4

sanctification, mutual care, fellowship, and the

Justification refers to a Christian’s position before God. The moment you were born

ministry of the Holy Spirit.

again, God justified you. On the basis of WHAT SANCTIFICATION IS—AND IS NOT

Christ’s finished work, God thought of your

Theologian Wayne Grudem provides a fine, concise definition of this critical doctrine:

sins as forgiven and declared that you were righteous.

“Sanctification is a progressive work of God

Sanctification, on the other hand, refers

and man that makes us more and more free

to our practice before God. It is the ongoing

from sin and like Christ in our actual lives.”3

process of battling sin and becoming more like

That’s the goal of the Christian life, isn’t it?

Jesus. Though sanctification is the evidence

Increasing freedom from sin and increasing

and goal of our justification, we must never see

resemblance to Jesus. Small groups provide

it as the basis of our justification. Here’s where

an ideal context for this to occur.

so many Christians get confused. They try to

Not

group

earn what has already been given to them as

is intent on this purpose,

a free gift. As Martin Luther stated, “The only

however. Some put a higher

contribution we make to our justification is our

priority on socializing than

sin which God so graciously forgives.”

on

every

small

sanctification.

Others

There

are

other

vital

distinctions.

excel in open sharing and

Justification

sympathetic

listening,

yet

righteous; sanctification is about becoming

they

confront

sin

more righteous. Justification is immediate;

or

never

challenge

group

about

being

declared

members

to

unacceptable.

A

righteous. It does not take place by degrees.

change. This

is

sanctification

is

gradual.

Justification

is

complete the moment God declares us is

unbiblical

Sanctification, however, is a process that lasts

purpose can do more harm than good. Groups

with

an

as long as we live. Finally, while every Christian

that meet without the biblical purpose of

enjoys the same degree of justification, we

pursuing character development have the

vary in terms of sanctification. You will never

tendency to reinforce, rather than confront,

be more justified than you are at this moment,

the sin and selfishness already present in us.

because justification is an act of God. But

None of us needs such reinforcement. Instead,

by

we need to be provoked and challenged by

grace, you will

others so we can change for the glory of God.

become

Let me make one critical insertion here

God’s ever

more sanctified

before going any further. I’ve spoken with

as

many Christians who, whether they realize it or

cooperate with

not, don’t understand the difference between

God’s Spirit in

the doctrine of sanctification and the doctrine

the process of

of justification. Because this confusion can

change.

you

lead to serious spiritual consequences, let

Though

it’s

me take a minute to distinguish these critical

important

to

truths. Please follow closely—the rest of this

distinguish

book (and the rest of your Christian life!)

b e t w e e n

depends on a clear understanding of these

justification


and sanctification, these two doctrines are

taken place in the fellowship of

inseparable. God does not justify someone

the local church—specifically, in

without sanctifying him as well. Sanctification

small groups. On many occasions,

is not optional. If one has truly been justified,

members of my small group have

that will be evident by a progressive work

lovingly (but firmly) confronted

of sanctification in his life. Small groups

my sin and held me accountable

contribute to this magnificent and gradual

as I pursued change. Of course,

work of grace in our lives.

the

Holy

Spirit

is

directly

responsible for convicting me of DON’T TRY THIS ALONE Although

these things, but I can only guess responsibility

where I would be without such

paramount,

faithful friends. God has used

sanctification cannot be accomplished in

them time after time to address

for

one’s

sanctification

personal remains

isolation

from

sins in my life that I would never

the local church.

have perceived if I were on my

Scripture clearly

own.

teaches

that

It’s been sobering to observe others who

sanctification is

have chosen not to participate in a local church

intended to take

or in small groups. They have demonstrated

place in the local church—and small groups

a distinct lack of growth. What’s worse, they

contribute invaluably to this process. Consider

haven’t even been aware of their spiritual

these insights by theologian Bruce Milne:

condition and stagnation.

The Christian life is inescapably corporate.

Small groups provide the encouragement,

Teaching on Christian holiness has frequently

correction, and accountability that keep us

concentrated almost exclusively on the

from drifting. As important as it is to cultivate

“holy man” or the “holy woman,” to the

a personal relationship with God by practicing

neglect

of

the

biblical concern

the spiritual disciplines, we need others to help us in our pursuit of sanctification.

holy

If you have a passion for personal change—

people” or the

and every Christian should—then you will

“holy

church.”

be glad when others challenge you to grow.

The ideal of the

This should not be seen as abnormal, or as

“omnicompetent

the domain of those with an unusual level of

Christian individual,” able to meet every

maturity. It should be viewed as the normal

spiritual challenge and live a life of unbroken

process that follows new birth, expressed in a

victory over sin and the devil, has undoubtedly

desire to conform to the image of Jesus Christ.

produced remarkable examples of Christian

We should be seriously and unapologetically

character; but, as every Christian counselor

committed to change.

for

“the

knows, this emphasis has driven many to a lonely struggle ending in despair and disillusionment, or, worse, in the hypocrisy of

WHO IS YOUR NATHAN? Cain, when questioned by God about the murder of Abel, tried to deny he was his

a double-standard life. This whole approach needs re-examination.

brother’s keeper (Gen 4:9).

The bulk of New Testament teaching on the

But he was. We all are. We have a

Christian life, including the major sections

responsibility to help our brothers and sisters

on holiness, occur in letters addressed to

keep the will of God. The common term for this

corporate groups, to churches. All the major

is accountability. It is a specific way in which

exhortations to holy living are plural — “we,”

relationships help us achieve sanctification.

“you” (Ro 6:1-23; Gal 5:13-6:10; Eph 4:17-6:18)...

Charles Swindoll has said “Accountability

Similarly all the New Testament promises of

includes opening one’s life to a few carefully

victory are corporate (1Co 15:57; 1Jn 5:4; Rev

selected,

15:2). In other words the apostles envisaged

who speak the truth—who have the right to

the Christian life and Christian sanctification

examine, to question, to approve, and to give

fellowship.6

counsel.” Don Cousins has called it “Allowing

in the context of a loving, caring

By the grace of God, I’ve experienced

someone

trusted,

to

ask

individual

penetrating,

confidants

sometimes

what Milne is describing. Many of the most

uncomfortable questions in order to challenge

significant changes in my Christian life have

you to grow.”


The lives of King David

means

of

sanctification;

God’s

Word

is

and his son Solomon

another. Nothing changes us more effectively

illustrate the importance

than the application of Scripture. I’m aware

of

accountable.

of this every time I preach. What a sobering

When David committed

being

responsibility! And yet I’m also aware that my

adultery

with

words—no matter how passionately I deliver

killed

them or how persuasive they may seem—will

her husband Uriah, he

often fail to bear fruit. That’s because merely

was

hearing God’s Word is insufficient. It bears

Bathsheba

and

confronted—held

accountable—by prophet

Nathan

the

fruit only when we apply it. And as we’ll see in

(see

a minute, small groups are an ideal context for

2 Samuel 11-12). As a result, he repented of his

applying God’s Word. The Book of James uses a humorous

sin and received God’s

illustration

forgiveness. What would

application:

David

have

to

show

the

importance

of

become

Do not merely listen to the word, and so

without Nathan in his

deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone

life?

who listens to the word but does not do what

Solomon, on the other hand,

apparently

it says is like a man who looks at his face in a

had

mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away

no one like Nathan to

and immediately forgets what he looks like.

hold

(Jas 1:22-24)

him

accountable

as he began to disobey God’s

commands.

Eventually

he

was

I don’t know anybody who wakes up in the morning, looks in the mirror, and then leaves the house without making some strategic

severely disciplined by

changes. In fact,

God for his sin. What

most of us spend

might

considerable

Solomon

have

become with someone

time

like Nathan in his life? A

of

more relevant question

each morning—

is, what will you become

assessing the damages from the night before

without a Nathan in your

and making the necessary repairs. According

life?

to an article I once saw in Newsweek, a typical

in the

front mirror

Take it from Solomon:

man’s lifetime will include a total of seven

“Two are better than

years in the bathroom.9 Much of that time will

one, because they have

be spent looking in the mirror as we make

a good return for their work: If one falls down,

increasingly futile attempts at damage control.

his friend can help him up. But pity the man

Ladies, you should probably add about

who falls and has no one to help him up” (Ecc

three years to that amount, rounding it up

4:9-10). The man speaks from experience. If

to an even decade—and even that may be

Solomon—the wisest man (besides our Lord)

on the low side. Trust me. With all possible

who ever lived— needed accountability, then

respect for my wife and three daughters, I

each of us does as well.

have irrefutable evidence. There was a time in

Is there someone who can (and does)

my life, when my daughters were young, that I

an

could initiate spontaneous family activities at

explanation of your actions when appropriate?

any time. Now, we can hardly go out for ice

This is what we want to work toward in our

cream without everyone first getting a perm!

question

your

motives

and

ask

for

small groups. Like Wesley’s Band Societies

(I’m glad my girls appreciate my sense of

(see “These Guys Meant Business!” on page

humor. No father could be prouder of their

7), we want our small-group meetings to fulfill

passion for God.)

Proverbs 27:17: “As iron sharpens iron so one

Wouldn’t you be just a little concerned if you knew someone who got up each day, looked

man sharpens another.”

in the mirror, and walked away without making MIRROR,

MIRROR,

ON

THE

one

vital

WALL Relationships

any adjustments? How long would that person be presentable to others? How long would you

are

wait before you offered him a comb? It’s an


absurd scenario…or is it? According to James,

to exchange our opinions; we gather to learn

this is exactly what happens every time we

God’s truth. The first step is to understand what

encounter Scripture (the mirror) and then

the author’s original intent was when he wrote

walk away without making any changes.

to his original audience. Only then

The person who routinely looks in the

can we begin to apply that truth to

mirror without making alterations does not

our lives, allowing God’s Word to

understand the purpose of the mirror. Likewise,

rule over us and change us for the

the person who reads or listens to God’s Word

glory of God. (For information on a

without applying what he has heard obviously

great book that details how to study

doesn’t understand the purpose of Scripture.

Scripture, see the Recommended Reading list

Simply reading your Bible

at the end of this chapter.) As your small group looks into the mirror

and

of God’s Word, you should be making

listening

adjustments. Each year you should be able to

to

good

look back and identify distinct areas in which

preaching

you have changed during the previous twelve

won’t make you like Jesus. Though each of

months. This is the difference small-group

these disciplines is essential for the Christian

participation is to make in our lives. This and

life and each is a vital means of grace, neither

no less.

is sufficient in itself. In fact, biblical knowledge is potentially deceptive if obedience doesn’t

CALLED TO MUTUAL CARE

take place. The purpose of the mirror is to

In the church where I serve, we call our small

provoke adjustment. The purpose of Scripture

groups “care groups.” It’s not a unique title,

is to provoke obedience and produce definitive

but it expresses a second primary purpose

change in our lives.

of small groups. Just as the first is to create

Those who merely listen to the word, Sunday

a context where every member can pursue

after Sunday, but fail to apply the word to their

sanctification, the second is to create a

lives, will experience an increasing degree

context where every member can give and

of self-deception rather than progressive

receive care. This principle comes straight out

sanctification. And yet isn’t it interesting

of Scripture:

that they deceive only themselves? Everyone

God has combined the members of the body

else knows full well that they are merely

and has given greater honor to the parts that

listening and not obeying, not maturing. It’s

lacked it, so that there should be no division in

as obvious to them as it would be if we woke

the body, but that its parts should have equal

up tomorrow morning, glanced in the mirror,

concern for each other. If one part suffers,

and then walked

every part suffers with it; if one part is honored,

away

without

every part rejoices with it. (1 Cor 12:24-26)

ever

touching

Christians have always been

the comb, the

characterized by their sacrificial

washcloth,

love for each other. We are

or

the toothbrush. So what does

commanded to care for each other

unselfishly,

without

this have to do

favoritism. “Carry each other’s

with this book?

burdens,” Paul writes, “and in

Small

this way you will fulfill the law of

groups

are not primarily intended

for

Christ” (Gal 6:2). In a Sunday-morning meeting,

teaching and preaching; those functions are

there are obvious limitations on our ability to

the responsibility of your pastor. Rather, small

express this kind of care. If I’m in the middle of

groups are designed for application. They

a message and notice someone start to cry in

create a context where Christians can apply

the seventh row back, I can’t stop preaching

God’s truth in a personal, practical way. In

and go minister to that individual. I’d like to, but

order to apply God’s Word effectively, though,

it wouldn’t serve the entire church. In a small-

we must first interpret it accurately.

group context, though, we are not so limited.

Some groups think “Bible study” means swapping

their

personal

opinions

and

preferences. That’s bogus. We don’t gather

Here we can both give and receive specific, personal care. No one need be overlooked or neglected.


It is important to point out that mutual care

with my friends. This can be a healthy part of

and close relationships are not dependent

small-group life…but it isn’t fellowship. And

on the size of a church. Many assume it’s

you don’t have fellowship talking about the

impossible to form close relationships in

latest opinion from Rush Limbaugh or Jesse

a large church. They also assume that in a

Jackson, either. Social activities can’t be

small church, close relationships will develop automatically. Both assumptions are false. Relationships can flourish in a large church… and be absent in a small one. The

ability

to

forge

strong,

personal

relationships does not depend on a church’s size. Rather, it depends on the doctrinal understanding and practice of the people who make up that church. Relationships will flourish in any church, no matter what size, where they are stressed as a biblical necessity. First-time visitors at my church are often intimidated by its size. I can understand how they might feel that way. But as I tell them, “The longer you are involved here, the smaller

equated or confused with fellowship. They are

this church becomes.” It’s a fact. A large

distinctly different. Nothing compares to the

church does not need to sacrifice quality

fellowship we enjoy when we worship together,

relationships—but it does need to provide the

study and apply Scripture together, encourage

small groups and service opportunities that

and correct each other, and communicate to

make mutual care a reality.

one another our current experience of God. Nothing. Social activities can create a context

FELLOWSHIP REDEFINED Why small groups? A third reason is

for fellowship, but they are a place to begin— not a place to remain.

fellowship. Many small groups use this word

When I spend an extended time with another

without understanding what it really means.

Christian, my main desire is that we know

As a result, they aren’t experiencing one of the

fellowship. I want to hear of his relationship

most vital things a group has to offer. You’ll

with God, and how God is revealing himself

look at fellowship in depth in the next chapter,

to him. I want to communicate my current

so I’ll try to limit myself to just a few comments

experience of God as well, and impart a fresh

on this critical topic.

passion for God.

Fellowship means to participate together,

Is that your desire? If someone spent an

or to communicate things we

afternoon with you, would he or she leave with

hold in common. The greatest

a fresh understanding of and passion for God?

common denominator between

If not, you need to change.

us as Christians is our relationship

With

this

definition

of

fellowship

in

with God the Father, through God

mind, consider your small group. Are you

the Son, by God the Holy Spirit.

experiencing fellowship? How much time do

This forms the content of true

you spend in the meetings talking about your

fellowship. Our relationship with God should

current relationship with God? When you meet

be the main topic of communication within

together outside the meetings, how often do

our small groups as we participate together to

your conversations revolve around God’s work

fulfill his purpose in the local church.

in your life? If you are relaxing together more

There’s a catch, however. The depth of our

than you’re relating together spiritually, you’re

personal relationship with God determines the

not enjoying true biblical fellowship—and you

degree of fellowship possible with each other.

have something to look forward to.

Thus, in order to know true fellowship, one must maintain a passionate relationship with

EXPERIENCING

and experience of God. Perhaps that is why

GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

biblical fellowship is so rare.

AND

EXPRESSING

THE

God has given spiritual gifts to every

Fellowship is not just another word for

Christian (1 Cor 12:1-7). He fully expects us to

social activities. I really enjoy watching the

use them. But in a church of any size at all,

Washington Redskins or Baltimore Orioles

it’s simply not feasible for every member to


use these gifts on a Sunday morning. They can

bringing something to the party!

in a small group, though. In this smaller and

Let me give a few suggestions from my

more personal context, each one can serve

own experience and study of Scripture. First,

according to the gifting of the Holy Spirit. This

in order to experience and express the gifts

is the fourth and final reason why small groups

of the Spirit, we must develop the habit of

exist.

communing with the Holy Spirit. Paul ends

Some Christians define the Spirit’s work

his second letter to the Corinthian church

in very narrow terms, causing a good bit of

by saying, “May the grace of the Lord Jesus

needless

professor

Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship

Gordon Fee, who recently completed a major

of the Holy Spirit be with you all” (2 Cor 13:14).

study of Paul’s writings on the Holy Spirit, calls

Is the fellowship of the Holy Spirit as much a

controversy.

Seminary

for

a

different

approach. close to

Pay

attention

this

quote

from

his

book,

reality for you as the love of the Father and the grace of Christ? Second, we need to avoid grieving the Holy Spirit. I like what Jerry Bridges says on this topic:

God’s

It is very instructive that it is

Empowering

in the context of interpersonal

Presence:

relationships that Paul wrote his

In

Paul,

warning, “And do not grieve the

not

Holy Spirit of God” (Eph 4:30).

thought

Now, all sin grieves God, and Paul

power

is

to

be

of

merely

terms

of

in

could have inserted that warning in the context

the

of sexual immorality (Eph 5:3-5) or lying and

the

stealing (Eph 4:25, 28). But he places it in the

extraordinary…

context of sins we commit with hardly any sense

Paul understood

of shame or guilt. The message should be clear.

the Spirit’s power

God is grieved over our “refined” sins just as He

in the broadest

is grieved over sexual immorality or dishonesty.

miraculous,

way.11

possible

I am not suggesting that being irritable at one’s

all

for

spouse is as serious as something like adultery.

the

miraculous

I am saying that being irritable at one’s spouse

and

the

is sin, and that all sin grieves God and should

I’m

ex t ra o rd i n a r y, but it is easy to get preoccupied with this. Our

grieve us.13 When we sin, we must respond quickly to

small groups need to become familiar with the

the

varied and distinct works of the Holy Spirit.

of the Spirit; otherwise we

Through a combination of study, experience,

will grieve him and break

and practice, we should seek to understand

fellowship with him.

the Spirit’s power in “the broadest possible

convicting

presence

Third, we need to avoid quenching the Holy Spirit. In

way.” I recommend beginning with a thorough

this case, the best defense

study of Scripture concerning the person

is a good offense. Are you

and work of the Holy Spirit. This will include

stirring up the gifts God

seeking to define, identify, and cultivate the

has placed in you? When he

various gifts of the Spirit listed in 1 Corinthians

prompts you to use them to

12:8-10,28; Ephesians 4:11; Romans 12:6-8; and

serve others, are you obeying

1 Peter 4:11. I would also recommend that you

right away? If not, you’re

set the same goal for your group that Scripture

quenching the Spirit.

sets: reaching the point where each member is

Last

able to serve others and glorify God with the

history.

unique which been

week’s

meeting

Tonight’s

is

meeting

gifting

demands a fresh visitation

has

by the Spirit of God. Apart

imparted

from his presence, there’s no point in meeting.

Spirit.

Each of us has a responsibility to seek the

Everybody

Holy Spirit and be sensitive to what he wants

should

to accomplish in the group as we gather

by

the

be


together. Wayne Grudem writes,

sanctification?

We must recognize that these activities of

4. Why is the Christian life “inescapably

the Holy Spirit are not to be taken for granted,

corporate”?

and they do not just happen automatically

5. What role do other Christians play in our

among God’s people. Rather, the Holy Spirit

progressive sanctification?

reflects the pleasure or displeasure of God

6. Do you have a Nathan—someone to whom

with the faith and obedience—or unbelief

you are accountable?

and disobedience—of God’s people…The Holy

7. Share your answer to Question 2 on page 9.

Spirit gives stronger or weaker evidence of the

8. Why might some people hesitate to share

presence and blessing of God, according to

personal needs with their group?

our response to him.14

9. Is your group experiencing consistent

What is your response to him on a daily

fellowship?

basis? During the small-group meeting? To

10. Is there anything you can do personally to

a degree, that response will determine the

increase the Holy Spirit’s power and presence

forcefulness of his presence in your midst. Let

in your small-group meetings?

us purpose to avoid grieving or quenching the Spirit so that we can experience the full

RECOMMENDED READING

strength of his presence and pleasure. Fourth, we should arrive at our small-group meetings expecting the Spirit

The Discipline of Grace by Jerry Bridges (Colorado Springs, CO: NavPress, 1994)

to be powerfully present. This is essential. What a difference

Let the Reader Understand: A Guide to

expectation can make as we

Interpreting and Applying the Bible by Dan

begin our small-group meetings!

McCartney and Charles Clayton (Wheaton, IL:

It can be the difference between

Victor Books, 1994)

a life-changing encounter with God and a superficial time together with no immediate

How Can I Change? by C.J. Mahaney and

or eternal benefit.

Robin Boisvert (Gaithersburg, MD: Sovereign

This is why we are committed to small

Grace Ministries, 1993)

groups. By his grace, together we are being changed into the image of Jesus Christ through progressive sanctification. Together we are experiencing mutual care, genuine fellowship, and the ministry of the Holy Spirit.

NOTES 1. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, “A Scandal in Bohemia” in The Complete Sherlock Holmes (New York: Doubleday, 1927). 2. J.I. Packer, God’s Words (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1981), p. 193.

We no longer just see—we observe. We no

3. Wayne Grudem, Systematic Theology (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1994), p. 746.

longer simply attend—we participate. We

4. Ibid., p. 723.

no longer selfishly consume—instead we are

5. Sinclair Ferguson, The Christian Life: A Doctrinal Introduction (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1989), pp. 82-83.

carrying out God’s purpose for our lives as we contribute to the building of the local church. And you thought it was for the refreshments!

6. Bruce Milne, Know the Truth (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press,1982), p. 194. 7. R.C. Sproul, The Soul’s Quest for God (Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 1992), p. 151. 8. Quoted by Ralph W. Neighbour, Jr., in Where Do We Go from Here? A Guidebook for Cell Group Churches (Houston, TX: Touch Publications, 1990), pp. 166-67.

GROUP DISCUSSION 1. How observant are you? Without looking, try to answer the following questions:

9. Newsweek, March 26, 1990. 10. Peter H. Davids, New International Bible Commentary: James (Peabody, MA: Hendrickson Publishers, 1989), p. 41.

• Does this room have an overhead fan?

11. Gordon Fee, God’s Empowering Presence (Peabody, MA: Hendrickson Publishers, Inc., 1994), p. 8.

• What is the main image on the front of this

12. Richard F. Lovelace, Dynamics of Spiritual Life (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1979), p. 131.

book? • How much money is in your wallet or

14. Wayne Grudem, Systematic Theology, p. 635.

purse? • What is the brand name of the shoes you have on? • What color are the socks/nylons of the person sitting to your left? 2. According to the author, what four goals should each small group share? 3. In simple terms, how would you describe the

difference

13. Jerry Bridges, The Discipline of Grace (Colorado Springs, CO: NavPress, 1994), p. 35.

between

justification

and

15. J. Rodman Williams, Renewal Theology: Salvation, the Holy Spirit, and Christian Living (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1990), p. 305.

Taken with permission from the book: Why Small Groups? © 1996 Sovereign Grace Ministries. All rights reserved.


redeemer kids corner

THE FIRST FAMILY

GENESIS 1:26-27 26Then

God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.�

27So

God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.


missions update

EQUIPPING

THE CHURCH IN ECUADOR

BY: BILL WALSH

I

don’t speak Spanish and couldn’t tell

together studying the scriptures alongside

what the conversation was about,

two-dozen pastors from the provinces around

but I knew that there was a bit of a

El Tambo.

debate happening. I whispered to a

several

“What’s happening?” I soon learned that

training these indigenous Ecuadorean pastors

the Ecuadorean pastors in the room were

and church leaders who have very little access

questioning the premise being taught by one

to pastoral education. We teamed up with a

of our youngest teachers, who currently had

half dozen teachers, alongside several Spanish

the floor. The topic was sin, and some of the

translators. Gabe and Rebekah Zepeda and

pastors in the room were arguing that true

Rachel Sweet spent the week engaged in VBS

Christian pastors generally don’t sin. We were

with kids in various villages, while Fritz Jordan

somewhat stunned.

assisted local workmen in construction of a

The discussion over the next couple of days centered on correcting that thinking by laying out the doctrine of progressive sanctification;

MOMENTUM // SEPTEMBER 2013

18

John Sweet and I had the privilege of teaching

nearby team member who knew Spanish,

sessions

on

systematic

theology,

future training center. Dr. Sills shares how we experienced a significant number of trials during the week.

how Christ takes sinners like us and, over a

It was also an extremely difficult week with

lifetime, makes us more and more like Him. Of

regard to the opposition from the evil one. A

course, there are plenty of Christians in the

bag that went missing finally arrived in our

West who have unbiblical views on this topic.

possession, but without the laptop and various

But the situation highlighted why training

other possessions that the team member had

for pastors is so needed around the world,

packed. Five team members became ill during

particularly for those who have little access to

the week with altitude sickness, traveler’s

sound theological resources.

stomach issues, or a combination of both.

In July, a small team from Redeemer had the

Three vehicles had problems with overheating

great privilege of traveling to Ecuador. There

that resulted in them breaking down at the

teams from several U.S. churches joined Dr.

most inopportune times. One missionary

David Sills from Reaching & Teaching Ministries

suffered a head-on collision and totaled out

in their long-term efforts to strengthen the

his vehicle. Thankfully, no one was hurt, but

church in the Quichua regions of South

it was clear that the enemy was fighting hard

America. We spent a tremendous week

against us.


At one time, Ecuador had Latin America’s

access to solid theological books is extremely limited. Few of

lowest percentage of evangelicals. In recent

the men pastoring these churches have ever been discipled.

decades however, there has been a dramatic

They’ve rarely been taught the Bible, apart from R&T’s

rise

involvement.

to

number

around

1.2

million.

The

percentage of believers in the country now

This trip brought together so many elements of collaboration:

stands at 8.5%, mostly focused in Quito and

U.S. church teams, a ministry engaged in overseas theological

other growing cities, with a high concentration

training, long-term missionaries laboring in the field, and

amongst the Quichua peoples. This growth

indigenous church leaders there in the Tambo region. We were

has also made a dent in the influence of the

humbled as we saw the commitment of these Ecuadorean

Catholic Church.

pastors to pursuing this time of training in order to better serve

Reaching & Teaching (R&T) has a long-term

their congregations.

commitment to this region. In collaboration

It was a privilege to be part of this short-term team

with community leaders, they are nearing

representing RBC. Our church has a long history of supporting

completion on a pastoral training center and

missions mainly through our giving as a congregation. Having

ministry base in Tambo, an area with more

traveled with Bob and Gayle Glenn to South America more

than 330 isolated communities and only 32

than a year ago, I have seen the heart for cross-cultural ministry

churches. This is a region where believers are

that resides in our leadership. We pray that God will continue

often quite isolated from each other and many

to build this vision into the DNA of Redeemer, calling us to go

are persecuted for their faith.

further up and further in through short and long-term missions

These church leaders epitomize those whom

engagement and support.

we sense a burden to serve across Asia, Africa

Pray with us that God will bring fruit from our time there for

and South America. A very small percentage

the sake of His glory, by the grace of Christ being displayed

will ever be able to attend seminary, and their

through his church in Ecuador. //RBC

19 MOMENTUM // SEPTEMBER 2013

Photos taken by ClearlySeen.org // © Bill Walsh


highlights from the blog

REDEEMER COMMUNITY GROUPS

THE MEAT OF FELLOWSHIP

BY: DANIELLE LAKES

A

bout once a month this summer,

is through weekly fellowship with other believers. Lifting each

I’ve had the chance to meet with

other to the Lord, sharing our struggles and our triumphs as we

the people in my Community Group

walk with Him, learning what He is capable of through the real

from

lives of real people – if you’re hungry to know Jesus more, this

Redeemer,

either

through

a backyard barbecue or a few games at the

MOMENTUM // SEPTEMBER 2013

20

is where the meat is.

local park. We spend time catching up on each

We’ve spent a little less than a year with these people, and

other’s lives and simply enjoying one another’s

already we’ve come to care for them so much, just as they’ve

company. When I look at the calendar in

come to care for us. With all of our differences and quirks, we

my office marked with events, holidays and

share a commonality: We’re all broken. And we all know the

deadlines, I realize that seeing these people is

grace of the One who heals us. There’s nothing quite like being

usually one of the best days of my month.

able to share in the joy of that knowledge together.

My husband and I have attended the same

Community Groups start meeting weekly again this fall and

Community Group since last fall. In the

several different locations and times are available. If you’re

beginning, we were a bit nervous to sit around

looking for fellowship at Redeemer and further growth in the

with a bunch of people we hardly knew and

Lord, I highly recommend checking out and going to one. Who

discuss a book or a recent sermon. But the

knows – this time next year, you too may get just as excited

Lord calls Christians to fellowship with one

about the one day each summer month you get to meet up

another, and we knew how important this

with the people you’ve come to love in your own Community

commandment was. We’ve both had some

Group.

of the greatest encouragements, the most significant times of prayer and the most insightful understandings about who the Lord

//RBC


new members

WELCOME TO THE FAMILY Lindsay Brandenburg

Jean Bradford

Josh Hway

Jackie Kennedy

Sara Seeland

David & Danae Torres

Jesse & Katie Trebesch

Bill & Cindi Walsh

Stan & Joyce Passananti

NEXT MEMBERSHIP CLASS: OCTOBER 10TH LEARN ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF MEMBERSHIP AT OUR NEXT CLASS. RSVP WITH LAURIE SUMMERS AT LSUMMERS@REDEEMERBIBLECHURCH.COM OR 952.935.2425.

GET INVOLVED & SERVE

volunteer

JOB TITLE

JOB TITLE

JOB TITLE

SONG TEAM MEMBERS

VIDEO CAMERA OPERATOR

VISITOR FOLLOW-UP

DESCRIPTION: Musician or

DESCRIPTION: Records each

DESCRIPTION: Do you like

vocalist RESPONSIBILITES:

sermon during the Worship

welcoming people? Do you

Lead worship in singing or

Service by operation of

enjoy having one-on-one

playing your instrument with

the church’s video camera.

conversations with people?

the song team at least one

RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. Must

If so, the Redeemer office

Sunday (2 services) a month.

be reliable and able to arrive

staff would love to have your

HOURS PER WEEK: 1 hour

in a timely fashion. 2. Record

help in following up with

Wednesday night rehearsal

sermons during one or both

RBC guests by phone or

(8:30-9:30 pm) and 8:00 am

Worship Services 3. Find a

by email. No experience is

Sunday morning run through

replacement if necessary.

necessary; all that is required

before playing at 9 am and

HOURS PER WEEK: +/- 1

is a genuine love of people!

KIRSTEN WATSON

HOURS PER WEEK: varies

Ministry Development Team Leader

week.

21

P | 952.935.2425 E | kirsten @redeemerbiblechurch.com

MOMENTUM // SEPTEMBER 2013

11 am services, +/- 5 hours/

WANT TO HELP? CONTACT KIRSTEN!


financial update

BY THE NUMBERS

JULY: YEAR TO DATE

MORTGAGE

BAR GRAPH

GENERAL GIVING FUND Operating Expenses Mortgage Giving Forecast

PIE CHART

$ 764,300 $ 90,129 $ 828,679 $ 719,767

EXPANDING OUR GOSPEL VISION

Extra Commitments $ 41,427 Awaiting Commitments $ 293,477 | 13.5% Commitments Received $ 1,885,523 | 86.5%

MOMENTUM // SEPTEMBER 2013

22

FORECAST

GIVING

EXPENSES

13.5 %

86.5 %


SUN

MON

2

9

16

23

30

THU

SAT

DATES TO REMEMBER

FRI

7

WED

6

TUE 5

14

4

13

CURRICULM OVERVIEW NIGHT 6:15 - 6:55 PM | Fellowship Hall REDEMPTION | Youth Group 6:45 PM WEDNESDAY WORSHIP | 7 PM

12

21

11

20

28

10

27

WOMEN’S BOOK STUDY 7 PM - 8:30 PM

26

3

5

CURRICULM OVERVIEW NIGHT 6:15 - 6:55 PM | Fellowship Hall

19

25

WOMEN’S BOOK STUDY 7 PM - 8:30 PM

2

WOMEN’S BOOK STUDY 7 PM - 8:30 PM

4

WOMEN’S BOOK STUDY 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

18

WOMEN’S NIGHT 7 PM - 8:30 PM

REDEMPTION | Youth Group 6:45 PM WEDNESDAY WORSHIP | 7 PM KIDS CHOIR | 7 - 8:30 PM

17

REDEMPTION | Youth Group 6:45 PM

24

REDEMPTION | Youth Group 6:45 PM

1

REDEMPTION | Youth Group 6:45 PM WEDNESDAY WORSHIP | 7 PM

WOMEN’S BOOK STUDY 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KIDS CHOIR | 7 - 8:30 PM

WEDNESDAY WORSHIP | 7 PM

WOMEN’S BOOK STUDY 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

WEDNESDAY WORSHIP | 7 PM

WOMEN’S BOOK STUDY 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

3

September EVENT CALENDAR 1 MORNING WORSHIP | 10 AM

8 MORNING WORSHIP | 9 & 11 AM REDEMPTION | Youth SS 9 AM NEWCOMERS LUNCH 1:00 - 2:30 PM | RM 106 EVENING WORSHIP | 6:00 PM SGF CLASSES BEGIN

15 MORNING WORSHIP | 9 & 11 AM REDEMPTION | Youth SS 9 AM ECUADOR/AFRICA EVENT 1:00 - 2:30 PM | Fellowship Hall

22 MORNING WORSHIP | 9 & 11 AM (Including the Lord’s Table) REDEMPTION | Youth SS 9 AM

29 MORNING WORSHIP | 9 & 11 AM REDEMPTION | Youth SS 9 AM


FEATURED EVENTS Wednesday SEPT. 6 & 11TH

Sunday SEPTEMBER 8TH

Sunday SEPTEMBER 15TH

Thursday SEPTEMBER 19TH

CURRICULM OVERVIEW NIGHT

NEWCOMER’S LUNCH

ECUADOR/AFRICA EVENT

6:15 PM - 6:55 PM |

1 PM – 2:30 PM | RM 106 //

1 PM - 2:30 PM | Fellowship

WOMEN’S NIGHT: STUDY THROUGH MODESTY

Fellowship Hall // Parents

If you would like to attend

Hall // Want to learn more

are invited to preview our new curriculum, The Gospel Project. It is a 3 year chronological study through the whole Bible, each lesson focusing on the “meta-narrative” of creation-fall-redemption.

the next Newcomer’s Lunch,

about what Redeemer’s

please RSVP with Laurie

Mission Ministry is doing?

Summers at lsummers@

Join us for a recap of the

redeemerbiblechurch.com or

Ecuador Mission Trip,

952.935.2425.

including testimonies and a slideshow, and to hear what’s happening with Mike & Helen Wicker’s ministry in Africa. A light luncheon will be provided. RSVP to the Church Office by Wednesday, September 11th at 952.935.2425 or info@

A:: 16205 HIGHWAY 7 | MINNETONKA, MINNESOTA 55345 P:: 952.935.2425 E:: INFO@REDEEMERBIBLECHURCH.COM W:: REDEEMERBIBLECHURCH.COM

redeemerbiblechurch.com.

7 PM - 8:30 PM | Fellowship Hall // Ladies, join us on the third Thursday of each month as we read through “Modesty” by our RW Glenn. It is sure to be a wonderful time to fellowship with ladies from both the Tuesday morning and the Thursday evening book studies. Questions? Carol Burr at carolburr1081@gmail.com.


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