Samson’s life. What if he prayed? What if he obeyed God’s word? What if he gave? What if he established good friendships? What if he shared his testimony? What if Samson would have put God first? You each have incredible potential when you partner with God. Together, let’s use this sermon series to ask ourselves these tough questions and grow into what God has intended for each of us. It’s going to be a great month! Don’t miss a moment of it.
FROM YOUR
PASTOR
I love being your Pastor,
Jim & Linda McNabb ps. As the series begins, don’t forget to gather your family or friends and ask each other the discussion questions for each
What if I were taller? What if I had more money? What if I
week’s sermon found on the next page. Let’s grow together!
would have finished college? What if I would have chosen a
Its going to be a great month! Don’t miss a moment of it.
different career? What if? What if? What if? We often ask these types of questions regarding the current status of our lives, but “what if” we began asking these types of questions regarding our own personal spiritual life? In the Bible, the life of Samson is an incredible story of a person who had all the talent, all the blessing, and all the strategic positioning to accomplish great things for God. Yet somehow he ends up deceived, both eyes gouged out, and
Here are some things that we think are imperative to your journey here, as you explore what The Bridge has to offer you and your family.
humiliated in front of his enemies. How did this happen? How did a man with so much potential, fail so miserably? The answer is simple. If you read about the life of Samson, you begin to realize that there were some very important spiritual
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to pray and failed to obey God’s word. He couldn’t control
and accountability in his life. The result was a man who was
mobile app, “MyBridge.” You can get details on much more!
determined his fate. For example, he disregarded his need
mention that Samson failed to establish positive friendships
magazine, on our website, or through our all upcoming events, sign up for classes, and
disciplines that he seemed to abandon that ultimately
his selfish behavior - making him a taker, not a giver. Not to
Need information? You can find it all in this
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Stop by Fresh Start after the service. Here you will find someone from our staff who would like to meet you and answer any questions you may have about our church.
unable to reach his potential. A man who ultimately was unable to share with others how God had changed his life. The truth is, when we read the story of Samson we are slapped in the face with the harsh reality of what can happen to each of us when we when we abandon our basic spiritual disciplines.
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If we’re really being honest, when compare
In a large church, the key to making friends and having community is joining a small group. We know you’re busy, so we offer small groups on Sundays at 9:30 and 10:45AM to
Samson’s life to our own, we may discover that we aren’t that
make the most of your time here.
different. We all have a little of Samson’s characteristics in our own lives. The end of this month and the beginning of March, we will be doing an “All Church” sermon series that will examine
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We feel our student’s and kid’s experiences are some of the best around, so make sure your kids don’t miss out on the amazing things we have going on for them.
ince “What If?” is an ALL church sermon series, we are encouraging everyone to take a few moments this week
S
(around the dinner table, riding in the car, or just while hanging out at home) and gather with your family or friends to discuss some of the topics Pastor McNabb will be covering throughout this series. Below you will find a couple of questions that you can ask each other and challenge one another within the the coming weeks. Join us! Let’s grow together!
Week of 02/16/14
SAMSON & PRAYER
Week of 02/23/14
SAMSON & BIBLE READING
What has been the highlight of your week?
What has been the highlight of your week?
(Use this to get everyone talking)
(Use this to get everyone talking.)
Why do you think it is important to pray?
What is your favorite Bible verse? What about it do you like so much?
Why do you think most people tend to pray only when they are in trouble or when bad things happen to
Why do you think God gave us the Bible?
them? One reason He gave us the Bible (God’s Law) was to The Bible only mentions Samson praying twice, and
serve as guardrails for our lives, but in order for it to
both times were because he was in trouble. How is
help keep us from harm, we have to “do what it says.”
only praying when you are in trouble or only when
What keeps us from obeying the Bible?
you need something damaging to your relationship with God?
When we study the life of Samson, we discover that he didn’t seem to take God’s word seriously, which in the
Why do you think God wants us to pray to Him?
end, got him into a lot of trouble. Share a time when you failed to listen to God’s word, and how that got you
How does it benefit our lives to have a consistent
into trouble.
prayer life with God? How do think it would benefit your life to regularly What is the hardest part about praying consistently?
read your Bible?
What do you need to stop doing, or what do you need
Reading God’s word is crucial to our spiritual growth.
to re-arrange in your life, to develop a more consistent
We need to daily read the Bible. What is a obtainable
prayer time?
goal that you can set regarding your personal Bible reading?
What are some ways we as a family can pray together
(For Example; Chapter a day, 10 minutes a day, etc…)
more often? How are you going to make sure you stay faithful to that goal? Do you use Facebook or Twitter? If you are thinking about the series or going through the questions post a photo or a thought and use the hashtag:
#WHATIFSAMSON
What are some ways we as a family can read God’s word (The Bible) together more often?
GET CONNECTED
We believe it is vital that everyone who comes through our doors feels welcomed, connected with God, and connected with great people to do life with! So here we have a ton of avenues available for you to be a part of: small groups, special events, volunteer teams and more. We want to create ample opportunities for you to build incredibly fun, healthy friendships as well as help you flourish in your relationship with God! Your life is valuable! Get yourself connected today!
SMALL GROUPS SUNDAY’S AT 9:30AM “Bait of Satan” Join us as we expose one of the most deceptive snares Satan uses to get believers out of the will of God-offense. Ages: 30’s thru 50’s Leader: Kenny McGee Room: 201
“Not a Fan” Are you a follower of Jesus? Don’t answer too quickly. Join us as we study what it means to become a completely committed follower of Jesus Ages: 30’s thru 50’s Leader: Roy Peck Room: 203
“The United Monarchy of Israel”
“Book of Revelation”
Join us as we study the life of Saul, David, and Solomon. Ages: 40’s thru 60’s Leader: Kathleen Wilcoxson Room: 105
This is a verse-by-verse walk through and discussion on the book of Revelation Ages: All Ages Leader: Rob McClure Room: 105
“Psalms”
WEDNESDAY’S AT 7:15PM
We are taking an in depth look into the Psalms and discovering what they mean for us today. Ages: 50’s and up Leader: Kenneth McGee Room: 100
“The First Five Books” We are looking at and discussing the first five books of the Bible. Ages: 50’s and up Leader: Ken Isom Room: Chapel
“What the Bible Says About Today’s Headlines”
SUNDAY’S AT 10:45AM
This study will help us think Biblically about the hot topics that we read and hear about daily, e.g., war, immigration, gay marriage. Ages: 40’s thru 60’s Leader: Elaine Arnold Room: 104
“How to Ruin Your Life By Thirty”
“America’s Godly Heritage”
“Multiply”
Join us as we look at what was intended for America by the founders and what can be done to return America to its original guiding philosophy. Ages: 40’s thru 60’s Leader: Ed Damron Room: 202
We were all called to make disciples. Whether it is our children, friends, or co-workers, God has called us to make disciples. We will walk through this book and find out how! Ages: Young Marrieds Leader: Ryan Summers Room: 205
Join us for this discussion based small group designed for young adults aged 18-25. Ages: Young Adults Leader: Doug & Brittanie Wyatt Room: 204
HOPE & HEALING Divorce Care Wednesdays at 7:15PM Don’t go through separation or divorce alone. The journey is not easy, so come walk with us. Leader: Donny Hilbern Room: 104
Foundations of Freedom Come join us on a journey to become the person God has created you to be. Ages: All Ages Leader: Linda M. & Terry W. Room: 202
NEXT STEPS HIS 24/7 Bible Discipleship Sundays at 10:45AM Come discover the basic spiritual disciplines to help you grow in your relationship with God. ie. how to use and study the Bible, pray, and witness. Ages: All Ages Leader: Louis Rose & Ken Isom Room: 100
Corporate Prayer Sundays at 6:00PM Tuesdays at 9:00AM Join us in the Chapel every week for a time of prayer.
Fresh Start March 9 Fresh Start Area at 6:30PM We know that coming to a new church and trying to navigate through getting plugged in can feel like a daunting task. So, come meet Pastor McNabb and find out how we do church. We will break down the easiest ways for you to get connected.
Living Free Addiction Recovery Wednesdays at 7:15PM Come and let us help you on the road to overcoming addictions and breaking free from life controlling issues. Leader: Ken Isom Room: End Zone
MEN Men’s Breakfast February 8 7:30AM in The Venue Come and hang out with guys and enjoy a man-sized breakfast.
WOMEN Zumba Mondays at 6:30PM Join us in the Bridge Kids Auditorium and get your exercise on.
“Gideon” Bible Study Tuesdays at 9:30AM Join us as we take an in depth look and discover the pages of Deuteronomy. Leader: Carole Harrell Room: 202
“Marriage” MOM’s Class Tuesdays at 9:30AM
SENIOR ADULTS
STUDENTS
SERVE
Primetime Tuesdays at 9:30AM
Bridge Students Wednesdays at 7:15PM
Choir
Join us for Bible teaching and a variety of activities & events to energize the soul. Leader: Ken Isom Room: RM105
Join us for our weekly worship experience in the Bridge Students building.
“Undaunted” Bible Study Wednesdays at 7:15PM
Valentine Dinner February 14 6:30PM at Grill on the Hill
Join us as we learn how not only to overcome the challenges, wrong turns, and often painful circumstances we all experience, but also to actually grow from those experiences and be
We would like for all of our Senior Adults to join us at Grill on the Hill for a special Valentine’s Dinner. If you would like a ride, vans will leave the church at 5:30PM. You can sign-
Get connected in a weekly small group! This is a great way to learn more on specific topics throughout the Bible. 6th-8th Grade: Room 203 9th-11th Grade: Room 201 12th Grade: Room 204
equipped and empowered to help others Leader: Dorcas Schroeder Room: 105
up at the information center out in the lobby.
Come spend some time with the ladies, while we take care of your kids. It’s just the break you’re looking for. Our current topic is the difference between men & women. Leader: Kathy McGee Room: 104
Teachers Bible Study Mondays at 3:45PM If you are a teacher we are kicking of a Bible Study just for you and your colleagues. We will be walking through the study “Discerning The Voice of God.” You can sign-up out at the information center or online at thebridgeag.org/teachers Leader: Michele Lesher Room: 105
UNITED Night of Worship February 20 7:00PM in The Venue Ladies, this a night you are not going to want to miss! It is going to be an awesome time where women of all ages come together and worship as one.
Magnolia Luncheon February 13 11:30AM in The Commons If you are a single lady over 50, we want to honor you. Join us for this special Valintines Day luncheon. Sign-up out at the information center or online at thebridgeag.org
KIDS Bridge Kids Sundays at 8:15/9:30/10:45AM Join us for exciting worship, fun games, and Biblical lessons every week!
Boys & Girls Clubs Wednesdays at 7:15PM We offer fun filled programs every week for boys (Royal Rangers) and girls (mPact) that help them grow with God.
Royal Rangers Lock-In February 21 7:00PM in Bridge Kids We want all of our Royal Rangers to come hang out for a night of pizza, fun, and games!! Talk to your childs Commander on a Wednesday night to get signed up!
BGMC Dinner February 26 6:00PM in The Venue Join us the last Wednesday of the month for a great dinner, time of fellowship, and support missions in the process!
Sunday Small Groups Sundays at 10:45AM
Family Groups Mondays at 7:00PM Starting February 10 Family Groups provide a fun and relaxed atmosphere for students to discuss relevant and practical topics under the guidance of Bridge Students’ adult leaders. More information on the different locations can be found at thebridgeag.org/ students
Family Fued February 21 7:00PM in Bridge Students Hey Students! Join us for a fun night of family group vs. family group games, food, and friends. The cost is only $5.
YOUNG ADULT Friday Gathering Fridays at 7:00PM Come enjoy food, fun, and discussion with other young adults. Contact Doug for more info at (405) 204.4569 Leader: Doug & Brittanie Wyatt
The adult choir is looking for additional singers as we begin the new year. If you’re between the ages of 16 and ?? we’d like to talk to you about singing with us each Sunday morning during the 3rd worship experience. Rehearsals are Sundays at 5:00pm. You don’t have to read music, but you do need to attend a get-acquainted interview with Pastor Rex. Just go online and sign-up. thebridgeag.org/serve
Production Team We are looking to expand. The production team plays a key role in making our worship experiences happen here and online. All you have to have is a willingness to learn and be a part of an awesome team, and we will teach you eveything you need to know to be successful. From camera operators to stage hands to computer operators, just go online and sign-up. thebridgeag.org/serve
For more information on all these events and more just go to our website www.thebridgeag.org
THE STORY OF ST. VALENTINE
F
ebruary. 14 is here. To me, this means one
Another fun (and by “fun,” I mean “slightly disturbing”) activity
thing: the return of candy hearts. I love those
during Lupercalia was the act of “februatio.” Februatio, which
things—candy and conversation, all in one.
means “to purify,” was a lashing of the young women in the
Whether you’re a fan of edible, culturally
town, by the young noblemen. Apparently, being hit with
relevant (“fax me”) sentiments or not, Feb. 14 is
some sort of leather whip, called a “februa,” increased a girl’s
sure to bombard you with plenty of red, pink, hearts and lace.
chances of child-bearing. Lupercalia wasn’t the only romantic
Valentine’s Day is upon us. Some bitter person somewhere
tie to February 14. In Europe, people believed birds found their
began calling it Singles Awareness Day and blaming Hallmark
mates around that time each year. Chaucer took note of it,
for the fact that love is forced upon us every February.
citing February 14 as the specific date in one of his writings.
And, well, they are wrong.
So, yes, Valentine’s Day really is about love, finding love and sending cards. But we can’t blame Hallmark. They’re only
Legend has it Valentine’s Day came about because of a saint—
capitalizing on an incredible money-making opportunity.
one named Valentine. Like a lot of saints from way back, details on Val’s life are a little murky. In fact, there have actually been
But what if, instead of blaming card stores, dwelling in the
three different Valentines reported to have existed. But a lot of
thought of loneliness or succumbing to materialism, we
people think it was probably the same guy. Or just a popular
celebrated the origins of the holiday this year? Valentine’s
name. The point is, there was most likely only one Saint
Day began because one man showed Christ’s love—not with
Valentine.
delicious candy hearts, red roses or a winged baby, but with his actions—despite opposition. Maybe this February 14, we could
The story of Valentine’s life is equally confusing. Different
try to do the same.
accounts have different details, but a lot of it’s the same. Valentine was a physician and a priest (or just a physician … or just a priest. Like I said, different stories) living in the latter part of the third century. At the time, it was against the law for young couples to marry, because Claudius II wanted the men to be constantly ready for battle and not worried about a family back home. Valentine went against orders and secretly provided marriage ceremonies for young lovers. He was put into prison, where he befriended a jailer. The jailer had a daughter who was blind and he asked Valentine to help. Valentine, through a miracle or medicine (depending on the storyteller), was able to restore the sight of the jailer’s daughter. In most accounts, the jailer was converted to Christianity through Valentine’s actions. Valentine was executed on Feb. 14 for his faith, but before he died, he sent a note to the jailer’s daughter and signed it, “From Your Valentine.” His death day and his association with lovers and notes were convenient for the Christians in Rome, who were probably already looking for a way to absorb the feast of Lupercalia into Christian culture. Lupercalia took place on February 15. During Lupercalia, the young, single women would write their names on slips of paper, which were then placed in an urn. The young, single men would then each draw a name, and court that woman (at least until they could get a new name next year). I suppose this was an early prototype for dating websites.
BUT WHAT IF, INSTEAD OF BLAMING CARD STORES, DWELLING IN THE THOUGHT OF LONELINESS OR SUCCUMBING TO MATERIALISM, WE CELEBRATED THE ORIGINS OF THE HOLIDAY THIS YEAR? VALENTINE’S DAY BEGAN BECAUSE ONE MAN SHOWED CHRIST’S LOVE. by Elizabeth Hyndman
GOOD
READS Books you should be reading. Stop by the bookstore to pick one up today.
THE OTHER SIDE OF COURAGEOUS Lynn Wheeler
This book is about getting back your courageous spirit and is recommended by Pastor McNabb.
THINK DIFFERENTLY LIVE DIFFERENTLY Bob Hamp
Learn how to access true freedom and learn why so many of us remain in captivity. This book is recommended by Pastor Linda McNabb.
GODS AT WAR Kyle Idleman
Discover the false gods that are waging war for your heart.This book is recommended by Pastor Rob McClure.
THE GOD I NEVER KNEW Robert Morris
Learn how real friendship with the Holy Spirit can change your life. This book is recommended by Pastor Ryan Summers.
GENERATION iY
WEEKLY SCHEDULE Traditional Worship Experience Sundays at 8:15AM
This experience offers a variety of hymns and sacred songs.
Modern Worship Experience Sundays at 9:30AM
This experience has a more laid back atmosphere & guitar driven worship.
Blended Worship Experience Sundays at 10:45AM
This experience includes upbeat worship with a choir and orchestra.
PM Worship Experience Sundays at 6:30PM
During this experience we come together as a whole to worship.
Hispanic Worship Experience Sundays at 10:30AM
This experience takes place in The Connection building and includes Spanish Worship and a message in Spanish from Pastor Kenny Garcia . Children and Youth can take part in what is happening on our main campus.
Wed. Traditional Worship Experience Wednesdays at 7:15PM
This experience offers a variety of hymns and messages from Kenneth McGee.
Drive Worship Experience Wednesdays at 7:30PM
This experience has a more laid back atmosphere & messages from Rob McClure.
Wed. Hispanic Worship Experience Wednesdays at 7:30PM
This experience takes place in The Connection building and includes Spanish Worship and a message in Spanish from Pastor Kenny Garcia
Tim Elmore
Our trained nursery staff is available during all worship
This book paints a sobering picture of what could happen to our society if we don’t change the way we relate to today’s teens. This book is recommended by Pastor Doug Wyatt.
experiences. For a full list of other opportunities, please check out the “Get Connected” section of Pulse.