The Forge: Recent Episodes
Grace Chapel Wilsonville
Men thrive in community with other men as they are challenged, sharpened, and forged, like iron sharpening iron. This weekly podcast brings together content from our men's community gathering (The Forge) looking to encourage one another as we are better together.
- "His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms." (v. 10)
One of the mysteries of God's plan is His desire to use the church to communicate His love, grace, invitation, and forgiveness.
What mysteries has God revealed to you? How are you walking in the truth of those mysteries in your daily life? How can we, as a church, walk in the revealed mysteries of God?
- "In Him and through faith in Him we may approach God with freedom and confidence." (v. 12)
What hinders you from approaching God with freedom and confidence? What person or situation in your life do you need to carry to God with freedom and confidence?
- Read verses 14-21. Our capacity to be filled with all the fullness of whom God comes from being rooted in love.
What does it look like for you to be rooted in love? What does it look like to be filled with all the fullness of God?
You can walk through this quick list to check where your roots lie. In the places you find something other than Christ's love and perhaps sin blooming, do not respond in shame or judgment; receive it as an invitation for pruning and another opportunity to remember His vast love.
Mentally - What thoughts blossom from receiving Christ's love for you, and which thoughts shrivel from being rooted in something else (control, fear, pride, etc.)
Emotionally - What emotions do you most often experience in an ordinary day? Which of those do you intentionally lead toward Christ's love, and which do you let lead you?
Physically - If you have felt a physical response to Christ's love, what was it, and what was it like for you? If you have not, how does this idea of physically feeling Christ's love sound to you? What about Christ's love physically energizes you?
- Paul blesses the Ephesians with a prayer. He prays they fully understand God's love (v. 17-19). What a beautiful thing to pray over someone! Being able to pray that blessing for someone else is most powerful when you have experienced the height, width, and depth of His love yourself.
How have you experienced an overwhelming love of God? How is that reflected in your testimony? Share that love story with someone to encourage them to seek that love for themselves. Use it as a blessing for someone!
- Ephesians 2:1-5 says that we who were once dead in our transgressions have been made alive with Christ. Our only requirement is to believe. It is in God's mercy and by His grace that we are saved.
Mercy: Compassion or forgiveness shown toward someone who is within one's power to punish or harm.
Grace: The free and unmerited favor of God.
What does it mean for your life that you are saved instead of punished? What does that mean for how you treat others? Is it easy for you to accept the gracious gift of salvation from God? Or do you find yourself trying to earn your salvation? If so, how do you try to earn it?
- Testimony is a powerful tool God uses to do some of his best work.
"God can point to us in all future ages as examples of the incredible wealth of his grace and kindness toward us." (v. 7)
What is a piece of your testimony? What part of your life or story can you contribute ONLY to the grace and kindness of God? Write it down and share it with someone. Even if it is something seemingly small, God can still use that story as an example for others.
- "For Christ himself has brought peace to us.” (v. 14)
Jesus himself is our peace. Paul is reminding the Ephesians that Jesus came to bring peace. Peace in our relationships. Peace in our souls and with God through salvation. The Greek word used here is 'eirene.' The definition of 'eirene' is harmony, concord, security, safety, the tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ
What area of your life do you need peace right now? Do you need to experience it in your relationship with God? Are you struggling with internal peace? What are you trusting to fulfill that need for peace other than God? Do you need peace in any of your relationships?
- In Ephesians, there is much talk of unity within the house of God, in God's family. Only together are we the "holy temple for the Lord." (v. 21
How do we find ways to keep the Body of Christ working together as a unit in a world that seems to love Us vs. Them? How do we stay unified in the face of division? How do all followers of Jesus put aside differences for a common goal?
"God is always trying to give good things to us, but our hands are too full to receive them"
- St. Augustine
God, empty my hands in order to show up in big and impactful ways.
Deuteronomy 8:18 Luke 6:38 2 Corinthians 8:7
Luke 6:30 2 Corinthians 9: 6-7 Matthew 6:19-21
Questions:
1) Where is your current heart toward tithing? How do we get to the point of being a "cheerful giver"?
2) Have you seen God show up in your life and answer the promise from Luke 6:38 - "Give, and it will be given to you"?
3) In what areas of your life are your hands too full to receive blessings from God?
Serving God: When you serve others you are also serving God. “God has created us for a life of good deeds, which he has already prepared for us to do” Eph 2:10. These ‘good deeds’ regularly show up when serving others.
Call to Serve:
Joshua 24:14 – 15, You have a choice to make.
Deuteronomy 10:12 - …. What does the Lord your God ask of you?
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To fear the Lord your God
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To walk in obedience to God
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To love God
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To serve the Lord your God with all your heart and all your soul.
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____________________________________________________
Equip to Serve:
Ephesians 4:11-13, Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors, Teachers
Blessings from Serving:
Galatians 5:13, 1 Peter 4:11, Romans 12:11
Questions:
Think back over the past week or month. How much time did you spend serving the Kingdom? (you have 168 hours in a week to work with).
Who was the first person who invited you to serve the Kingdom?
Serving the Lord or serving the Lord with all your heart and soul. Do you feel there is a difference?
What is one of your strengths that you serve with?
What is one of your weaknesses that you serve with?
“Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as you can.” John Wesley
Jesus’ solitude and silence is a major theme in the Gospels. His ongoing, intimate relationship with his Abba was the source of his compassion, wisdom, and power that we see on every page of the Gospels.
Mark 1:12, Luke 5:16, Luke 6:12, Mark 1:35-38, Matthew 13:1, Matthew 14:13, Matthew 14:22-24, Mark 6:3-47, Matthew 26:36-44
Common Introjects
I Am:
RejectedNever enough
AbandonedClueless - Don’t know what I’m doing
CriticizedDamaged goods
JudgedBehind and always will be
InvisibleLoser - never amount to anything
UnlovedNot good enough
StupidNot trusted
PowerlessToo emotional
A FailureAlone
Our Father in Heaven, hallowed by Your name,Adoration, Praise
Your Kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.Invitation
Give us today our daily bread.Supplication, Needs
Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.Confession
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. Spiritual warfare
Questions?
- What keeps you from spending time in solitude with God?
(Busy, Insecurity, Fear, Pride, Selfishness)
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What does your prayer time with God look like? The dead drop? The one-direction conversation? An open back and forth of talking and listening?
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Which of these introjects feel familiar to you? Or another that isn’t on the list? Where do they send you?
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Which of these benefits do you need in your life right now?
Peace, Perspective, Purpose
- What is one thing you could do to incorporate Solitude and Prayer into your life this week?
Resources:
Books: The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer; Sacred Rhythms by Ruth Haley Barton; How to Pray, God on Mute, How to Hear God by Pete Grieg
Podcasts: The Emotionally Healthy Leader Podcast ‘The real reason you can’t stop overcommitting(and what to do about it)’; Fight Hustle, End Hurry
App - Inner Room, Lectio 365
Wordless music - William Augusto
Togetherness-the state of being close to another person or other people.
Synonyms: association, connection, oneness, and or relationship
Antonyms: alienation, dissociation, estrangement, and or separation
Primary Verses: Philippians 2:2-5
Additional Verses: 1 John 1:3-7 & Galatians 2:9
Reminder Verses: Hebrews 10:23-25
Questions:
1-Do you and God have a good rhythm of getting together? What can you do today to maximize your opportunities?
2-Do you see the correlation between your togetherness with God and how it impacts your togetherness with others?
3-What believer(s) would benefit from you stepping towards them?
4-Who is a great example of someone who puts others first to you? Why?
Challenges:
1-What passage of scripture can you commit to memory over the next 26 days?
2-Can you text a word of encouragement/share a verse with 26 people over the next 26 days!
Our legacy is people!
CONCEPTS:
God is a tangible, present reality. Therefore the Holy Spirit is a tangible present reality.
The tangible presence of the Holy Spirit is experienced.
The tangible presence of the Holy Spirit is not always what you expect but should always be anticipated.
When you experience the tangible presence of the Holy Spirit something has to change.
We seek to continuously invite the tangible presence of the Holy Spirit to move through a culture of prayer and worship.
We desire to demonstrate the tangible presence of the Holy Spirit through our relationship with others.
QUESTIONS:
What was one thing that stood out to you from the talk this morning?
In what ways have you experienced the tangible presence of the Holy Spirit? Share a moment or story? What was it like?
What things hold you back from seeking the tangible presence of the Holy Spirit?
Why is it important to you that we can actually experience the tangible presence of the Holy Spirit?
How have you been encouraged or challenged by today’s conversation?
Spend some time praying that you would be open to and experience the tangible presence of the Holy Spirit.
“The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. For who knows a person’s thoughts except their own spirit within them? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. What we have received is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us.” -1 Corinthians 2:11,12
How are your Spirit (spiritual) instincts?
Jude 1:10 Jude 1:18,19 Romans 8:5,6 Romans 8:7 Romans 1:28 Galatians 6:7-9
SPIRITUAL INSTINCTS give us situational awareness to read a situation and respond in the best way.
Flesh Instincts (Reactive) vs Spiritual Instincts (Responsive)
If I want to be more RESPONDING I need to prepare by PRE-SPONDING.
How do we sow or pre-spond into the Spirit?
Plant yourself in Humility (Move from Self-filled to Spirit-filled)
Plant yourself in Scripture (Move from consuming the World to Consuming the Word)
Plant yourself in Community (Move from Being Knowledgable to Being Known)
Plant yourself in Expectation (Move from limitation to invitation)
Plant yourself in Repentance (Move from Grieving to Receiving)
Plant yourself in Obedience (Move from prevention to provision)
Plant yourself in Worship (Move from closed hands to open hearts)
Plant yourself in Discernment (Move from chaos to clarity)
Plant yourself in Hunger (Move from passive to passion)
Discussion Questions:
When life is hard what instincts do you follow?
What drives you to certain behavior? Are you a person that “REACTS” OR “RESPONDS”?
From the list of sowing into the Spirit, where are you already doing that in your life?
From the list of sowing into the Spirit, which ones do you need to focus more on?
Practicing the Prophetic
Pray: “Holy Spirit come” “Holy Spirit help me hear or see”
Listen: Be patient, read Scripture, worship, remove distractions
Write: Take note of any words, Scripture, feelings, pictures
Pray: “Holy Spirit is this from you?” “What is my next step”
Listen: Is this for me, for others, now or later?
Share: Be humble, be bold
Roles of Holy Spirit
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Helper who Teaches and Reminds (John 14:26)
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Convicts of Sin (John 16:7-8)
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Dwells in US (1 Corinthians 3:16)
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Source of Revelation, Wisdom and Power (1 Corinthians 2:10-11, Acts 1:8, Ephesians 1:17-20)
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Guides us to Truth and Knowledge (John 16:13-15)
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Gives Spiritual Gifts to Believers (1 Corinthians 12:7-11)
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Seal of Our Adoption as God’s Children (Ephesians 1:13)
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Helps in our weakness and Interceder (Romans 8:26-27)
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Gives us New and Eternal Life (Romans 8:10-11)
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Sanctifies and Provides Fruit (Galatians 5:16-25)
Ways we Suppress Holy Spirit
Fear
Complacency
Idolatry (anything we put before God)
Living Unsuppressed
Recklessly Abandon Self (2 Samuel 6:12-22, Acts 2)
Take the Unexpected Adventure
(The Unexpected Adventure: Taking Everyday Risks to Talk with People about Jesus by Lee Strobel and Mark Mittelberg
Discussion Questions
What has been your experience and understanding of the Holy Spirit?
Which of the 10 Roles of the Holy Spirit do you grab a hold of most easily? Which one do you tend to suppress the most?
What are steps you can take to unsuppress the Holy Spirit in your life?
Action Step
Take time as a group to seek the Holy Spirit’s presence. Pray for one another. Be bold and Courageous to recklessly abandon self and begin a new adventure for the Kingdom.
Charlie Eggert. Isaiah White. Gary McCourt. Matt Taylor. Phil Swain
Series Rewind
Polycentric Leadership
Creating Mutual Spaces
Kingdom of God is omnidirectional
Panel Questions
Brief intro of you and the ministry(s) you participate in that create multigenerational spaces.
Why did you begin to participate and/or serve in the ministry(s) that you are? Why do you continue to do so?
How, if at all, has the younger generation in these spaces helped grow your faith and helped you see God in a deeper sense.
If you are in the younger generation in any of these spaces, how has it helped develop your faith? How have you participated in developing their faith?
One-minute (each, max) closing thought on the importance of Inverted. space.
Discussion Questions:
Has this series helped you see the importance of intentional discipleship relationships?
If so, where/how? If not, what do you think is the cause of that?
What have you learned from the students’ walk with the Lord (shared through this series) or today's panel discussion?
Do you feel inspired to get involved in mutual space community relationships?
Megan McCourt. Mikaela Ochocki. Jacob McNamara. Josh Milligan
Resilient Disciples
Young Adults who have committed to Jesus, who they believe was crucified and raised to conquer sin and death;
are involved in a faith community beyond attendance at worship services;
and strongly affirm that the Bible is inspired by God and contains truth about the world.
Panel Questions
What have you found to be the most challenging part of living out your walk with Jesus since graduating high school?
Of the 6 themes from the graphic describing “Resilient Discipleship”, which most resonates with you and why?
You three have all been a part of our Leadership cohort for YA and we just wrapped up a multi-month track on Spiritual Formation. What’s one thing you learned from our time that has impacted both your discipleship and your leadership formation?
Table Discussion Questions
What do YOU find to be the most challenging part of living out your walk with Jesus in this season of your life?
What parts of these young adults’ discipleship and formation are something you might be able to take away and apply to your own life?
Of the 6 themes from the graphic describing “Resilient Discipleship”, which most resonates with you?
Statistics say...
63% of Christians become Christian between ages 4-14.
34% of Christians become Christian between the ages of 15-29.
97% of Christians become Christian before the age of 30.
“I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn't receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” - Mark 10:15
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”
- Proverbs 22:6
There is an urgency in youth ministry
Young people are being formed
Eventually, a child grows up and has to make his/her own decisions
Prayer Cards
Commit to praying for the teen on your card
Pray for them as they go through Alpha
Pray for them with the 3 Questions
3 Questions every teen (and adult) wrestles with
Identity - Who Am I?
Belonging - Where Do I Fit?
Purpose - What Difference Do I Make?
Deuteronomy Chapter 6
Discussion Questions
What stood out to you most about the panel?
How do you see God moving in young people today?
If you could go back to your teenage self, what would you tell yourself? And how would you say it?
Are teens the only group that struggles with identity? Do you believe a teen/young adult can help you find your identity in Christ?
It’s easier than you think.
We are a Kingdom-minded church! The Kingdom of God is not linear, it is omnidirectional.
Who is the next generation?
Anyone younger than you in age,
Anyone younger than you in faith,
Anyone who is walking with Jesus.
Anyone who isn’t walking with Jesus yet.
“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. For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord…” 2 Timothy 1:6–8
“Where I am, there He (Jesus) is” -Jerry Cook
I don’t have to be uncomfortable to invest in the next generation.
Being available for people is #1.
“Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” Matthew 9:37–38
What do I have to offer others?
My Testimony
My Time
My Energy
My Prayer
My_____________________
My_____________________
Does reframing the idea of the next generation help inspire you to reach others? How?
Who comes to mind immediately in your life that you could help follow Jesus?
What does it look like for you to go out of your way to help someone follow Jesus?
What gifts/stories do you have that others can benefit from?
Task yourself with following through on someone to invest in for the next 6 months.
Question of the day:
How can we create mutual spaces for men of all ages to inhabit?
Why it matters:
if we don't create contexts where all are welcome, we will inhibit the discipleship of young people
"the variables most correlated with mature faith in high school and college are involvement in _______________ and _____________________."
If young men are not participating in intergenerational discipleship, that is on US.
So how do we do it?
1)
2)
"Lord help me to see people the way that you see them"
Acts 2:14-17
On earth, as it is in heaven.
QUESTIONS
What stood out to you / resonated with you from what Jeff shared?
Why do you think intergenerational worship is so critical for the discipleship of young people?
When you think of young guys — be honest here! — what are the first words that come to mind?
What's one thing you can change in your mind, your life, or your schedule right now that would reflect you "being intentional" about creating mutual spaces?
Modernity’s effects on how we practice our faith (15th century-WWII):
Rejection of moral/religious practices
Individualism
Loss of faith
Silo of religious activity
Post-modernity’s effect on how we practice our faith (End WWII-2000):
No universal religious truth or law
Reality is shaped by social, historical, and cultural context
Removed faith from organizations and overall culture
You do you
It seems broken. It also seemed broken to a boy at the age of 8 when he became king.
King Josiah-“The Lord will Support”- (2 Chronicles:34–35)
Became king after a lineage of terrible kings who had abandoned God
Set out to restore the temple
Workers found the lost and forgotten Torah (the Jewish Law)
He wept, tore his clothes, grieved, and sought counsel.
Repairing doesn’t always mean fixing. It might mean shattering.
Polycentric leadership case studies (Mon, Wed, Thurs):
relational approach to leadership, a communal approach to spiritual formation and being the church, an incarnational and distribtutive approach to mission, and a multiplication approach to movement.
God is at work. He never stopped.
He desires unity among his people and all of creation.
Resulting of the inbreaking of His NOW and not yet Kingdom.
Our Father, in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one.
For yours is the kingdom,
the power, and the glory,
forever and ever. Amen.
What to expect over the coming weeks.
Questions:
What areas in your life need a “King Josiah moment”?
How have you appreciated being poured into by older generations?
How can you pour into younger generations?
Do you honestly feel comfortable being led by someone you may perceive as ‘lesser than’ you?
Called to love people well, particularly in their difficult moments or seasons.
From the grand gestures to granular moments
redeemed new creations in Christ, we GET to respond and love well by the power and presence of the Holy Spirit reigning in our lives.
John 13:34-35 1 John 3:18-24 1 John 4:7-19
Love through presence
the day-to-day, face-to-face relationships, and interactions we have with others
Colossians 3:12-14 Ephesians 4:1-3 Ephesians 5:1-2
What does it look like to walk in love?
-Saving a life
-Letting someone stay at your house
-Defending someone who's getting picked on/slandered
-Giving someone a generous gift (monetary or otherwise)
-Asking for forgiveness for something you did or said
-Extending forgiveness for something someone else did or said against you
-Praying for someone who's going through something
-Asking about someone's day or week (and listening to the response)
-Being slow to speak and quick to listen to your spouse/s.o./kids/co-workers
-Asking God to give you perspective about and patience for someone who's difficult
-…and thousands more...
We need to be assertive in looking outward-- SEEING people for real-- and extending the compassion and kindness of Jesus to them. We can do this because we've been adopted into the family of our Almighty God, who now indwells us and empowers us with His grace!
...Christ in you, the hope of glory! (Col. 1:27b)
Discussion questions:
1) What does loving people well mean to you?
2) What does responding and loving well look like (from the grand to the granular) practically in your life? List things you think of.
3) As responders of love, to whom in your life do you think you could extend more compassion and kindness?
4) Is there anyone you need to forgive?
What does God desire for all men?
“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants ALL men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” 1 Tim 2:1-4 (NIV)
Do you judge the marginalized or lesser among us? Or do you defend the rights of the poor and needy?
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” Proverbs 31:8-9 (NIV)
Do everything in love
“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.” 1 Cor 16:13-14 (NIV)
Things to ponder?
Do I pass judgment on the homeless? Drug addicted? Mentally ill? If so, why?
How can I serve the less fortunate in this current season?
What would it look like to be courageous and do everything in love?
“God does not require that we be successful, only that we be faithful.” - Mother Teresa
“Success” through the teachings of Jesus looks like this:
We must simply respond to the movement of GodWe must then continue to listen for the Spirit of GodOur motivation must come from a love for God (and therefore others)It must be directed toward the advancement of the Kingdom of God
We are all first responders.
Anchor Verse:
“Here is another illustration Jesus used: ‘The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed planted in a field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of garden plants; it grows into a tree, and birds come and make nests in its branches.’” Matthew 13:31-32 (NLT)
Questions
What does “success” look like in the Kingdom of God? Does having this adjusted outlook of success discourage or encourage you to respond?Where have you seen God moving in simple, yet powerful ways?What simple act of love [for God and others] could you do this month? this week? or even today?
FAITH
FAMILY
FIRE
THE IMPORTANCE OF PRIORITY
SELFISHNESS LED TO FEAR - by way of struggles
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” John 15:13
FEAR
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
THE ULTIMATE DISPATCH
Questions:
What are your fears? What are they preventing you from? Are they controlling you and leading you down other roads?There is so much ability in this room. What is getting in the way of your dispatch? Is your balance off? What Kind of foundation are you building in your home? Have you lost your voice in your own home? My battles kept me from having a voice in my own home. We live in a crazy world right now. How are you calling people forward instead of just out?
Radical Change-
Radical Trust-
Purpose of Suffering-
Anchor Verses: John 15:2 Isaiah 57:1 Hebrews 12:6-7 James 1:2 Ephesians 5:20
Tony's Take-Aways:
God is completely trustworthy
How we handle suffering is up to us
We can either shake our fists at God or we can approach Him with a heart of thankfulness.
Discussion Questions:
How have I suffered?
Did I trust God through it?
How can I change my mindset to trust God when I suffer?
First Responder qualifications
Jesus first responders (trained, dispatched, run to, assess)
A Mess
Grace (internal and external)
Why are WE the first responders.
The great commission
“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20
Jesus COMMISIONED us all as first responders
Your past uniquely qualifies you to reach a certain people group.
God gave you a gift.
“His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by his own glory and goodness” 2 Peter 1:3
Your authenticity is the key to influencing those around you.
How can I be an everyday first responder?
“Let me give you a new command: Love one another. In the same way I loved you, you love one another. This is how everyone will recognize that you are my disciples-when they see the love you have for each other” John 13:34-35 MSG
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16
Food for thought?
How can my mess become my message?
Where can I grow and lean into a gift or calling?
Jesus used the most broken and marginalized people to carry the message, can you relate with the everyday men He called to be apostles? Why?
A Jesus First Responder Refresher
Must be trained
Commissioned and dispatched
Run to not from
Assess, treat, and monitor
God can use ALL things for His glory
Joshua 2 - The Story of Rahab
The Canaanites worshiped many gods. They had shrines, temples, and idols across the land of Canaan, and their religious practices included things like ritual prostitution and child sacrifice. Rahab was part of that culture. Yet God chose to write her into His story
“But do not forget this one things, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9
The discipleship pathway Is to reshape the misshapen
NOT bobblehead theologians
Incarnational (Jesus Is Lord) impact In our neighborhoods
Requires a reshape of self
HIGHLY relational
Our faith is more than about having a sound morality: sacrifice, commitment, repentance, community, exploration, formation, etc.
Stop overthinking It!
Yes. What's the question?
This may feel uncomfortable at times
Time to answer the call!
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this [present] darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) places.” Ephesians 6:12 AMP
Discussion Questions:
Christ used a prostitute In his lineage, what significance does this have in our own story?
In what areas is God stretching you?
Are you opening your home up for Church in Community? Why or why not? Implore one another to talk with Matt or Ben If anyone has any questions whatsoever about this.
Responding to Jesus encourages us to prepare, know, and use our gifts for His Kingdom
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” 1 Peter 4:10-11
Responding to Jesus is simple, but not always easy.
“And one of the scribes came up and heard them disputing with one another, and seeing that he answered them well, asked him, “Which commandment is the most important of all?” Jesus answered, “The most important is, ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:28-31
Responding to Jesus brings sacrifice and awareness of suffering, so count the cost and be ready.
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too. If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; and if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which you experience when you patiently endure the same sufferings that we suffer.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-6
“For God is pleased when, conscious of his will, you patiently endure unjust treatment. Of course, you get no credit for being patient if you are beaten for doing wrong. But if you suffer for doing good and endure it patiently, God is pleased with you.
For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps.” 1 Peter 2:19-21
Discussion Questions:
What gifts do you have that you can steward well when responding to Jesus and his dispatch?
Because God first loved you, who can you identify to love more genuinely?
Has the cost of suffering or sacrifice kept you from saying yes when you are dispatched by God?
Psalm 18:1-3
I love you, Lord, my strength.
The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer;
my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge,
my shield[b] and the horn[c] of my salvation, my stronghold.
I called to the Lord, who is worthy of praise,
and I have been saved from my enemies.
Psalm 23:1-4
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
Proverbs 31:8-9
Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
or the rights of all who are destitute.
Speak up and judge fairly;
defend the rights of the poor and needy.
Hebrews 12:1-2
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
What is God calling you to do within your chosen profession? If not working, where is God leading you or calling you to go?
What is holding you back from following the plan or the path God has chosen for you?
Do you have a trusted friend/mentor who you can talk with and who can pray for you?
A movement toward God or stagnant to self? Don’t confuse busy with productive.
We are a sent people
God is a SENDING God
When we answer the call to follow we become a SENT people
We are all CLERGY
We are all MISSIONARIES
Having NO PRIESTLY CASTE is an original idea with Jesus
Some theological perspectives:
Importance of the Trinity: Trinity proves the social nature of God and His desire to be in community. The Sending nature of God is evident in the Father sending the Son, and the Father and the Son sending the Spirit. This should help us understand the importance of how we are to live on mission.
Missio Dei: basic translation to “God at work”. A more in-depth understanding is that God is on mission (missio) everywhere and at all times. We join God in His mission, not by asking him to join ours.
+Incarnation: God showing up in a very specific way/place in humanity and showing himself.
=Witness: the expression of God’s mission and him (specifically) showing up in tangible ways fulfilling that mission
We are a sent people
God is a SENDING God
When we answer the call to follow we become a SENT people
We are all CLERGY
We are all MISSIONARIES
Having NO PRIESTLY CASTE is an original idea with Jesus
“Theology is not the private reserve of theologians. It is not a private affair for professors... Nor is it a private affair for pastors...Theology is a matter for the church. It does not get on well without professors and pastors. But its problem, the purity of the church's service, is put to the whole church. The term laity is one of the worst in the vocabulary of religion and ought to be banished from Christian conversation.” -Karl Barth
“When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’” Matthew 28:17-20
Discipleship is an essential aspect of the church and an essential component of the co-mission with Christ.
“Christianity without discipleship is always Christianity without Christ”
-Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Do you hear that? Don’t miss out on your call.
Calling and vocation are synonymous
Both stem from the root word (VOCARE) meaning “to call”
Vocation is not a goal we pursue but a calling we hear
“I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received” Ephesians 4:1
Three primary gift passages:
Two where the gift is external, to us:
1 Corinthians 12- “manifestation gifts”: Wisdom, knowledge, faith, powers, prophecy, distinguishing spirits, tongues
Romans 12- “praxis gifts”: prophecy, serving, teaching, encouragement, giving, leading, mercy.
One where the people are the gift:
Ephesians 4 - “calling gifts”: apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor, and
teacher
A Mega Church is not based on the size of its seating but rather on the amount of its seeding.
The Journey:
We all have a journey, a story, a testimony to tell.
Jeremiah 29:11-13 Proverbs 3:5-6
What is your testimony?
The Call:
We all have a purpose.
2 Timothy 9 Romans 8:28 Matthew 9:37
What is a Chaplain?
The Answer:
We all have the ability to respond.
10 commandments can be summed up in LOVE
Romans 13:9
LOVE
Mathew 5:43, Mathew 19:19, Mark 12:31, Galatians 5:14, James 2:8
Leviticus 19:18, Luke 10:27, Mark 12:33
What is a Probie?
1 Corinthians 8:1
The Busy Signal/Caller ID:
What is holding you back?
Exodus 6:12 Exodus 6:30 2 Timothy 1:7 Philippians 4:6
Questions:
Have you ever felt called or pulled to something? (Your testimony shaping you).
Have you felt the nudge to talk/help someone but didn't or did respond?
What is holding you back (preventing you from answering/serving)?
The First Responder
Defined as someone designated or trained to respond to an emergency
First Responders
Are trained specifically for their unique responding
Have been commissioned and assigned to a “station”
Immediately respond when dispatched
Run TO where most want to run FROM
Assess, Treat, and Monitor
The Jesus First Responder
Must be trained
( 2 Peter 3:18, 1 Peter 2:2-3, 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Proverbs 4:2, Proverbs 3:1, Joshua 1:8, Proverbs 2:6-8)
Are commissioned and dispatched
(Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 8:20-40)
Need to Run To not From
(Acts 8:26-40, Acts 9:10-20)
Assess, Treat, Monitor
(Luke 10:25-37)
1 Corinthians 9:24-25 The formative year “To all my little Hulkamaniacs, don’t forget to train, say your prayers, take your vitamins and you will never go wrong.” -Hulk Hogan Church, school, and sports…don’t draw attention to yourself(?). Set goals, work hard, achieve…what went wrong? The 20’s…and early 30’s “I’m here to chew bubblegum and kick a**, and I’m all out of bubblegum.” A second chance at “greatness”...but still not “great” My friend Zack and the “ah-ha” moment Older and more aware. What is my why? My unprayed prayer and my why. Romans 12:2 Colossians 3:1-4 1- Where have you come up short of goals you’ve set, and what is the reason for not achieving the goals? 2- Are there areas in your current journey where you and your Lord aren’t on the same page? 3- Where in your life had you had the unprayed prayer answered?
UPSHOT: God sustains us throughout our journeys, transforms us through faith, and helps us bring elements of heaven to earth. Sufficiency of God's grace In all circumstances We are sustained through Christ and not our own power or might 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 In my weakness, He makes me strong. God's hand guides and His power sustains me regardless of the challenge. What circumstances has God used to shape you Into who you are today? What evidence were you able to see of God's presence throughout the journey? Our faith makes us well Transformation through simplification Mark 5:21-34 To get closer to Him is to be healed! When I focus more on my relationship with God than my challenges, my challenges seem to disappear. What's impeding the progression of your faith? What battles do you need to surrender to God so you can focus more on your relationship with Him? Life through the eyes of God Bring Heaven to Earth Mark 8:22-26 Receiving His vision a miraculous sign or gift? Deepening my relationship with Him allows me to take on His vision/perspective. He has given us a gift that can transform our lives If we allow It. What situation do you need to apply your God lense to In your life? What's hindering you?
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Do not depend on your own understanding. In all your ways obey him. Then he will make your paths smooth and straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6
Listening for God Prayer Spoken, Audible words Others speaking life over you. Music Visual – Dreams, Art, photos, landscapes, memory Holy Spirit Scripture
“For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call out to me. You will come and pray to me. And I will listen to you. When you look for me with all your heart you will find me.” Jeremiah 29:11-13
Going back to Pacific Landscape: A conversation with my wife speaking life over me. A Visit with Dad: Holy Spirit – urges a visit. Chase & 1-11-11: Prayer & Medical Crisis “Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you don’t hear is that you don’t belong to God.” John 8:47 Always remember that the bible is the language of God’s heart. He is wanting a relationship with you and to communicate both ways.
Are you listening?????
“For the revelation awaits an appointed time: it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it, it will certainly come and will not delay.” Habakkuk 2:3
Patience is not the same as indifference; patience conveys the idea of someone who is tremendously strong and able to withstand all assaults. Having the vision of God as the source of patience because it gives as God’s true and proper inspiration.
“He (Moses) regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value then the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward. By faith he left Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger; he persevered because he saw him who is invisible.” Hebrews 11:26-27 Moses endured, not because of his devotion to his principles of what was right, nor because of his sense of duty to God, but because he had a vision of God. Note: When submitting to God I become less agitated and anxious… “A person who has the vision of God is not devoted to a cause or to any particular issue – he is devoted to God Himself” My expectation and vision, are they in alignment with God’s or the worlds?
· Success as defined by others · Career – Pursuing · Financial Our personal faith with Him · Relationship with our Spouse · Relationship with our family · Relationship in community / church · Our Legacy Our reach must extend beyond ourselves and our grasp “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.” Philippians 3:12 Drudgery is the test of true character in our lives, the greatest hindrance in our spiritual life is that we can only look for big things to do. Yet Jesus took a towel and washed the disciple’s feet. John 13:3-5 “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 “No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you or forsake you.” Joshua 1:5 “Faith of a mustard seed” and “The kingdom of heaven is like yeast” Matthew 13:31-32
How am I pursuing God in a biblical way? Am I submitting to God’s will for my life? Am I being intentional with my…. Faith, Spouse, Family, Community, Career, Resources and Legacy?
Navigating the imposter Imposter syndrome:
Isolation is the goal of the enemy. Don't conceal or hide the truth.
"There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs." Luke 12:2-3
Story, Struggle ... to be continued
Gideon story of destiny (Judges 6)
Connecting and concluding the Road Trip
Restoration Project A bit about me and a short story long… How the world wants you to travel this road: vs How God wants you to travel this road: Who should you travel this road with? It’s not a solo trip A Best Friend and the Gambler 500 "He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?" Micah 6:8 A sideroad Restoring the Chevelle with dad and the walk with our Father. "As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another." Proverbs 27:17 The Importance of the finished restoration
God is never caught by surprise with the things that happen He is aware He has a plan My attitude/approach in life matters. The people God puts in my life are never by accident. I play a purpose in their story as much as they play a purpose in my own. The places God has me might not be forever but the impact I make can be. When I am unsure what my next move is, I can always go back to the things that he has called me to. I wouldn't have my story any other way than His. “8 For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." Additional Discussion Questions Who has God called you to be (for yourself, family, friends, community)? What is your go-to response when unexpected things happen? How do you actively trust God? Who is walking out your journey with you?
“He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” - Philippians 1:6 “But as for you O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses” - 1 Timothy 6:11-12 “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose” Jim Elliot
What things are you currently pursuing? What things occupy the majority of your time/attention?
Do I focus on the Past?
I have spent too much time trying to figure out how to earn God's favor in spite of past acts rather than focus simply on God's grace!
"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." -- Eph 2:8-9
"Our huffing and puffing to impress God, our scrambling for brownie points, our thrashing about trying to fix ourselves while hiding our pettiness and wallowing in guilt are nauseating to God and are a flat denial of the gospel of grace" -- Brennan Manning / "The Ragamuffin Gospel" Do I focus on the Future?
I have spent too much time trying to figure out what my life mission was supposed to be.
"By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going." -- Hebrews 11:8
"I think a lot of us need to forget about God's will for my life. God cares more about our response to His Spirit's leading today, in this moment, than about what we intend to do next year." -- Francis Chan / "Forgotten God" Food for thought
There is a Zen story about a monk being pursued by a ferocious tiger. The monk races to edge of a cliff, glanced back, and saw the growling tiger about to spring. The monk spotted a rope dangling over the edge of the cliff. He grabbed it and began shinnying down the side of the cliff out of the clutches of the tiger. Whew! Narrow escape. The monk then looked down and saw a quarry of jagged rocks five hundred feet below. He looked up and saw the tiger atop the cliff with bared claws. Just then, two mice began to nibble at the rope. What to Do.
The monk saw a strawberry within arm's reach, growing out of the face of the cliff. He plucked it, ate it, and exclaimed, "Yum! That's the best strawberry I've ever tasted in my entire life". If he had been preoccupied with the rock below (the future) or the tiger above (the past), he would have missed the strawberry God was giving him in the present moment.
- Temptation and the Deschutes River
a. 1 Cor 10:13: No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.
b. Its imperative we know His promises and that we don’t forget them.
c. What temptations do you have and how do you prepare for them and battle against them?
- Cancer and Bighorn Sheep
a. God uses trials and hard seasons to grow our character.
b. It’s almost as if trials are a necessary step for some of us for our relationship with Him to grow.
c. Psalm 37:4 - Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.
d. Romans 5:3 Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces endurance; and endurance produces character, and character produces hope….
e. Are you able to see God in the hard seasons of life? How do you respond when things don’t go as planned? People are watching in how you are responding.
THE BEGINNING Genesis 2:16-17 Genesis 2:25 “And the man and his wife were both naked and were not ashamed.” Genesis 3:1-6 Genesis 3:10 “I heard the sound of you in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked, and I hid myself.”
JESUS LOOKS AT THE HEART AND IS AFTER OUR HEARTS Matthew 15:8 “This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me.” Matthew 15:18-20 Matthew 6:21 “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Luke 18:22-23
THE POWER OF TESTIMONY John 4:39
ANTIDOTES TO SIN The Light – 1 John 1:5-7
Being in a Group with Others James 5:16 1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” The Armor of God – Ephesians 6:12-17 Discussion Questions Put yourself in the shoes of the rich young man. If Jesus were here, what would he ask you to give up and follow him? (Luke 18:22-23, Full Story Luke 18:18-27)
Have you ever experienced the power of testimony? Whether it’s from sharing your testimony or from hearing someone else’s testimony? (John 4:39)
Is there anything in your life that needs to come from the darkness into the light? (1 John 1:5-7)
Lie 4 - What I do doesn’t matter. I couldn’t possibly make a lasting impact on the Kingdom
"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men” (Colossians 3:23, NIV)
The Exchange Rate Deception -
P- programming (lead to) T- thoughts (lead to) F- feelings (lead to) A- action (lead to) R- results (solidify)
Ways to Use Work for Kingdom Impact
What you do Is part of God's broader purpose on Earth. Be all in with your heart and hands (see verse at top of page). What you do Imitates the nature of God. Abide In His presence so Fruit of His Spirit creates an essence of Christ In your workplace. Find ways to love others through your work. Speak the gospel to those you are working with. If compensated through your work, give generously & joyfully from the first fruits. "And he said to them, 'The harvest Is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers Into his harvest.'" (Luke 10:2)
Discussion Questions Do you believe what you do matters? Don't hide the lie If It Is there. Put Jesus to work. Where is your mission field? Are you currently tending the crops of that field? Are you all In or holding back? How do you partner with God In helping you with this
-
Exchange a lie for the truth. Why- How-
-
Break down this lie to shine truth "earn/worthy" what does He say? discipline & other pertinent truths
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Apply it. Practice session Jesus, what's the lie I'm believing about ________? what do I do with lies, Jesus? Break partnership/reliance offer/exchange declare it, repeat other helps...
Discussion Questions Am I interested in walking out my calling in Him? Do I believe I can? What does He say? Father, what do YOU say about me in this regard? Jesus, in what ways do I aim to "earn" Your grace, solo style? is "this material", this partnering with You regular "for me"?
- Doing the exchange is easy, right? What is required to walk it out?
- Can I do this alone?
- Where do I start?
- Where does Holy Spirit fit in here?
- What's next?
Things were going our way, we trusted. Things got tricky, trust slipped away.
"Where are you?" He answered, " I hear you In the garden, and I was afraid..." (Genesis 3:9,10) "Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?" And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Peace! Be still!...He said to them, "Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?" (Mark 4:38-40)
What's the difference between Tithe and Offering?
Tithe- Genesis 14:19-20 "Every tenth of the land's produce, grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord; it is holy to the Lord." (Leviticus 27:30) '"Test me In this, says the Lord Almighty, "and see If I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store It."' (Malachi 3:10) Offering- "Give, and it will be given to you; a good measure-pressed down, shaken together, and running over - will be poured into your lap." (Luke 6:38) "If we have sown spiritual things for you, Is It too much If we reap material benefits from you?" (1 Corinthians 9:11) First Fruits- "Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine." (Proverbs 3:9,10)
Discussion Questions In what areas do you need to start (or return to) trusting God more? What Is the best way for you to be encouraged and/or encourage others to trust God when there seems to be so many reasons to distrust? Where are your treasures and how are you sharing God's blessings?
In this week’s episode our communicator, Jeff Munro, unpacks the lie the deceiver tries to trick us with that our faith is good enough right where it is at. In this lie, the attempt is to get people off course of having a deeper, fuller relationship with Jesus and fully stepping into all that God has for us. As Jesus followers, we are called to step into the fullness of a deepening relationship with Christ.
The author of the lie: SATAN "…because there is NO truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies." (John 8:44)
The audience: THE CHURCH
What to do instead- Practice makes: IMPROVEMENT Devote yourself to: HEARING the Word of God (John 16:13) Devote yourself to the: LIFE of the church. (Hebrews 10:24-25) Devote yourself to: COMMUNITY (1 Peter 4:10) Devote yourself to: PRAYER (1 Thessalonians 5:16-17)
Discussion Questions Where do I need to “resume living” my life? How does the patience of Jesus impact any struggles we experiencing? How might we encourage someone who is in a season of waiting?
Wikipedia:The past is the set of all events that occurred before a given point in time. The past is contrasted with and defined by the present and the future. Merriam – Webster: A past life, history, or course of action.
The difference between guilt and shame. ·Guilt is a sense of remorse and the desire to make amends; Shame is the intensely painful feeling or experience of believing we are flawed and unworthy of acceptance and belonging. ·Guilt overcome by the conviction of God’s spirit is encouraging because it leads to repentance; Guilt held onto weighs you down, is spiritually crippling, and leads to Shame.
How Satan uses shame against you. ·Satan will say you are unforgivable, but God will delight in your redemption (Romans 3:23-24). ·Satan will tell us repentance is not possible. God encourages us to change and grow (2 Corinthians 5:17) ·Satan is the Accuser. God is our Advocate (Psalm 103:12; Hebrews 8:12)
Declarations the Liar doesn’t want to hear you say. 1. God loves me (Romans 8:39) ·Believing that God love you is foundational for believing the rest of God’s promises 2. God chose me (Ephesians 1:4-5) ·Despite the good, the bad, and the ugly, God still chose to adopt you into His family 3. God will use me (Ephesians 2:10) ·Don’t let the voice of “look what you’ve one”, “you’re too this or that” disqualify you
Know that your wounds, your past, and your weaknesses – when surrendered to God – are actually what God uses powerfully in His service.
1 Thessalonians 5:9-11 – For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. Do you believe you have done something unforgivable, or have you done something that you still need to forgive yourself for? 2. Who do you say, the world say, and God say you are? 3. Do you believe that God can use you? 4. Whose lives can you speak into to help them forgive themselves and see themselves as God does?
My last dollar, my last word, and my last hour.
URGENCY-importance requiring swift action.
Hebrews 10:23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. (ESV)
Hebrews 10:23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (NIV) THE ONE THING:
QUESTIONS & CHALLENGE:
1-Is my faith wavering anywhere right now? Why? 2-Do I stir up others to do good deeds, or do I “stir up the dust”? 3-Would those around me call me encouragement? 4-What is the hardest thing for me to surrender….$ or time? 5-Who needs my time? Who can I invest in? 6-Do I have any relationships to reconcile?
**7 Day Reading Challenge: Hebrews 10, and or 2 Peter 3
To Remember: I don’t need to change the world, how can I impact the 20’ around me? He came to serve others, not to be served. If we don’t move, the movement will happen for us. I would rather see a sermon than hear a sermon. Your job and purpose are different.
Discussion Questions:
What fruit of the Spirit do you need to see in your life right now? What areas of your flesh are you struggling with the most right now? What does stepping with the Spirit need to look like for you today?
Where was the mountain and what was the significance of Its location?
The Great Commission
Matthew 28:18-20
“Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’”
A. Great Calling Great Commission 1. Come Follow Me You Go 2. I will make you (I will send you out) You Make 3. Fishers of men (to fish for people) Disciples of all Nations
B. 3 Years of Ministry: How Jesus prepared his follower. 1. Teaching through sermons and parables 2. Examples like miracles, time with people in margins, prayer. 3. Experiences: Luke 9:1-6: sent out disciples with power and authority Luke 9:10-17: had disciples fee the 5,000 Luke 10:1-12: the harvest is plentiful, workers few (sends the 72)
C. Great Commission today at Grace Chapel 1. Teaching through messages, The Forgeorge, discipleship series 2. Examples for us like Heart of the City, Catalyst, Supper at the Harbor, MacLaren, and prayer 3. Experiences by inviting us to participate in the above. 4. GO – discipleship cohorts, Alpha, sharing our faith, invitations.
Discussion Questions:
- What will it take to move fulfilling the Great Commission out of the ‘difficult conversation’ reality into the ‘love this conversation’ reality?
- Do you have ‘anger and resentment’ when you are called to rescue the world with the Great Commission?
- Do you agree that there Is a difference between being an evangelist and being a witness?? Explain.
Jesus Surrendered to the Father
Matthew 26:39-42
Prayer of Surrender- “God, there are things in my life that you are asking me to do, asking me to give up, in order to do your will. Reveal those things to me now, convict my heart and expose my rebellion. Holy Spirit you are willing. I give you permission to move in me. Jesus, I surrender.”
Jesus Shared in his Suffering
Luke 23:26, Hebrews 12:2
Prayer in Suffering- “Jesus, give me the strength to endure the struggles of this world, but even more so- give me the strength to share my suffering with others around me. Give me boldness and humility to ask a brother in Christ to help carry my cross. Lord give me courage to step in the pain of other men and help carry their cross and endure their suffering so that we might fulfill the purpose you have called us to.”
Jesus Showed Compassion
Luke 23:28-43
Prayer of Compassion- “Jesus, in the midst of my own pain, my own struggles, may my heart break for what breaks yours. Teach me to see others and treat others as you see and treat them. As I seek to love God and love my neighbor, give me courage to forgive others and to proclaim the Good News of Jesus to my family, to my community, and wherever else you may take me.”
Discussion Questions What is God calling you to that you haven’t surrendered to yet? What cross are you carrying that is beginning to get heavy? In what ways do we help carry the crosses of other believers? Who is Jesus calling you to stop and show compassion to? To forgive? To proclaim the good news? What steps do you need to take today and how can your table support you?
What is the Table? What was Jesus doing there? Why do we struggle with it?
“Wherever, whenever, however the kingdom manifests itself, it is welcome”-Krister Stendahl Jesus Calls Matthew/Levi and the ensuing dinner party
Wedding at Cana - Jesus' first miracle
Christian hospitality: when pressing outward to the weakest, needy, the least of these, the unheard, and those least likely to be able to reciprocate we are actually welcoming God. The role of hospitality has changed culturally throughout the centuries. This action was the invitation. It made us welcome. And, it linked hospitality, grace, and sacrifice. What was it?
3 dimensions of hospitality: An expression of respect and recognition-specifically different statuses and backgrounds A means of meeting the physical needs of strangers, travelers, and local poor Hosting of local assemblies of believers
John Wesley specifically looked at breaking bread and eating with one another as hospitality as “the very thing which was from the beginning of Christianity”. And, a diverse table fellowship brought us closer to reflecting the heavenly banquet.
Discussion Questions
What was the most memorable hospitality moment you can recall? What made it that way? Do you consider yourself someone who is good at hospitality? Explain. In which ways do you and/or your family currently show hospitality? Do you feel there is room to increase the level of hospitality that you extend to others?
What is worship?
Worship is the submission of all our nature to God. It is the quickening of conscience by his holiness; the nourishment of mind with his truth; the purifying of imagination by his beauty; the opening of the heart to his love; the surrender of will to his purpose – and all of this gathered up in adoration. – William Temple, Archbishop of Canterbury
You have made us for yourself, and our heart is restless until it rests in you. – St. Augustine
Worship does not satisfy our hunger for God; it whets our appetite. – Eugene H. Peterson
Luke 4:14-16 Then Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit, and news about him spread throughout the entire vicinity. He was teaching in their synagogues, being praised by everyone. He came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up. As usual, he entered the synagogue on the Sabbath day
Jesus modeled a life of worship
Jesus’ practice of worship was REGULAR, INTENTIONAL, PRIVATE, and PUBLIC
Worship is a sacrifice of praise with our lips and our lives
Hebrews 13:15,16 Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name. And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
Worship is an offering of our entire being, ignited by the Holy Spirit, as a living sacrifice to God.
Romans 12:1 Therefore, brothers and sisters, in view of the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your true worship.
Worship is an experience of Spirit and Truth.
John 4:23-24 Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.”
Discussion Questions:
What is worship and why is it important for you personally and corporately? Would you say that worship is something that characterizes your life? What are some ways that you have made worship a “regular practice” in your life? If worship is about holistically engaging with God (Heart, Soul, Mind, Strength) What area is the easiest for you? What is the hardest area for you?
We don’t only get a helpful perspective from the margins; God often speaks to us there. How can we listen to what He wants to tell us from the margins? How can we take effective action, even if we can’t see how the concerns of the margins affect us personally? Share an experience where you felt God using you to help another.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Briefly allow each person at your table to share their experience in solitude. What was it like? Easy/Hard? Did God reveal anything or speak in any way? How can the group be supporting you as you embark on practicing solitude?
Which part of the armor of God do you find most difficult to put on? Which is the easiest for you to put on? Discuss why each of these is true for you. In the context of Ephesians 6:17, how are your sword fighting skills? Ephesians 6:17 in The Message says that God’s Word is an indispensable weapon. What, in your life, is it an indispensable weapon against? Are you training and practicing with the Word? Are you conditioned to use the Word? What does being in condition to use the Word mean? Are you constantly on defense regarding the Word and your faith? What would allow you to be more on offense?
“The Bible contains the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true, and its decisions are immutable.” -from the introduction to the Gideon Bible
Read the Bible to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you.
Christ is the Bible’s grand subject, our good its design, and the glory of God its end. It should fill the memory, rule the heart and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently, and prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure. It is given you in life, will be opened at the judgment, and be remembered forever. It involves the highest responsibility, rewards the greatest labor, and will condemn all who trifle with its sacred contents.
How does the idea of learning to act Christianly change if pursued collectively rather than individually? When it comes to interacting with others, do you tend to be the master or disciple, or a good table guest at Jesus' table?
What benefits can righteousness produce in and around me? Are there any filthy rags of self-righteousness that I am counting on to protect me?
Have you ever had a crisis of faith? What does active faith mean to you? Why is it hard to have faith in God? What are the things of this world that you go to for comfort? Are you currently having to wait patiently and trust God? Do you actually believe the words of James 1:2-4? Do they make you mad?
Are there relationships, if any, that I might simply be trying to keep up the idea of peace rather than actually making peace? In what areas of my life do I still need God's peace to be revealed to me? In what environment or relationship could the Lord be inviting me into being a peacemaker?
What area of your life do you feel most fear? Where have you experienced disappointment with God? Which strata describes you most? Where is the Lord teaching you to have an "Even if" faith?
Is there a particular topic that you need to continue to learn more about in order to better respond as a Jesus Follower? Is there a particular uncomfortable conversation that God has stirred up an interest in? What steps can you take to disciple others in this area? Is there an uncomfortable conversation that you still want to avoid? Why? How will you make sure you continue to align/calibrate your beliefs with your behaviors?
For Jesus Followers, balancing Grace and Truth is a constant challenge, a challenge Christians typically have missed the mark on, driving many further away from the Love of Christ. So, how do we, as Jesus followers, change this trajectory? Do I rank homosexuality above other sins? What can I do to reconcile this? Do I need to learn more about what scripture says about sexual sin? Do my behaviors (direct or indirect) show Christ's love to the LGBTQ community? Am I willing to follow Jesus into the LGBTQ community?
How can love help align and/or prioritize our political beliefs and behaviors? Why do you think scripture gives us direction on how we should respond to authority/government? Does this align or collide with your political beliefs and behaviors? Why or why not? When it comes to politics, who do you need to do a better job loving - The Lord, Your Neighbor, The Helpless, Your Enemy? Are there changes in either your beliefs or behaviors towards politics that need to be made in order to more closely follow Jesus? If so what are they?
What is God's heart towards the oppressed? How had God called us to respond to oppression? Did you have any oppressive belief systems towards race growing up? What were they? What does being "neighborly" and/or "now go do the same" look like when it comes to Jesus Followers reconciling racial oppression?
How does scripture want us to view sin? What are some typical sin behaviors that were emphasized as "more sinful" in your home? What might Jesus say to us regarding our human nature to rank sin? How do you think Jesus might respond to a Non-Believer engaging in sinful behaviors today? How do you want to behave when interacting with others exhibiting sinful behaviors?
Have there been times in your life where Jesus would have called you a hypocrite? Why? What does loving our enemies and pacifism towards those who are harsh towards us accomplish? Why does Jesus call us to behave in such a way? Why does Jesus prioritize his ministry with relationships with sinners? What can we learn from following Jesus in this area?
Do you hold all of God's laws to still be applicable today? How is Jesus challenging religious people/Jesus followers to interpret and interact with the Law? What value does scripture place on love? What is the relationship between love and the law?
"Jesus, Thank you for being the atonement for my sin. Let me learn how to love greater, as I follow you. Break my heart for what breaks yours and let me love others as you love them. Give me a desire to obey your commandments so that I can be closer to you and so that others might see You through me. Amen."
What are things that have defined your worldview?
How can the biblical narrative of Exile in our biblical Identity help us navigate through life today as we follow Jesus?
Where do I tend to put my Identity rather than as a Jesus follower?
How do I define my worldview and do my actions represent my worldview?
"Jesus help me to fully know what it means to follow you"
- Which of the nine segments in the Fruit of the Spirit do you personally struggle with the most? How can we (the Men of the Forge) be praying for you?
- Share one of your unmistakable Holy Spirit moments.
- What baffles you most about Holy Spirit?
- What enamors you most about Holy Spirit?
- What misconception about Holy Spirit did you entertain that you've unlearned?
Am I moved by sorrow? What does it look like to carry another person’s burden? When the heat gets turned up, what happens to your gentleness?
- Plural fruits vs singular fruit (w/ plural characteristics)
- Fruit of the spirit mirrors god’s character
- Nothing can change god’s faithfulness
- Paul’s choice of word for fruit: karpos
- Proper translation: fruit of a living (god) thing
- Figurative translation: everything being done in partnership with christ
- Faithful from a different angle is full of faith
- What is the purpose anyway?