Month: August 2013

Make Labor Day, “Neighbor” Day!

A note from Pastor Kyle…

“What if we took this week, the last week of summer, and used it as a unique opportunity to reach out and love our neighbors? For some of us, it may mean introducing ourselves to the people on our street, in our workplace, or at school–people we see routinely, but perhaps have never engaged in conversation. What if we took the time to not only learn more about who they are, but find out more about their stories? What if we invite some neighbors into our existing plans for the weekend? Throw one last BBQ, picnic, beach or street party? For some of us, it may mean reaching out to those we were once close to, but have now drifted away. Neighbor Day gives a beautiful reason to initiate a conversation that’s long overdue, one that might allow for healing and restoration to begin. Just tell them your pastor had this crazy idea called “Neighbor Day,” where we all love and serve (maybe even meet our neighbors. And what if it’s not for just one weekend…but is instead a launching pad for a spirit and posture that moves with us through the entire fall season?

I believe people in our communities, in our lives, are desperate for a hope that transcends the circumstances of this world– a hope that provides a way through the confusion and emptiness this world can create. I believe they are longing for the grace and truth found in the gospel of Jesus. It’s a truth that is most profoundly on display in the people of Jesus – YOU! I believe that God has given you unique relationships for Him to be seen in and through your life. I’m praying you can see the opportunities He’s providing and that you have the courage and trust in the Holy Spirit to lean into them with the freedom and confidence that God is at work!

So, let’s make Neighbor Day real in our lives and in OC. This is a great season when people naturally recalibrate the rhythms of their life, creating the perfect opportunity to invite someone to church. I can’t wait to hear about all the stories from the parties, the conversations, the relationships being built, and ultimately the life transformation that takes place because we all decided to meet, love and serve our neighbors!”

Here are a few questions to consider with group this week…

Summer Recap

  • How did you find rest this summer? How did you experience God in that rest?
  • What’s the most fearless thing you did this summer?
  • Where did you see God at work this summer?
  • How did God speak to you?
  • What are the ways you learned to trust Him more this summer?

Looking Ahead

16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 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, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matt 28:16-20

These familiar words of Jesus remind us of our call to live as sent people on mission whose lives point to the work and power of our Savior.  Jesus sends us as His Kingdom representatives in the power of spirit with all the authority in heaven.  He is saying here that I have power, I am in control and in that power and authority I commission you.  Commissioned for what?  Well, first we are commissioned to go.  And then as we go, or in our going, meaning in the normal rhythms of life (where you work and play) make disciples and cause others to follow as a result of how you go/live.

This call has never changed.  These words are just as true today for us as they were as Jesus spoke them to His disciples.  In light of this call consider these questions with your group.

  • What if anything, prevents you from sharing your faith?
  • Who is God calling you to share your story, the gospel story, with?
  • How can you become more intentional about sharing your faith with others?
  • In what new ways may God be calling you to use your gifts for His Kingdom?
  • What are things your group can do to embody the call to “go” and “make” disciples?

John 14:16-20, 26-27 // The Bible Wk 11

Introduction // 5 minutes

Who was your closest friend growing up?  Briefly describe that relationship.

 

Observation // 20 minutes

Read John 14:16-20, 26-27

What are all the “I Will, He Will, You Will” statements in the passage?

  • I will ask the Father (v16)
  • He will give you another advocate (v16)
  • He (the Holy Spirit) will be in you (v17)
  • I will not leave you as orphans (v18)
  • I will come to you (v18)
  • You will see me (v19)
  • Because I live, you also will live (19)
  • You will realize that I am in my Father and you are in me, and I am in you (v20)
  • The Father will send the Holy Spirit in my name (v26)
  • He (the Holy Spirit) will teach and remind you all that Jesus has taught (v26)

What do you learn about the Holy Spirit?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • That he will help and never leave us (v16)
  • The world doesn’t see or accept him (v17)
  • We already know him (v17)
  • He will live in us (v17)
  • He is by the Father in the Son’s name (v26)
  • He teaches and reminds us of Jesus’ teachings (v26)
  • He embodies the peace that Jesus promised to leave us with (v27)

Leader Note: Lead your group to see that all the “I will” statements are made possible through the presence of the Holy Spirit, who will now be with and in us forever.

Commentary: Jesus promises the gift of His Holy Spirit as He is preparing for the cross and untimely His physical departure from this world.  Later in John 16:7 He tells His disciples that it is actually for their benefit that He go in order that the Spirit may come and be with them.  What He leaves them with is not some cheap imitation or mere copy of Himself but “another of the same kind.”  In other words another of Himself to be with them and serve as an empowering advocate (translated comforter counselor, helper, encourager, intercessor and companion) wherever they go.  The Holy Spirit provides us with comfort and power to live for God’s Kingdom in a world that is directly opposed it.

The Holy Spirit exists in relationship with the Father and Son. He is the spirit of God not created by Him, but sharing in God’s very nature.  He is not an impersonal force.  He is not an “it” but a he who possess unique characteristics and personalities traits. 

Leader Note: You may wish to take a deeper look at the Holy Spirit with your group using the following categories and verses as a guide.

 

He Is God

  • He was present at creation (Genesis 1:2, Job 26:13, Ps 104:30)
  • Omniscient, He understands all things, (Isaiah 40:13, 1 Cor 2:10-12)
  • Omnipresent, ever present (Ps 139:7-10)
  • Omnipotent, all powerful (Job 33:4, Ps 104:30, Romans 8:11)
  • Distributes and works through spiritual gifts of the (1 Cor 12:4-6)
  • Works along side the Father and Son (2 Cor 13:14)
  • He is one with the Father (Ephesians 4:4-6)
  • He is eternal (Hebrews 9:14)

He Is A Person

  • He can be lied to, resisted, grieved and insulted (Isa 63:10, Acts 5:3-4,
  • Acts 7: 51, Heb 10:29, Eph 4:30,)
  • Intelligence (Romans 8:27, I Cor 2:13)
  • Emotion (Ephesians 4:30, Hebrews 10:29)
  • Will (1 Cor 12:11, Acts 16:6-11)
  • Capacity for relationship (2 Cor 13:14)

He Has Specific Roles

  • He comforts (John 14:16)
  • Teaches and instructs (Neh 9:20, Luke 12:12, John 14:25-26, John 15:26, 1 Cor 2:13, Eph 1:17)
  • He convicts (John 16:8-11)
  • He guides (John 16:13, Acts 11:12, 15:28, 21:4)
  • Commissions and empowers and believers for ministry (Isa 48:16, Acts 1:8, 4:31, Acts 13:2, Acts 20:28, 1 Cor. 2:4-5, Eph. 3:16; 1 Tim. 1:6-7)
  • Gives us strength to stand against sin (Rom. 8:4; Gal. 5:16, 25)
  • Inspires prophecy  (Num. 9:30, 11:25, 29; 2 Sam. 23:2-3; Acts 21:4, 28:25; 2 Peter 1:21)
  • Distributes spiritual gifts (1 Cor. 12- 14; Rom. 12)
  • Gives us supernatural strength (Eph 3:16)
  • Capable of preforming miracles (Acts 8:39)
  • Intercedes/aides our prayers (Romans 8:26, Jude 1:20)
  • Pours out God’s love (Romans 5:5, 15:30)
  • Sanctifies the believers

 

Understanding // 10 minutes

Where have you seen God’s power at work in the lives of others?

Leader Note:  Life transformation, healing and restoration glorifies the Father and reveals the Son.  The Holy Spirit supplies the power, which makes that transformation possible.

 

Application // 25 minutes

How do you currently view the Holy Spirit?

Have you always had that view?

What’s changed in your understanding of Him?

Commentary:  God the Father and God the Son are typically easier for us to understand than God the Spirit.  We receive the Father, Son and Spirit at the moment of our conversion (Eph 1:13-14, 2:22, 4:30).  The primary role of the Spirit is to empower us to live the life to which we haven been called.  Without the Holy Spirit’s presence, power and peace we would be left to live that life in our own futile strength.  That life leads either to a religious false sense of pride or guilt filled misery.

How have you seen the Holy Spirit at work in your life?

Leader Note: Revisit the list of the Holy Spirit’s specific roles listed above as a jumping off point.  You may wish to frame the question based off a few of those roles, i.e.…

  • Where have you have you experienced God’s comfort?
  • When was a time you heard God’s voice?
  • Where have you had a sense of God’s empowerment?

Where are you presently in need of the Holy Spirit?

 

Live It Out // 10 minutes

How might your life and the life of others be impacted through your relationship with the Holy Spirit?

Prayer:  Pray a prayer of thanksgiving for the gift of the Holy Spirit.  Pray that your eyes may be opened to his work in our life and your passions further developed for a deeper relationship with him.

Ephesians 2:1-9 // The Bible Wk 10

Introduction // 5 minutes

Describe a time you took on a D.I.Y. (do it yourself) project that didn’t go as planned.  Examples could include home or car repair.

Leader Note: Most projects start out with the best intentions in mind.  However, we have all experienced those moments when we come to realize that we are in over our heads and need help!

 

Observation // 15 minutes

Read Ephesians 2:1-9

What does a “dead in sin” life look like?

Leader Note: The temptation at this point may be to pull from personal examples or stories.  Encourage your group to stay in the passage, responding to what is written only.

Sample Answers May Include…

  • Full of transgression and sin (v1)
  • Following the ways of the world (v2)
  • Living to please the fleshly desires (v3)
  • Deserving of God’s wrath (3)

What does an “alive in Christ” life look like?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • A recipient of grace (v5)
  • United with Christ in His life and resurrection (v6)
  • A living expression/example of God’s love for generations to see (v7)
  • Dependent on God’s grace versus our works (v8-9)
  • Purposefully and thankful (v10)

 

Understanding // 20 minutes

What is celebrated more in our culture, works or grace? Give examples.

Commentary: There is a clear connection scriptural between grace and works. We live out/express the grace we have been given through the actions of our lives (see Romans 12:1).  The starting place must always be grace.  We don’t work to earn grace rather we live out of the grace we have received.  The system of our world is often flipped from this understanding.  We work in order to receive.

What are some of the ways people try to earn God’s acceptance?

Commentary: This passage tells us that because of our sin we are dead to rights or “deserving of wrath” (v3).  Dead things need more than repair or resuscitation they need new life, a new way of being and doing that cannot be found in and of themselves.  We tend to rely on our good works, right moral living or self-perseverance in order to gain God’s grace.  This passage reminds us that salvation cannot be obtained through any amount of “right living” or “self repair.”

 

Application // 20 minutes

In what ways are you attempting to earn God’s acceptance?

What would need to change in your heart and thinking to move from a posture of earning to receiving God’s grace?

 

Live It Out // 10 minutes

How might a deeper understanding and acceptance of God’s grace impact your life and the lives of others?

Prayer: Father we thank you for your great love for us.  We thank you that while we were still sinners and far from you, you sent your son to die for our sins.  Help us to more fully understand and accept this gift of grace.  Give us courage to live lives of thankful praise as a response for all that you have done for us.  Amen!

Luke 22:39-46 // The Bible Wk 9

Introduction // 5 minutes

Who’s your all time favorite super hero and why?

Leader Note: Lead your group to see through their answers that we are often drawn to the “Super Human” qualities, i.e. the ability to fly.  What often makes super heroes so appealing is their ability to do what we are incapable of.

 

Observation // 15 minutes

Read Luke 22:39-46

What qualities does Jesus display in this passage?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • Discipline, seen in His commitment to pray (v39)
  • Concern for others (v40)
  • Humility (v41)
  • Honesty and vulnerability (v42)
  • Surrender (v42)
  • Agony and pain (v44)

What do those qualities teach us about Jesus?

Commentary: This passage is one the most crucial passages in the entire Bible.  Here Jesus finds Himself at the intersection of His and His Father’s will.  The burden of the cross, which includes God’s wrath and judgment, separation and great physical pain leading to death, is set before Him.  While Jesus understands and desires the outcome that this sacrifice would lead to, He is torn and in distress about the path.

Leader Note: Many of the qualities in this passage are grounded in a humble submission and service.  Jesus being fully God, had every power available to Him yet here we see Him “suspending” some of those powers and surrender to a path of great pain.  He, like us, was called to live a life completely dependent on His Father’s power and guidance (John 5:19).  Jesus also models honesty and lament in His prayer.  The Father’s response to that honesty is His strength and presence (v43).

 

Understanding // 15 minutes

Where have you seen powerful surrender?

Leader note:  Consider those who have faced incredible challenges and ultimately prayed for God’s will and surrendered their utmost desires and believed that what God wanted, had for them, was best, or at least came to the recognition that their will was short-sighted, based on limited knowledge of current situations and lack of knowledge of eternal meaning.

 

Application // 20 minutes

What specific things is God calling you to surrender?

Leader note: When we talk about surrendering to God we often move to quickly to the 50,000-foot view.  This passage reminds us that a life surrendered will have real practical and tangible implications.  Be it how we handle our finances, raise our kids or deal with forgiveness, when we surrender to God He will provide us time and time again with moments to live out our surrender to Him.

Leader Note: Lead your group to see that there is often a connection between surrender and the things that we are either most concerned about (our family, health, finances ect…) or the things we most desire to obtain for ourselves.

What temptations do you face to avoid that surrender?

Commentary: Jesus only comes to the Garden once.  In that moment He settles the matter.  However, later in the Luke’s Gospel His decision is continual tested by others (Before Pilate, the crowds, solders and criminals next to him on the cross).  We will likewise be meet with opposition, (internal and external) that comes to combat our decision to surrender to God’s will and care.

Sample Answers May Include…

  • My desire to control and know the future
  • Trusting that God is good and that He will protect and provide
  • Living in past hurt and disappointment
  • A sense of entitlement for the things I want and have
  • Opposing opinions from our friends and loved ones

What qualities are you most in need of to walk out your surrender?

 

Live It Out // 10 minutes

What would change in your life if you were to completely surrender your desires and embrace God’s will? 

What would happen in our community if we all lived this way?

Prayer:  We encourage you to pray for two things with your group this week.  First, for those that are having a hard time identifying what God is calling them to surrender, pray for an increased awareness to hear God’s voice as He speaks to them this week.  Second, pray for courage and a willingness to respond to His voice.  Also pray out thankfulness for Jesus sacrifice, what it models for us and for the life that is made possible for all through it.

John 5:1-15 // The Bible Wk 8

Introduction // 5 minutes

What’s the worst car you’ve ever owned?

Leader Note: The aim of this question is to engage all members and oriented ourselves for the rest of the discussion.  Lead your group through this lighthearted question, transitioning by saying something to the effect of… “Even the worst car was new at one time.”

 

Observation // 15 minutes

Read John 5:1-15

What do you observe about Jesus in this passage?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • He picks out a particularly man from the large crowds (v6)
  • He asks the man if he would like to get well (v6)
  • He calls the man to do something he couldn’t do (v8)
  • He heals him physically and then invites him into something more (v14)

What do you observe about the sick man?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • He had been sick for a very long time (v5)
  • He seems to be resigned to the fact the he will not get better (v7)
  • Even with large crowds around him, he is alone and isolated (v7)
  • He believes that he won’t get healed because of his inability to get in the pool (v7)
  • He didn’t know who Jesus was (v7, v11-13)

What do you observe about the Jewish Leaders?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • The were more concerned with the observance of the sabbath than the man’s healing (v10)
  • The read their own interpretation of the law into the situation – note: there is now law that excludes one from carrying a mat on the sabbath (v10)
  • The seem to value rules and regulations over the life and health of the lame man (v10)

Commentary: A deeper understanding of the context of this passage this week may be helpful for your discussion.  Read the passage and ask the 1st question without going into the context.  You may then find it helpful to add some of the following information into the discussion.

We don’t know which holy day this miracle took place on, but be it Passover, Pentecost, ect… one thing we can be sure of is that Jerusalem would have been packed! People would have travelled from all over the region to celebrate/worship in Jerusalem.  The Temple and the pool of Bethesda (on the outskirts of temple) would have been especially busy during this time.

Most translations don’t include verse 4, which includes a comment about an “Angel troubling the water.”  When this happened the water would bubble (more likely because of the mineral properties in the water).  It was believed that the first person in the water would be healed.  This would have created a chaotic seen of sick people pushing and competing to get into the water first.  This picture becomes more ironic when we consider that the pool of Bethesda literally translates to “House of Mercy” or “House of Loving Kindness.”

Jesus encounters a sick man, likely paralyzed, who had been in that state for 38 years!  It is likely that this man had become resigned to the fact that he would never be able to make it into the pool.  Some scholars suggest that the man may have even decided to become a “professional beggar” making a living off the donations of those who would pass by him every day on their way to worship in the Temple.

 

Understanding // 15 minutes

Where have you seen people accept a broken thing as a “way of life?”

Leader Note: While we eventually want to get people to open up to examples of physical, emotional and spiritual brokenness, you may wish to answer this question first in a lighter way.  One example could be of a time when perhaps something was broken around your house and you gradually found yourself being ok with it.

Whatever the example, lead your to group to see that all things have an intended purpose that eventually get’s challenged, lost or broken.

Besides acceptance what other responses have you seen to brokenness?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • Anger
  • Bitterness
  • Hopelessness
  • Confusion
  • Cynicism
  • Denial
  • An obsession to “fix” the problem

Commentary: We live in a broken world that has also been and continues to be, in the process of being made whole again.  Jesus’ death and resurrection ensures that death and all that it entails has been defeated.  However, the lingering effects of death caused by sin are still very much present in our world.  The only way to endure in this life is to understand that brokenness and death are not final.  We as God’s people and this world He created are in the process of being completely restored.

 

Application // 20 minutes

Where in your life do you have brokenness and need God’s healing?

How are you currently responding to that brokenness?

What would it look like for you to “pick up your mat and walk?”

Leader Note: As Christians we have all received the greatest miracle of all… forgiveness of sins and new life in Christ.  The man in this passage came to realize that truth in a very tangible/physical way as Jesus healed his body.  We believe that God still heals, (physically, spiritually, emotionally) today.  Just as our salvation is a process, healing may also be a process that gets lived it and realized in different ways.  As your group shares do your best to acknowledge and honor the tension between the new life we have already received and the different ways we see it expressed in our lives.

Leader Note:  We have been holding healing services across our campuses during the past couple of weeks.  Use this space to ask if anyone responded to the prayer call for healing.  Have group members share what compelled them to respond and how they have been impacted since.  Also, allow space to ask those who did not respond in the service to be prayed for during your group time.

 

Live It Out // 10 minutes

Where is God calling you to notice and respond to brokenness in our world?

What things hold you back from responding?

Commentary: Like the crowds, the Jewish leaders and Jesus in the passage we have the choice to either ignore or respond when we encounter brokenness. Like the Pharisees we often miss out on joining in God’s work of restoration in world in the name of safety or legalism.  Likewise we can be like the crowds, concerned for our own healing and situation that we fail to see the brokenness around us and how we might be called to respond.

Prayer: Father we thank you that in you all things are being made new.  We pray that you give us eyes to see where we are still in need of the life you bring and courage to continually call out to you for our complete healing.  We thank you that are intimately involved in our lives and that you care for us.  Let us become more fully people who embrace your work of salvation and in turn express what we have received in the world around us.