Trendsetter: Esther
This weeks "trendsetter" is Esther. Esther was appointed by King Xerxes as Queen of Persia due to her striking beauty. Just when she thought all was well on the home front, a vengeful prime minister, Haman, decided to destroy all of the Jews (little did he know that would include her and her entire family)! Would Esther intervene? Doing so would risk her life! And what difference could she make? She was a powerless partner to a king who strongly preferred women who never interfered with his wishes. Regardless, she stood up for what she believed in (after some eye opening words of wisdom from her fatherly cousin, Mordecai)! As a result, her people lived and in fact, thrived in Persia for years to come!
To Recap: Refer to Esther in your Bibles.
1.What was Esther’s big secret that was kept from King Xerxes? (She was Jewish)
2.What did Mordecai say to Esther to change her mind about talking to the King? (Chapter 4, Verse 13)
Digging In:
1.What is an example of a situation you might face or have faced where it’s sometimes hard to stand up for someone/something?
2.What are some of the reasons it might be hard? How might it affect you negatively? (People may not like you for it, might not be “cool” to go against the crowd)
3.If Jesus were here on earth, visiting your school, how do you think He might handle some of those situations you mentioned earlier? Would he confront people or avoid uncomfortable situations? Would he try to keep the peace by keeping his mouth shut rather than upset the crowd? There is no wrong answer!!!
4.There is a famous quote that says, “What is right is not always popular; what is popular is not always right.” Have you ever or have you seen someone live that quote and how?
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Wednesday October 1st
Trend Setter
10.1.08
We are starting a new series called Trend Setter that follows some biblical “trend setter” and their examples in leadership. Just because you have people following you doesn’t make you a good leader. It requires discipline, the ability to put others before you, consistency, and the wisdom to see the big picture so you can plan for what lies ahead. The first night we’re going back to the Old Testament to the book of Joshua. Joshua was one of the leaders that took over leading Israel after Moses. He led without fear for man but a healthy fear for God. Fearing God looks more like respect than scary fear. Joshua’s partners did not have the faith in the Lord Joshua had and only Joshua would stand up for what he believed in when the others took the easy way out. His true character brought him to a position of leadership and that what we’ll be looking at.
To Recap:
1.What was Joshua and his partners sent to spy on and why?
2.Why do you think Joshua’s partners lied about what they saw?
Digging In:
1.Think of someone you know that people naturally
follow, what about that person makes people want
to follow?
2.Think of that same person, do you ever disagree
with what they are doing and still follow anyway, why?
3.When Jesus came to earth He offered people a new
way to follow God, some people followed Him and
some people didn’t but he never changed his ways.
Do you ever change your opinion to fit in, give some
examples?
4.Think of a time when you stood by your belief even
when everyone else stood by another, share it with
the group?
10.1.08
We are starting a new series called Trend Setter that follows some biblical “trend setter” and their examples in leadership. Just because you have people following you doesn’t make you a good leader. It requires discipline, the ability to put others before you, consistency, and the wisdom to see the big picture so you can plan for what lies ahead. The first night we’re going back to the Old Testament to the book of Joshua. Joshua was one of the leaders that took over leading Israel after Moses. He led without fear for man but a healthy fear for God. Fearing God looks more like respect than scary fear. Joshua’s partners did not have the faith in the Lord Joshua had and only Joshua would stand up for what he believed in when the others took the easy way out. His true character brought him to a position of leadership and that what we’ll be looking at.
To Recap:
1.What was Joshua and his partners sent to spy on and why?
2.Why do you think Joshua’s partners lied about what they saw?
Digging In:
1.Think of someone you know that people naturally
follow, what about that person makes people want
to follow?
2.Think of that same person, do you ever disagree
with what they are doing and still follow anyway, why?
3.When Jesus came to earth He offered people a new
way to follow God, some people followed Him and
some people didn’t but he never changed his ways.
Do you ever change your opinion to fit in, give some
examples?
4.Think of a time when you stood by your belief even
when everyone else stood by another, share it with
the group?
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Wednesday September 17th, 2008
Elevate Wednesday September 17th
Word Up is the name of our new series and going along with everyone starting to bring every night this year. Remember to start bringing your Bibles every Wednesday night if you haven’t started already. Most people who come to church know that we refer to this great Book for scripture, Psalms and parables. But how many of us know why Christianity and Catholicism use the Bible or how the Bible came to be.
Many great questions arise when we look at this book that has been translated into hundreds and hundreds of different languages, smuggles illegally into closed countries not to mention the book that holds the title of the most copies sold book of all time. Some other questions that may come up; how do we know the Bible is completely true? I’ve heard the Bible contradicts itself? Well in this series we will answer these difficult questions.
1. How many books are there in the Bible?
2. How many authors wrote the Bible?
3. When Paul said that the different authors of the Bible were inspired by God to write what He wanted, what does God Inspired mean?
4. How can the Bible help us to know God?
5. How is the Bible a “guide book” for life?
6. The Bible took thousands of years to complete, and has stood the test of time. Clearly God has protected His book for us. Paul called the Bible Sacred, what did he mean by that?
7. Why is it important for us to know the Bible?
8. We want you to learn how to read your Bible outside of Wednesday nights and discover the wonderful knowledge that God is passing to us through His Word. Think of some ideas that will help you to read your Bible at home/ with your friends and family.
See you all Wednesday night. Paul
Word Up is the name of our new series and going along with everyone starting to bring every night this year. Remember to start bringing your Bibles every Wednesday night if you haven’t started already. Most people who come to church know that we refer to this great Book for scripture, Psalms and parables. But how many of us know why Christianity and Catholicism use the Bible or how the Bible came to be.
Many great questions arise when we look at this book that has been translated into hundreds and hundreds of different languages, smuggles illegally into closed countries not to mention the book that holds the title of the most copies sold book of all time. Some other questions that may come up; how do we know the Bible is completely true? I’ve heard the Bible contradicts itself? Well in this series we will answer these difficult questions.
1. How many books are there in the Bible?
2. How many authors wrote the Bible?
3. When Paul said that the different authors of the Bible were inspired by God to write what He wanted, what does God Inspired mean?
4. How can the Bible help us to know God?
5. How is the Bible a “guide book” for life?
6. The Bible took thousands of years to complete, and has stood the test of time. Clearly God has protected His book for us. Paul called the Bible Sacred, what did he mean by that?
7. Why is it important for us to know the Bible?
8. We want you to learn how to read your Bible outside of Wednesday nights and discover the wonderful knowledge that God is passing to us through His Word. Think of some ideas that will help you to read your Bible at home/ with your friends and family.
See you all Wednesday night. Paul
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Wednesday April 23rd, 2008
Tonight is not only the last night of our Credo Series, but also the last night of Elevate for the year. I would be bummed but it’s not the end of the world, just the 4th Wednesday in April. Last week Paul covered the middle section of the Apostles Creed, and this week Kyle will be covering the rest of the remaining lines starting at “I believe in the Holy Spirit.” This last section basically sums up the creed stating the foundational beliefs of the Church. The church isn’t necessarily the Catholic Church like it says but is referring to the body of believers, brothers and sisters in Christ, everyone who follow’s Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior. The next line reads, “The communion of Saints” which I thought meant the communion of the Lords Supper where you eat of the bread that represents Christ and drink the wine, the Lord’s blood. The reason we have communion is to remember what Christ did for us on the cross, talking our sins away. However this is not that communion, “the communion of saints,” refers to the fellowship of the believers. The early churches used to meet in houses and would mostly consist of small groups of people so great relationships would be founded and they would keep each other accountable and strong in their faith. The next part says “the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body,” which goes over Jesus’ death on the cross and rising from the dead on the 3rd day to take away our sins. Finally “the life everlasting” is what we know as eternal life in Heaven with God.
1. Kyle mentioned the Catholic Church as a body of believer’s, fellow Christians. Who is in your, “body of believers,” some people that you think share your faith and believe with you?
2. The line, “the communion of saints,” Kyle mentioned talk about the fellowship, the hanging out of fellow believers talking about God. Do you ever have a communion of saints, and what are some things you can do and say to other people that believe in God to encourage them and learn more about God.
3. Jesus Christ died on the cross and rose again to forgive us from our sins. Knowing this, do you ever ask for forgiveness for you sins? What seems to be a sin that you have a hard time asking forgiveness for?
4. The line, “the life everlasting” Kyle mentioned refers to life in Heaven. How do you know if you are going to Heaven? How can you be sure? In John 3:16 Jesus says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son,[a] that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” That means Jesus is the only way to achieve eternal life and not go to hell.
5. The Apostles Creed is a very old creed written a long time ago but it was written to also be a prayer. To close at the end of the night, pray the creed together.
6. This is the last Wednesday so be sure to bring up your attendance and offering. Love you all.
1. Kyle mentioned the Catholic Church as a body of believer’s, fellow Christians. Who is in your, “body of believers,” some people that you think share your faith and believe with you?
2. The line, “the communion of saints,” Kyle mentioned talk about the fellowship, the hanging out of fellow believers talking about God. Do you ever have a communion of saints, and what are some things you can do and say to other people that believe in God to encourage them and learn more about God.
3. Jesus Christ died on the cross and rose again to forgive us from our sins. Knowing this, do you ever ask for forgiveness for you sins? What seems to be a sin that you have a hard time asking forgiveness for?
4. The line, “the life everlasting” Kyle mentioned refers to life in Heaven. How do you know if you are going to Heaven? How can you be sure? In John 3:16 Jesus says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son,[a] that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” That means Jesus is the only way to achieve eternal life and not go to hell.
5. The Apostles Creed is a very old creed written a long time ago but it was written to also be a prayer. To close at the end of the night, pray the creed together.
6. This is the last Wednesday so be sure to bring up your attendance and offering. Love you all.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Wednesday April 16th
1. Start by reading the Creed together in your small group. Maybe have each person read a line aloud. Start each week of the series this way so we become more familiar with it and learn it.
The Apostles Creed
I believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.
and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord.
who was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit
born of the Virgin Mary.
suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried.
He descended into hell.
On the third day he rose again from the dead.
He ascended into heaven
and is seated at the right hand
of God the Father Almighty.
From thence he shall come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic Church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting.
Amen.
2. Paul started tonight with “and in Jesus Christ, His only Son our Lord.” This is the second part of the Trinity (three parts of God; God the Father, the Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit). John 1:1-3 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.
Because God is a Mind, Body, and Spirit; in what ways can you see yourself being like God. Perhaps feelings, The pain Jesus would have felt on the cross?
3. Leaders read the question, have them respond and then read your answer.
Q. Why do you think it was so important that Mary was a Virgin and that she would give birth to Jesus?
A. Because if Joseph was the real father of Jesus it would mean that He wouldn’t be the Son of God, He would be just like you and me, born into a world of sin with a sinful nature.
4. The line that says, “He descended into Hell” describes Christ gaining dominion over ever area of life. Knowing that Christ had to go into Hell and be completely separated from God, how does that make you feel about what He did for us, to take away our sins? Ephesians 4:8-10; 8Therefore it says,
"(P)WHEN HE ASCENDED ON HIGH, HE (Q)LED CAPTIVE A HOST OF CAPTIVES, AND HE GAVE GIFTS TO MEN." 9(Now this expression, "He (R)ascended," what does it mean except that He also had descended into (S)the lower parts of the earth? 10He who descended is Himself also He who ascended (T)far above all the heavens, so that He might (U)fill all things.)
5. Why is Jesus seated on the right hand of God? What does this show about Jesus? Mark 14:62
"I am," said Jesus. "And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven."
6. 2 Timothy 4:1
In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge.
Q. How can God a person that is living and a person that is dead?
A. A living person is someone who will not die because they accepted Christ and believed in Him as the Son of God and a dead person is someone who rejected Christ and will spend eternity separated from God in Hell.
The Apostles Creed
I believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.
and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord.
who was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit
born of the Virgin Mary.
suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried.
He descended into hell.
On the third day he rose again from the dead.
He ascended into heaven
and is seated at the right hand
of God the Father Almighty.
From thence he shall come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic Church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting.
Amen.
2. Paul started tonight with “and in Jesus Christ, His only Son our Lord.” This is the second part of the Trinity (three parts of God; God the Father, the Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit). John 1:1-3 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.
Because God is a Mind, Body, and Spirit; in what ways can you see yourself being like God. Perhaps feelings, The pain Jesus would have felt on the cross?
3. Leaders read the question, have them respond and then read your answer.
Q. Why do you think it was so important that Mary was a Virgin and that she would give birth to Jesus?
A. Because if Joseph was the real father of Jesus it would mean that He wouldn’t be the Son of God, He would be just like you and me, born into a world of sin with a sinful nature.
4. The line that says, “He descended into Hell” describes Christ gaining dominion over ever area of life. Knowing that Christ had to go into Hell and be completely separated from God, how does that make you feel about what He did for us, to take away our sins? Ephesians 4:8-10; 8Therefore it says,
"(P)WHEN HE ASCENDED ON HIGH, HE (Q)LED CAPTIVE A HOST OF CAPTIVES, AND HE GAVE GIFTS TO MEN." 9(Now this expression, "He (R)ascended," what does it mean except that He also had descended into (S)the lower parts of the earth? 10He who descended is Himself also He who ascended (T)far above all the heavens, so that He might (U)fill all things.)
5. Why is Jesus seated on the right hand of God? What does this show about Jesus? Mark 14:62
"I am," said Jesus. "And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven."
6. 2 Timothy 4:1
In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge.
Q. How can God a person that is living and a person that is dead?
A. A living person is someone who will not die because they accepted Christ and believed in Him as the Son of God and a dead person is someone who rejected Christ and will spend eternity separated from God in Hell.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
CREDO 3/09/08
He guys, this is John.
CREDO 3/09/08
The Apostles Creed
I believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.
and in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord.
who was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit
born of the Virgin Mary.
suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried.
He descended into hell.
On the third day he rose again from the dead.
He ascended into heaven
and is seated at the right hand
of God the Father Almighty.
From thence he shall come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic Church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting.
Amen.
We begin our series CREDO, a look at the Apostles Creed. This week we will examine the top two lines in particular, “I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.” But before we delve into specifics I think a quick overview of the Creed, and the purpose of a creed would be good. The Apostles Creed is a description of the basic principles of Christian Faith. It was created mainly to refute a particular theology called Gnosticism. This can be seen in the specific nature of almost every phrase. And although the Creed isn’t scripture (from the Bible) each phrase is rooted in it. For example:
“who was conceived of the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin, Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried.” (Luke 1:26-31; 23:14-25, 24:46-56).
By simple definition, a creed is a system of principles, or beliefs of a group that are generally accepted by that group. The Apostles Creed does just that, citing Christian beliefs and basic doctrine (teachings). And depending on your Church back you may or may not be familiar with it. If you’ve grown up at CPC you’ve no doubt heard it from time to time. Something similar, and more commonly heard, is the Lord’s prayer “give us this day our daily bread...” These, along with other things we recite, all serve the same purpose - to remind us of something that we think is very important. In fact, most early Christian beliefs, like the Creed, would have been memorized because paper, ink, distribution, etc..., were incredibly hard to come by and because the literacy rate was dramatically low. Therefore, the early Christians came up with a simple way to pass on teachings and beliefs from one person or group to another.
Back to this week’s focus on the Creed:
(1) I believe in God, the Father almighty,
(2) creator of heaven and earth
As we talked about before, this is rooted in scripture.
(1) Isaiah 44:6 ...I am the first and I am the last; apart from me there is no God.
(1)Isaiah 45:5 I am the LORD, and there is no other; apart from me there is no God.
(2) Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
(2) John 1:1-3 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning.Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.
(2) Acts 14:15 Men, why are you doing this? We too are only men, human like you. We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made heaven and earth and sea and everything in them.
These, and many more verses from the Bible support this section of the Creed. In this week’s talk we will do a refresh on what the Creed is, why it is important, and break down what it means to believe the first two lines of the Creed.
Small Group Questions
Start by reading the Creed together in your small group. Maybe have each person read a line aloud. Start each week of the series this way so we become more familiar with it and learn it.
Why was it important for the early Christians to have/and memorize the Apostles Creed? Why would you think the Creed is something important for us to remember? What could we get out of it?
When you step back and think about God being the creator or heaven and earth, what sort of thoughts about him come to mind? (powerful, big, in control....) Then when you think about the fact that the same God created each person in your small group, knows everything about them, and loves them more than we can possibly imagine, what comes to mind? (loving, close, friend, etc...) Then talk about what it means that we have a God who is so great and powerful, yet so close and intimate.
CREDO 3/09/08
The Apostles Creed
I believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.
and in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord.
who was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit
born of the Virgin Mary.
suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried.
He descended into hell.
On the third day he rose again from the dead.
He ascended into heaven
and is seated at the right hand
of God the Father Almighty.
From thence he shall come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic Church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting.
Amen.
We begin our series CREDO, a look at the Apostles Creed. This week we will examine the top two lines in particular, “I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.” But before we delve into specifics I think a quick overview of the Creed, and the purpose of a creed would be good. The Apostles Creed is a description of the basic principles of Christian Faith. It was created mainly to refute a particular theology called Gnosticism. This can be seen in the specific nature of almost every phrase. And although the Creed isn’t scripture (from the Bible) each phrase is rooted in it. For example:
“who was conceived of the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin, Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried.” (Luke 1:26-31; 23:14-25, 24:46-56).
By simple definition, a creed is a system of principles, or beliefs of a group that are generally accepted by that group. The Apostles Creed does just that, citing Christian beliefs and basic doctrine (teachings). And depending on your Church back you may or may not be familiar with it. If you’ve grown up at CPC you’ve no doubt heard it from time to time. Something similar, and more commonly heard, is the Lord’s prayer “give us this day our daily bread...” These, along with other things we recite, all serve the same purpose - to remind us of something that we think is very important. In fact, most early Christian beliefs, like the Creed, would have been memorized because paper, ink, distribution, etc..., were incredibly hard to come by and because the literacy rate was dramatically low. Therefore, the early Christians came up with a simple way to pass on teachings and beliefs from one person or group to another.
Back to this week’s focus on the Creed:
(1) I believe in God, the Father almighty,
(2) creator of heaven and earth
As we talked about before, this is rooted in scripture.
(1) Isaiah 44:6 ...I am the first and I am the last; apart from me there is no God.
(1)Isaiah 45:5 I am the LORD, and there is no other; apart from me there is no God.
(2) Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
(2) John 1:1-3 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning.Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.
(2) Acts 14:15 Men, why are you doing this? We too are only men, human like you. We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made heaven and earth and sea and everything in them.
These, and many more verses from the Bible support this section of the Creed. In this week’s talk we will do a refresh on what the Creed is, why it is important, and break down what it means to believe the first two lines of the Creed.
Small Group Questions
Start by reading the Creed together in your small group. Maybe have each person read a line aloud. Start each week of the series this way so we become more familiar with it and learn it.
Why was it important for the early Christians to have/and memorize the Apostles Creed? Why would you think the Creed is something important for us to remember? What could we get out of it?
When you step back and think about God being the creator or heaven and earth, what sort of thoughts about him come to mind? (powerful, big, in control....) Then when you think about the fact that the same God created each person in your small group, knows everything about them, and loves them more than we can possibly imagine, what comes to mind? (loving, close, friend, etc...) Then talk about what it means that we have a God who is so great and powerful, yet so close and intimate.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Lion and the Lamb 3/19/08
Hey guys, this is John
This week we are continuing our series “Lion and the Lamb” by looking at Jesus through John 15. In this Chapter Jesus uses the metaphor of the Vine. This illustration drives home the point that we need to “remain” in Him to have the best life possible, to bear fruit, and to carry out his command to “love each other.” We will be focusing on what it means to “remain” in Jesus.
Jesus is describing Himself as the source that we need to be constantly tapped in to. He goes so far as to say that without Him we can’t do anything. We will be looking at ways that we can tap into this life-giving power of Jesus.
Thinking about this idea of being tapped into the perfect source of Jesus I kept coming back to the idea of “sweet spot” or being “in the zone.” This could be that I am a huge sports fanatic (I’m actually not, but thought it would be funny to write). I began to look back and identify times in my life where I felt as connected to God as I ever had. Generally these were either hard times, where I was being forced to rely on God more than before, or times of service, where I was “doing the will of the Father.” In preparation for this week begin to think about times to share with your group when you have felt most connected to God.
Small Group Questions
Start by reading John 15 for a refresh. Take your time, and take turns reading aloud in your group.
Tonight John talked about times in his life when he felt that he was “in the zone” with God and really living out the life that God intended for him. Share times in your life when you’ve felt really close to God and that you were “living in Him.” This isn’t meant for us to sound like we’re bragging to one another, but rather to encourage each other. Be bold and share times that you are proud of.
Sometimes it seems easier than others to “remain in Jesus”, what do you think contributes to that? Are there ways we can shape our lives to best be connected to Jesus? (Think about things that may be helping or getting in the way. For example the music you listen to, how often you are reading the Bible, and so on. Come up with a list of positive and negative.
In John 15 Jesus talks passionately about love. He commands us to love each other just as He loved us. Saying that we should love each other so much that we would be willing to lay our lives down for one another. Just as He did for us on the cross. Take some time and think about ways that you as a small group have been good and bad at loving each other so far this year. Have there been times where you really came together and put each other first at elevate or at school? And have there been times and things that you need to improve on together. Be open and honest. Come up with ways to help keep this command of Jesus.
This week we are continuing our series “Lion and the Lamb” by looking at Jesus through John 15. In this Chapter Jesus uses the metaphor of the Vine. This illustration drives home the point that we need to “remain” in Him to have the best life possible, to bear fruit, and to carry out his command to “love each other.” We will be focusing on what it means to “remain” in Jesus.
Jesus is describing Himself as the source that we need to be constantly tapped in to. He goes so far as to say that without Him we can’t do anything. We will be looking at ways that we can tap into this life-giving power of Jesus.
Thinking about this idea of being tapped into the perfect source of Jesus I kept coming back to the idea of “sweet spot” or being “in the zone.” This could be that I am a huge sports fanatic (I’m actually not, but thought it would be funny to write). I began to look back and identify times in my life where I felt as connected to God as I ever had. Generally these were either hard times, where I was being forced to rely on God more than before, or times of service, where I was “doing the will of the Father.” In preparation for this week begin to think about times to share with your group when you have felt most connected to God.
Small Group Questions
Start by reading John 15 for a refresh. Take your time, and take turns reading aloud in your group.
Tonight John talked about times in his life when he felt that he was “in the zone” with God and really living out the life that God intended for him. Share times in your life when you’ve felt really close to God and that you were “living in Him.” This isn’t meant for us to sound like we’re bragging to one another, but rather to encourage each other. Be bold and share times that you are proud of.
Sometimes it seems easier than others to “remain in Jesus”, what do you think contributes to that? Are there ways we can shape our lives to best be connected to Jesus? (Think about things that may be helping or getting in the way. For example the music you listen to, how often you are reading the Bible, and so on. Come up with a list of positive and negative.
In John 15 Jesus talks passionately about love. He commands us to love each other just as He loved us. Saying that we should love each other so much that we would be willing to lay our lives down for one another. Just as He did for us on the cross. Take some time and think about ways that you as a small group have been good and bad at loving each other so far this year. Have there been times where you really came together and put each other first at elevate or at school? And have there been times and things that you need to improve on together. Be open and honest. Come up with ways to help keep this command of Jesus.
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Wednesday March 12th, 2008
Last week Paul talked about the fierceness of Jesus as the Lion of Judah, how Jesus will protect us and destroy any evil that may come after us. This week we’ll be looking into John chapter 10 on a very similar characteristic of Christ. Jesus refers to Himself as “the Good Shepherd” and talks about how He cares for His sheep. By sheep Jesus means His followers because sheep follow their master. Jesus watches over us and guides us along the paths of life the are positive and full of Him. I really encourage everyone to read the first 21 verses of John 10 to understand the parable Jesus is talking about so you can have a great reference with your students. Really look into the guidance and guardian figure of Jesus in this chapter.
1. What did you find fascinating about the reading this week?
2. Share with the group something you learned about the personal character of Jesus.
3. Read John 10:7-9 out loud to the group. What do you think Jesus’ means by calling Himself the “gate?” How will they be saved?
4. Jesus’ also refer’s to Himself as the Good Shepherd, why do you think He used a shepherd to describe Himself? (Answer; because a shepherd is the care taker of his flock and will guide them and protect them but Jesus will also Save their lives).
5. Read verse 17 out loud, Jesus say that He sacrificed His life and then He took it back?
(Answer; Jesus is referring to how He was crucified on the cross and then rose again from the grave to defeat death so we can have the gift of eternal life and life with Him for all time in Heaven).
6. Last week Paul talked about Jesus as the Lion of Judah just like in Narnia. How do you see Jesus as “the Good Shepherd” matching up with Jesus as the “Lion of Judah?” Think of the roles both of Jesus’ characteristics play.
1. What did you find fascinating about the reading this week?
2. Share with the group something you learned about the personal character of Jesus.
3. Read John 10:7-9 out loud to the group. What do you think Jesus’ means by calling Himself the “gate?” How will they be saved?
4. Jesus’ also refer’s to Himself as the Good Shepherd, why do you think He used a shepherd to describe Himself? (Answer; because a shepherd is the care taker of his flock and will guide them and protect them but Jesus will also Save their lives).
5. Read verse 17 out loud, Jesus say that He sacrificed His life and then He took it back?
(Answer; Jesus is referring to how He was crucified on the cross and then rose again from the grave to defeat death so we can have the gift of eternal life and life with Him for all time in Heaven).
6. Last week Paul talked about Jesus as the Lion of Judah just like in Narnia. How do you see Jesus as “the Good Shepherd” matching up with Jesus as the “Lion of Judah?” Think of the roles both of Jesus’ characteristics play.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Wednesday March 5th, 2008
Salutations to you all. Last week Kyle so graciously ended our John series on believe and this week we well be launching our John series on “Lion and the Lamb.” I once heard old man river say march comes in like a Lion and goes out like a Lamb. How appropriate when we’re talking about the characteristics of God. Jesus has been referred to as “the Lion of Judea” and “the Lamb of God” in scripture. “How clever the middle school team must be,” your probably thinking? No we just took a one legged opportunity and made it into an Arnie Palmer. Even a the worship music of Chris Tomlin carries our theme for march
How great is our God,
sing with me
How great is our God,
and all who sing
How great, How great
Is our God
The Godhead, Three in one
Father, Spirit, Son
The Lion and the Lamb,
The Lion and the Lamb
All the last two line about sum it up there. L&L is a 4 part series; Lion of Judea, Shepherd, Vine, Lamb with each part covering the different characteristics of Jesus. Tonight we’re going to take a close look at Jesus as the Lion of Judea. Often time we think of Jesus as a soft and gentle God who softly spoke and loved everyone, which is true, but that’s only one part the Son of God. The reason Jesus is referred to as a Lion is because of his fierce side, Jesus’ passion for us and for love. Jesus came to defeat death and destroy evil in head to head combat. Yes, you do not see Jesus fist-fighting in the streets but Jesus caused riots with His love, he was almost murdered many times, he would openly oppose the Law and government with His message of Salvation, Life and Love. Get ready to have a great time digging in with your students.
How great is our God,
sing with me
How great is our God,
and all who sing
How great, How great
Is our God
The Godhead, Three in one
Father, Spirit, Son
The Lion and the Lamb,
The Lion and the Lamb
All the last two line about sum it up there. L&L is a 4 part series; Lion of Judea, Shepherd, Vine, Lamb with each part covering the different characteristics of Jesus. Tonight we’re going to take a close look at Jesus as the Lion of Judea. Often time we think of Jesus as a soft and gentle God who softly spoke and loved everyone, which is true, but that’s only one part the Son of God. The reason Jesus is referred to as a Lion is because of his fierce side, Jesus’ passion for us and for love. Jesus came to defeat death and destroy evil in head to head combat. Yes, you do not see Jesus fist-fighting in the streets but Jesus caused riots with His love, he was almost murdered many times, he would openly oppose the Law and government with His message of Salvation, Life and Love. Get ready to have a great time digging in with your students.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Wednesday Fubruary 27, 2008
Last week Paul talked about how Jesus had raised Lazarus from the dead. Martha looked to Jesus for faith and believed in His power to bring Lazarus back to life. This week Kyle is talking about Mary, Martha's sister who was there when Jesus brought Lazarus back from death. In John ch. 12 Mary goes to Jesus and washes His feet with her own tears and perfume. She publicly annoints Jesus to show her own personal faith and belief in Him as the One true Son of God.
1. What was something you found interesting about reading John this week.
2. What was something you or your family discussed, and could you share that with the group.
3. The other disciples were troubled by Mary's actions, why do you think that is?
4. Mary could have spent an entire year's wages washing Jesus feet? What does this show you about Mary's faith?
5. Mary selflessly showed Jesus that she loved Him and believed in Him as the Son of God. How has someone shown you that they love you by doing something selfless like what Mary did for Jesus.
6. What is something you can do for someone to show them you love them.
7.How can you show Jesus you believe in Him as the Son of God and love Him.
1. What was something you found interesting about reading John this week.
2. What was something you or your family discussed, and could you share that with the group.
3. The other disciples were troubled by Mary's actions, why do you think that is?
4. Mary could have spent an entire year's wages washing Jesus feet? What does this show you about Mary's faith?
5. Mary selflessly showed Jesus that she loved Him and believed in Him as the Son of God. How has someone shown you that they love you by doing something selfless like what Mary did for Jesus.
6. What is something you can do for someone to show them you love them.
7.How can you show Jesus you believe in Him as the Son of God and love Him.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Wednesday February 20th, 2008
We're continuing on with the John series on Believe. Last week John talked about his lucky bunnies but he also talked about people believing in the authority of Jesus' words. Just by proclaiming something it happened and people believed. This week we'll be looking at John Ch. 11 when Jesus raised Lazarus back from the dead. Lazarus' sister where having some difficulty believing Jesus would bring someone back to life after being dead for 4 day's. After Jesus had raised Lazarus again people's faith in Him grew even stronger. Really focus on how Mary and Martha put their faith and trust in Jesus and how they also believed in Him as the Messiah and Son of God.
Conversation 2.20.08
1. What was something you found interesting about the reading John chapters 5-7?
2. What was something you learned from the reading?
3. In John 11:23-25 Jesus tells Martha her brother Lazarus will rise again. Martha replies and says, “yes I believe he will rise in the resurrection at the last day.” And Jesus tells her, “I am the resurrection and the life, anyone who believes in me will never die.” What does Jesus mean by Himself being the “resurrection, and if you believe in Him you will never die?”
(Leader’s know that the resurrection is Jesus bringing all the believers to heaven and you will live for ever in paradise with Jesus. Make sure you explain this).
4. Martha had a hard time trusting Jesus at first when He asked for Lazarus’ tomb to be opened. After Jesus assured her, she believed and Lazarus was brought back to life. Have you ever experienced a time where you had a hard time believing something, maybe something that took a lot of faith in Jesus or others?
(Leader’s if they are having a hard time thinking of something give them some examples).
5. Talk about a time where you’ve witnessed one of God’s miracles in your own life?
Conversation 2.20.08
1. What was something you found interesting about the reading John chapters 5-7?
2. What was something you learned from the reading?
3. In John 11:23-25 Jesus tells Martha her brother Lazarus will rise again. Martha replies and says, “yes I believe he will rise in the resurrection at the last day.” And Jesus tells her, “I am the resurrection and the life, anyone who believes in me will never die.” What does Jesus mean by Himself being the “resurrection, and if you believe in Him you will never die?”
(Leader’s know that the resurrection is Jesus bringing all the believers to heaven and you will live for ever in paradise with Jesus. Make sure you explain this).
4. Martha had a hard time trusting Jesus at first when He asked for Lazarus’ tomb to be opened. After Jesus assured her, she believed and Lazarus was brought back to life. Have you ever experienced a time where you had a hard time believing something, maybe something that took a lot of faith in Jesus or others?
(Leader’s if they are having a hard time thinking of something give them some examples).
5. Talk about a time where you’ve witnessed one of God’s miracles in your own life?
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Wednesday February 13th, 2008
This past Wednesday was Ash Wednesday. The start of lent leading up to Good Friday and Easter. Kyle Spoke at the Ash Wednesday service with a focus on John 6:29 Jesus told them, “This is the only work God wants from you: Believe in the one he has sent.” Jesus is saying that God wants us to believe in Jesus. Other translations use the word “trust” in the place of “believe.” So we are to trust and believe in Jesus. But much more than just believing in His existence. Believing in Jesus Power, believing in Jesus as God’s Son, and believing in Jesus’ purpose on earth. In this series of John we will be reading through the entire book of John a few chapters a week. By next Wednesday you should have the first 4 chapters of John read because your students are supposed too and they will probably have lots of questions for you on the reading.
1. Was there anything in the first 4 chapters that sparked your interest?
2. How about something you learned from your reading?
3. Refer back to when Jesus healed the official’s son. Would you have
immediately believed Jesus if He had told you your family member was
instantly healed? Why do you suppose the official was so quick to believe
Jesus when Jesus had never even met his son?
4. What do you find hard to believe about Jesus? Why?
5. Leaders: Hand out the note cards to everyone in your group and have them
write down 2 things they believe about Jesus and 2 things they are unsure
about Jesus. Then have them go around the circle and share with the group
what they put down.
6. Leaders: At the end of the night put the note cards into the same box as
attendance at the end of the night and Kyle, John and I will go through some
of them and try to answer their questions.
1. Was there anything in the first 4 chapters that sparked your interest?
2. How about something you learned from your reading?
3. Refer back to when Jesus healed the official’s son. Would you have
immediately believed Jesus if He had told you your family member was
instantly healed? Why do you suppose the official was so quick to believe
Jesus when Jesus had never even met his son?
4. What do you find hard to believe about Jesus? Why?
5. Leaders: Hand out the note cards to everyone in your group and have them
write down 2 things they believe about Jesus and 2 things they are unsure
about Jesus. Then have them go around the circle and share with the group
what they put down.
6. Leaders: At the end of the night put the note cards into the same box as
attendance at the end of the night and Kyle, John and I will go through some
of them and try to answer their questions.
Wednesday February 6th
Ash Wednesday. We don't have elevate programming, but we encourage you to come to the 7:30 service which is being run by the student ministries staff. We'll see you guys next wednesday
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Change Week 3
Change. It is a word that gets thrown around a lot when it comes to our faith. But what does real change look like when Jesus leads our life and actions? One of the my favorite verses in the Bible is found in John chapter 8:31-32 where Jesus says
"If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." and a few verses later he follows up with an emphasis of this freedom that He gives us by saying “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” Every time I read this verse I get excited about freedom that I have in Jesus, however, I skip over the most important part. The verse starts with If you hold to my teaching. If you’re like me, it’s all too easy to overlook this critical component to Jesus promise. If we want to know truth, and the freedom it brings, Jesus says it depends on us following His teachings. So, what are they?
If we are going to be disciples of Jesus, and have true freedom, we need to know and follow his instructions. This week we will be talking about Jesus specific teachings from the book of Matthew chapter 5. These are some of the most elemental teachings of Jesus covering a variety of topics. Jesus gets speaks about issues that really hit home to His audience then, and us today. We will specifically be looking at what it means to love our enemies, be meek, and be salt and light. Again, all found in Matthew Chapter 5.
Small Group Questions
Start by reading Matthew Chapter 5 for a refresh. Take your time, and take turns reading aloud in your group.
Tonight John talked about why He believes Jesus/Christianity to be the “real deal”. If you were asked why you come to Elevate, or believe in Jesus, what would you say?
If you were to honestly look at you life, in what ways has Jesus’ influence and teachings changed who you are today? Take time and give examples. Be honest if you feel there are areas in which you need to grow.
If “we” are Jesus’ main instrument of “changing” the world, what does that mean for our everyday life? Our interactions? Our words? Our schools? and so on... This is an awesome responsibility so talk about as many implications as possible.
When Jesus compares us to being a light in the world that cannot be hidden we realize that, if we are really following Jesus, people will notice. This can bring positive, and negative attention from others and the world. Share a time when you have been “noticed” either good or bad, because of your faith. How did it feel? How did you respond/feel if it was negative?
In what ways can we support each other to make sure that we are continually changing to be more like Jesus?
"If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." and a few verses later he follows up with an emphasis of this freedom that He gives us by saying “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” Every time I read this verse I get excited about freedom that I have in Jesus, however, I skip over the most important part. The verse starts with If you hold to my teaching. If you’re like me, it’s all too easy to overlook this critical component to Jesus promise. If we want to know truth, and the freedom it brings, Jesus says it depends on us following His teachings. So, what are they?
If we are going to be disciples of Jesus, and have true freedom, we need to know and follow his instructions. This week we will be talking about Jesus specific teachings from the book of Matthew chapter 5. These are some of the most elemental teachings of Jesus covering a variety of topics. Jesus gets speaks about issues that really hit home to His audience then, and us today. We will specifically be looking at what it means to love our enemies, be meek, and be salt and light. Again, all found in Matthew Chapter 5.
Small Group Questions
Start by reading Matthew Chapter 5 for a refresh. Take your time, and take turns reading aloud in your group.
Tonight John talked about why He believes Jesus/Christianity to be the “real deal”. If you were asked why you come to Elevate, or believe in Jesus, what would you say?
If you were to honestly look at you life, in what ways has Jesus’ influence and teachings changed who you are today? Take time and give examples. Be honest if you feel there are areas in which you need to grow.
If “we” are Jesus’ main instrument of “changing” the world, what does that mean for our everyday life? Our interactions? Our words? Our schools? and so on... This is an awesome responsibility so talk about as many implications as possible.
When Jesus compares us to being a light in the world that cannot be hidden we realize that, if we are really following Jesus, people will notice. This can bring positive, and negative attention from others and the world. Share a time when you have been “noticed” either good or bad, because of your faith. How did it feel? How did you respond/feel if it was negative?
In what ways can we support each other to make sure that we are continually changing to be more like Jesus?
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Wednesday January 9th, 2008
Hey God Squad this is Pauly. Welcome back everyone, we missed you and John hopes you missed us. We are starting a new series this week called "change". I'm starting off the first night speaking about the resolution needed before the change occurs.
It is the time of year for New Year's resolutions, some we keep and some we sweep...under the rug hoping their forgotten. Well in order to make a resolution we must first find something we need to improve upon or something that we'd like to do that we don’t do at all. In order to do this we must come to grips with the hard stuff we don’t enjoy about ourselves and create a plan to advance it. The Bible shows us many people who and a fresh start, much of the time aligning their lives with God.
Be For Each Other
1.What are some nice thing you'd like to do for others in 2008?
2.What are some things you know your not doing well?
Follow Jesus
1.Jesus forgave Peter for denying that he ever know Him but what did Jesus do after He forgave Peter? (He told Peter to go out and do better).
2.What kinds of things do you feel/think Jesus might be telling you to do?
Look Beyond Ourselves
1.Brainstorm some resolutions to improve your relationship with God. (read Bible, pray, start Bible Study)
2.Brainstorm some ideas for the way you treat others.
Reflections
1. What time did you go to bed New Years and what where you doing at midnight?
It is the time of year for New Year's resolutions, some we keep and some we sweep...under the rug hoping their forgotten. Well in order to make a resolution we must first find something we need to improve upon or something that we'd like to do that we don’t do at all. In order to do this we must come to grips with the hard stuff we don’t enjoy about ourselves and create a plan to advance it. The Bible shows us many people who and a fresh start, much of the time aligning their lives with God.
Be For Each Other
1.What are some nice thing you'd like to do for others in 2008?
2.What are some things you know your not doing well?
Follow Jesus
1.Jesus forgave Peter for denying that he ever know Him but what did Jesus do after He forgave Peter? (He told Peter to go out and do better).
2.What kinds of things do you feel/think Jesus might be telling you to do?
Look Beyond Ourselves
1.Brainstorm some resolutions to improve your relationship with God. (read Bible, pray, start Bible Study)
2.Brainstorm some ideas for the way you treat others.
Reflections
1. What time did you go to bed New Years and what where you doing at midnight?
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