Update: Brad received an overwhelming positive vote at the congregation meeting and has accepted the invitation to be our new worship pastor for Attridge. We hope for a mid August start.

On the weekend of Sunday, June 9, FGCC candidated Brad Berkan for the role of Worship Pastor at our Attridge location. The weekend involved an interview with Council, meeting with worship ministry leaders, working with some of our musicians and leading at our Attridge Sunday Morning Worship Service. There was a recommendation from Council and congregational vote related to this at the Congregation meeting on the evening of June 9.

Click HERE to download more information about Brad and his family. You can also click on the picture to the right for a larger version.

- Make cheques payable to Forest Grove Community Church.

- Please mail or drop off registration forms along with registration fee at:

Forest Grove Community Church
502 Webster Street
Saskatoon, SK
S7N 3P9

Click HERE to download a brochure and registration form.

Please fill out one registration form per child.

If you have any questions or would like to volunteer at Fun Camp please contact our Director of Children’s Ministries – Maureen Brown ( maureen@forestgrovecc.com ). 

Are you interested in…
…meeting new people?
…learning how to grow your own food?
…building community?

A community garden is being started in the green space east of Forest Grove Community Church at 502 Webster Street. Gardeners will plant, maintain and harvest their produce together for themselves and their families. A communal plot will also be planted to support the Bridge on 20^th Fellowship Centre, which is a local soup kitchen. This year an individual plot will cost $25 for the season.

If you are interested in becoming a member or just want to hear more information, a meeting will be held at

Forest Grove Community Church (Attridge Location)
Saturday, May 11^th at 10am in the Lounge

For more information: Talk to Dallas or Shalisse Pelly
Phone: 306.261.0098
Email: fgccgarden@gmail.com

Not Interested in Gardening? We still have lots of opportunities for you to participate in the FGCC Community Garden!

NEEDS:
-Experienced Gardeners
-Landscapers
-Carpenters
-Rototiller
-Tool Shed
-Mulch
-Paint
-Pallets
-Fence
-Sign

TOOLS:
-Square Point Spade
-Round Point Shovels(2)
-Garden Forks(2)
-Steel Tine Rakes(2)
-Fan Rake(2)
-Hoes(2)
-Wheelbarrow(1)
-100ft Hose(1)
-Water Wand(1)
-Water Nozzle(1)
-Gardener Gloves(30)

If you can fulfill a need: Talk to Dallas or Shalisse Pelly (Contact info above)

I joined staff at Forest Grove Community Church in the summer of 2012. My role on staff is Youth Ministry Admin. Support for the Junior and Senior High Youth programs. I have grown up coming to FGCC and have been involved in the youth program since I was able to come as a youth student, then volunteering in both the Jr. and Sr. High programs. After graduating from high school I attended a 6 week Adventure Bible School program through Capernwray New Zealand and then took some time to travel through Australia. Since then, I have been working at Moka Coffee Bar and am now getting comfortable in my position here at the church!

• Pets: Have only had one pet.. a black lab/rottie named Ellie.
• First Job: Extra Foods Cashier
• Pet Peeves: Any sort of “chewing” noises
• Best Gift Ever Received: Trip to California

You can email Cloe by clicking HERE.

My family and I have been attending Forest Grove Community Church since the summer of 2005.  I am married to the love of my life, Arthur, and we are blessed with three wonderful children:  Michael, Lauren & Aidan.

As I step into this new role of Finance, I am awed of how God provides for our every need.  I am exactly where I need and want to be.  If there is such a thing as a new job resolution it would be that I want to get to know more people that attend Forest Grove.  If you see me or are around during the week – come and introduce yourself to me.  I would love to connect more names and faces.

I love books.  I read as much as possible and try to broaden my horizons by covering a variety of subjects.  I have a passion for the ocean.  I can sit on the beach for hours just listening to the waves or watching the people around me.

• Pets:  We have a fish tank and my daughter has a budgie.
• First job:  Retail
• Hidden talent:  I am the one in the family connecting all the wires at the back of the TV, etc.
• Best gift ever received:  My iRobot Roomba that runs around and clean my floors all by itself!

To email Anna, click HERE

November 1, 2012

Dear churches,

At Gathering 2012, the Executive Board and BFL heard several concerns from delegates, including a motion asking the BFL to discern the prophetic word included in Terry Mochar’s report.

To address these concerns, both boards met in late October. Attached, you will find the letters of response from the two boards. You will also find a 56-page summary document of the National Office Review (Mochar Report). If you’d like a copy of the full 139-page report, please email Sherryl Anderton at sanderton@mbconf.ca.

I trust these documents will encourage and challenge you as we all work together to reach Canada with the good news of Jesus Christ. If you have any comments or questions, please feel free to contact me at wreimer@mbconf.ca.

Yours in Christ,

Willy Reimer
Executive Director
Canadian Conference of
Mennonite Brethren Churches
Ph: 403.256.3211
Toll Free: 1.855.256.3211
www.mbconf.ca

Click the items below to download them as PDF documents

CCMBC Executive Board letter to churches, November 2012
CCMBC Board of Faith and Life discernment of Mochar report, November 2012
CCMBC National Office Review Summary Document, November 2012

I joined the staff at Forest Grove in the role of Director of Children’s ministries in summer of 2012.  It has been an exciting time with no chance for boredom……God is Good!  As I continue to grow and learn in my role, it has been an absolute privilege to work with the most amazing leadership team and the incredible volunteers that serve kids at Grove.  Although my background is in education, I have served in many areas of children’s ministry; teaching, leading programs, camp ministry, VBS, puppet ministry,  drama and anything else that involves being with kids.  When it comes to adults, I am passionate about people discovering their gifts and being released to use them to serve in their faith community.  (and if that involves working with kids,….I am even more pumped and I can plug you in)

Micah 6:8 has been one of my life verses – He has shown you what is good.  And what does the Lord require of you?  To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.  When I find myself pulled in many directions or struggling with a decision, I go back to that verse for perspective.

I love spending time with my family, whether it is a long coffee on a Saturday morning or time at our cabin at the lake.

• Pets: a Bichon Shitzu named Sadie (Elmer is hoping that someday we can get a real dog again)
• First job: Lifeguard
• Hidden talent: I have a secret hillbilly personality named Billy Jo and she shows herself every now and then
• Best gift ever received: other than Jesus, it is definitely my family.  The most amazing husband (my best friend) Elmer and our four kids. (three by birth – one by marriage) Lance & Allyce,  Regan and Shanelle

You can email Maureen by clicking HERE.

Our Creator God is the object of our faith – it is all about Him – as Father, Son and Holy Spirit (Hebrews 11:6).

Faith has both an object (God) and also a response (how we live because of our trust in God).  We need to know God and trust him with every aspect of our lives – without that we will live with timid response and thin evidence of true faith.   We live out our mission in the awareness of who God is and his invitation to live faith-filled lives as articulated throughout the pages of Scripture.

Christ is the visible image of the invisible God (Col 1:15) and the reality of his spirit in our lives and His presence in the world (Psalm 19) gives us faith for risk-taking obedience toward the things unseen (Hebrews 11:1).   Faith calls us to live a transformed life because of our salvation in Jesus (Romans 3:22) and the evidence of his incredible love for us (Romans 8:38-39; John 3:16-17).

The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It’s our handle on what we can’t see…
…It’s impossible to please God apart from faith. And why? Because anyone who wants to approach God must believe both that he exists and that he cares enough to respond to those who seek him. Hebrews 11:1 & 6  (The Message)

Our faith leads us to acknowledge our dependence, for apart from Him we can do nothing…

DEPENDENCE

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith… Hebrews 12:1-2a  (NLT)

Our hope and dependence is in the object of our faith – fixing our eyes on Jesus, and walking in obedience.  We surrender to transformation and growth as selfishness becomes selflessness.  Without a life that reflects complete dependence on Jesus and the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, we will burn out and dry up. We purpose to maintain space and margin in our lives  to hear from Him and to respond to Him. We will consistently pray for the wisdom to see Him moving, the discernment to hear Him speaking, and the courage to follow in obedience.

It is only in remaining intimately connected to Jesus (John 15) that the evidence of our faith becomes a witness to the world, gives us the desire and the power to do what pleases God (Philippians 2:13), and leads to the life of holiness that God calls us to (Romans 6:12-14).

As selfishness gives way through dependence, we are free to enter into healthy relationship with confidence…

RELATIONSHIP

Relationships can be difficult and messy, but they are absolutely crucial to our faith and central to the church.  The hope of the gospel is lived in the context of a faith community.  God models community in the Trinity – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.  We find out who we are as we discern and use our gifts in community.  Covenant community seeks to be authentic, real, and willing to speak truth in love (Ephes. 4:15; 29) in order to build up the church.  It’s only in truly learning to live with and love each other that we have a message of hope that can transform the world (John 17:20-21).

God has given us the ministry of reconciliation (2 Cor 5:16-21), living in right relationship with others and inviting people back into right relationship with God.  We will live a life of reconciliation (Matt 5:23-26; 18:15-20) no longer evaluating others from a human point of view.

All of our ministries are focused on this goal of guiding people into right relationship with God and others.

Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good.  Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.  Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically.  Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.  When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality…Romans 12:9-13  (NLT)

When our relationships with God, self, creation and others are healthy and whole, we become relevant living models of our mission…

RELEVANCE

The definition of relevance is “having significance and bearing on the matter at hand”.  Relevance is not relativism.  There is nothing more relevant and engaging than truly transformed, faith-filled people living out the Great Commandment and Great Commission (Matt 22:36-40; 28:18-20).

We value living out an authentic faith and being a church that is relevant to the unique needs of the world around us (1 Cor 9:19-23).  We can easily live self-centered lives oblivious to God and his great story.  But when we begin to see and believe the truth and the transforming power of the gospel, it becomes the most relevant aspect of our lives.  Our desire as a church is to help people see the relevance of Jesus for our world and for their lives, to bear witness to how good God really is, and to see the need we all have for salvation.

When we live lives of radical faith in God, lives of daily dependence on Jesus, committed to healthy reconciled relationships – it can literally change the world!  There is nothing more relevant than this…

This same Good News that came to you is going out all over the world. It is bearing fruit everywhere by changing lives, just as it changed your lives from the day you first heard and understood the truth about God’s wonderful grace…Colossians 1:6  (NLT)

1. To what extent are you familiar with the Twelve Days of Christmas, culminating with Epiphany? Were those calendar dates part of your tradition or are they largely new to your understanding?
2. The tragic story of Sandy Hook Elementary School (Connecticut) was mentioned in the sermon. Unfortunately, this is one of many such stories that has occurred over the last five years. Even more unfortunate is the dreaded sense that the story will eventually repeat itself, yet again. In your estimation, what are some of the contributing factors to these horrific events?
3. The parents of the infants/toddlers murdered in Bethlehem did not have any warning which would have enabled them to flee to safety. In contrast the magi, as Joseph and Mary, were given dreams, warning them of the danger. How do you react to that part of the story? Does it raise questions that ultimately cannot be answered?
4. Revelation 12:1-6 (The Woman and the Dragon) was read and interpreted as another version of the Christmas story. As you heard that thought expressed was that new to you? How did you react to the suggested interpretation?
5. The Revelation commentary by Gordon Fee (Revelation: New Covenant Commentary Series) identifies a “holy war” between the people of God and Satan. Do you think of the Christian life in those terms, and if so, where does it take expression for you?  Or does that imagery seem strange and foreign to you?
6. A reoccurring theme of Revelation is that God is on his throne. What are the undercurrents that will erode that biblical truth? Equally what are some of the practices that will nourish a belief that God reigns?
7. Revelation, in different ways, clearly pictures those who make it to heaven and those who don’t. One example would be Rev. 20:11-15. In North America, belief in hell seemingly has experienced some erosion. What about heaven? As you converse with people, have you observed any loss of belief in heaven as well?

Dec 30, 2012 “Christmas Day and the Story of Stephen”
Questions for Reflection and Discussion: Harry Strauss
(these are to be used personally, with family or with your Small Group)

1. The sermon mentioned a hypothetical case of passengers on a hijacked airplane being asked to deny Jesus. Imagine being on such a plane. What would be some of the emotions you might experience in such a situation?
2. Romans 8:36 is a surprising verse: “For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” Have you ever had occasion to think of the Christian life in these terms? Can you identify believers, past or present, who might have more fully understood this verse?
3. Before hearing Sunday’s message, did you know St. Stephen’s Day’s was placed right after Christmas Day? Was that new to you? If we were more conscious of St. Stephen’s Day, do you think that awareness would shape how we view Boxing Day?
4. For Stephen, at the point of his death, there was a fluidity between heaven and earth. He saw heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God! What stories do you know of others, who especially at the point of death, seemed to have a direct line to heaven? When you think of such stories, what impact do they have on you?
5.  It is doubtful that any of us will need to die for our faith. But nonetheless, there is still a cost for following Jesus. What are some of the costs you might identify in your own journey?
6. Jim Elliot, a missionary who died for his faith in the 1950′s, is credited with saying, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” What are some of the big gains….really big gains (!) that come, and will eventually come, in paying the price of following Jesus?

5. The book By Their Blood: Christian Martyrs of the 20^th Century outlines a history of martyrdom.  Below are a few observations drawn from the book about martyrs. Of the list, which one or two most capture your attention and why?
   • Often, mention is made of the martyrs desire to pray just before the execution.
   • Consistently, the martyrs were very Christ and heaven focused. Letters home, in the midst of dangerous settings, always contained references to heaven.
   • Consistently, strength was found in the Word of God. Also of some significance was the writing and/or use of poetry.
   • In the Orient, at least on one occasion, the people wanted to put on their best clothes—symbolic of being prepared to meet the Lord.
   • Frequently, the death of missionaries triggered a flood of new missionary applications back home.
   • Death of family members, because of martyrdom or sickness, didn’t necessarily signal retreat from the mission field.
   • The martyrs clearly found their security in God and God alone. What a contrast to our culture where so much security is found through financial assets.

Advent Week 4 – Dec 23, 2012 “Mary… The Magnificat” – Dale Dirksen
Questions for Reflection and Discussion:
(these are to be used personally, with family or with your Small Group)

Introduction
Do you have any special kind of container for a very important or precious thing or object?Probably most of us want to match the box with the level of importance of what is inside, right?

The reasons why we do things are sometimes lost over time. Have you noticed that the some churches have a much higher place for Mary, mother of Jesus, than we do? This morning we will look at how Mary is the “container of the presence of God’s son” and what we can learn from her about being the “vessel” of the Messiah

The presence of God in the Ark of the Covenant
Followers of God have had different kinds of ways of symbolizing his presence. Some of this has come from God’s directives and some have come from human initiative. The earliest directive from God regarding his presence is related to the Ark of the Covenant. Read Exodus 25. What do you see about the Ark of the Covenant?

We know that God is omnipotent – he is everywhere, but God is often present in a unique way in different places. The place of the special presence of God seems to be very. The ark of the covenant is a place of the special presence of God. It was also very fancy and very beautiful.

Mary
At the coming of the Messiah, we see a new kind of presence of God in his creation. God becomes human. Mary becomes the place of the presence of Jesus – fully God and fully man. The Bible calls her “blessed among women.” Why? Because she will be the container – the vessel – the “ark” of the presence of God’s son Jesus.

Read Luke 1.
What kind of person or “container” was Mary?

• She believed
• She is humble
• She fears God
• She is the opposite of what might be
• She is blessed

God intervened in the life of Mary. His presence turned her world upside down. She became the suitable container for the divine presence of God. What is our response today to God’s intervention in our lives? Do I demonstrate the faith and dependence we see in the life of Mary? Do you? We have the opportunity today to follow the example of Mary so that we also can be suitable containers for the presence of God.

Advent Week 3 – Dec 16, 2012 “Kingdom… of unexpected turning” – Bruce Enns
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
(these are to be used personally, with family or with your Small Group)

1. Opening Discussion:
Do you find it difficult or relatively easy to say that you were wrong in some way? In some of your closest relationships (if you’re married – think of your spouse), are you typically the first to apologize or the last? Describe a time in the last week where you were wrong and needed to apologize.
Describe a situation where you encountered someone who dug his / her heels in, in such a way that it led to a really bad outcome for them. What could have been different with a softened heart and position?

2. READ the Text: Matthew 3:1-4:17
Describe the context of John the Baptist’s ministry that you see in this text. What kind of leader and preacher would you describe him to be? How does Jesus’ ministry begin that we read about in this text? How does (and does it?) the temptation scene relate to how he began his ministry in vs. 17? What is the significance of their opening messages being the same (3:2 and 4:17)? Why do you think Matthew emphasized this?
Describe what you know about a government’s “throne speech.” How do these two verses reflect a ‘speech from the throne’? Why do you think John the Baptist was so hard on the religious leaders (vs. 7-12)?

3. Kingdom
Jesus talked a lot about the kingdom of God. He often used parables to describe the kingdom, starting out by saying, “The kingdom of God is like…” What are some phrases or words that you would use to describe the kingdom of God (or Heaven)? Why is a repentant heart and turning toward God important for the kingdom?

4. Advent
This advent season we’ve talked about “keening” (a waiting mixed with lament) and also about “fasting” (removing certain things from our lives to focus on God) as ways to prepare for the celebration of Jesus’ birth and also the expectation of his second coming. How does a repentant heart fit in as an important way to prepare – to make ‘room’ for Jesus?

Dec 9, 2012 – Questions for Reflection and Discussion – Kevin Wiens
(these are to be used personally, with family or with your Small Group)

1 John 2:15-17

1. What are some of your Advent traditions? (notice – this isn’t asking about your Christmas traditions)
2. Read Matthew 25:1-13 a) How does this parable connect with Harry’s message on Keening (hint: re-read Romans 13:11-12) b) What are the parallels to this weeks message on fasting/ being prepared? c) Next week (Dec 16) is about Kingdom. What does this passage teach us about the kingdom of God?
3. Read 1 John 2:15-17
a) How do we justify this with Jesus’ words in John 3:16? God can love the world be we cant? b) How do we inappropriately “love the world” during the Christ mas season? Take some time to confess areas where you have a worldly love for Christmas.
4. Read Luke 2:36-38
a) Reflect on the life of Anna. What do we have to learn from her? b) The Bible gives very few details about her life? Speculate a bit, what do you think she was like? Joyful or sad? Did she have friends, or was she a loner?
c) Who are some modern day “Anna’s”? Who are people you look up to that worship/fast/ pray for years and years?
5. Ok – now (if you didn’t already in #1) you can talk about Christmas traditions. Reflect back on some of the best Christmas’s (I know you are going to do this anyway – we just can’t help but jump ahead to Christmas).
Blessings to all of you as you prepare for our Lords return.

Dec 2, 2012 – Questions for Reflection and Discussion: Harry Strauss
(these are to be used personally, with family or with your Small Group)
(Romans 13:11-12)

1. December 2 is the first Sunday of Advent. Did your family engage in the Advent season, and if so, how?

2. How did you react to the Steve Bell song, “Keening for the Dawn”? Did it connect with you? Did it make you uneasy? Did you find yourself agreeing or disagree- ing with the song? For example the song includes the words “Hungry work, these endless feasts Shriveling as we all increase We are waiting.”

3. The Romans text speaks of waking up from our slumber. A related text is Ephe- sians 5:14, “Wake up sleeper and Christ will shine on you.” What would be indica- tors of a believer ‘more asleep’ than ‘awake’?

4. The message spoke of salvation as past, present, and future. To what extent do you think of salvation in the ‘future’? Would one’s age bear influence, and if so, why?

5. The message highlighted a number of verses about ‘the day.’ One of them was from 1 Thessalonians 5:8, “But since we belong to the day….” Interesting thought! Christians are those who belong to ‘the day.’ Have you had much occasion or cause to think of your life from that point of view? What would prompt someone to think in those terms?

6. Martin Luther said that there are really only two days on a Christian’s calendar: “today” and “that Day.” Is his statement an oversimplification or is there something to what Martin Luther said? How would you reconcile your response to what David Bryant said about ‘the day’?

Our little lives are too small to fit this magnificent hope. Let us make them larger, grander and more in keeping with the mighty, inspiring motive which comes from our expectations of that glori- ous day. What a day it will be! Gather together all the treasures of sight, all that is beautiful. Gather together all the treasures of sound, of sweet harmonies. Add to these all the treasures of the heart, of dear loves, holy friendships. Ransack the treasures of time. Pile them all in one. Then double them. Then triple them. Then quadruple them. Then multiply them a hundredfold. Then multiply them a thousand fold. Then multiply them by thousands of thousands. Then multiply them by all the arithmetic of all the ages.

7. With Sunday’s message, what was the main take away for you?

For November 25, 2012  (Bruce Enns speaking)
Questions for Reflection and Discussion:     

(these are to be used personally, with family or with your Small Group)

1. Opening Discussion
Think about the focus on prayer throughout this fall. What has been the most challenging aspect, most encouraging truth, or most memorable experience from this series? How has your prayer life changed and grown?

2. TEXT: Read John 17
What is the context of this chapter? What is happening in Jesus’ life and ministry at this point? What has just preceded this and what lies ahead? What is significant about the fact that Jesus prayed at all—the Son of God praying to his heavenly Father? How does that impact you that Jesus prays for you in this text—that you would be one with the Father and with your fellow man?

3. Glory, Truth, Unity, Mission
These four themes come through in this prayer. How is ‘glory’ spoken of in vs. 1-5? How is ‘truth’ important as part of this prayer (vs. 17)? Discuss the purpose of the ‘unity’ that Jesus prays for. Lastly, reflect on the unique ‘mission’ that Jesus is giving his disciples and those who follow after (vs. 18 and think of Great Commission—Matt 28:18-20).

4. The “World”
This word is used 17 times in this prayer. Throughout John’s gospel this word is used in two ways: first, as a metaphor for darkness, unbelief and everything op- posed to God—and secondly, as this domain of human existence that God so loved that he sent his Son to live among us and save.
How is the tension of these two seemingly opposing views expressed even in this prayer of Jesus? How do we feel this tension in our own lives?
Alan Hirsch contrasts two phrases: that God’s church has a mission OR that God’s mission has a church. His argument is that Scripture points to the second. What’s the difference between these two phrases? How does it change how we view God’s mission in the world?

5. Application
Where are the places that you see God’s mission being lived out in the church that stir your heart to be involved? How is God calling you to pray and act in God’s mission? How will you uniquely be involved during this Advent / Christmas season?

(If you are interested in reading the Bible on-line, click here)

For November 18, 2012  (Bruce Enns speaking)
Questions for Reflection and Discussion:     
(these are to be used personally, with family or with your Small Group)

“Now all glory to God, who is able through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely MORE than we might ask or think.” (Ephesians 3:20)

1. Opening Discussion
What are some things that you long for “MORE” of in your life? What are examples that we see all around us in culture of a constant desire for “MORE”? What are the things in your life that when you did get “MORE”, it became more of a hindrance to your faith, than a help?

2. Context of Ephesians Prayer
Read Ephes 3:1 and also 3:14—notice how it starts the same way by Paul say- ing, “when I think of all this…”. He seems to get distracted as chapter 3 starts and goes on a tangent again before getting into the prayer in vs. 14. What is he referring to in these phrases, that he is “thinking of”? (Review preceding chps)

3. READ Ephes 3:14-21—Paul’s Prayer
If you had to title this prayer for a newspaper headline—what would your title be? Do you see this prayer mainly about the Holy Spirit in our lives? Under- standing and receiving God’s love? The possibilities of the church? If you had to argue for only one of these—which would it be and why?
It’s usually easier to see what’s lacking in the ‘church’ than what’s lacking in our own lives. What is Paul longing and praying for “MORE” of in the lives of the people in the church at Ephesus?
How would “MORE” of this transform the church?

Paul understood the conflict, limitations and reality of the church more than anyone. How did he live with this tension between the real and the ideal? The real that he experienced and the ideal that he writes about here.
What aspects of this prayer do you most identify with in terms of what you long for “MORE” of in people’s lives for the glory of God and the effectiveness of the church?

5. Prayer Application
Spend time praying this prayer of Paul’s and what you long for “MORE” of in your life and the lives of others around you.

For November 11, 2012  (Harry Strauss speaking)
Questions for Reflection and Discussion:     
(these are to be used personally, with family or with your Small Group)

1. Have you ever had an experience similar to that of Solomon where you felt that God spoke to you in a dream? If so, what were the circumstances?
2. How do you reconcile God working through Solomon who seemingly was not totally pure in heart? Solomon was not free of idolatrous practises (1 Kings 3:3). Further, he clearly liked to have women, many of them (1 Kings 3:1; 1 Kings 11:3).
3. If God came and spoke to you in a dream saying “Ask for whatever you want me to give you”, what would be your most immediate response? What is your greatest need?
4. Is there a difference between God speaking to us via a dream and God simply speaking to us through his Word saying “And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it”(John 14:13-14). If so, how would you articulate that difference?
5. Solomon asked for wisdom, which we are equally encouraged to do in James 1: 5-8. James describes wisdom with the following words:  “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peace-makers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness” (James 3:17-18). Of the attributes mentioned, which one do you most need in your life right now and why? (purity; peace loving; considerate; submissive; full of mercy; impartial; and sincere)
6. Is there a conflict story or situation that needs your prayer response and/or involvement? If so, are you at liberty to share and ask others to pray for the wisdom of God to prevail?

For November 4, 2012  (Bruce Enns speaking)
Questions for Reflection and Discussion:     
(these are to be used personally, with family or with your Small Group)

1. Opening Discussion
Sometimes we have some really simple and practical questions about prayer that feel awkward to ask. Take a risk and throw out a question that likely oth- ers are thinking as well, but afraid to ask. What are your very practical ques- tions about prayer?
Describe a prayer experience that was stretching for you and helped you to see prayer in a different way.

2. Two Way Conversation
What percentage of your prayer is spent talking (verbalizing out loud or in your mind) and how much time do you spend still and silent before God? Read Eccles 5:1-7. What implications and challenges does this present us in our prayer life? While not directly related to prayer—Prov 10:19; 17:27-28 are also instructive in the tension of speaking and listening.

3. Added Components to Prayer
James 5:13-18—gives a challenging teaching on prayer. Discussion the implica- tions and power of prayer that comes out in this text.    What have been your experiences with these components?
How have the “laying on of hands” and “prayer and fasting” been part of your prayer experience? What does scripture teach about these components of prayer?

4. Changing our Patterns of Prayer
What are some of your common patterns of prayer? Think of timing, frequen- cy, format, posture, etc. What do the content and focus of our prayers reveal about our hearts and how we think about God? What aspects of your prayer life would you like to grow in?

5. Application— Practice:
Spend time praying in ways that you do not normally pray. Some examples could include: in some parts of the world it is common for everyone to pray out loud at the same time; OR, select a scripture text to pray into your prayer requests; OR, read a text of scripture and then spend time in silence, asking God to speak to you with thoughts, ideas and impressions of what He is saying to you through this text. Share and discern these together in light of Scripture.

For October 28, 2012  (Dale Dirksen speaking)
Questions for Reflection and Discussion:     
(these are to be used personally, with family or with your Small Group)

1. Opening Discussion
Have you ever felt like God was asking you to something very specific and you did not want to do it? What did you do? Did you resist? Did you try to run away? What did God do? Did he pursue you? What was the outcome of the story for you?

Have you ever felt like a group of people was beyond God’s reach or beyond his plan for salvation? Do you ever feel that some people could never be really welcomed in our church?

If you have experienced either of these things, you are similar to the Old Testament person named Jonah.

2.  READ the 4 chapters of Jonah (this may take a few minutes)
What does this story say about God? How does it appear that God feels about people who don’t know or serve him (i.e. the people of Nineveh)? How does it appear that God feels about people he chooses to speak for him (i.e. Jonah)? What does the story say about God’s capacity to listen to complaining? Would you say he is patient or impatient?

3. The Prayer
Re-read Jonah’s prayer (Chapter 2). What can we learn about Jonah’s state of mind from this prayer? How do the promises in this prayer match with Jonah’s actions later in the story? Can you hear a sense of lament in this prayer or in this story? (Lament is pouring out your pain and frustration to God in prayer)

4. Another lament – Read these words from Psalm 13:
How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and day after day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me? Look on me and answer, Lord my God. Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death…

Have you ever felt some of the feelings expressed in this Psalm? What did you do about it?

6. Application – Practice:
Spend some time praying lament to God. If you have nothing personal to lament about, then pray a lament for the people of our city who might be quite a bit like the people of Nineveh. Admit it if you feel judgmental or even a bit prejudice toward some people groups in our city. And then pray the prayer of Jonah from chapter 2.

For October 21, 2012  (Bruce Enns speaking)
Questions for Reflection and Discussion:     
(these are to be used personally, with family or with your Small Group)

1. Opening Discussion
Talk about a time in your life when you were most afraid. What were the physical and emotional responses rising within you? Which response does fear typically cause in you? Flight / Fight / Freeze?

2.  READ 2 Chronicles 20:1-30 (can also read chps 18,19 for background)
What were the circumstances that caused Jehoshaphat’s fear?
What were some of Jehoshaphat’s first responses to this terrifying situa- tion? How would you describe the different components of his prayer?
At the end of vs. 12 he states a line that relates to immobilizing fear— where he says… “we do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you”. How can you relate to this response and apply in your life?

3. The Prophecy
READ again the prophecy in vs. 13-17. What do you notice about the description of this event? How would this been received by the people? How has prophecy been received and experienced in your life?

4. Their Response
Vs. 20 and 21 describe a different kind of response to fear. What were the unique components of their response? How does the start of 20:21 parallel Daniel 9:23 in terms of what prayer does? What role does singing and praising God play in our prayer life and in response to fear?

5. Valley of Blessing
We typically love mountain top experiences, but we live in the valleys. How does this truth relate to the ‘Valley of Blessing’ described here? What are the “Valley’s of Blessing” in your life?

6. Application:
Discuss some practical applications of this teaching and text for your life right now. What are current fearful situations that you could pray for and act on with different responses than your usual patterns? Reflect also on Hebrews 12:1-4 and how this relates to our text today and life application.

For October 7, 2012  (Bruce Enns speaking)
Questions for Reflection and Discussion:     
(these are to be used personally, with family or with your Small Group)

1. Opening Discussion
If you were to identity a “container” in your house that holds some of your most prized possessions—what would that “container” be? A box under the stairs, a certain closet, a photo album, or even a whole room set aside for this purpose? What are some of the things in this “container” and why are they significant?

2.    READ 1 Chronicles 15:25-16:43
Why was Michal so embarrassed by her husbands actions? David seemed to have no shame in giving glory to God and worshiping him. Do you find yourself more shy and timid or bold in your worship of God and what he has done in your life?
Two central themes that come through David’s profound prayer of Thanks- giving are the idea of REMEMBERING and also a cry or a plea for THE NA- TIONS (also to the nations). Walk through the prayer and discuss how these two themes are reflected by David. Why are they important?

3. The Ark of the Covenant
What are the three specific items inside the Ark of the Covenant and why are they important to the people of Israel? (See also Exodus 16:33-36 / Exodus 25:10-22 / Numbers 17 / Hebrews 9:4)
How does the Ark of the Covenant find it’s fulfillment in Jesus in our rela- tionship with God? How does this text referencing the Ark and also David’s prayer help lead us to the communion table?

4. Application
What items would you put in a “wooden box of remembrance” that indicated God’s faithfulness in your life?

For September 30, 2012 (Kevin Wiens speaking)
Questions for Reflection and Discussion: 
(these are to be used personally, with family or with your Small Group)

1) Opening Discussion
Talk about your relationship with your Father. Did he give you good gifts? What are some of the best gifts our parents gave us (both presents, and life lessons)?
Who is someone that knows how to persevere in prayer? How have their prayers been answered?

2) Read Luke 11:1-13
Why is perseverance important in prayer?
Do you see a progression with Ask, Seek, Knock? How does this apply in our prayer life?

3) Look up the following passages.
Matthew 14:23, Mark 1:35, Luke 9:16, Luke 9:28&29, Luke 3:21. John 11:41,42
What is the connection between Jesus praying and the events that happen immediately afterwards?

4) Other Questions for discussion
Write out the Lords prayer using your own words. Take turns reading your version of the Lords prayer.
Why did Jesus pray?
“Like a loving father, God is easy to please but hard to satisfy” This quote refers to how a father is pleased when his children take their first steps, but he is not satisfied until they have mastered walking/running. Do you agree with this quote? How does it relate to our prayer life/ relationship with God?
Can a person become an expert at prayer?

 5) Application
How do you see the power of the Holy Spirit released in your life? Describe what that looks/feels like in your life?
What might it look like for the Holy Spirit to release his power in your life, family, small group? Take time to pray, as a group, for God to give you his Holy Spirit.
How does persevering in prayer relate to being filled with the Holy Spirit?

For September 23, 2012 (Bruce Enns Speaking)
Questions for Reflection and Discussion:
(these are to be used personally, with family or with your Small Group)

1. Opening Discussion
Describe some of the implications of good and bad choices that you’ve made in your own life? How have some of your choices affected others around you? Drawn you closer or further from God? Are you more prone to see the sin in your own life (focus too much) or are you one to not see it enough (focus too little)?

2. READ Psalm 51
What has David felt that has been lost by his choices? What is he asking God to return to him in this prayer? Describe what you see going on internally in David through this prayer.

3. READ 2 Samuel chapters 11 & 12
What are the conditions that led to David’s’ choices (Read also 1 Sam 21:5)? Describe the series of events of how David tried to “manage” the situation. What are some of the things David lost by the choices he made? How would this have affected his relationship with Joab, his soldiers, God, others?

What kinds of “limps” did David walk with because of his sin? Discuss the difference between forgiveness and ‘the return of all rights and privileges’.

Have you ever had a Nathan in your life who confronted you in some way? What did that feel like? How did you respond?

4. Freedom—Read 1 John 1:8-10 and Psalm 32
Describe what is returned to you through prayers of repentance and forgiveness? What are the descriptors of freedom that come through in this text?

5. Application:
Spend time in silence and expressing to God what he brings to your mind as you have a posture of repentance. Then give praise to God for the freedom and truth of forgiveness that is ours in Christ. Is there any- one that you need to make things right with this week?

For September 16, 2012  (Bruce Enns speaking)
Questions for Reflection and Discussion:
(these are to be used personally, with family or with your Small Group)
1. Opening Discussion
Describe a time in your life that you felt in a “land in between” (or neutral zone). When you’ve left a place or stage of life that was familiar and haven’t yet arrived at a new destination – but are now ‘in between’?
2. READ Exodus chapters 16 & 17
What would you tend to complain to God about the most? What are the circumstances preceding the war with the Amalekites?
Describe what you know about each of the characters in our primary text (Exodus 17:8-16) – Joshua, Aaron, Hur, and Moses.
3. Prayer as a Posture (not a program) What’s the difference in thinking about prayer in these contrasting ways? How much do you notice about your own physical posture? Others? What difference does the “posture of your heart” make when you pray? What physical prayer postures are important to you when you pray?
4.    We are in a Battle… Read Ephesians 6:12. How does this truth relate to the Exodus story that
we read today? How much are you aware of this reality on a daily basis?
The “God of Heaven’s Armies” (Lord of Hosts) – READ Zechariah 4:6 and Revelation 19:14. How do these descriptors of God’s armies affect how you think about and engage in prayer?
5. Supporting each other in Prayer
How would you define “intercessory prayer?” How does today’s text reflect this? How much is this kind of prayer part of your prayer life?
6. Application: Spend time bringing before the Lord others in your life who need to have their arms supported in prayer or who can’t pray themselves.

For September 9, 2012  (Bruce Enns speaking)
Questions for Reflection and Discussion:     
(these are to be used personally, with family or with your Small Group)
1. What are some of the tensions that we feel when we think of prayer? What measures would you use and how would you rate your own prayer life?
2. Why does God invite us to pray? Why is prayer important as part of what it means to have a relationship with God?
3. What are your own limitations or hindrances to prayer?

TEXT—Genesis 3:8-13
What is the context of this text? What comes before and immediately after? What is happening in the story at this point?

4. Where are you? (vs. 9) If you think of your place in this world, who God is, and your relation- ship with Him—how would you answer the question, ‘where are you?’ Why do you think God asked them this question? How does the truth of God initiating change how you think about prayer?
5. Who told you? (vs. 11) What are the sequences of lies and blame that are part of this story? What are messages that compete for God’s true voice in your life?
6. What have you done? (vs. 13) What were the implications of their sin to their relationship with God? What changed? How does God address the serpent and then Adam and Eve? Talk about the message of grace found in vs. 21. How does this text reflect the God of both judgment and grace that we see throughout scripture?
7. Application: What are the applications (and implications) of this story to your own prayer life?

Beginning Oct 16, 2011 - a series on Matthew 5-7 – The Sermon on the Mount

For November 20
This week we will be focusing on Jesus’ teaching in the sermon on the mount related to Anger. The passage is below.

“You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister ‘Raca’ is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.

“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.

“Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still together on the way, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. Truly I tell you, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.  (Matt 5:21-26)

Some questions to think about as you prepare for this Sunday:
1. Is Jesus teaching that any kind of anger is bad? If not, which kinds are bad and which kinds are okay?
2. Jesus says it is wrong to insult someone (calling them “raca”). What might be ways we directly or indirectly insult another person?
3. We live in a very rage oriented society. The most familiar kind is probably road rage. Do you struggle with any kind of rage? What might it take to have victory over rage in your life?

For Sundays, September 11 to October 2, 2011

For Sunday, June 12, 2011

Title: “Money Matters” – the freedom of a generous life

Text: 2 Cor 8,9 / Malachi 3:6-10

Introduction:
Who is the most generous person that you even met in your life?  What were some characteristics and patterns in this person’s life that made you give them this title?
On a scale from 0-10, with 0=completely stingy and 10=extreme generosity… where do you land on that scale?

READ 2 Corinthians chapters 8 & 9
-find Macedonia on your Bible maps in relation to the church in Corinth that Paul is writing to.
-what were some unique characteristics of generosity evident in the churches of Macedonia (see 8:1-5)?
-if you were to summarize some of the principles of giving that Paul is outlining in these two chapters, what would they be?  Just list them off in point form.

From Tithe to Generosity…
The tithe was established by God to train the people of Israel to remember who their provider was and the source of all they had.  We see throughout scripture that although the tithe was replaced in the NT by the command to practice generosity – it continues to be the threshold or the starting point of disciplined worship in our lives that frees us from the many ways that money can control us.

READ the following passages in regards to what they say about the tithe:
-Gen 28:22
-Exodus 13:1;14
-Deuteronomy 14:22,23
-Malachi 3:6-12
-Matt 23:23
-How do these passages challenge your thinking on what it means to tithe in relation to a generous life?
-How do these texts change the way we think about 2 Cor 8,9?

Our patterns and priorities tend to be Spend / Save / Give in that order.  What does Paul say that happens when we turn that list around and we learn to give generously as our first priority? (see especially 2 Cor 9:11-15)

Preparing for Sunday – June 5, 2011

Title:  “Money Matters” – Journey to Contentment
Text:  1 Timothy 6:2b-21

Intro:  Think about a time in your life that you were the most content.  When was it and what were some of the unique aspects of that time of your life?

Read the text for today.  What is Paul referring to in vs. 2 where he says “teach these things…” – what are some of the “these things” that Paul is referring to for Timothy to keep teaching.  Flip back through the letter to see some of the many issues that Timothy was dealing with in this church context.

The issues of money that Paul then addresses and how it relates to contentment is another key issue that Paul addresses at the end of this letter.  What are some of the things that Paul says about money and contentment and how they relate?
In vs. 10 – what’s the difference between Paul saying that it’s the “love of money” rather than just identifying “money” itself as the root of all kinds of evil.  How does this relate to wealthy or poor?

Honesty time:  Do we tend to replace things when they are broken or no longer work OR do we tend to ‘upgrade’ on a regular basis – to newer, nicer, bigger, shinier, etc?  How does this relate to contentment?

In the middles section (6:11-16) it almost seems that Paul goes on a tangent about how great Christ is and the importance of pursuing God and his righteousness.  How does this section relate to the discussion on contentment and money?  What are some things that we should be “discontent” about?

In vs. 17, Paul talks about the importance of knowing where we put our ‘hope’ or our ‘trust’.  He also talks about our foundation later in vs. 19.  What are some ways that we can test where we truly put our trust or our hope.  When do we know that we are putting it in God or when we are putting it in our money?

For Sunday, May 22, 2011

Title: “Money Matters” – slavery, snares, traps and detours

First – quick review:

Last week, we talked about the “heart of the matter” when it comes to money and asked two fundamental questions:

- Who’s the owner?

- Where’s my heart?

-owner – do we actually see God as the one who owns all things – that all of our money, possessions, resources are simply ours to steward – to take care of for the owner (1 Chron 29:10-17)

-heart – Matt 6:19-24 (sermon on the mount) – our heart  follows our treasure – so where does your money go?

Scripture Texts for today:

1 John 2:15-17

Romans 13:6-8

Proverbs 22:7

Proverbs 25:28

This Week:
This week we want to look at debt and how we get there and what it does to us.  With over 2000 NT passage on money, finance and stewardship the above four passages are some of many that speak to this topic.  The bible has lots to say about debt and while it doesn’t teach that debt itself is sin and wrong – but it does worn that debt can be dangerous and should be avoided wherever possible.

Discussion:  talk about one significant purchase (that put you into debt) at some point in your life that you really regretted after the fact.

READ 1 John 2:15-17 – John was one of the disciples who would have been listening to Jesus at the Sermon on the Mount (Matt 6 passage) and would have heart Jesus say – “you cannot serve both God and money”.  How does this passage in 1 John reflect the disciples’ own application of that teaching from his rabbi?
How do some of these “cravings” that John talks about reveal themselves in our lives and in our culture?

READ the other three passages above. Discuss what they collective say about debt.  What role does “self-control” play in this topic?  In what ways is a borrower slave to the lender?  What does that feel like and what does that look like in practical terms?

How would you describe the difference between what might be considered “good debt” and what is considered “bad debt” to take on?

Discuss and apply – how these steps could help you get out of debt and to experience margin and freedom in your finances.

-pray – starts with confession and humility – and just acknowledging what God already knows

-ask for his strength to re-gain your self-control in this area of your life

-Stop it! do no further harm!!  (one of the first rules of first aid / accident scene – when someone is hurt, do no further harm)

-a key step to getting better  is to not do anything to make it worse….

-SO, if you lack self-control  it might mean it’s time to cut up your credit cards

-get outside help and accountability -there are outside resources and also people in our church who are experts in this area and ready to help

-pick up a booklet at info booth from our MB conference (Stewardship ministries)

-visit Crown Financial Ministries Canada (inter-denominational) at http://www.crowncanada.ca/

-develop a plan! -we drift into debt (not fully aware) but you’ve got to intentionally dig your way out (very intentional  and lots of hard work)

-practice contentment (talk more about in the next weeks) but Phil 4:11-13 Paul talks about being content with whatever he has….

-don’t become comfortable with debt (we’ve normalized it) – “how much is enough?

For May 15, 2011

(From May 15 to June 12 our sermons will focus on Stewardship. The final sermon will be about living a generous life.)

Title: “Money Matters!” – the heart of the issue

Texts: 1 Chron 29:10-15 / Matthew 6:19-24

You can’t read scripture without realizing that money matters to God.  Did you know that in the NT there are 215 Bible verses related to faith and 218 related to salvation.  But there are 2084 vs related to money, finance, and stewardship!  Also – 16 of Jesus’ 38 parables related to money.
Discuss what this says about the importance and relevance of this topic.

How high would the topic of money rank in the following categories:
-things you worry about or lose sleep over
-things that cause tension or arguments in your family

READ 1 Chron 29:10-15
-what does this text say about the source of our money and possessions?  Read the whole chapter (29) to understand and discuss the broader context here.
-if you were to make a summary statement (one line) of what this text is saying about money and possessions, what would it be?

READ Matthew 6:19-24
-the context of this passage is the Sermon on the Mount – what do you know about this overall section of scripture?
-discuss the challenging truth that our heart follows our treasure.  How does this play out in our everyday lives?
-What is the most challenging personal application of this text for you?  What questions does it raise in your life?

What are some of the ways that you track your money in order to assess the condition of your heart?

For May 1, 2011

Title: “Experiencing the Freedom of the Cross”
Text: John 21

Review again the story of Peter’s three denials in john 18.  In light of that story, read John 21.

The season of Eastertide, is a season in the Christian church between the time of the resurrection of Jesus and his ascension back to the Father (Acts 1).
-Who does Jesus go to and what does Jesus spend most of his time doing in this “in between” time?  (See also Luke 24).
-if you were Jesus and you had just been raised from the dead what would you have done during this time?

-what are some of the differences between Jesus’ interaction with Thomas (chp 20) and his interaction with Peter (chp 21)?  What are similarities?

-what do you think is the significance of the 153 fish and how they caught them?

-what is the message to Peter and the work of the church with these mixed metaphors that Jesus gives of fish needed to become flocks of sheep?

-how was this interaction with Peter also an intentional act of restoring Peter and healing his shame?  How does shame hold us back in life?
-Richard Rohr said, “if the pain of your story is not transformed, it will be transmitted”.  Do you agree with this statement?  Why or why not?
-how did this interaction with Jesus help Peter experience the freedom of the cross and position him for future ministry?  (see also his perspective on life in 1 Peter 1).

-take some time to reflect on places of hurt and brokenness that you have experienced.  How has forgiveness, reconciliation, and the work of the cross impacted these areas of your life and given you freedom?  Are there areas that you still need to work through and pray about?

-what are applications of this story for your life and the work of the church today?

For April 24, 2011 (Resurrection Sunday!)

Title: The Presence of God
Text: John 18, 19, 20
The focus for this Sunday is chapter 20, but if you haven’t done so already, please read the chapters leading up to Easter Sunday.

Chp 18/19:
-read this chapter with a view to Peter and how he responded – how do you identify (or not) with his denials?
-secondly – read this chapter with a view to Pilate.  It seems that he wanted nothing to do with sending Jesus to his death.  He seemed to have more of a sense of who Jesus was than the Jewish leaders.  Would you agree or disagree and why?
-how does the leadership of Annas and Caiaphas (see18:13 and following) relate to what Jesus taught in John 10:11-13 about a good shepherd vs. bad leadership?
-Pilate finally stood up to the religious leaders (19:19-22).  And yet even though he refused to publish a lie, he still did not have the courage to act on the truth.
-how would you answer the two questions of – “who killed Jesus?” and also “why did Jesus die?”

-we have to remember that this scene is not a scene of defeat or of Jesus as a helpless victim – it is a scene that belongs to Jesus.  Nothing will come to him by surpise – he is NOT a victim – he is a king assuming his throne!

-looking back to last week (Fan or Follower?) – how has this descriptor changed for Joseph and Nicodemus in 19:38-42?  Refer back to what Jesus said in John 12:42-443.

Chp 20:  What differences does the power and presence of God make in our lives and in the world?
-start by reviewing the purpose of why John wrote this book (20:30-31)
-the incarnation (the living and holy God coming to earth as fully human and fully God) is seen in John 1:14-21.  The climax of this story happens in these chapters, and especially chp 20.

-what are the responses of Jesus to each of the individuals he meets after his resurrection?
-we often feel inadequate and unworthy when we approach God.  What does Jesus’ response to the disciples, and Thomas in particular, say to this?
We so often think of ourselves at our doubting and sinful worst – what this story portrays is Jesus who sees us at our believing  and faithful best!
One commentator put it this way – “The forgiving love of Jesus is so great that he sees our real personality, not in our faithlessness, but in our loyalty, not in our defeat by sin, but in our reaching after goodness, even when we are defeated” (W. Barclay).

How do these thoughts impact our view of God and our faith?   The resurrection story tells us that the living God is present!  He’s alive and his spirit is living in us if we are a follower of his.  Like Jesus said to Thomas… “Don’t be faithless any longer.  Believe!” (20:27)  He is risen indeed!!

For April 17, 2011 (Palm Sunday)

Title:  “Fan or Follower?”

Text:  John 12

One definition of a ‘fan’ is “an enthusiastic admirer of a celebrity or public performer”.  Do you consider yourself a fan of any kind?  If so – what are you a fan of?  Who are some of the most radical sports fans that you know and what makes them so radical?

We return to John 12 and the incredible turn of events that leads to a massive crowd singing the praise of Jesus.  This chapter and this scene in particular (vs. 12-19) highlights a key turning point in Jesus’ ministry.  Suddenly, he has many people wanting to see him – lots of people were becoming fans as evidenced by the crowds (vs. 9), and more crowds (vs. 12-19), even some Greeks wanting to meet him (vs. 20) and then even some of the Jewish leaders (vs. 42).  But it seems that Jesus was always suspect of fans who like miracles and wanted a political ally – people always had their own agenda.

From your reading of this text, what is Jesus’ continuous agenda?  How does a follower differ from a fan from what Jesus is teaching and calling them to?

Look at John 13:36-38  and also the account of this story later on in John 18 –how does Peter recognize the difference between a fan and a follower?

Fulfillment of Prophecy – John’s gospel is filled with fulfillment of prophecy and Jesus pointing to the fact that he is the fulfillment of their Jewish symbols and rituals.  Look at the fulfillment of prophecy mentioned in 12:15-16 (from Zech 9:9).  Review also and discuss the fulfillment of prophecy that John 12 :20-21 describes in light of John 10:16.

Take some time to think about (or discuss) things that reveal where you are on that journey of moving from being simply a ‘fan’ of Jesus, to truly being a ‘follower’ of Jesus.  In John 12:26 Jesus says… “Anyone who wants to be my disciple must follow me…”  How is Jesus inviting you to follow?

For March 27, 2011

Sermon Title:   Make His Glory Known
Text:  Psalm 96:1-3

Psalm 96

Sing to the LORD a new song;

sing to the LORD, all the earth.

Sing to the LORD, praise his name;

proclaim his salvation day after day.

Declare his glory among the nations,

his marvelous deeds among all peoples.

How would you answer the following question:  “What is the gospel?”

(take five minutes to write down your own answer before you discuss)

It seems like a simple question, but when we really start to think and talk about it, our response to this question really begins to reveal what we think about God, his work in the world, and our place in his story.  Our answer to this question really becomes “our song”.

-Gen 12 – reminds us that God called Abram to bring the blessing of God to the nations of the earth

-the Psalms (such as 96) remind us that the gospel is about God’s glory

-the story of the Exodus for the people of Israel, along with the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus remind us that the gospel is a story of salvation and of restoration – between God and his people

-God’s blessing, his glory, and salvation seem to be important components of how we would articulate the gospel.  What other aspects of this “good news” impacts you?  What is part of your “song” for the world?

Your unique gifts, along with your unique opportunities, combined with your unique passions, and the unique resources that God has given you, all become part of the way in which you proclaim and make known the glory of God.  These will be different for every person in the room.  Talk about some of these “unique things” that are part of your group.

God takes all of these unique aspects of each one of us and weaves them together for his purposes through the church.   Alan Hirsch states that we often get it reversed, that it’s not that the church has a mission, but rather that God’s mission has a church.  Do you agree with this statement?  How does it shift your thinking of the churches’ role in God’s great mission?

For March 13, 2011

Holy Spirit Part III:  ”With You or In You?”

Text:  John 14:  15-27

1. Read verses 16 & 26.  Compare several translations on the word Jesus uses to describe the Holy Spirit (Counsellor, Advocate, Comforter…others?).  How can each of these words shed unique light into how the Holy Spirit works in our lives?

2. If “Advocate” means:  ”one who pleads our cause” – How does the Holy Spirit do this in our lives?

3. Jesus said that the Holy Spirit would teach us and remind us of His Word (verse 26).  Think times in your life when the light came on a Scripture you were struggling with…was that the Holy Spirit? Or…think of a time when you were at a loss for words, but somehow they came and you wondered where they came from…was that the Holy Spirit?

4. Consider the biblical words below for the Holy Spirit’s action. Think about the ways He has intersected your life.  Are you open for more?

Biblical Words of Holy Spirit Action:

*Baptized (bapto) – Acts 1:5  ”John baptized with water…you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit”

*Come Upon (eperchomai) – Acts 1:8  ”You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you…”

*Poured Out – Acts 2:17 (quoting the prophet Joel)  ”I will pour out my Spirit on all people”

*Filled (pleroo – “to fill”) – Acts 2: 4  ”everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages…”

*Falls Upon (epipipto) – Acts 10:44  ”…the Holy Spirit fell upon all who were listening to the message”

*Receive (lambano) – Acts 8:17  ”Peter & John laid their hands upon these believers, and they received the Holy Spirit”

For March 6, 2011

Sermon Title:   Power of the Holy Spirit
Sermon Text:  John 14-16

As you read this portion of scripture where Jesus is teaching and preparing his disciples for his departure and the coming of the ‘Advocate’ / the Holy Spirit, reflect on these three questions within your own lives and how you would answer them with full honesty (#1,#2).  What does this text (informed by many others that speak of the Holy Spirit) say about what this power looks like?

Do we even want the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives?
Why do we want the power of the Holy Spirit?
What does the power of the Holy Spirit look like?

I also invite you to also reflect on and pray this prayer (written by Stephan Macchia) in your preparation for what God wants to teach us about the power of His Spirit..

Lord, the work of your Spirit is something I long for.  You promise your people the gift of your Spirit’s presence and power for our daily lives and ministries.  So I cry out to you today and ask that you would refresh my life with your presence so that I may know and then do your will.  I ask that you would reveal yourself to the church I serve, and I pray that in every aspect of our shared  life in you we would together reflect your love and lordship.  I know that I need to depend on you for my every breath, and I pray that when I steer off course your hand will be there to gently guide and sustain me.   Will you empower me with the fruit of your Spirit this day, and will you reveal your spiritual gifts to me so that I may serve you with joy and full assurance that I am walking a life of obedience?  I long to see your Spirit’s power and presence released in me and within the fellowship of the body and ask for that today.  In the strong name of Jesus, the one who promised the Spirit.  Amen.

For February 27, 2011

-Read through John 16.5-11

-Think through the following questions:

1. How is it to the disciples’ advantage that Jesus leaves them?

2. What does Jesus mean by ‘convict the world’?

3. Whose sin, righteousness, and judgment is the Spirit convicting the world of (why would the Spirit convict of both sin and also righteousness)?

4. What do the ‘because’ statements have to do with it (‘because I go to the Father’ etc.)?

For February 13, 2011

Who is Jesus to you? Answer using a short phrase (no more the 5 words)

Compare the Passover meal in Luke 22:7-34 with John 13:1-38.

• What are some similarities? What is different?
• Why didn’t John describe “the Lord’s Supper” like the other gospels do?
• Why did the dispute start in Luke 22:24?

What is “new” about the command Christ gives in 13:34?

Read Philippians 2:1-11. How can you live out this passage in your everyday life?

For February 6, 2011

Title: The Smell of Worship

Text: John 12:1-8

They say that smells are some of the most powerful memory triggers. What kinds of smells trigger memories for you?

Have you ever wondered what kinds of smells were associated with Jesus?

Read John 12:1-8

Verse 3 says that after Mary poured the perfume on Jesus’ feet, the house was filled with the fragrance. Have you ever been in a place where fragrance of perfume filled the room? Was it a pleasant experience?

Was Judas’ complaint fair?

What do you think Jesus intended by “You will always have the poor among you?”

Read Luke 7:36-50, Matthew 26:6-13 and Mark 14:3-6. What are some similarities between the stories there and the John 12 story? What are some differences?

In the Luke story, it seems that the extravagant offering was connected to forgiveness of sin. Is there any connection between extravagance in offerings to Jesus and forgiveness of sin today?

The Bible often talks about how smell is either pleasing or displeasing to God. It seemed this highly fragrant offering to Jesus was pleasing. What do our offerings today “smell” like to God? Have you ever offered anything so extravagant to Jesus?

For January 30, 2011

Text:  John 11
Title:  ”Story of Lazarus:  Learning to truly live in the face of death”

Two quotes that frame some of the thinking for discussion today are as follows:

“Everybody wants to go to heaven, but nobody wants to die”… Joe Lewis.

“Death is more universal than life; everyone dies, but not everyone lives”… A. Sachs.

Think about the aspects of truth within these quotes – how do you relate to what they are truly saying?

From reading today’s text, how would you describe Jesus’ relationship to this family?

How long had Lazarus been dead before Jesus arrives on the scene?  What is behind some of the comments of Mary and Martha as they separately address Jesus on his arrival?  What is Jesus trying to have Martha understand (shift of perspective)  in vs. 25 and 26?

What is the source of  anger that rises up within Jesus in vs. 33?

This miracle is the 7th and final ‘sign’ that John records in his gospel.  What do you make of the progression of these and also the implications of this final sign being what we see in John 11?  Each of the previous revealed different aspects of who Jesus is – what does this one reveal?

• wine at Cana
• healing of the nobleman’s son
• healing of the lame man
• feeding of the five thousand
• walking on water
• healing the blind man
• raising Lazarus from the dead

Imagine what Lazarus would have thought about when he went to his “second death”.  He eventually died (again) and this would have been some unknown time after the death and resurrection of Jesus.  What would have been his feelings and thoughts of facing this second death?

READ Hebrews 2:14,15 and look back to the quotes again mentioned at the beginning.  How does Jesus relationship with death change how we are to approach life?  It may help to also think back to what Jesus says in John 10:10.

For January 23, 2011

Title: The Good Shepherd and His Sheep
Text: John 10

Most of us have had limited exposure to sheep and shepherds.  And yet it was a common occupation and the metaphors were easily understood by the original audience of John’s text.

Take some time to discuss all that your group knows about sheep and shepherds.  Have you ever met a shepherd?  How does their work relate to the teaching of Jesus in this section?

List all the characteristics of sheep that you can think of.  How do these relate to what the text is pointing to?  What are characteristics of both sheep and shepherds that you derive from this text?

Jesus identifies himself as both the ‘gate’ to the sheep pen and also the shepherd.  Why do you think this is?

READ also Psalm 23 and Isaiah 40:9-11.  These passages (along with many others) give additional pictures of God as shepherd.  How do they broaden our understanding of characteristics of sheep and shepherds.

What are some of the applications of this text to our immediate context?  Identify some of the difficult unanswered questions from this text as well.

For January 16, 2011

Title: “Spiritual Blindness and Leaky Faith”

Text: John 9

What has been your experience with physical blindness and those who are blind?  What do we learn from the blind?

Read the text and notice the different characters who are part of this story.  What are some of the different responses that arise out of each of the characters?

Why do you think the disciples asked the question that they did (vs. 2)?  What was going on?

Why did the Jewish leaders have such a difficulty with this healing?

Why were the parents afraid of the Jewish leaders?

The former blind man seems to have considerable courage.  Given all the controversy – what is the significance of his statement in vs. 25?

Why did Jesus come into the world as indicated in this passage?

We’ve maybe heard the saying that “vision leaks” – which is why leaders need to keep casting vision.  It might also make sense to say that “faith leaks”.  Think of all the miracles that have already happened in the first 8 chapters of John.  They don’t seem to be adequate to instill faith – why do you think that is?

It seems to me that seeing the “power of God” in miracles isn’t as important as the gift of faith -or another way to put it might be “seeing with the eyes of our heart”.  How has this been important in our own lives?

Look at a few other scripture:  Hebrews 11:1 and the story in 2 Kings 6:14-17

How do these encourage us in what we might “see” and getting past our spiritual blindness?

2010

For December 19 – Advent Week 4

Title: “What are we waiting for?….FREEDOM”

Text: John 8:31-36

Think of examples of when a salesperson was really intent on selling you a great solution (product) for a problem that you really didn’t have.  What did that disconnect look like and feel like for you?

Now think of a time when you had a real problem and needed a solution fast (maybe it’s a transmission problem, you’re emails not working, or the sewer is backed up in your house).  Now you’re ready to listen to a solution for the very real problem that you have.  This reflects the very real truth that unless we see the problem – we’re not open to someone giving us a solution.  This is the essence of change and transformation in our lives…

In John 8:31-36, Jesus indicates to his listeners that if they are faithful to his teaching, and know the truth, it will set them free.  He’s offering them freedom.  Problem is – they don’t see the need to be freed from anything – they’re not slaves to anyone.  What’s up with that?

They went through all the right actions (laws of Moses), were part of the right family (Abraham), and really had no concept of their sin.

How politically correct is it to talk to people about their sin these days?  What kind of response does it bring out in people?
Without a concept of our sinfulness, rebellions, idolatry (however you describe it) – how does this affect our view of Christmas (why Jesus came) and the cross (why he died)?

Sometimes we feel like we are good people, do all the right things, have always gone to church, and are part of a good religious family.  How can these things (though they might all be true) keep us from truly seeing the profound impact and purpose of Christmas and God’s gospel story?

Take some time to pray in these directions – prayers of repentance, confession  - and also prayers of thankfulness for what the Christmas story is truly about.

What Are We Waiting For? Freedom – Additional questions for small group discussion

1. As you consider the word ‘freedom’, what thought or thoughts first come to your mind?

2. Read John 8:31-38, doing so from at least two different translations.  Note any specific observations that you may have from the text.

3. The message spoke of “needing to see our problem before we can see the solution.” The problem of course, at least from this text, is sin. To what extent do believers in Christ see their sin? To what extent do those outside of the faith see their sin? What do you think and why?

4. One church in the U.S. launched an aggressive billboard campaign which pictured a knotted length of rope. “Jesus Unties the Knots” was the caption. In response to a telephone number on the billboard, over 30,000 phone calls were received. If you had been a telephone counsellor at that church, what might you have said to some of those people? What could you have drawn from John 8:31-38?

5. The message highlighted a quote which suggested we have a problem “when we build our self worth on anything but God.” What are some of the essential components of self worth built on God?

6. How did you respond to the illustration related to the Christmas tree at the end of the service? Further, how would you relate the Christmas tree illustration to the message on freedom?  How would you reconcile the two?

7. What will it take for you to experience an added measure of ‘freedom’ in 2011?

For December 12 – Advent Week 3 – Trever Godard Speaking

Title:  ”What are we waiting for?” … Grace
Text:  John 8:1-11

If we could look back into Jesus’ time, we would see the poor, the sick, sinners, prostitutes, and tax collectors crowd around Jesus, stirred by the message of healing and forgiveness, while the rich, the pious and powerful stand on the sidelines, testing him, spying, trying to entrap him.

Are you a channel of grace, attracting the kinds of people that Jesus did?

What must you do to be a grace-giver?

Who do you most identify with in this story of the adulterous woman – the woman caught in adultery, or those who always look for justice, accusers, law-fulfillers at the expense of people and their individual needs and pain?

Do you identify with Jesus who was accused of giving grace and not fulfilling the law?

“By loving the unlovable, said Augustine, you made me lovable.”
I encourage you to engage with the “unlovables” this Christmas – show grace – it will make you more lovable!

What Are We Waiting For? Grace – Additional questions for small group discussion

1. Sunday was a day for baptisms, with four youth being added to the church body. Youth is a time for dreams about the future. There is an appropriate idealism that marks this age. As you consider your life, regardless of age, what dreams are a part of your attention and focus?

2. Read John 8:1-11, doing so from a couple of different translations. As you hear the text being read, what is a thought or image that most comes to your mind.

3. The Pharisees publicly shamed the woman by having her stand before the group (v.3). Are there any examples today of individuals, groups, and/or institutions, that are bent on shaming those who have fallen? Can you think of any examples where ‘grace’ is ‘overshadowed’ by law?

4. There is a tension between ‘extending grace’ and ‘confronting sin’ where there is no clear indication of repentance. It is generally easier to forgive and extend grace where there is repentance. How do we respond to someone living in habitual sin? How would we reconcile the John 8 passage with 1 Corinthians 5:1-13.

5. The message mentioned a conference where the speaker spoke of three major obstacles to world missions. Trever Godard mentioned the first one as ‘idolatry’. He did not articulate the next two. In your judgment, what might be the other two?

6. Trever indicated that “We all stand guilty” but we are free of condemnation (Romans 8:1) in that Jesus was condemned for us. To what extend do you think non-church goers understand the concepts of sin and guilt? Do they understand it, or is sin simply a matter of some ‘bad choices’ in life?

7. Jesus asked the women to “Go now and leave your life of sin.” (John 8:11). This would be consistent with the message of Romans 6. What are some key disciplines of staying clear of sin?

For December 5 – Advent Week 2

Title:  ”What are we waiting for?” … the spirit of God.
Text:  John 7:37-39

Opening…
What are your understandings and also mis-understandings about the Holy Spirit?
Talk about some of the questions about the Holy Spirit that you still wrestle with (there are likely many).

Going Deeper…
Alongside our text for today, also READ Isaiah 12,  Zech 14:8 and Ezek 47:1. These are part of the ‘water’ images that Jesus is connecting his listeners to – the ones who searched scripture to understand the coming of the Messiah.  Jesus is offering himself as the source of the water of life.  It’s again, quite a statement filled with deep symbolism and meaning for the original hearers.  It also connected with the end of the Feast of Shelters (or Tabernacles) where the priests would carry water from the Pool of Siloam in gold pitchers and carry it back up the hill to the water gate.  It’s on this final day of the celebration that Jesus makes this declaration – connecting himself as the fulfillment of all this symbolism.

The symbolism of all these images of ‘water’ along with the symbolism of baptism – point to an spiritual reality of who Jesus is and what he does in our lives.  Later in John, we see more explicit teaching on the Holy Spirit – but here we are introduced to what is to come later.  As believers, we experience the spirit of God within us.

What has been the work of the Holy Spirit in your life?  How has the reality of God’s spirit in your life connected with this image of ‘water’ and refreshing that is pictured here?

As you reflect on John 7 – you see that every time the gospel is preached, Jesus goes on trial again.  Have you experienced this – where Jesus tends to divide and cause people to consider where they stand?  Why is that?

“What are we waiting for?” The Spirit Of God – Added questions for small group discussion

1. On Sunday we heard 5 baptismal/membership testimonies. Beyond the common theme of Jesus Christ, all 5 testimonies also reflected pain. No one wants pain, yet there is good that can come from pain.  What have been some of the positive gains that you have seen in your life because of pain?

2. Calvin Miller suggests that on any given Sunday, at least half of the people in a congregation are hurting. See quote below. Would you agree with his assessment or has he overstated it, or perhaps understated it?

“The Sunday service is a gathering of troubles. Half of those who enter the church and take their seat before the pulpit are moving in a privatized fog of their own ills. In the words of Thoreau, they are living lives of quiet desperation. They are the dying anonymous.” Calvin Miller

3. Reread John 7:37-39, ideally in at least two or more translations. As you hear the expression “streams of living water will flow within him” (NIV),   how do you respond? Does that describe your life most of the time, sometimes, or rarely?

4. The Holy Spirit is a person. He is the third person of the Trinity. Yet more that the occasional evangelical may see the Spirit as nothing more than an ‘influence’ or a ‘force’, failing to fully grasp the Spirit as Person. What helps you to see and relate to him as a Person?

5. The quote below, from Eugene Peterson, is somewhat long, but it is outstanding on the meaning of the word ‘supply’ (‘give’ in the NIV) in Galatians 3:5. It has to do with the Holy Spirit. Read Galatians 3:5, and then read slowly the quote below. Does the truth of this verse bring a certain measure of celebration to your soul?

“The gospel puts us in touch with the reality of God who richly gives, “who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you.” (Galatians 3:5) The important word is ‘supplies’. The Greek word for ‘supplies’ (epichoregeo) is ‘filled’, etymologically, with gaiety. The root is “dance” (choros). The noun is joined to the verb “lead” (hegeomai) to mean “lead a dance.” In the course of usage that came to mean “to defray the cost of a dance,” and then, metaphorically “to furnish abundantly”—throw a lavish, celebrative dance. The word is further intensified with a prefixed preposition (epi). “Supply” is far too tame a translation.” Eugene Peterson

6. Pastor Bruce made reference to the ‘mystery’ of God, using the illustration of the ocean. There is so much we do not know. What are some of the unique benefits of only knowing in part, and having to live in mystery? (Though inadequate as an illustration, what are some of the benefits of not knowing, at the beginning, the conclusion of a movie?)

For November 28 – Advent, Week 1

Title: What Are We Waiting For?
Text: John 7:1-24

Opening…
Advent is about “waiting” and throughout the gospel of John it is revealed over and over again how the people of Israel were waiting for a Messiah, but they didn’t recognize him when he was there among them.  They had many conversations about physical things and Jesus kept pointing to deeper spiritual realities that sometimes they got and sometimes they didn’t (usually not).

John 7:24 captures Jesus’ teaching on this quite well where he says, “look beneath the surface so you can judge correctly”. He is continually challenging them to look deeper and go deeper in life.
What are some of the things that you spend most of your time “waiting” for?

What were some of the things that were part of your traditions of “waiting” during either Advent or Christmas when you were growing up?

Going Deeper…
This scene happens during the Festival of Shelters (of Tabernacles).   Read Deut 16:13-17 to get a better understanding of this festival.  It’s a time to give thanks for God’s faithfulness (even when we are experiencing desert times and don’t see/feel that faithfulness in the same way).

Who do people think Jesus is in this passage?  What are some of the ways he is described?

What kind of a Messiah were they waiting for?  What were some of the actions of Jesus that caused them the most confusion and concern?

God is revealing himself to us all the time – through creation (Ps 19), through other people (2 Cor 5:16,17), and through his Spirit (1 Cor 2:10).  There is also a tension between the things that God reveals and also keeps hidden (Deut 29:29).  But the point being – God’s revelation is continually surrounding us.   His desire is to reveal himself to us.  And yet sometimes we see it, sometimes we don’t and it so often seems we keep waiting for something else.

What kind of Messiah are we waiting for?

What are we waiting for? – Messiah – Added questions for small group discussion

1. Pastor Bruce started the sermon illustrating how his family practised Christmas gift opening. How did your family practise gift opening? Do you still follow the same traditions, or have you varied the practise?
2. Read John 7:1-24, with participants identifying a key verse or sermon thought from Sunday.
3. In Saskatchewan we tend to speak of ‘next year’. “Next year the crop will do better.” “Next year the Riders will do better.” Consider and discuss the ‘hope’ that is embedded in those kinds of statements. What does ‘hope’ instil within us when we have suffered loss?
4. Hope deferred makes a heart sick. Hope realized or anticipated can bring much encouragement. A very hope generating verse is 1 Corinthians 2:9, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him.” Take a few moments to discuss the phenomenal implications of this verse.
5. To what extent do you think about the ‘next coming?’ Paul the apostle clearly felt that the time was short. Read 1 Corinthians 7: 29-31. What do you make of these attitudinal suggestions (adjustments) that Paul made?
6. The message suggested that God reveals Himself to us in many different ways. He is even a God of the details, illustrated by Doug Goodyear’s story about the amount of wire purchased for the house renovation project in Panama. As you consider your own journey, can you relate a situation where God revealed Himself to you in a very specific way?
7. The ongoing revelation of God is largely centered around the ongoing and active work of work in our midst, here and now. John 5:17 speaks of that activity. “Jesus said to them, ‘My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I, too, am working.” In our constant interaction with the world directly in front of us, we sometimes (maybe oftentimes) fail to see that work. What would be required to see more of that work? What would be required to be more in step with the following thought by Eugene Peterson?

“God is no longer at the periphery but at the center. He (regarding Paul the apostle) is not the one who does things for God; God does things for him. God is not background for the dramatic events in which Paul is the chief actor; God is the central mover and maker, and Paul is the one moved and made. Paul realized that God’s will for him was in action even before he was born. “He who had set me apart before I was born” is a phrase he remembers from God’s address to the prophet Jeremiah (Jer. 1:5) and hears it now as God’s personal word to him. The words can be applied to any of us. We are not a last minute intrusion on God’s attention.” Eugene Peterson, Traveling Light (Downers Grove,: Intervarsity Press, 1982), 48.

For November 21

Title – “What Feeds Your Soul?”

Text – John 6
Begin by reading John 6 a couple of times.  Note how many times this passage refers to bread and nourishment.

Opening…
What is your favorite junk food and why is it so hard to resist?
If you could only eat one food for a week – what would it be and why?

Read verses 26-27 again.  What is Jesus really saying in light of what has gone on before this in this chapter?
How does this relate back to the interaction between Jesus and his disciples in John 4:31-34?
What is this bread and nourishment that Jesus is really talking about?
Going Deeper…
How is Jesus connecting the feeding of the 5,000 with the story of Moses and God’s provision of manna? (see Number 11:4-9)
What is Jesus trying to teach his disciples in the remaining verses of this chapter?  Why are these images and this language so difficult for them to accept?  Why is it so offensive to many?  How does reading these words make you feel?
When asked if they too will leave, Peter says on behalf of the other disciples (vs. 68) – ‘where would we go’?   He implies that we all follow someone (something) to get our nourishment.  What are some of the ‘junk foods’ of our day that we replace Jesus with in seeking nourishment?
Discuss ways that you are truly fed spiritually that help you focus on Jesus and the power of his Holy Spirit in your life?

What Feeds Your Soul? – Added questions for small group discussion

1. What is it that most nourishes your soul? How are you wired as a person? Potential responses could include meditation on scripture; prayer; music; rest; a specific ministry; reading; visit with a good friend; family time; a work project; a hobby; a trip; etc.

2. The message suggested that “we all have a longing to know and be known by God.” Galatians 4: 9 speaks in similar terms: “But now that you know God—or rather are known by God…”  Psalm 139 may be one of the strongest statements in the Bible on God knowing us. Read Psalm 139:1-4. How do these few verses feed your soul?

3. John 6:25-59 is loaded with promise! Read those verses with each participant looking for a promise that feeds the soul.

4. Jesus is the Bread of Life. Jesus is the Light of the World. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. There are numerous descriptive statements for Jesus in the gospel of John. A couple of modern day statements suggest Jesus as ‘the transformer’ or the ‘supreme ecologist’. How do you react to the following statements about Jesus? Do they bring a measure of inspiration to your soul?

• Jesus Christ the transformer took my bundle of spiritual barbed-wire and electrified it into a hire-voltage power line. Yvonne Lehman
• When I nominated Jesus as my supreme ecologist, years of inner pollution became instantly biodegradable. Donald R. Brown

5. One study revealed that there is a correlation between proximity to junk food outlets and heart related diseases. From a spiritual perspective, what are some of the spiritual junk food points that will hamper one’s walk with God?   How do you avoid them?

6. Of Jesus, it was Augustine who articulated the quote below. As you consider it, how would you connect his thoughts to Sunday’s message?

“The one who has Christ has everything. The one who has everything except for Christ really has nothing.  And the one who has Christ plus everything else does not have any more than the one who has Christ alone.” Augustine

7. Our church community suffered the loss of a dear brother, Doug MacDonald, this past week. Augustine’s response on the death of a close friend was: “Such an occasion turns joy into bitterness so that the heart is steeped in tears, and life becomes a total loss—a living death because of the death of the living.” It was his way of expressing his grief. How does grief contribute to a feeding of the soul for you?

For Nov 14 (Lloyd Letkeman speaking)

Title: “I Know Your Hearts”

Text: John 5:41-44  I know your heart, get to know my heart

When Jesus is confronted or confronts the Pharisees he often leads with a question, a drawing in the sand or a test of their scriptural knowledge and how to apply it. The picture we often get is that Jesus is a confident and cool operator who knows all things and is going to show the Pharisees who is boss with his wisdom and direct their hearts toward the spirit of the law (that they value so dearly). In John 5, Jesus takes a very different approach and speaks at length about who he is in relation to God the Father. The tone seems accusatory yet rich with legal terminology and justifications.

However, in verses 41-44, Jesus introduces the word DOXA.  Doxa is often translated as praise or glory. It is best understood to mean a ‘good opinion of someone’ or a ‘good reputation’. God desires the Pharisees to seek his ‘good opinion’ of them rather than the ‘good opinion’ of each other.

Similarly, in Ephesians 1:3 there is another word translated as praise, EULOGETOS, or eulogy as we often say in English. A eulogy is often spoken at a funeral. It means to ‘speak well of someone’. Ephesians 1:3 more accurately should read,
“May the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ be eulogized (spoken well of), who has eulogized us (already spoken well of us) with every possible eulogy in the heavenlies in Christ.”

Paul uses the same root word, eulogy, three times in the passage. We praise God because of what God says about us in Jesus Christ. God speaks well of us, and therefore we speak well of God. God speaks in our defense and we speak in God’s defense.

Praise, whether DOXA or EULOGETOS, is missional! We proclaim the good stuff about God, because God proclaims the good things about us in Jesus. Praise is about friendship, relationship and honor.  Loyalty and love and words of affirmation and appreciation surround us all the time because of our identity in Jesus. We are God’s children, whom he loves more than we can imagine. He is with us through good times and difficult times. When we feel like giving thanks and when we feel like screaming, God is affirming us and speaking well of us.

Read John 5:19-47

Personal Reflection:

1. Reflecting on your life and actions… which matters more to you?… God’s opinion or the opinion of family, friends, coworkers or the community and their expectations of you?

I Know Your Hearts, John 5:41-44 – Added Questions for Small Group Discussion

1. Reflecting on your life and actions… which matters more to you?… God’s opinion or the  opinion of family, friends, coworkers or the community and their expectations of you?
2. What do you think of the following quote from Calvin Miller? Is it accurate? Is it overstated? How does it intersect with Sunday’s message?

“American writer Henry Miller said we are all neurotics down to the last human being. I’m confident he is right. I am equally convinced there are only two kinds of neurotics: those who admit to it and those who live all their lives in the pinch of cover-up. One reason I believe we are all neurotic is that all of us  suffer from time to time with feelings of inferiority and therefore  lack a sense of our significance. Calvin Miller” (Calvin Miller, Preaching: The Art of Narrative Exposition (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 2006), Kindle location 551.)

1. In John 5:19-47, Jesus makes many claims about himself. As a group, read the text in its entirety, with group members interrupting the reading to identify those specific claims. With each take a moment to reflect on the implications those claims have on us.
2. The focus of the message was verses 41-44. Read those few verses from as many translations that might be available in the group. Ideally it would be good to have at least 3 or 4 readings. With the text in mind, as well as Sunday’s message, what do you hear this passage of Scripture saying?
3. Though the Pharisees worked tirelessly on directing the people to God’s law, they lost sight of God’s purposes. Consider how our need for approval and acceptance in the church can distract us from our purpose of knowing God and making God known? Are we sometimes more preoccupied with ‘personal approval’ than God’s purposes?
4. During the sermon, Lloyd spoke about abiding in the WORD, COMMUNITY and SPIRIT.
5. What are the pitfalls of omitting one or more of the ways we know God’s heart?
6. Which aspect of knowing God are you most drawn to? Most opposed to?
   1. What is your “take home” from the sermon?
   2. Lloyd Letkeman restated verses 41-44 with the paraphrase below. As you conclude the meeting, reread the verses below, with the intent of identifying at least one thoughts that will be prayed back to God.

“I do not accept people’s good opinions of me, because I know their hearts. Opinions are worthless, I desire your love, and I know that you love me. I have come in the Spirit and purpose of my Father and you accepted me; and when others came with good reputations and words of flattery, you wisely rejected their message. You stood firm in your identity in me because you have made an effort to know the only One and true God who loves you and values you deeply.” John 5:41-44 (positive voice)

For November 7

Title: The downside of “Helping God Out”…
Text: Please read John 5:1-18
Opening…
We usually don’t intend to – but we often try to “help God out” in ways that are really unnecessary and even worse – often have a real downside.  In this text I would suggest that we can see two ways that we often try to do just that.  First, by doing more than God has asked us to do, and second by adding extra rules (or fences) to what God has clearly put in place in scripture.

Focus:  God’s unique calling for us – no more, no less…
Jesus went to Jerusalem on the Sabbath and walked through the area of the pool of Bethesda.   It says there were 5 covered porches filled with people who had all kinds of sickness and need.  Likely hundreds of people with such need and Jesus only healed one.  Why do you think this is?  Why didn’t he heal the rest?
Jesus had a clear desire to do the work that the Father had given him (read John 4:34; 5:19; 26,27; 30; 6:38 just for starters).  This seems to also give us the freedom to focus on the unique giftedness, calling and opportunities that he has given us.

• do you at times feel overwhelmed by needs all around you?
• do you find it difficult to say “no” to some really good things?
• what are some examples of these tensions in your life?
• what happens to us when we can’t say no, and try to meet every need that comes our way?

Read the story in Nehemiah 6:1-9 where Nehemiah is invited repeatedly to a meeting, but says he is doing a great work and won’t be distracted from what God has called him to do.  What lessons are learned from this story for your life?
How would you describe some of the unique gifts and calling that God has placed in your life?  How does this focus free you from trying to “help God out” by doing everything that comes your way?

Fences…
Fences are the additional things that we add to the gospel of what God clearly taught.  Usually in expectations of what to do or not to do in how we live.  Read again the account of the Jewish leaders confronting the healed man.   What was their issue with this newly healed man?  How do you suppose this healed man would have viewed the added “fences” of the Jewish leaders?

Read Colossians 2:16-23.  What are some of the added “fences” that Paul is addressing here in this text?  How are we to view these in light of our new life in Christ?  What are ways that we still today add “fences” to what the Bible clearly teaches?

The downside of “Helping God Out” – Added Questions for Small Group Discussion

1. The message suggested that sometimes we simply take on too much of the ‘weight of the world’. To what extent is that true for you? Are you overwhelmed by the needs around you? Or have you found an appropriate balance between the needs of the world and your level of response?
2. Ephesians 2:10 states: “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works which God prepared in advance for us to do.”  What part can the truth of this verse play in bringing a more wholesome perspective between the needs around us and our involvement?
3. Need clearly cannot be basis of our potential involvement (over involvement) in ministry. What are some of the critical components in discerning what you will or will not involve yourself in? Related to this, to what extent do you see your vocation as an expression of ministry?
4. In the John 5 story Jesus only healed one man! There were many others He didn’t heal. What do you make of Jesus’ inaction with regard to the rest? What other thoughts or themes emerge from this observation? What might it suggest regarding suffering, or mystery, or sovereignty or endurance, etc.?
5. Focused obedience was one of the critical application points from the message. If you were to identify primary points where God wants you to bring focused obedience, what would you articulate? Related to this, is there anything you need to stop doing?
6. Citing John 5:10, Pastor Bruce made the observation that sometimes we, or others, occupy ourselves with the setting up of unnecessary fences. What are some fences that you have come up against, either self- imposed or suggested by others, that once seen for what they are, really irked you?
7. “A religion of rules always operates so that either the rules break the people or the people break the rules.” Why is it that some are so occupied with the making of rules beyond what is required? What is it about rules that prompt believers to trade in the freedom of the gospel for the deadness of regulation?
8. As you consider the message from Sunday, what was one main take away for you?

For October 17, 24 and 31

There are few texts that have been preached on more than the story of Jesus meeting the woman at the well in John 4. My guess would be that anyone who only preaches one sermon on this text has felt it to be completely inadequate because there is so much going on in this story and so much that Jesus is teaching us about who he is and why he came. On Oct. 17 (Bruce Enns), 24 (Dale Dirksen), and 31 (Don Froese) we will take three distinct looks at this same text – John 4.

For October 31

Title: Well or Spring?

Text:  John 4:  1-15 & 28

Introduction:

This week we will focus on Jesus’ offer of “Living Water”.  One can survive a few weeks without food, but survival without water comes down to a matter of hours.  The picture of water to sustain life is relevant to all cultures and in all times.  Streams, lakes and springs are (and were) relatively rare in Israel.  The people in Biblical times were largely  dependent upon seasonal rainfall.  Much of the water for daily life was rainwater stored in large rock-hewn cisterns or filtered through the ground to produce wells. Cistern and well water became stagnant and unreliable, so the idea of fresh spring was very appealing!

Consider Jeremiah 2:13:  “My people have committed two sins:  They have forsaken me, the spring of living water and have dug their own cisterns…”

1. How do we dig our own cisterns?  Where in our lives have we become self reliant, only to realize things are becoming stale?
2. They dug a cistern (worldview) that came from culture and not from the spring of revelation.  Reflect on what you believe and how you live. How much is from culture and how much comes from God’s voice and scripture?

Consider Psalm 63:  “Oh God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.”

1. Like much of Israel, life has seasons of desert.  Do you feel that you are currently in a desert time?  Remember that desert kills the flesh and produces thirst for God…keep seeking, trusting and crying out to God! “My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.” (Psalm 42)
2. Jesus said to the woman at the well in John 4: 14: “Whoever drinks of the water I give him will never thirst.  Indeed the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”  If we take Jesus at His word, why do we experience desert times?  Have you wandered from the spring or allowed the disappointments or pain in life to cut off the supply line?

Consider John 4: 28:  “Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town…”

1. Why do you think she left her water jar?  What might the Spirit be prompting us?
2. How can we begin to drink deeply from Jesus’ words (His words are water and life!)?

Well or Spring? – Added Questions for Small Group Discussion

1. The ‘message before the message’ was a prophetic word asking hearers to ‘receive the love of God’. As Pastor Don shared that word, how did you respond?  Was it a God moment for you?
2. The message made reference to the debate around bottled water, and with that raised concern over the availability of safe clean drinking water in the world. Environmental voices suggest it will even be a bigger issue in the years following. The reason is the rapidity with which many of the glaciers, which provide a significant amount of our drinking water, are melting. Do you think this is a major issue environmentalists make it to be, or is it just a small blip in our weather patterns? And on what basis are your opinions shaped?
3. Pastor Don asked us to consider the question, “When do you think the woman began to realize that Jesus was not talking of literal water but of spiritual water?” Of the following verses, where do you think that realization came to her?
   1. Verses 10-12
   2. Verses 13-15
   3. Verses 16-19
   4. The message carried images of three sources for water: the spring (the best); the well; and then the cistern (the least desirable). The ideal would be to live in the world of the ‘spring’, 24/7. But life isn’t like that. Indeed, the Psalms speak extensively of life experiences dominated by lament, set back, despair, etc…..somewhat comparable to the stagnant waters found in the cistern. As you evaluate your spiritual life, how would you assess it and why: A spring? A well? Or a cistern?
   5. The message asked, “If you were to give your testimony today, would it be more of the past or would it be more of the present?” The suggestion was that if we had nothing or little to say about today, then our lives may be more in the world of the ‘cistern’ rather than that of the ‘spring’. It was a challenging point in the sermon. How would you evaluate your present day testimony?
   6. Pastor Don used the imagery of the woman’s water jar as symbolic of her independence, versus later (4:28), where she ‘left her water jar behind.’ To what extent did that illustration connect with you? Is there a ‘something’ that you need to leave behind?
   7. “Desert can be a good thing. Desert kills the flesh and creates an insatiable hunger and thirst for God. Let the desert experience finish what needs to be finished.” Can you identify a past or present ‘desert’ experience, and give indication of what you gained (or are gaining) from the experience?

For October 24, 2010

Title: “Seeker Focused Worship”

Read John 4:1-26. If you have been following this section of the website, this is the second week in a row that you have read this passage.

This is an interesting story about Jesus’ encounter with a woman at “Jacob’s Well.” The encounter itself is unlikely, but even more unlikely is that we receive a significant teaching about worship in this conversation. The focus of the message on Sunday will be Jesus teaching on worship.

As you prepare for our Sunday morning together, consider the questions below:

1. Why do you think Jesus chose this context to give this teaching about worship? Why not the synagogue or temple?
2. There is a lot of talk about a focus on seekers in many churches today. It is assumed that seekers are people who are seeking after God or seeking after spirituality. Who is identified as the “seeker” in this passage (see verse 23)?
3. What do you think Jesus means when he says worshipers must worship in spirit and truth (verse 23 and 24)? Is this related to his statement that God is spirit (verse 24)?
4. Why is truth important in worship? Is this truth as an idea or concept or is it something else?
5. What might an appropriate response be when one encounters Jesus’ teaching on worship? What did the woman from Jacob’s well do?
6. What might be a response that you and I might have to this teaching?

Seeker Focused Worship – Added Questions for Small Group Discussion

1. Pastor Dale spoke of having been lost while out on a hunting trip. Have you ever been lost, and if so, what were the circumstances? How did you feel?
2. The message suggested that when we witness something supernatural, we tend to look for some natural explanation. In contrast early believers readily embraced the supernatural as a first possible option. (Another interesting example on this is Acts 12:14-15, where members of the early church were more inclined to believe that Peter’s angel was at the door, rather than Peter himself!) Why do you think we are so inclined to look for a natural explanation? Are there exceptions to this?
3. Worship is all about God. Worship is profoundly about the vertical. Assuming that worship by a group of people is true, there still are benefits that come to the worshippers. What are some of those benefits?
4. The Greek word for worship is proskuneo, which carries with it the idea of bowing down. It suggests physical response. Years ago First Baptist Church Dallas, Texas, installed kneelers in their sanctuary in order that their people might have opportunity to kneel during the worship service. If worship leaders at Forest Grove came with a suggestion to install kneelers, how would you respond? Supportive or opposed? Why?
5. The conclusion of the message outlined three specific responses. Those responses were:
   • Let’s re-orient our focus.
   • Let’s engage (consciously) our spirits.
   • Let’s make the truth of Scripture and Jesus central.

Of the three which do you most need to focus on? Why?

6. What do you think of the following quote? Does it make sense to you? Does it resonate with you?

“Missions is not the ultimate goal of the church. Worship is. Missions exists because worship doesn’t. Worship is ultimate, not missions, because God is ultimate, not man.  When this age is over, and the countless millions of the redeemed fall on their faces before the throne of God, missions will be no more. It is a temporary necessity. But worship abides forever.” Ralph D. Winter and Steven C. Hawthorne, Perspectives on the World Christian Movement, 49.

7. Conclude by reading Revelation 5, looking for key thoughts that strike you about this dynamic expression of worship. Consider including those thoughts as part of your group prayer time.

For October 17, 2010

Title: “Culture and Conflict” (Part 1 of 3 part series on John 4)
Text: READ John 4:1-42

Opening…
This week, we begin by looking at the unique cultures represented and also the long standing conflict of smoldering tension between Jews and Samaritans. Jesus crossed many cultural boundaries in order to bring his ministry of reconciliation to all people.  He continually reveals his messianic presence and how it overwhelmed the various cultural expectations and replaced and fulfilled the Jewish traditions so prevalent in that time.

What are some family tensions and conflict that you’ve observed and experienced over the years?
What are usually at the root of these conflicts?
What does it do to relationships?
What was going on that led Jesus to head north to Galilee?
Using a map (back of Bible) look at the usual route (east to Jericho and north to Beth Shan) of Jews vs. the route that Jesus took (straight north through Sychar)?
Why do you suppose Jesus took this route?
What are the core issues that Jesus addresses with the Samaritan woman?
How do these relate to us today?

Going Deeper…
What are some of the historical challenges relating to Jesus relating to a Samaritan and a woman?
-READ 1 Kings 11:26-43 to see the split between north and south
-quickly scan through 2 Kings chps 13 to the end of the book – and note the various kings ruling the south (Judah – capital is Jerusalem) and the north (Israel – capital is Samaria)
-these are the beginning of this conflict
-READ Ezra 4:1-4 – this is where Samaritans were refused being able to help rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem after returning from exile.  This led to Samaritans setting up their own.  How does this come out in the woman’s conversation with Jesus?
How does Jesus take this conflict to a higher level of focus and truth?

What are some of the implications of this text for us today relating to culture and conflicts? Where is Samaria today?  What are the major political and cultural boundaries that stand between the church and needy people

For a great article that looks at our ‘gestures and postures’ towards culture and calls us to be ‘artists’ (creators) and ‘gardeners’ (cultivators) go to http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2008/september/10.25.html

Culture and Conflict – Added Questions for Small Group Discussion

1. Reread the text (John 4:1-42) as is, or consider reading the text with individuals assigned to specific roles: narrator; Jesus; the woman; the disciples. Make sure everyone is working with the same translation. (One option would be to copy the text; identify the assigned lines; and then make a copy for everyone.)
2. Samaritans were seen as ‘half-breeds.’ How do you react when you hear someone today refer disparagingly to any group of people as ‘half-breeds’? What does that say about the sense of conviction that all people are created in the image of God? Do you think God is angered by talk of ‘half-breeds’?
3. As a group, brainstorm the many different cultural differences that we experience in Saskatoon….be it at work, in our neighbourhoods, our city as whole, etc.
4. What is your Samaria? Who or what do you tend to travel around? What would it take to be a ‘barrier buster’ (phrase used in the skit)?
   • To be a ‘barrier buster’ requires moving beyond ‘self’. It has been said that, “A missionary is not someone who lives outside the boundaries of his own country for Christ, but someone who lives outside the boundaries of his own self for Christ.” To what extent does a preoccupation with ‘self’ prevent us/others from engaging with ‘the Samaritan’? How self-centered (or maybe insecure) do you think we/people are?
   • Mother Theresa told a rich American visitor who could not comprehend her fierce commitment to the dregs of Calcutta, “First we meditate on Jesus and then we go out and look for him in disguise.” (from Philip Yancey, The Jesus I Never Knew, 233). What would it take to view other people as ‘Jesus in disguise’? As a part of this read Matthew 25:31-46, with group participants identifying key impressions.

For October 10, 2010 (African Children’s Choir – ACC) Questions for Small Group Discussion

1. Psalm 100 was read at the beginning of the service. Reread the Psalm with group participants being asked then to share one point of thankfulness.
2. Africans can be very expressive in their worship. North Americans, in relationship to Africans, seem to be less so. Would you want to be more expressive in your worship, or do you prefer a more meditative and reflective posture?
3. The ACC did a number of well-known songs, some of them being listed below. If you were to identify one that has added equity in it for you, which would you select, and why?
   1. Through it All
   2. He Has the  Whole World in His Hands
   3. Here I Am to Worship
   4. This Little Light of Mine
4. The logo for the ACC (on their t-shirts; on the screen; on their literature; on their website) portrays a number of people linked together into one unit. Of what you know of African culture, what does this logo say about the importance they attach to community?  What can we learn from them?
5. The choir leaders did not dwell on the dire circumstances from which many of these children have come. Apparently, many are without parents. Aids is a contributing factor. The capacity to go on tour for 12 months would suggest there are no parents to go home to. The Music for Life ministry presumably is home, family, and even mom and dad. How did you respond emotionally to all that you heard Sunday morning, be it the pain, but equally the hope reflected by Victor (the African adult who shared in the service)?
6. In praying, some Africans will pray together, all at the same time. The ACC demonstrated as such just before they sang Here I am to Worship. Consider closing the small group time by praying as the Africans….with five minutes dedicated to all praying at the same time!

For October 3, 2010 (Bob Radtke speaking)

Title:  The Powerful Voice of Faith
READ John chapters 2 and 3

1.      What is your favorite verse in scripture?  Why?  John 3:16 is often cited as this.  Where does it stack up from your life?  What are some of the implications of this verse?
2.      John chapter 2 has the story of Jesus at a wedding and his mother Mary actually encouraging him into his public ministry.  How does her comment in vs. 5 reveal her faith?
3.      What was limiting Nicodemus’ faith in John 3?  How had his past and his training limited his ability to believe in Jesus?
4.      Where have you seen the evidence of spoken faith in your life?

The Powerful Voice of Faith – Added Questions for Small Group Discussion

Reread Numbers 23:19, the verse suggested to be the greatest of the Bible. Did you understand why Pastor Radtke felt it was the greatest? If you were asked to restate his argument, how would you articulate it?

1. In referencing the wedding in Cana, the topic of wine was brought up. More specifically, it was said, “If you take a snake in your mouth, it will eat your mind.” How do evangelicals view the drinking of wine today compared to thirty years ago? Has the change been positive or negative?
2. John 2:5 states (with Jesus speaking), “Do whatever He tells you to do.” The message focussed on that line as a point of application. As you consider your life, what is it that Jesus might be saying to you? Are you at liberty to share that with the group?
3. The message spoke about “being born again” (John 3:1ff). Are we living in a time where we have witnessed a de-emphasis on that truth?  What do you think? If so, what have been some of the contributing factors?
4. “Nicodemus’ academic pursuit had fouled up his mind.” How would you describe an appropriate understanding that brings together academic pursuit and the matter of earnestly seeking God?
5. Reread Numbers 21:4-9, as well as John 3:14-15. The message suggested that all one has to do is look up at Jesus and live. True for the entry point. But what is also required in the journey of discipleship to truly live the abundant life (John 10:10)?
6. The cost of discipleship is high. The cost of not following Jesus is even higher, much higher. What would you identify as being the most critical costs of not embracing Jesus Christ?

For September 26, 2010

Title – “Giving Voice to our HOPE”

Text – John 1:1-34

Opening:
If we were to take the time to do an inventory (quite a task) of all the things that we talk about in a day… what are the things that truly dominate our conversations (think in terms of content)?
If we then had some kind of instrument that could gauge the ‘attitude’ or temperament of our conversations in a given day (there’s now a computer program that pre-scans our emails for this) – what would that reveal (think in terms of tone – positive, negative, hopeful, cynical, joyful, etc)?
These together reveal our “VOICE” in the world – in terms of the things we say and the way that we say them.  What is it that people hear?

Going Deeper:
Read John 1:1-34.  Take time to re-read and reflect on the deeper implications of vs.1-14.  We are so often quick to think about our faith in terms of what we do, what we think, and how we live.  What do these verses teach us about  who God is and what He has done?  How does this need to become the foundation and the focus of our hope?

This passage shows us John the Baptist who understood who he was in relation to Jesus.  He was a voice calling in the wilderness (1:23) – pointing people to the only true hope – Jesus Christ.

How can our understanding of the beginning verses of this great book shape how we view our days – the stresses and interruptions, the work we do, the relationships we have, our hopes and disappointments?

Erwin McManus frames it this way – that if we are truly followers of Jesus – we will be “people of faith, known by our love, and a voice of hope” in a dark world.  Is this the ‘voice’ that is heard from us?

For further study – READ Isaiah 40. It is the passage that John the Baptist is referring to in this text (see 40:3).  That powerful text goes on to talk about a God who comforts his people, whose Word stands forever, who calls out the stars by name, and who meets each one of us where we’re at – giving power to the weak, the tired, and to those in exhaustion – helping them walk, run, and even soar like eagles.  That is a hope to give voice to!

Gospel of John-Giving Voice to our Hope – Added Questions for Small Group Discussion

1. The message introduction spoke of the reality of death. How often do you reflect on your eventual death? Does doing so create fear? Or does it create a positive sense of anticipation? Or both?
2. Reread John 1:1-18, with each participant identifying a verse or thought that generates a note of hope.
3. The message indicated that Forest Grove will observe Communion over six Sundays, beginning the first Sunday after Thanksgiving. Does participating in Communion spark hope within your spirit? If so, what does that look or feel like?
4. The question was raised, “What is our voice to the world?” Further to that question, we were asked what an inventory on what we say (and how we say things) might reveal. Can you think of people who seemingly generate a significant measure of hope. What is it about them that brings that voice of hope to others? What would it take to emulate them?
5. Romans 8 is one of the most hope-filled chapters of the Bible. Martin Luther found it of such value, he suggested every believer ought to memorize the chapter. Because of that hope, Romans 8:37 says we are “more than conquerors”. How do you feel most days? Less.just a conqueror (which is pretty good!)…or more than a conqueror? than a conqueror….
6. John the apostle gave his voice to hope by writing the Gospel of John. He clearly had a gift and a capacity for writing. What are you most drawn to doing that gives expression to hope. Some examples include: writing; art; gardening; teaching; hospitality; friendship evangelism; etc.
7. 1 Corinthians 13:13 says “And now these three remain; faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” Pastor Bruce suggested that for him ‘hope’ was the greatest. How did you react to his assessment? Of the three, which would you consider the greatest? Would you stay with the biblical assessment, or would you want to modify?
8. Pastor Bruce made more than one reference to Ken Rutherford’s funeral (Ken was the First Nations Alliance pastor in the city. He had served in that capacity for 25 years. He passed away from cancer.) One comment that was expressed at the funeral about Ken was the following: “Wherever there is darkness, all you have to do is light a match.” Anyone can light a match! Does the quote inspire you, and if so, how?

For September 19, 2010

Sermon Title: “HOLDING ON TO A DARK WORLD”

Please READ John chapter 1 again, but this time, keep reading through to the end of chapter 3.

There is a great, but sad irony, that the very thing that God initiated to address our human condition is the very thing we continually reject.  We seem to have an ongoing dance between darkness and light. This text reveals that only too well…

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.”  (1:5)

“He came into the very world he created, but the world didn’t recognize him.” (1:10)

“For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.  God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.”

…”people loved the darkness more than the light…” (3:19)

Jesus knew this only too well – it says that he didn’t trust the people (even though he came to save them), because he knew human behaviour and nobody needed to tell him what mankind was really like (John 2:24,25).

Discussion / Reflection Questions:
-what are the personal tensions that we feel within ourselves that reveal this struggle between darkness and light?
-what are examples in the systems and realities of our broader world that also reveal that struggle?
-what are the stories that you’ve experienced or were personally connected to in some way – that revealed the transforming power of God’s light into a very dark situation?

One commentator (Burge) states that darkness is a theological description that betrays the world’s commitments and confusions.  And that the “world” is really a theological term for humanity set against God (NIV application commentary, . p. 63). Therefore John 3:16 is about God’s love for all humanity that is constantly set up against him.  The “world” being described here is not a neutral place – it’s a place that is opposed to the light of God – yet despite this opposition, this rebellion, this natural and intentional tendency to go in the opposite direction of God’s ways – God loves the world and became flesh / lived among us / moved into the neighbourhood / in order to save the very people that seem to constantly reject him.

How does this change your view or worship of God?  What are areas of your life where you can step more fully “into the light”?  What would this look like?

Holding on to a Dark World – Added Questions for Small Group Discussion

1. Have you ever being in a totally dark setting (mine, cave, etc.) where it was completely dark. What was the setting? What did it feel like to be in total darkness?
2. The message suggested that “We can gravitate more to darkness than light.” John 3:19 was cited.  Do you agree or disagree? In what ways do we lean more towards darkness than light?
3. The message mentioned the following quote: “Sin is not a series of bad choices; rather it is a state of being that leads to bad choices” The quote speaks of the ‘depravity’ of humanity. How do you react to language that speaks of our ‘depravity’. Uneasy? Accepting? Not true?
4. Examples of darkness in the world abound, but what about the darkness in us. What are some of the points of darkness that exist with us?`
5. The message concluded with the words “May your light come into this day.” Where, in your life, do you most need to see the light come into your world?

For more information about the recent Canadian MB Conference national gathering in Winnipeg, click the links below.

• The MB Conference Gathering Site
• A Video about the Gathering
• A video about the C2C church planting initiative
• An article from the MB Herald relating to a prophetic word and Willie Reimer

(highlights from Pastor Bruce’s Report)
We are stepping into a new sermon series (both Attridge and Broadway) called “New Beginnings,” looking at the power and implications of the resurrection.  With the power of the Spirit of the risen Christ, and with renewed minds and steps of obedience that we can take, all kinds of new beginnings are possible in our lives.  Please be in prayer that this is a season of new breakthroughs and new beginnings in the lives of our people.

It feels like many exciting new beginnings are soon upon us.  The Broadway Gathering is starting a second Broadway community that will meet on Sunday nights.  We are excited about how things are progressing with our lead candidate in the worship role (Attridge), and anticipate a recommendation from Council at this meeting to bring to the congregation.  I’ve also been in conversation with one individual regarding our young adults role and some of the creative ways of funding and shaping this role as an intentional aspect of calling out and developing leaders from within our church.

In this Council meeting, we talked about new initiatives and opportunities in evangelism, feeding the poor in our city, hosting refugees, support for our long term missionaries, short term mission teams, and so much that we praise God for.  Our upcoming Annual Report is around the theme of “IMMESURABLY MORE” – longing for more of the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives and in our church.  We tend to ask for such trivial and temporal things of this world – but God’s desire is to give us so much more of so much better.  Paul prayed that kind of audacious prayer in Ephesians 3, that God would do “immeasurably more,” through the power of the Holy Spirit, than we might ask or even imagine – that’s a lot more!

Reports were submitted by the Council Committees

• Governance Committee
• Financial Audit Committee
• Leadership Discernment Committee
• Personnel Resources Committee

Meeting Highlights

• Council approved a proposed Legacy Fund document. This is a policy to deal with larger gifts that are often associated with bequests, life insurance plans, publically traded securities, real estate, etc.
• The Encore Monday growth opportunities have been well received.
• There was a pre-marriage preparation day at FGCC Attridge on April 27. Seven couples participated in this day of equipping and marriage preparation. Huge thanks to all presenters.
• Maryanne Berge gave a report on her recent trip to Guadalajara to the Matthew Training Centre there. Tori Braun also went on this trip.
• An afternoon training session for all Children’s Ministry volunteers happened in March. FGCC is also hosting a pancake breakfast at the end of May to celebrate families and thank those that serve faithfully in CM each week.
• In our Attridge congregation, we have had 13 new Small Groups form in the past year
• A new missional community is forming in our Broadway congregation.
• Council approved a plan to develop a community garden on the green space east of the Attridge building.
• A plan for how to use the 2012 financial surplus was discussed. It was proposed that 50% be designated to Attridge renovation and building needs, with the other 50% to leadership development (including young adult leadership and possible future site leadership), strategic partners, and other ministry initiatives. (more details available upon request)

FGCC Finances – Year to Date – YTD – to March 31, 2013  -  Parentheses = negative number

*Note, Sunday programming is slightly different on long weekends.

Sunday Mornings during Winter, 2013 (Attridge)
9:30-10:15 - LIFEtime (click HERE for more)
9:30-10:15 – PowerUp (click HERE for more)
10AM – Coffee in the Lobby
10:30AM – Worship service – Kids programming (pre-school to grade 6) will happen during our worship services.

*Note, Sunday programming is slightly different on long weekends.

(click HERE to find out more about our worship services)

For more information, click “ABOUT“

June 2, 9, 16, 30 – meet at Oskayak
June 23 – join Hope Fellowship Church at the River Landing
July and August – meet at the Cosmo Senior’s Centre (except for two dates below because of the Fringe Festival) August 4 and 11 – Meeting location to be confirmed check our FB page for details

Plan to join us on our Fall Retreat – September 20-22 – Click HERE to download a brochure and registration form

Gathering Information for 2013

On Sunday, January 6, The Gathering moved to “Oskayak High School“ – 919 Broadway Ave.

Oskayak is an independent First Nations school under the wing of the Catholic School board.  Oskayak is the Cree word for “young people” – there are 51 different first nations represented in the student body.

The Gathering at Broadway meets Sunday mornings at 10:30.  We begin with brunch/coffee and then flow into our worship & teaching time.

Changing it up – below – in the round on May 5

The Gathering at Broadway…invites and welcomes you to join us!

Meeting at the “Oskayak High School” – 919 Broadway Ave. Click HERE for a map.

Kids?  There is a “play mat” in our main meeting area where kids can play during our gathering.  They are also invited to their own teaching time around 11:30.

Other stuff

Click HERE for short videos of our January 2013 baptisms.

Our Vision

• Open Community:  embracing all backgrounds and places on the journey…Belonging to Believing
• Discipling Community:  living by Word & Spirit…authentic spiritual growth
• Serving Community:  learning & risking together…to serve each other & the Broadway area

Are you wondering if The Gathering @ Broadway could be for you?  Here are a few ways to help you discern:

• Are you looking for a spiritual community in the Broadway area of Saskatoon?
• Do you have spiritual questions and need a place to safely ask them?  Regardless of background, you are welcome.
• Do you live in or love to spend time in the Broadway area?
• Do you have a church background, but haven’t gone in awhile?  It is OK to come “just as you are” and see if our community is a place where you could re-connect.
• Do you believe in mentoring?  We have a lot of young single adults and couples…if you are more “life experienced” and would enjoy connecting with younger people, we would love to have you join us.
• Please feel free to email Pastor Don (don@forestgrovecc.com) if you have further questions.

“All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals, and to prayer…and the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.”  Acts 2: 42 & 47 (NLT)

For more general information about multi-site, click here.

For more information about SPLASH, email or talk with Kevin, Chandra or Maryanne.

For an information brochure, click here.

For an application, click here.