Simple Reminders
The primary idea you need to keep revisiting during this Following Jesus Pathway is that we are following and being formed by Jesus. This pathway can be learned simply or in great depth. We trust that you as a leader know your people and the dynamics of your group well enough to adapt and impart this topic with grace and wisdom.
This guide is designed to help you and others follow and be formed by Jesus. Remember to keep it Jesus-Centered.
We pray that you will be Spirit-Led and Spirit- Empowered as you lead and learn together.
Brief Commentary and Context
(Answer this question here: What did this mean in the original context and how is it set in the larger story of the Bible?)
The Gift- ‘The Gift’ is a shorthand description used in the apostles' letters to the churches describing the lavish grace of God given to all who repent and place their trust in Jesus as Lord, believing the gospel. The gospel is who Jesus is and what he has done. ‘The Gift’ is what we freely receive in Christ and continually experience through the Holy Spirit!
Brief Commentary for John 16:7-15 (ESV)- Jesus Promised the Holy Spirit
A long slow evening shared amongst dearest friends around a table. Jesus had gathered his inner circle to celebrate the passover on what would be the last evening before his death. A somber and sober mood filled the air as the Rabbi opened the deepest places of his heart and greatest secrets of the Kingdom. He showed them the full extent of his self-giving love as he took the posture of a servant to wash their feet, calling them to follow his example. Jesus held nothing back as he shared his imminent departure and the harsh realities of persecution that awaited his followers. The passage vividly describes the sorrow and fear that had filled their hearts as their Lord shared these things. And then came a shocking statement “I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you.” (v.7) You can imagine their minds already in shock now spinning with questions. What could be better than being with Jesus? He will take the time to introduce the “helper” to them. The one who has been with him from the beginning, who filled him at his baptism and led and empowered him every moment of his ministry. Jesus knew they could never live the life he lived without the Spirit by which he lived it. He wanted to give them the greatest of all Gifts, the Holy Spirit.
Summary Scripture: Ephesian 1:13-14- “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.”
John 14:16- “I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever;”
John 3:34- “For He whom God has sent speaks the words of God; for He gives the Spirit without measure.”
Luke 11:13- “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?”
Galatians 5:25- “Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.”
Learn the Tool: The Gospel and the Gift
Extra Resources to help you Prepare
Source: https://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Gift-Of-The-Holy-Spirit
John Mark Comer, Live No Lies “...the way we fight and overcome our flesh isn’t through willpower but through the Spirit’s power. And we get access to that power via the practices of Jesus…The key is to find ways of living in reliance on the Spirit’s presence and power in your ordinary life.”
Anyone new in your home church?
Things to Consider:
Is the new individual, or family organically connecting with anyone in your home church? Suggest a coffee hang to begin a deeper connection, or consider having the individual/family over for an easy dinner to get to know them better.
Is the new individual, or family interested in receiving communication via text, or email? If so, have them email admin@navahchurchkc.com with their name and phone number.
Do they plan to attend All Navah Gatherings? If yes and it is a new family, they can email admin@navahchurchkc.com with their name, their children(s) name, DOB and grade to make for a smooth kids ministry check-in process.