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  • The Gospel: 3. He died the death we should have died for sin

    The Gospel Overview The gospel means ‘good news’- the good news of who Jesus is and what Jesus has done. It is the message that Jesus is Lord and the Kingdom of God is now accessible on earth as it is in heaven through him unto a whole new creation. The gospel is the power of God for the salvation and transformation of all who put their trust in Jesus. REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship, Prayer or Communion Read Psalm 22 Psalm 22 song by Poor Bishop Hooper https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GUqw-x4Kj2w Child friendly: Lifetree Kids Romans 5:8 “His Great Love” His Great Love (Romans 5:8) | Jerusalem Marketplace VBS Music Video | Group Publishing Breath Prayer (1 Peter 2:23) Breathe in: Christ my Righteousness Breath out: Your wounds have healed me Remember each other: Care Optional- break up into smaller groups for 10 min Hi/Lo check in Remember the Liturgy: Following Jesus Liturgy Remember what we learned and put into practice last week? Gospel: 2. He lived the life we couldn’t live Remember each other: Care Optional- break up into smaller groups for 10 min Hi/Lo check in Remember the Liturgy: Following Jesus Liturgy Remember what we learned and put into practice last week: Accountability What did we learn and put into practice from the last topic: Gospel: 2. He lived the life we couldn’t live (3-5 min) You could have people share the scripture or promise they have meditated on during the week to help them resist the enemy’s temptations and attack on their identity. REFLECT (30 min) Prepare (See the Leaders Guide for a brief commentary and context for the scripture and core truth from the topic) Introduce today’s Topic and any commentary or context for the scripture Gospel: 3. He died the death we should have died for sin Share the Key Scripture for the topic. Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed Share context for Isaiah 52:13-15; Isaiah 53:1-12 Discover Read the Scripture: Isaiah 52:13-53:1-12 Or read the story of the Cross from Matthew 27:32-54 Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People? Why did Jesus need to bear our sin in his body on the cross? What was accomplished? When or how did Jesus’ death become personal for you? RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Share Communion together as you reflect on the cross where Jesus’ body was broken and blood shed for us. Prepare the elements (if possible have a loaf of bread to break and share) Take time to individually meditate on the cross as each person holds a piece of broken bread (kneel if possible). You could sit/kneel in silence or play ‘Jesus paid it all’ Jesus paid it all (with lyrics) by Kim Walker-Smith Consider what emotion rises in you as you contemplate the cross and the scriptures from the morning. Offer prayers of gratitude to Jesus for what he has done for you (Died the death you should have died for sin) Partake in the communion elements together Practice and Obey Take time this week to consider if there is any sin or bondage of sin that you are living under that can be given to Jesus. Spend time in repentance and receiving the forgiveness that the cross provides. Consider taking communion daily throughout this week to keep Jesus’s life and death before you. Pray The Lord’s Prayer 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.

  • The Gospel: 4. God Raised and Seated him as Lord

    The Gospel Overview The gospel means ‘good news’- the good news of who Jesus is and what Jesus has done. It is the message that Jesus is Lord and the Kingdom of God is now accessible on earth as it is in heaven through him unto a whole new creation. The gospel is the power of God for the salvation and transformation of all who put their trust in Jesus. REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship, Prayer or Communion Spend a few minutes giving thanks for how your lives have changed through knowing the Risen Lord Jesus. Worship Songs Child friendly: Breath Prayer Breathe in: Risen Jesus Breath out: We worship and adore you Remember each other: Care Optional- break up into smaller groups for 10 min Hi/Lo check in Remember the Liturgy: Following Jesus Liturgy Remember what we learned and put into practice last week: Accountability What did we learn and put into practice from the last topic: The Gospel- 3. He died the death we should have died for sin. (5-10 min) Take time this week to consider if there is any sin or bondage of sin that you are living under that can be given to Jesus. Spend time in repentance and receiving the forgiveness that the cross provides. Consider taking communion daily throughout this week to keep Jesus’s life and death before you. REFLECT (30 min) Prepare (See the Leaders Guide for a brief commentary and context for the scripture and core truth from the topic) Introduce today’s Topic and any commentary or context for the scripture The Gospel: 4. God Raised and Seated him as Lord Share the Key Scripture for the topic. Ephesians 1:19b-22 Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed Share context Discover Read and Retell the Story: Luke 24:36-53 Resurrection and Ascension Kids: Going Home (Jesus Storybook Bible) Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People (optional) What is the significance of Jesus’ physical, resurrected body? What was accomplished in the resurrection and ascension of Jesus as Lord? How does this change the way that we live all of life? RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Play a worship song that centers on Jesus’ resurrection ( like Chris Tomlin’s “Resurrection Power” or Kari Jobe’s “Forever”). Give people a few minutes to listen and reflect on where they need resurrection power in their current situations. Have people share in pairs Pray for one another Lord’s Supper (Communion) Practice and Obey Activate the power of the resurrected Lord by inviting the same Holy Spirit that raised Christ from the dead into your current situation. If people feel comfortable sharing, create a prayer list that everyone can pray over and speak truth over each person’s circumstance. Pray The Lord’s Prayer

  • KID'S RESOURCE: The Greatest Commandment: Part 2

    Remember Breath Prayer: Matthew 22:37 Breath in: I love you, Lord Breath out: With all my heart, soul, and mind Song geared toward PreK-K Remember one another Is anyone celebrating something that happened this week? Let’s share so we can all thank God together. Is anyone struggling, feeling sad, lonely or scared? How can we pray for one another? Remember what we learned last week Practice the Following Jesus Liturgy (With our youngest kids only focus on the portion that we’re currently learning) God's family is all over the world We pray for the Church to show God's love to the world Reflect: The Greatest Command The Overview: "THREE LOVES" described in "THREE WORDS" Prayerful (Love God): All of life in God’s presence. Family (Love One Another): All of life with God’s people. Mission (Love the World): All of life with God’s passion. We follow Jesus every day in every area of our life, 24-7. We don’t follow Jesus as individuals only, but as a family of families consumed with His love, power and presence. The primary way we express this shared life is in The Church. Set the stage with Key Passage Luke 10:25-37 Read the passage Have the kids try to retell the story in their own words Watch Discover through curious questions: Ask the children what stood out to them. What did they like about the story? Was anything new or different than how they’d heard the story in the past? Allow the conversation to be led by their questions, insights, and wonderments. Respond: Who is your neighbor Considering the story of the Good Samaritan, have the kids write a list of their neighbors, the ones God calls them to love. Are our neighbors the people who live next door? The people in their neighborhood? What about people who live further away but are part of their community, city, school, etc? What about people who believe differently or ones who don't believe in Jesus at all? What about people who look different, speak a different language? How far should our love extend? After writing down the names of various people and types of relationships (having helped them stretch their imagination to include more names) ask the kids if there's anyone on the list who has a need, or who could use prayer. Take time to pray over the names on the lists, talking about how God might want us to show them love this week. How can we be kind? How can be generous? Is there a way we can advance the Kingdom of God in our city this week by showing love to our neighbors? Encourage the kids to keep the lists and pray for the names this week, asking God to fill their hearts with love so they can love others as God calls us to. Listen: A focus on equality, diversity, and the call to love others as Christ has loved us Listen to "God's Very Good Idea" - a story of God's design for diversity. Allow the story to springboard conversation about diversity, inclusion, and the gospel that's for everyone. Why do you think God wanted the Church to be so diverse?

  • LEADERS GUIDE Topic: The Greatest Commandment: Part 2 - Love Your Neighbor as Yourself

    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 Church Overview: "THREE LOVES" described in "THREE WORDS" Prayerful (Love God): All of life in God’s presence. Family (Love One Another): All of life with God’s people. Mission (Love the World): All of life with God’s passion. We follow Jesus every day in every area of our life, 24-7. We don’t follow Jesus as individuals only, but as a family of families consumed with His love, power and presence. The primary way we express this shared life is in The Church. Following Jesus means that we love what He loves and share in His dreams. It means we dive deep into His Father, His family, His Spirit, His story and His world. Jesus suffered and died for all people, rich or poor, from all cultures and contexts. His passion was to bring home a hurting humanity and make beautiful a damaged creation. He called all people to follow Him, and called His followers to join His mission. Brief Commentary for Luke 10:25-37 (The Good Samaritan) Like a master of Jiu Jitsu, Jesus' opponents often found the force they used to ‘test’ Jesus turned back towards their own hearts and the question they came with turned upside down. This was the case in the famous parable of the “Good Samaritan” as it’s famously titled. A title that for a first century Jew would be a completely offensive oxymoron. An expert of the law seeking to “test” Jesus, asked about the requirements for inheriting eternal life. As usual, Jesus responded with a question of his own. “What is written in the Law? How do you read it?” The lawyer was ready with the right answer and Jesus affirmed him for it. “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and and your neighbor as yourself.” The man was right on and Jesus responded, “you have answered correctly; do this, and you will live.” But this is where the story takes a dramatic turn and the expert's heart is revealed. Often we have the right answer but not the right motive. Luke gives us a look into the lawyer's motive letting us know that the man’s question back to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor” was about his desire to justify himself. Here is where the master teacher shows his genius through telling a gripping and provocative story. A little context is required to grasp the full weight of Jesus’ parable. A deep seated animosity went back hundreds of years between the Jews and Samaritans to the divided kingdom of Israel and Judah. The Jews understood themselves as God’s covenant people and despised the Samaritans for their history of intermarrying with Assyrians, idolatry and sin. The feud widened between these people groups down through the centuries until the time of Jesus. Jews carried such prejudice that they avoided even going through the region of Samaria and instead would walk the often dangerous desert road in the east from Jerusalem to Jericho and then north. A man in Jesus’ story takes this road and is beaten severely. A priest and a Levite saw the man and passed by doing nothing to help. Two highly respected positions in Jewish culture looked to as a model of righteousness. Perhaps they didn’t help because they did not want to become ceremonially unclean or were too concerned with what they had to do or some other reason? Then Jesus introduces a Samaritan into the story. This man, thought to be unrighteous according to the law, shows incredible compassion and mercy and generously cares for this Jewish man who had been passed by his own religious leaders. Jesus turns their enemy into the hero and example of love. Jesus’ next question is where we see the reversal that turns everything upside down. “Which of these three, do you think, proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among robbers?” The expert in the law sought to justify himself according to the law by narrowing the perimeters of who deserves love and mercy. Jesus is not interested in who qualifies as a ‘neighbor’ in our narrow view, but in if we will ‘be a neighbor’ and so fulfill the law of love. Would this teacher of the law consider being a neighbor to the hated Samaritans if the situation was reversed? The lawyer answered Jesus’ question, “The one who showed him mercy.” Jesus exhorts the man to “Go, and do likewise.” This is a call to active, self-sacrificial love in Christ. Will we love as we have been loved? Will we extend the grace and mercy of our God even beyond our comfort, differences and prejudices? Will we be the neighbor for others that we desire ourselves? Let us love and so fulfill the law in Christ! Core Truths from the topic Summary Scripture: Matthew 22:36-39- “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” 1 Peter 4:8- “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” 1 John 4:7-10- “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.” 1 John 4:19-21- “We love because he first loved us. Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.” Matthew 5:43-48- “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47 And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. Extra Resources to help you Prepare Bible Project | Agape/Love Francis Chan: Love God, Love People 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.

  • The Gospel: 5. He is Coming again to Restore all things

    The Gospel Overview The gospel means ‘good news’- the good news of who Jesus is and what Jesus has done. It is the message that Jesus is Lord and the Kingdom of God is now accessible on earth as it is in heaven through him unto a whole new creation. The gospel is the power of God for the salvation and transformation of all who put their trust in Jesus. REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship, Prayer or Communion Worship Songs Champion (feat. Brandon Lake & Maryanne J. George) | Maverick City Music | UPPERROOM | TRIBL Ain't No Grave (Official Lyric Video) - Bethel Music & Molly Skaggs | VICTORY Child friendly: Breath Prayer Breath in: You are coming again Breath out: To restore all things Remember each other: Care Optional- break up into smaller groups for 10 min Hi/Lo check in Remember the Liturgy: Following Jesus Liturgy Remember what we learned and put into practice last week: Accountability What did we learn and put into practice from the last topic: The Gospel- 4. God Raised and Seated him as Lord (3-5 min) How have you seen the same Holy Spirit that raised Christ from the dead move in your current situations this week? REFLECT (30 min) Prepare (See the Leaders Guide for a brief commentary and context for the scripture and core truth from the topic) Introduce today’s Topic and any commentary or context for the scripture The Gospel: 5. He is Coming again to Restore all things Share the Key Scripture for the topic: “That he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus, whom heaven must receive until the time for restoring all things.” Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed Share context for Scripture/ Story - Revelation 21:1-7 New Heavens and New Earth Kids: A Dream of Heaven (Jesus Storybook Bible) Discover Read the Scripture Revelation 21:1-7 New Heavens and New Earth Kids: A Dream of Heaven (Jesus Storybook Bible) Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People? (optional) Why is it significant that the apostle John saw a new heavens and a new earth and heard God say “I am making all things new”? How do you see every result of the fall being restored through Jesus’ second coming in this story? In what ways can we join Jesus now in making “all things new”? RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Read : Revelation 22:17,20-21(ICB) The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” Everyone who hears this should also say, “Come!” If anyone is thirsty, let him come; whoever wishes it may have the water of life as a free gift… Jesus is the One who says that these things are true. Now he says, “Yes, I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen. The phrase: Come, Lord Jesus in Aramaic was “Maranatha”. It was a declaration used by the early church to declare two core truths, Jesus has come and Jesus will come again. We live in the tension of these two comings. Take time to think and then share with each other where you find yourself moved to pray “Come, Lord Jesus” . It could either be places of brokenness you see currently that need Jesus now or anticipation of where you are waiting for his coming and full restoration. Share Communion together Practice and Obey Intentionally incorporate the breath prayer “Maranatha” into your days this week. You might want to all choose a time to set an alarm/reminder where you all pray at the same time each day. for example you might all want to pray at 8 am and 8 pm each day during the week Pray The Lord’s Prayer

  • The Gift - 1. Forgiven

    The Gift Overview ‘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! Forgiveness Forgiveness cancels debt. When God forgives us, He doesn’t condone the wrongdoing or eliminate the consequences. He simply says, “I am no longer going to hold you accountable for the debt you’ve incurred against Me.” And it’s the same when we forgive one another. When we withhold forgiveness, we are keeping people in debt. But unlike a financial obligation, no one knows what repayment looks like. Holding a grudge is a way of saying, “You owe me something, but I’m not quite sure what it is.” Forgiveness cancels that debt. REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship, Prayer or Communion Thanksgiving: Spend some time giving thanks for God’s gift of forgiveness. Worship Songs What He’s Done Child friendly: Lifetree Kids, “God Forgave” Remember each other: Care Optional- break up into smaller groups for 10 min Hi/Lo check in Remember the Liturgy: Following Jesus Liturgy Remember what we learned and put into practice last week: Accountability Topic: The Gospel- 5. He is Coming again to Restore all things(3-5 min) How did you incorporate the breath prayer “Maranatha” into your days this week? REFLECT (30 min) Prepare (See the Leaders Guide for a brief commentary and context for the scripture and core truth from the topic) Introduce today’s Topic and any commentary or context for the scripture The Gift: 1. Forgiven Share the Key Scripture for the topic: Ephesians 1:5-7 Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed Share context for Scripture/ Story - Luke 7:36-50 -A ‘Sinful’ Woman Forgiven Kids: Washed with Tears (Jesus Storybook Bible) Discover Read the Scripture: Luke 7:36-50 -A ‘Sinful’ Woman Forgiven Kids: Washed with Tears (Jesus Storybook Bible) Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People (optional) How have you experienced Jesus’ radical mercy and forgiveness and how has that caused you to love Jesus greatly? How have you like Simon not seen someone the way Jesus sees them therefore withholding God’s merciful forgiveness? RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Share Communion together as you reflect on the gift of forgiveness Prepare the elements (if possible have individual cups available for each person) Read Matthew 26:26-28 “While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, ‘Take and eat; this is my body.’ Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.'” Take time to individually meditate on where we each need to receive the gift of forgiveness. Consider what emotion rises in you as you contemplate the gift of forgiveness. Partake in the communion elements together receiving the gift of forgiveness afresh as you drink the cup. Share Communion together Practice and Obey Consider doing a journal writing exercise where you write yourself a letter from the Father as he gives you the gift of forgiveness in general or for a specific sin. Read the letter back to yourself. Pray The Lord’s Prayer

  • The Gift - 2. Freed

    The Gift Overview ‘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! Freedom In Christ we are free from the power of sin, death and self, and free to desire and do God’s will through the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus has set us free and we are learning to live in his freedom in our everyday lives. REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship, Prayer or Communion Worship Songs No Longer Slaves by Jonathan Helser Break Every Chain by Tasha Cobbs Remember each other: Care Optional- break up into smaller groups for 10 min Hi/Lo check in Remember the Liturgy: Following Jesus Liturgy Remember what we learned and put into practice last week: Accountability Topic: The Gift- 1. Forgiven What did you receive or share any testimonies from the journal/letter writing exercise? REFLECT (30 min) Prepare (See the Leaders Guide for a brief commentary and context for the scripture and core truth from the topic) Introduce today’s Topic and any commentary or context for the scripture Topic Title: The Gift- 2. Freed Share the Summary Scripture for the topic: Galatian 5:1 Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed Share context for Scripture Story : John 8:31-38 Discover Read the Scripture John 8:31-38- Jesus’ Exchange with the Pharisees Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People (optional) Jesus says, “If the Son sets you free you will be free indeed.” How is Jesus’ freedom a gift and how do we live in the freedom he has given? How does practicing the truth rather than having head knowledge of the truth, set you free? Jesus says, “Everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin.” What do you think Jesus meant? How is walking in freedom with Jesus different from the world’s definition of freedom? (The world says freedom is doing what you want, true freedom is the ability to desire and do what God wants.) RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Where do you feel you don’t yet have the freedom Jesus has won for you? (Spend time praying for one another.) Ask the Holy Spirit to show you how he has set you free. Using the provided supplies, (crayons or watercolors), use color or images to illustrate the freedom you have experienced or what he is showing you. (Music could be played in the background and people could share with someone sitting next to them if time allowed.) Lord’s Supper (Communion) Practice and Obey Spend time journaling or praying through a way, or ways, you can learn to walk out freedom in an area that was highlighted to you through today’s discussion. Consider sharing with someone else in your home church or your home church leaders to encourage and celebrate. Pray The Lord’s Prayer

  • The Gift - 3. Filled with the Holy Spirit

    The Gift Overview ‘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! Filled with the Holy Spirit REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship, Prayer or Communion Worship Songs “Rest on Us” Maverick City “Holy Spirit” Kim Walker Smith Come Holy Spirit (Uthando)[feat. Torch Everblazing] // We Will Worship Remember each other: Care Optional- break up into smaller groups for 10 min Hi/Lo check in Remember the Liturgy: Following Jesus Liturgy Remember what we learned and put into practice last week: Accountability Topic: The Gift- 2. Freed What did you receive or share any testimonies from the journal writing exercise? REFLECT (30 min) Prepare (See the Leaders Guide for a brief commentary and context for the scripture and core truth from the topic) Introduce today’s Topic and any commentary or context for the scripture Topic Title: The Gift: Filled with the Holy Spirit Share the Summary Scripture for the topic: Ephesian 1:13-14 Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed Share context for Scripture Story : John 16:7-15 Discover Read the Scripture: John 16:7-15 (ESV)- Jesus Promised the Holy Spirit Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People (optional) How could it be better for Jesus to send us the Holy Spirit rather than be with us in the flesh? What does Jesus teach us about the “Helper” in this passage? How has the Holy Spirit been a ‘Gift’ in your life? RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Share and Pray: Consider where you might not have received the fullness of the gift of the Spirit. Could break into pairs/smaller groups and pray for infilling of the HS or to receive more of the ‘gifts’ the Spirit offers us. Creative: Using a glass of water, drop food coloring into the water, watch it permeate all of the water. The HS moves in and through all areas of life. Pray and encourage one another by asking the Holy Spirit to move in areas we have not seen the HS move in. Lord’s Supper (Communion) Practice and Obey This week recognize that you are filled with the Holy Spirit. Take a moment and prayerfully thank the Holy Spirit that he fills you afresh each day. Pause and ask the Holy Spirit to fill you again today. As the week progresses, take note of ways that the HS is moving in your life - is the HS speaking to you through creation, through the word or worship, through a child, etc. Pray The Lord’s Prayer

  • The Gift - 4. Found in the Father/Formed in the Family

    The Gift Overview ‘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! Found in the Father/Formed in the Family The gift of God is to find our new identity in the Father and to work out our new identity in a Spirit-led transforming process with the church, formed in the family. REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship, Prayer or Communion Worship Songs “Jireh” by Maverick City “Reckless Love” by Cory Asbury “Good Good Father” Chris Tomlin Remember each other: Care Optional- break up into smaller groups for 10 min Hi/Lo check in Remember the Liturgy: Following Jesus Liturgy Remember what we learned and put into practice last week: Accountability Topic: The Gift-3. Filled with the Holy Spirit How did the Holy Spirit meet you as you asked to be filled afresh each day? REFLECT (30 min) Prepare (See the Leaders Guide for a brief commentary and context for the scripture and core truth from the topic) Introduce today’s topic and any commentary or context for the scripture Topic Title- The Gift- Found in the Father, Formed in the Family Share the Summary Scripture for the topic :Ephesians 2:18-22 Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed Share context for Scripture/Story: Eph 3:14-21 Discover Read the Scripture: Read the Scripture Eph 3:14-21 Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People (optional) What aspects of Paul’s prayer stand out to you? How have you grasped God’s love through the family of God that you couldn’t have alone? Tell stories of when God’s love moved from head knowledge to experience. RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Pray for one another to have a deeper experience of the Father’s love. Creative Exercise: Have a family encouragement session. To encourage someone is to breathe life into them. Provide a wrapped empty box. Depending on the size of the group you may need to break into smaller groups. Someone hands “the gift” to the person next to them and speaks a word of encouragement over that person as a member of this church family. Be specific such as “you are a gift to us because you are a good listener”. When each person has given and received “the gift”, close by taking the Lord’s supper together. Lord’s Supper (Communion) Practice and Obey Spend time thinking of who you are receiving in God’s family to help you grow in God’s love and maturity. Be intentional to invite them into your life. Prayerful meditation to engage the Holy Spirit this week: “Lord, I believe you are a God with great purposes. You placed me into a particular family in a particular place in a particular time in history. I don’t see what you see, but I ask you to show me, Lord, the revelation and purposes you have for me in this decision. I do not want to betray or be ungrateful for what was given to me. Yet at the same time, help me discern what I need to let go of from my past and what my essential discipleship issues are in the present that must be addressed. “Grant me courage, grant me wisdom to learn from the past but not be crippled by it. And may I, like Joseph, be a blessing to my earthly family, spiritual family, and the world at large. In Jesus’ name, amen” (Scazzero, Pete. “Emotionally Healthy Spirituality” Zondervan, 2019, pg.96) Pray The Lord’s Prayer

  • The Gift - 5. Forever

    The Gift Overview ‘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! Forever Eternal life begins when we are spiritually reborn through faith in Jesus and come into union with God who is life. Those who are born again become partakers of the divine nature and though they die will remain in Christ and at the return of Jesus receive renewed glorified bodies to be with God forever in a new heaven and new earth. REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship, Prayer or Communion Lectio Psalm 8 How to do the Lectio Divina Remember each other: Care Optional- break up into smaller groups for 10 min Hi/Lo check in Remember the Liturgy: Following Jesus Liturgy Remember what we learned and put into practice last week: Accountability Topic: The Gift- 4. Found in the Father/Formed in the Family Who you are receiving in God’s family to help you grow in God’s love and maturity? REFLECT (30 min) Prepare (See the Leaders Guide for a brief commentary and context for the scripture and core truth from the topic) Introduce today’s topic and any commentary or context for the scripture Topic Title- The Gift - Forever Share the Summary Scripture for the topic : Romans 6:23 Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed Share context for Scripture/Story: Luke 23:32-43 Discover Read the Scripture: Luke 23:32-43 Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People (optional) What does this story teach us about the gift of grace? What did Jesus mean when he said, “today you will be with me in paradise”? How does the assurance of ‘being with God forever’ affect how you live now? RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Take some time to wait on the Lord asking for a fresh revelation of eternal life. Share back with one another for encouragement. Lord’s Supper (Communion) Practice and Obey Ask for the Lord to help you perceive and experience eternal life in your daily life this week. How could this truth affect people and issues you experience this week? Pray The Lord’s Prayer

  • What is a Disciple?

    Definition of a “Disciple” A disciple is someone who is following and being formed by Jesus in all of life. Linguistically, the word for “disciple” in the Greek is ‘mathetes’, and, although we translate it “disciple,” it also means learner, student, or follower. This word is most akin to the environment of an internship where an expert apprentices a student toward competency in a trade or skill. This relationship involves head knowledge but focuses upon applying that knowledge to everyday situations of life to equip the learner with wisdom. *https://discipleship.org/blog/what-is-a-disciple-three-key-characteristics/ REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship, Prayer or Communion Worship Songs Hillsong United - Lead Me To The Cross I Surrender All https://youtu.be/TnLr66VLcao https://youtu.be/TVlvqfJBh8c Kid Friendly https://youtu.be/jEmGNisUwgo Breath Prayer Breathe in: We are following Jesus Breath out: In all of Life Remember each other: Care Optional- break up into smaller groups for 10 min Hi/Lo check in Remember the Liturgy: Following Jesus Liturgy Remember what we learned and put into practice last week: Accountability Topic The Gift- 5. Forever: As you asked the Lord to help you perceive and experience eternal life this last week, how did this truth affect people and issues you encountered? REFLECT (30 min) Prepare (See the Leaders Guide for a brief commentary and context for the scripture and core truth from the topic) Introduce today’s topic and any commentary or context for the scripture Topic Title : What is a disciple? Share the Summary Scripture for the topic if you want : Matt 4:19 Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed Share context for the Scripture: Luke 9:18-27 Discover Read the Scripture: Luke 9:18-27 Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People (optional) In the story we see that Peter had a revelation of who Jesus is. As disciples, how does a growing revelation of who Jesus is affect how you follow him? What does it mean to deny ourselves, take up our cross daily and follow Jesus? How is Jesus forming you as you follow him in this season? (share in smaller groups if needed) RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Identify one way you are being asked to deny yourself to experience a more abundant life as you follow Jesus. Share with one another and pray together. Lord’s Supper (Communion) Practice and Obey Practice daily surrender to Jesus and listen to how you can follow Him each day. How are you being asked to deny yourself so you can experience the life Jesus has waiting? Pray The Lord’s Prayer

  • KID'S RESOURCE: The Greatest Commandment

    Remember Breath Prayer: From "Beautiful Name" Breath in: You brought heaven Breath out: Down to my heart Song Themes: Glorifying God and lifting up His name Remember one another Is anyone celebrating something that happened this week? Let’s share so we can all thank God together. Is anyone struggling, feeling sad, lonely or scared? How can we pray for one another? Remember what we learned last week Practice the Following Jesus Liturgy (With our youngest kids only focus on the portion that we’re currently learning) Who are we together? We are the Church, a prayerful family on mission! Reflect: A New Way to See Set the stage with Key Concepts and Questions God promised Abraham that he would make a family come from him that was more numerous than the stars! When God says something, it's as good as done. When God makes a promise, we can count on it. God will do as he promises. God fulfilled His promise to Abraham and Sarah by giving Him Isaac, and Isaac's children, and Isaac's grandchildren and great-grandchildren and so-on and so-on. And one of those great great great grandchildren was Jesus. Now that Jesus has brought us into His family we are all children of Abraham! God is fulfilling His promise. The Church, God's family (and Abraham's family) is and will be, more numerous than the stars. Read or Watch: "A New Way to See" Discover through curious questions: Ask the children what stood out to them. What did they like about the story? Was anything new or different than how they’d heard the story in the past? Allow the conversation to be led by their questions, insights, and wonderments. Discuss: Have you ever looked up at the sky and seen lots and lots of stars? How many do you think there are? How could God give someone so many children? Through generations! What is a generation? How does the Church get passed on from generation to generation? How does the church grow to be as big as God promised? Respond Experience: The Global Church and Praying for the Persecuted Print the Map(s) Blank - www.naturalhistoryonthenet.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Blank-World-Map-Worksheet.pdf With instructions for color-coding - https://www.naturalhistoryonthenet.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/World-Map-Worksheets-4th-Grade.pdf Pass out the maps to the children and have them color the continents. Older kids can label oceans, continents, and countries. Invite the kids to tell you what they know about different places around the world. Have them identify where they live and where any friends/family around the world live. Initiate a conversation about the Church around the globe. Where you do think Christians, God's Church live? Do they live here (Africa, Asia, Europe, etc)? Some places are friendly to Christians and some are not. Do you remember the story of Daniel? Daniel was living in a time when most people did not worship the One True God. He was punished for praying to the Lord. Did you know there are still people living like Daniel lives, being punished for their worship? Let's learn about the people and places where people are punished, or persecuted, for their faith. Let's pray for them to be protected like Daniel was in the Lion's Den. Use your own knowledge or refer to the watchlist posted by Open Doors to teach the kids about the persecuted Church and how to pray for our brothers and sisters abroad. Refer to the map and help the kids to see where these countries are and where the persecuted Church exists https://www.opendoorsuk.org/persecution/world-watch-list/ Greatest persecution of Christians takes place in North Korea, Somalia, Yemen, Eritrea, Libya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Iran, Afghanistan, Sudan Ask questions and answer questions to the best of your knowledge. Model curiosity, empathy, faith, hope, and love. Encounter: Pray for the Persecuted Church Read Matthew 5:10: Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. We know that God has not forsaken those who are suffering for their faith. He is with them and He can deliver them from evil. We pray for them to continue to be bold and courageous to follow Him. Tell the kids that we are going to quiet our bodies and minds in order to pray. Invite the kids to pray the things that are on their hearts, their fears, concerns, or hopes for the family of God. Listen Watch the story of Daniel and be inspired to pray for the family of God who is punished for following Jesus.

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