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  • Be baptized in water and in the Holy Spirit Part 1: (Water Baptism)

    Overview: Baptism in Water : “Baptism literally means to ‘immerse’. In water baptism we are by faith symbolically identifying with Christ’s death, burial and resurrection. As we are lowered into the water we choose to die with Christ to our old life, and then being lifted from the water we are being raised to new life and new identity in the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. We are also embraced into a new family, identifying as members who belong to the body of Christ, the Church. This powerful act of obedience and identification begins the pattern of daily denying ourselves, taking up our cross and living a new life in Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit. Our new life is a process of being conformed to the image of Christ in love for the sake of others. ” REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship, Prayer, or Communion Spend time giving thanks for where you see the life of Jesus breaking through in your week. 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: Be Baptized in Water and in the Holy Spirit: Part 2 (Pentecost Sunday) How did you encounter the Holy Spirit afresh this week (immersed in the Holy Spirit) 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- Be Baptized in Water Share the Summary Scripture for the topic if you want Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed Share context for Scripture Story- Romans 6:1-11 Discover Read the Scripture: Romans 6:1-11 Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People? (optional) What does it mean that we have died with Christ to our old life and been raised to new life in baptism? How have you seen the “power of sin” broken in your life? RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Ask if a few people have a story of how their life changed after being baptized in water and have them share. Pray The Lord’s Prayer Practice and Obey If you have not been baptized, make a decision and plan to be baptized. For those who have been baptized- take time to invite the Holy Spirit to show you where he wants you to deny yourself and live in his new way of life.

  • Be baptized in water and in the Holy Spirit Part 2: (Baptized in the Holy Spirit)

    REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship, Prayer or Communion FALL AFRESH [Lyric Video] | Jeremy Riddle | Vineyard 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: Repent and Believe How did you encounter the Holy Spirit this last week while using the Reflective Prayer Tool? 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- Baptized in the Holy Spirit Share the Summary Scripture for the topic if you want Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed Share context for Scripture Story- Acts 18:24-19:7 (New Believers Baptized in the Holy Spirit at Ephesus) Read the Scripture Discover Read the Scripture : Acts 18:24-19:7 Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People (optional) Why do you think Paul asked the disciples he had just met in Ephesus, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” What is the difference between trying to follow Jesus with or without the Holy Spirit? What has been your experience? (Invite a few people to share stories of their initial encounter with the Holy Spirit?) How did Paul pray for them to receive the Holy Spirit and what do the accompanying signs of praying in tongues and prophesying reveal about the Holy Spirit? RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Invitation 1: For those who haven’t been baptized in the Holy Spirit. Father God welcomes you to receive the Holy Spirit for the first time. (Ask someone to lay hands on you and pray for you as we read about in the Bible.) Pray - “God, you are a Good Father who gives the best gifts. Holy Spirit, You are a gift and therefore I can’t earn You. I receive You and want to know You. Come and fill me.” Repent and Trust - If any mistrust or misunderstanding has come up about the Holy Spirit contrary to the truth we have now learned, simply pray, “I am sorry, Holy Spirit, for believing a lie about You and for not trusting You. I want to know how good and loving You are and to trust You more and more.” Signs - Some might speak in tongues, get pictures or experience the presence of the Holy Spirit in joy, laughter, peace or some other way for the first time. Invitation 2: For those that have received the Holy Spirit, and would like to receive the Holy Spirit afresh. The Bible says in the book of Ephesians, “be continually filled with the Holy Spirit.” There is always an invitation to receive the Holy Spirit in deeper intimacy. Pray for those who desire to be filled afresh with the Holy Spirit. Lord’s Supper (Communion) Pray The Lord’s Prayer Practice and Obey Reflect on some of these questions and invite the Holy Spirit to encounter you afresh again each day. Are there any obstacles in your relationship with the Holy Spirit? (Are there ways you’ve misunderstood, forgotten, or resisted the Holy Spirit? ) Allow the Holy Spirit space to show you where you are currently trying to follow Jesus without the filling/help of the Holy Spirit. What does friendship with the Holy Spirit look like in your life? (Reflect on how you experience, encounter, and deepen intimacy with the Holy Spirit.)

  • Hear & Obey the Word Part 1

    REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship, Prayer or Communion Firm Foundation (He Wont) featuring Chandler Moore & Cody Carnes Have It All By Brian Johnson Bethel Music 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: Be baptized in water and in the Holy Spirit Part 2: (Baptized in the Holy Spirit) Share ways that you have been ‘immersed’ in the Holy Spirit over the last 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 Topic Title: Hear and Obey the Word Share the Summary Scripture for the topic: Luke 11:28- But he said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it!” Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed Share context for Scripture Story: Matt 7:24-27 (Wise and Foolish Builders Parable) Discover Read the Scripture : Matt 7:24-27 Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People (optional) What goes through your mind when you hear the word “PRACTICE.” Where do you hear invitation and grace from Jesus as you begin to follow Him by putting His words into practice. Where do you hear challenge? In Matthew 7:24, Jesus says, “Everyone then who hears these words of mine...” What words is He talking about and what does He want us to do with those words? Tell stories of when God spoke to you and showed you his way through Scripture. Tell stories of hearing and knowing God’s way but choosing not to obey it. RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Spend time asking God about one area in your life where you may be ‘hearing’ the word but not obeying or putting into practice what Jesus has taught. Walk through simple repentance if needed. Lord’s Supper (Communion) Pray The Lord’s Prayer Practice and Obey Consider what you have been building your life on by who you are listening to and the choices you are making as a result. What is Jesus saying to you about that? What next step might you take to build your life on Him? Commit to a daily bible reading plan or join the Navah Daily Bible Reading. It’s never too late to start building your life on God’s word. https://www.navahchurchkc.com/biblereading

  • Hear & Obey the Word Part 2

    REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship, Prayer or Communion Goodness of God (Live) Have It All (LIVE) - Brian Johnson | Have It All 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: Hear & Obey the Word Part 1 Share how consistently reading and obeying the scripture has impacted, or directed your life. 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: Hear and Obey the Word Part 2 Share the Summary Scripture for the topic: Luke 11:28- But he said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it!” Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed Share context for Scripture Story: Acts 16:6-10 (The Spirit Redirects Paul’s Team to Macedonia) Discover Read the Scripture: Acts 16:6-10 Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People (optional) What do you observe in the story about “hearing and obeying” God? What obstacle can keep us from being redirected by God? In what ways has God redirected a decision or plan that you had in place? How did that happen? What was the result? (Tell stories) RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Talk about voices that you love. Voice qualities that cause you to recognize the person immediately lead into how we recognize another’s voice (what channels do you receive other’s voices…you learn their voice through their writing, their songs, their words)...how do we transfer those principles to knowing and hearing the voice of our Father. Teach the “Yes/No Discernment Prayer” tool, to help people learn how to be lead in making a decision . Lord’s Supper (Communion) Practice and Obey (for the coming week) This week journal and ask God if there is any area of your life he would like to redirect. Maybe its a plan you have made, or a part of your daily routine, or a project that you’re working on. Journal as you listen and process anything He may be saying to you. See this tool if you need help with Journaling: How to Journal the Voice of the Lord | Jonathan Helser | from The Honesty Tool on Engaging Cultivate Practice the “Yes/No Discernment Prayer” if you are making a decision this week. Practice silence and solitude this week, even if for a few minutes, to just be with God. Pray The Lord’s Prayer

  • Pray: Part 1

    REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship, Prayer or Communion Jon Foreman - "Your Love Is Strong" https://youtu.be/G-g4uwQlXKw Our Father - Bethel Music Lyric Video https://youtu.be/Uj1cLQ15zTk 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: Hear & Obey the Word Part 2 Share back how you have practiced silence and solitude and tried the “Yes/No Discernment Prayer” tool. 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: Pray: Part 1 Share the Summary Scripture for the topic: Ephesian 6:18 - "And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people." Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed Share context for Scripture Story: Matthew 6:5-13 - (The Motive, Meaning and Method of Prayer) Discover Read the Scripture: Matthew 6:5-13 Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People? (optional) Motive: Jesus teaches us to pray for the reward that comes from the Father who sees us. How does the great reward of intimacy with the Father motivate you in prayer? Method: Jesus teaches us to go into the secret place, shutting the door to shut out distractions. What distracts you from prayer and the secret place? Meaning: Jesus teaches us not to say “empty words”, or “many words” but rather gives a meaningful pattern for prayer in the Lord’s prayer. What does the Lord’s prayer teach us about how to pray and what God values? RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Use The Lord’s Prayer as a map to help you to pray your own prayers from the heart. Slowly read out each phrase of the Lord’s Prayer and allow it to become an invitation to pray out your own prayers. For example, ‘Our Father’ prompts us to pause and remember God as our Abba and our identity before Him as beloved children, or to pray for our families and church. ‘Hallowed be your name’ is an invitation to worship. ‘Let your Kingdom come’ is an opportunity to request help for the particular people, places and situations in our hearts. ‘Give us this day our daily bread’ invites us to pray about our most practical needs. ‘Forgive us our sins’ is a challenge to name the ways in which we have sinned, etc. Lord’s Supper (Communion) Practice and Obey (for the coming week) Build the Lord’s Prayer into your regular routine: Commit together as a group to set a daily reminder for this coming week (midday is usually easy for most people) and pause to pray the Lord’s Prayer wherever you are. Send the link for the first session of the “How to Pray” video course: https://prayercourse.org/session/why-pray/ Pray The Lord’s Prayer

  • LEADERS GUIDE Topic: Baptized in the Son

    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?) ‘Baptized in the Name’ Overview: Jesus tells us to ‘baptize in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit’. In our culture, "name" refers primarily to what a person is called. But in Hebrew the thought that underlies Jesus' usage, "name" has a deeper meaning. To be baptized “in the name” of another person is to receive the essence of that person’s identity. We are called to die with Christ to our old life and be raised to new life and new identity in the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Brief Commentary for Matthew 3:13-17 (Key Story: Jesus being baptized) Before any miracles or healings and before ever preaching to the masses, Jesus walked down to the river Jordan to be baptized. It was a stunning moment as his cousin John lifted Him out of the water. The Holy Spirit in the physical form of a dove landed upon him, and then heaven opened with the audible sound of the Father’s voice. Imagine the Father waiting for this moment eternally, choosing his words precisely. What would He say? Would He speak to His destiny to save the world or to His commission to do good works? In that moment, as the voice of God boomed from heaven, we find out with shocking clarity the very heart of the Father, and the very nature of his kingdom. “This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased.” Is that all? Can that really be the most important thing God could say to Jesus with the world watching? Yes! Our Lord and Savior is first a beloved Son. In one sentence, humanity’s two deepest struggles of rejection and performance are put to rest by the powerful belonging and approval of Abba, Father. Jesus was the perfect Son and showed us exactly how to receive and live in the love of God. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son.” (John 3:16) What a statement! The ultimate expression of the Father’s love is giving a Son. And it doesn’t stop there: Jesus lets us know a profound secret in His famous prayer just before His death. “Then the world will know that you sent Me, and have loved them even as you have loved Me.” (Jn. 17:23). The Father loves us just as He loves Jesus? Wow! It was Jesus’ intent to share His favor and sonship with the whole world! We are invited to receive sonship in Jesus. Summary Scripture: Eph. 1:4-5- In love He predestined us to be adopted as His sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with His pleasure and will. Core Truths/Scriptures for the topic Colossians 1:13-14- For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Matt. 11:25-30 – Jesus said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure.” (Matt. 11:25) One of the reasons that Jesus came was to reveal the Father, and in so doing, offer us sonship. Jesus knew that if the qualification for seeing and knowing the Father and his kingdom was being clever and intelligent, it would alienate so many people. The Father has a huge heart desiring all to come into sonship. It is the Father’s good pleasure to reveal Himself to the children. He wants everyone, not just the elite. Acts 17:24-28 - “The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us. ‘For in him we live and move and have our being.’As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’ Rom 6: 3-11 Or have you forgotten that when we were joined with Christ Jesus in baptism, we joined him in his death? For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives. Since we have been united with him in his death, we will also be raised to life as he was. We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin. For when we died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin. And since we died with Christ, we know we will also live with him. We are sure of this because Christ was raised from the dead, and he will never die again. Death no longer has any power over him. When he died, he died once to break the power of sin. But now that he lives, he lives for the glory of God. So you also should consider yourselves to be dead to the power of sin and alive to God through Christ Jesus. John 1:12 - But to anyone who did accept him, he gave the right to become God’s children; yes, to anyone who believed in his name. 1 John 3:1- Look at the remarkable love the father has given us – that we should be called God’s children! That indeed is what we are. That’s why the world doesn’t know us, because it didn’t know him. 1 John 5:18-20 - We know that everyone fathered by God does not go on sinning. The one who was fathered by God keeps them, and the evil one does not touch them. We know that we are from God, and the whole world is under the power of the evil one. We know that the son of God has come and has given us understanding so that we should know the truth. And we are in the truth, in his son Jesus the Messiah.This is the true God; this is the life of the age to come. Extra Resources to help you Prepare https://saturatetheworld.com/resource/church-is-more/baptismal-identity/ https://bibleproject.com/blog/baptism-in-the-bible/ https://openthebible.org/article/three-ways-jesus-baptism-defines-identity/ Being the Beloved (FULL) by Henri Nouwen https://www.theunbrokencord.com/writings/being-the-baptized-and-the-beloved-henri-nouwen-and-baptismal-identity Books: The Great Dance by C. Baxter Kruger, PhD Orphan Slave Son by Ben Pasley 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.

  • Persevere through Worship: Part 1

    REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship, Prayer or Communion Another in the Fire- Hillsong United Another In The Fire - Hillsong UNITED Overcome -Elevation Worship Overcome | Live | Elevation Worship We Praise You -The Worship Initiative feat. Davy Flowers We Praise You (Live) |The Worship Initiative feat. Davy Flowers Fear Is Not My Future- BRANDON LAKE + CHANDLER MOORE BRANDON LAKE + CHANDLER MOORE - Fear Is Not My Future: Song Session 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: Pray Build the Lord’s Prayer into your regular routine: Commit together as a group to set a daily reminder for this coming week (midday is usually easy for most people) and pause to pray the Lord’s Prayer wherever you are. 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: Persevere through Worship: Part 1 Share the Summary Scripture for the topic: Romans 5:3-5 Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed Share context for Scripture Story: Acts 16:16-34 (“Paul and Silas Worship in Prison”) Discover Read the Scripture: Acts 16:16-34 Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People? (optional) Like Paul and Silas, when is a time you worshiped God in the middle of a pressing season, or circumstance? What did worship look like and what happened? How is the Spirit calling you to persevere and patiently endure? How can you worship your way through this trying season? Who is the Father inviting you to love and bless amidst your own trial and perseverance? RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Share together or in small groups where you are in need of God's help to “persevere through worship” and pray for one another. Lord’s Supper (Communion) Practice and Obey (for the coming week) Spend time this week meditating on Romans 5:3-5. Ask the Holy Spirit for a promise to walk with you through this season and what worship looks like in the area you need help to persevere in. Pray The Lord’s Prayer

  • Persevere through Worship: Part 2

    REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship, Prayer or Communion Reading and reflection scripture Choose a Psalm to reflect on, or have different people in the group read out the ‘core truth’ scriptures from the Leaders Guide and worship/pray/give praise out of them. Worship Songs Another in the Fire - Hillsong United Another In The Fire - Hillsong UNITED Overcome - Elevation Worship Overcome | Live | Elevation Worship We Praise You - The Worship Initiative feat. Davy Flowers We Praise You (Live) |The Worship Initiative feat. Davy Flowers Fear Is Not My Future - BRANDON LAKE + CHANDLER MOORE BRANDON LAKE + CHANDLER MOORE - Fear Is Not My Future: Song Session Child-friendly: Lifetree Kids “Whole Lotta Change” and “Good in Every Way” Whole Lotta Change | Roar VBS | Group Publishing Good in Every Way | Roar VBS | Group Publishing 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: Persevere through Worship: Part 1 Spent time meditating on Romans 5:3-5. Asked Holy Spirit for a promise to walk with us through this season and what worship looks like in the area we need help to persevere in. 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: Persevere through Worship: Part 2 Share the Summary Scripture for the topic: Romans 5:3-5 Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed Share context for Scripture Story: Philippians 4:4-9 ("Practices of Worship to Persevere") Discover Read the Scripture: Philippians 4:4-9 Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People? (optional) How does this passage of scripture teach us to “persevere through worship”? Here are some more questions to help you expound on this as a group: What does it look like to rejoice in the Lord? How do you exchange worry for trust? How have you seen peace instead of anxiety in your life when you practice these things? How should you pray/ask? In what ways do you practice and cultivate gratitude? How do you practice thinking about what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, excellent and worthy of praise? RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Print the Philippians 4 tool (one for each person) and have people apply them to a specific area where they are currently needing to ‘persevere through worship’. If you don’t have time for this during your gathering, send it home with people to practice this week. Lord’s Supper (Communion) Practice and Obey (for the coming week) Practice the Philippians 4 tool Pray The Lord’s Prayer

  • Love: Part 1

    REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship, Prayer or Communion Worship Songs MAKE US ONE BY NAOMI RAINE- LYRIC VIDEO Prayer/Scripture Print out the sheet listing the ‘one another scriptures’ and pass it around the group, reading out the scriptures and then spend time praying out of them 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: Persevere through Worship: Part 2 Share how practicing the ‘Philippians 4 Tool’ encouraged or helped you to persevere. 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: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 - “The Greatest Of These Is Love” Share the Summary Scripture for the topic: 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.” Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed Share context for Scripture Story: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 Discover Read the Scripture: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People? (optional) Why does moving in power, doing miracles, knowing mysteries, moving mountains in faith and giving all you have, mean nothing without love? How does the revelation that love is the final and ultimate measure of your life in the end affect how you live now? Talk through the definition and descriptions of love together, what stands out? How is Paul’s definition of love different from our culture today? RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Take some time to reflect on the following questions: Over the last year, which of the descriptions of love have you grown in the most and which one do you desire to grow in and why? How will you practice this? Break up into partners and share and pray with one another. Lord’s Supper (Communion) Practice and Obey (for the coming week) Spend time this week asking the Father to meet you with His love each day and to empower you to love as you are loved. Practice the specific aspect of love you want to grow in from 1 Corinthians 13. Pray The Lord’s Prayer

  • Love: Part 2

    Summary of “Love” Agape love is a “compassionate commitment to delight in the soul of another and to will that person’s good ahead of your own, no matter the cost to yourself.” (Live No Lies, John Mark Comer p. 130) God is love and has fully revealed what love is in Jesus and his sacrificial death on the cross. God’s Love is the source of all things and the fulfillment of all things, the beginning and the end. Love is not a cold choice or only fervent emotion. Love is attentive affection, delighted connection, compassionate commitment, self-giving joy. Loving one another is about attitude and action. It means listening to each other, remaining patient, and forgiving each others' faults or weaknesses. It’s about working for the health and well-being of the other, generously caring for the person, and learning to see the inherent beauty and good in one another. Love is the distinguishing mark of all of Jesus’ followers, and we are able to love in this radical way because of the self-giving love of Jesus. His love empowers his followers to love each other with the same patience, devotion, and fervency he showed to them. REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship, Prayer or Communion Worship Songs How Deep The Father's Love For Us // Church Of The City // Take 2 Love Like This / No One Like You (Spontaneous) / Break Every Chain // The Belonging Co 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: Love: Part 1 Remember the specific aspect of love you want to grow in from 1 Corinthians 13. How did you put it into practice 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 Topic Title: Love: Part 2 Share the Summary Scripture for the topic: 1 John 4:7-10 Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed Share context for Scripture Story: Matthew 5:43-48 - "Love Your Enemies". Discover Read the Scripture: Matthew 5:43-48 Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People? (optional) Why is Jesus’ teaching to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us so radical and revolutionary? What would happen in the world, in your city/neighborhood/workplace if people did this? Why is it so challenging to love those who don’t love us? Reflect together on how Jesus has loved you when you were his enemy. RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Take time to share in pairs or with the group: Who are your enemies, or someone that is difficult to love, or doesn’t love/treat you well? Who is the Father challenging you to love and how can you take a step this week to love? Pray for one another. Lord’s Supper (Communion) Practice and Obey (for the coming week) Take a courageous step to practically show love to the person who doesn’t love you this week. Pray The Lord’s Prayer

  • Lord’s Supper Part 1

    REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship, Prayer or Communion Worship Songs Nothing But the Blood If you have someone in your home church who can lead you in musical worship you can access the chords at the link above The Blood Medley | Jesus Image Communion (feat. Steffany Gretzinger & Brandon Lake from Bethel Music) | Maverick City | TRIBL 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: Love How have you taken courageous steps to practically show love to a person who doesn’t show you love 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 Topic Title: Luke 22:1-23 “The Lord’s Supper” Share the Summary Scripture for the topic if you want. Share “Core Truths from the topic” Matthew 26:26-28 where needed Share context for Scripture Story. Discover Read the Scripture: Luke 22:1-23 “The Lord’s Supper” Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People? (optional) What is the significance of Jesus’ body broken and blood poured out for us? What is the new covenant and how is it connected to the Lord’s Supper? Consider the ‘gift’ (forgiven, freed, filled with the HS, found in the Father & formed in the family, forever) that we explored earlier in the Following Jesus Pathway Why does Jesus ask us to “do this in remembrance of me”’? Why is it important to “remember”? What has been your experience of practicing the Lord’s supper (communion) and how has it changed you? RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Receive the Lord’s Supper together (Communion). Spend some time remembering Jesus and giving thanks in worship for the new covenant. Practice and Obey (for the coming week) Spend time reflecting on the New Covenant, focus on what it means to you in regards to your life and your participation in the Church body. Consider how you are going to practice sharing the Lord’s Supper in your life in a regular rhythm. Pray The Lord’s Prayer

  • Lord’s Supper Part 2

    * The Kids Resource linked above is the same as Lord's Supper Part 1 feel free to use/adapt it if it's not easy to include kids in with the meal this week. REMEMBER/ REFLECT/ RESPOND (90-120 min) This week we will be sharing in a Meal to Remember and will include elements of ‘REMEMBER/ REFLECT/ RESPOND’ into aspects of the shared meal rather than moving through them chronologically. The Lord’s Supper (Sharing a Meal to Remember): A Practical Guide 1 Corinthians 11:23-26: “For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me. For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.” Preparation for the Meal: Find a place to host a meal and invite people. Prepare the food or have guests bring food to contribute (potluck). This could be facilitated as a gathering time without a meal, only sharing the bread and juice/wine if a space for the meal is not available. Prepare the elements for the Lord’s Supper, a Large Loaf of bread or Matzah and enough juice or wine for those attending to each have their own glass. Assign a facilitator or assign different movements of the meal to a few people ahead of time. Set a table (or wherever you can accommodate eating together) with the wine/juice and bread in the middle Starting the Meal and Sharing the Lord’s Supper: One person begins the meal by giving a short introduction (facilitator). The Lord’s Supper (or Communion/Eucharist) was given as a gift by Jesus to his disciples and the Church through the ages to remember his death, to symbolize a new covenant, to gather his body, the Church, around a table in fellowship and to anticipate the meal we will one day enjoy in his eternal presence. “During this meal we will Remember Jesus together- looking in four directions” Look Back to Jesus’ Death on the Cross (point backward, make cross) You could also look back further in history to God’s redemptive plan from Creation and the fall through a promise to Abraham to bless all nations through a Messiah who would become our salvation as the Passover Lamb. Look Up to Jesus Risen as King & High Priest (point up and make crown) Look Around to Jesus’ Family (point around and make a heart) Look Forward to Jesus’ Return and a Feast/Party (point forward and smile) Facilitator Read 1 Corinthians 11:23-26- Break the bread and serve each person a large piece and fill each glass with juice/wine. Explain that we will slowly enjoy our food and fellowship as we partake together in the Lord’s supper. Take time between the 4 movements of the meal to eat and ‘fellowship’ together. The person facilitating can gauge how long the spaces between each section lasts and will need to move on to the next movement of the meal. Four Movements Of The Meal: 1. Look back and remember Jesus’ death on the Cross. (1Cor. 11:24) Facilitator- “Let's look back together to remember Jesus’ death on the cross, the ultimate display of God’s love and salvation. At the cross God gave a new covenant of grace where we are forgiven, made righteous and brought into eternal relationship with the Father on the basis of Jesus' perfect life and sacrifice alone.” Response- “Let’s spend time giving thanks for who Jesus is and what He has done on the cross. Remember moments where Jesus has encountered you personally with his love and share them together. “ 2. Look up and remember that Jesus is the Risen King and great High Priest interceding for us. (Heb 4:16) Facilitator- “Let’s look up together and remember that Jesus is our Risen King, a great high priest who intercedes for us at the right hand of the Father. Jesus can sympathize with our weakness, being fully human just like us and has the power as the Risen King to help us. ‘Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need (Heb. 4:16).’” Response- “Let’s spend time reflecting on where we need Jesus in our lives and share with one another.” (This could also be a good time to take a minute of silence to allow for people to consider if there is any place where they are not submitted to Jesus’ loving lordship and if repentance is needed. If appropriate create space for confession) 3. Look around and remember that because of Jesus’ broken body and poured out blood we are now one family - the body of Christ. (1Cor. 10:16-17) Facilitator- “Let’s look around and remember we are one family in Christ. ‘The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread. Response- “Let’s spend time honoring one another. Speak blessing over one another where you have seen or experienced Jesus in their lives.” (Consider giving a toast each time, raise your glass to agree and celebrate, “cheers”) 4. Look forward and remember with anticipation Jesus’ return and wedding feast. Facilitator- “Let’s look forward to remember with anticipation Jesus’ return to restore all things and a great wedding feast. Jesus himself, when he instituted the Lord’s Supper, ate it in anticipation of the future (Matt. 26:29). The ultimate outworking of God’s salvation plan has long been associated with the promise of a great banquet, a feast, a party we get to participate in with Jesus. (Isa. 25:6;, Rev. 19:9).” Response- “Let’s have a few people pray out prayers of rejoicing & anticipation for Jesus’ return to restore all things and the future when we get to all sit together at the ‘great banquet’ with Jesus. Ask someone to read Matt 26:29 “(Jesus said) I tell you I will not drink again of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.” All close with the prayer of the Early Church as an Amen to the reading of the scripture. Close:“Maranatha” Come Lord Jesus Download the resource below to easily follow along during your meal.

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