Our 40 Days of Community Campaign has begun! We will not be posting Discussion Questions for the next 6 weeks...
Please be sure to contact Stephen Tipps stipps@plumcreekonline.com for information regarding small groups.
Thanks!
Charles
Monday, March 24, 2008
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Discussion Questions for week of 3/16
Ps. 23:6
"Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."
1. This week we began by talking about the first word of this verse, “Surely”. David is communicating his sense of confidence in the Good Shepherd. Why is it important for us to have this same confidence in our relationships with God? Read James 1:17 and talk about how this relates to the confidence we can have in God.
2. We talked about several reasons that we can, “face our future with confidence”. These three things were; because God’s GOODNESS & MERCY are working in me, because God PURSUES me with PERSISTENCE & because HEAVEN is WAITING for me. Which one of these three stood out most in your mind? Why do each of these give you confidence as you face your future?
3. Read Romans 8:28 and talk about this promise. Who is the promise for? How does this relate to our lives and how God’s goodness is “following” us?
4. Can you share an example of a time in your life when you were able to experience how God turns all things together for the good?
5. Out of the stories that you know from scripture which one is your favorite example of God’s pursuit? How do you feel about God’s persistent pursuit of you?
6. The last thing Doug talked about this week is our certainty that if we are a follower of Christ heaven is waiting for us. Review: Eccles. 3:11, 2 Cor. 5:1, 2 Cor. 5:6-8, 1 Peter 1:4-6 & Rev. 21:4. After reading these verses what sticks out most in your mind about heaven?
7. At the end of the message Doug said these things,
“Be careful not to act like you are home. Don’t treat this world like it is home. It isn’t! The greatest danger is not to feel far from home when you are, but to feel right at home when you are not. You're not ready to live until you're ready to die. You don't know how to live until you're ready to die. Only a fool would go all through life, totally unprepared for something that everybody knows is inevitable.”
-What thoughts do you have about these statements?
8. Re-read Psalm 23.
-What stands out most in your mind and heart from our time in this great psalm?
Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need. 2 He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. 3 He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. 4 Even when I walk through the dark valley of death, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.5 You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You welcome me as a guest, anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. 6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.
"Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."
1. This week we began by talking about the first word of this verse, “Surely”. David is communicating his sense of confidence in the Good Shepherd. Why is it important for us to have this same confidence in our relationships with God? Read James 1:17 and talk about how this relates to the confidence we can have in God.
2. We talked about several reasons that we can, “face our future with confidence”. These three things were; because God’s GOODNESS & MERCY are working in me, because God PURSUES me with PERSISTENCE & because HEAVEN is WAITING for me. Which one of these three stood out most in your mind? Why do each of these give you confidence as you face your future?
3. Read Romans 8:28 and talk about this promise. Who is the promise for? How does this relate to our lives and how God’s goodness is “following” us?
4. Can you share an example of a time in your life when you were able to experience how God turns all things together for the good?
5. Out of the stories that you know from scripture which one is your favorite example of God’s pursuit? How do you feel about God’s persistent pursuit of you?
6. The last thing Doug talked about this week is our certainty that if we are a follower of Christ heaven is waiting for us. Review: Eccles. 3:11, 2 Cor. 5:1, 2 Cor. 5:6-8, 1 Peter 1:4-6 & Rev. 21:4. After reading these verses what sticks out most in your mind about heaven?
7. At the end of the message Doug said these things,
“Be careful not to act like you are home. Don’t treat this world like it is home. It isn’t! The greatest danger is not to feel far from home when you are, but to feel right at home when you are not. You're not ready to live until you're ready to die. You don't know how to live until you're ready to die. Only a fool would go all through life, totally unprepared for something that everybody knows is inevitable.”
-What thoughts do you have about these statements?
8. Re-read Psalm 23.
-What stands out most in your mind and heart from our time in this great psalm?
Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need. 2 He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. 3 He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. 4 Even when I walk through the dark valley of death, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.5 You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You welcome me as a guest, anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. 6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Questions for Week of 03/09/2008
Ps. 23:5
"You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil.
My cup overflows."
1. Just like the sheep there are plenty of challenges in life that literally “bug” us. This week’s message dealt with how we face these challenges. What are a couple of things in your life that have become problems that have “bugged” you the most?
2. We talked about several things that we should not do when life presents these types of challenges. They were: don’t IGNORE it, don't RUN from it, don’t HIDE your hurt, don’t WORRY about it & finally don’t RESENT it. In your life, which of these have you found to be your most common response to life’s challenges? Why do you think this is the case?
3. We also talked about how David’s psalm gives us a prescription for dealing with these challenges. This prescription included: letting Jesus SETTLE the SCORE, letting Jesus SOOTH my IRATATIONS and finally, letting Jesus SATISFY my NEEDS.
-Which of these three was the most important for you to hear? Why?
-Which of these three is the hardest/easiest for you to implement in your life? Why?
4. Do you have an example of a time in your life when you were able to experience God do one of these things? If so, and you feel willing to share, talk about this experience and what you learned about your Shepherd during this time.
5. We wrapped up the message talking about how, “our cup is overflowing”. There is some significant symbolism that David was familiar with regarding an “overflowing cup”. What did you take away from this? Doug finished our time together talking about the different cups that we have that are overflowing. (cups of grace, hope, love & joy). There are verses in scripture that talk about how we have each of these things in an “overflowing fashion”. How did this speak to your heart? What can you do in your life to keep the perspective of the “overflowing provisions” of our God?
6. The last thing Doug said this week was this, “One thing is certain. When the final storm comes and you are safe in your Father’s house, you won’t regret what God didn’t give, you’ll be stunned at what He did give!” What does this mean and how can you keep this kind of focus?
Have a great week & remember…
The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need. 2 He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. 3 He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. 4 Even when I walk through the dark valley of death, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. 5 You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You welcome me as a guest, anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. 6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.
"You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil.
My cup overflows."
1. Just like the sheep there are plenty of challenges in life that literally “bug” us. This week’s message dealt with how we face these challenges. What are a couple of things in your life that have become problems that have “bugged” you the most?
2. We talked about several things that we should not do when life presents these types of challenges. They were: don’t IGNORE it, don't RUN from it, don’t HIDE your hurt, don’t WORRY about it & finally don’t RESENT it. In your life, which of these have you found to be your most common response to life’s challenges? Why do you think this is the case?
3. We also talked about how David’s psalm gives us a prescription for dealing with these challenges. This prescription included: letting Jesus SETTLE the SCORE, letting Jesus SOOTH my IRATATIONS and finally, letting Jesus SATISFY my NEEDS.
-Which of these three was the most important for you to hear? Why?
-Which of these three is the hardest/easiest for you to implement in your life? Why?
4. Do you have an example of a time in your life when you were able to experience God do one of these things? If so, and you feel willing to share, talk about this experience and what you learned about your Shepherd during this time.
5. We wrapped up the message talking about how, “our cup is overflowing”. There is some significant symbolism that David was familiar with regarding an “overflowing cup”. What did you take away from this? Doug finished our time together talking about the different cups that we have that are overflowing. (cups of grace, hope, love & joy). There are verses in scripture that talk about how we have each of these things in an “overflowing fashion”. How did this speak to your heart? What can you do in your life to keep the perspective of the “overflowing provisions” of our God?
6. The last thing Doug said this week was this, “One thing is certain. When the final storm comes and you are safe in your Father’s house, you won’t regret what God didn’t give, you’ll be stunned at what He did give!” What does this mean and how can you keep this kind of focus?
Have a great week & remember…
The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need. 2 He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. 3 He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. 4 Even when I walk through the dark valley of death, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. 5 You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You welcome me as a guest, anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. 6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.
Monday, March 3, 2008
Journey Group’s Discussion Questions For The Week Of 3-2-08
Psalm 23:4
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil, for you are with me;
your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
1. What did you think about the fact that the, “valley of the shadow of death” is a real place?
2. The metaphor of the “valley” is very real. We talked about some of the other valleys mentioned in scripture: Joshua talks about the Valley of Calamity, Psalm 84 talks about the Valley of Weeping, Hosea talks about the Valley of Trouble. The most accurate translation for the, “valley of the shadow of death” is the “valley of deep darkness”. What valleys have you experienced in your life?
3. Doug shared 5 things about valleys. Valleys are INEVITABLE, UNPREDICTABLE, IMPARTIAL, TEMPORARY and PURPOSEFUL. Which of these 5 truths stood out most to you and why?
4. Doug also shared 3 things to do when you are going through a “valley time” in your life. They were; REFUSE to be DISCOURAGED, REMEMBER that God is WITH me, and finally, rely on God’s PROTECTION & GUIDANCE. Which of these 3 is the most important for you to remind yourself of? Why?
5. We also talked about how we can always learn about God during life’s valley times. What are some things you have personally learned about God during these times in your life?
6. Often times the hardest part of the “valley experiences” in our lives comes from feeling alone and isolated.
-Read Psalm 139:7-12 and discuss how these verses relate to these times in our lives.
-Why do you think that those that have “walked through the valley” are usually the best at helping others go through the tough times in life?
-Do you typically look for help during the “valley experiences” in your life? Why do you think this is the case?
-Are you willing to walk with someone else through the “valley times”? How can we do a better job of doing this?
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil, for you are with me;
your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
1. What did you think about the fact that the, “valley of the shadow of death” is a real place?
2. The metaphor of the “valley” is very real. We talked about some of the other valleys mentioned in scripture: Joshua talks about the Valley of Calamity, Psalm 84 talks about the Valley of Weeping, Hosea talks about the Valley of Trouble. The most accurate translation for the, “valley of the shadow of death” is the “valley of deep darkness”. What valleys have you experienced in your life?
3. Doug shared 5 things about valleys. Valleys are INEVITABLE, UNPREDICTABLE, IMPARTIAL, TEMPORARY and PURPOSEFUL. Which of these 5 truths stood out most to you and why?
4. Doug also shared 3 things to do when you are going through a “valley time” in your life. They were; REFUSE to be DISCOURAGED, REMEMBER that God is WITH me, and finally, rely on God’s PROTECTION & GUIDANCE. Which of these 3 is the most important for you to remind yourself of? Why?
5. We also talked about how we can always learn about God during life’s valley times. What are some things you have personally learned about God during these times in your life?
6. Often times the hardest part of the “valley experiences” in our lives comes from feeling alone and isolated.
-Read Psalm 139:7-12 and discuss how these verses relate to these times in our lives.
-Why do you think that those that have “walked through the valley” are usually the best at helping others go through the tough times in life?
-Do you typically look for help during the “valley experiences” in your life? Why do you think this is the case?
-Are you willing to walk with someone else through the “valley times”? How can we do a better job of doing this?
Sunday, February 24, 2008
DIscussion Questions for Week of Feb 24th
Soul Care 101 Part 2 Questions:
1. For the last two weeks Doug has been asking what we have done to care for our souls. Were you able to be more intentional about your “soul care” this week? If so what did you do?
2. This week we looked at what it looks like to follow God’s plan for spiritual nourishment. If sheep aren’t led to “healthy” water they will look to quench their thirst anywhere they can. What are some “unhealthy” places that we can find ourselves looking for “nourishment”?
Read these verses: Matt. 5:6, John 7:37, John 6:35 & Rev. 22:17. What do they tell us about where we can find “true nourishment”?
3. In Ps. 42:11, David says, “Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.” Doug shared about what the term “cast” means to a shepherd.
Have you ever been in a place where you had a “downcast” soul?
We learned how one of the shepherd’s jobs is to watch for sheep that are in this “cast” state. What are your thoughts about the Great Shepherd caring for us when we are “downcast”?
4. Re-read Psalm 23:2-3 and reflect on the Great Shepherd’s responsibility to lead and our responsibility to follow. How are you doing following His lead in your life?
5. We concluded this week looking at what it means to pursue God’s path for my life. We talked about 3 ways the shepherd guides his sheep.
-He guides us to health.
-He gently guides those that stray.
-He lovingly guides those that are stubborn.
Have you experienced the Great Shepherd guiding you in these ways? How?
Read Psalm 119:67-68. Talk about how this verse applies to your life.
1. For the last two weeks Doug has been asking what we have done to care for our souls. Were you able to be more intentional about your “soul care” this week? If so what did you do?
2. This week we looked at what it looks like to follow God’s plan for spiritual nourishment. If sheep aren’t led to “healthy” water they will look to quench their thirst anywhere they can. What are some “unhealthy” places that we can find ourselves looking for “nourishment”?
Read these verses: Matt. 5:6, John 7:37, John 6:35 & Rev. 22:17. What do they tell us about where we can find “true nourishment”?
3. In Ps. 42:11, David says, “Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.” Doug shared about what the term “cast” means to a shepherd.
Have you ever been in a place where you had a “downcast” soul?
We learned how one of the shepherd’s jobs is to watch for sheep that are in this “cast” state. What are your thoughts about the Great Shepherd caring for us when we are “downcast”?
4. Re-read Psalm 23:2-3 and reflect on the Great Shepherd’s responsibility to lead and our responsibility to follow. How are you doing following His lead in your life?
5. We concluded this week looking at what it means to pursue God’s path for my life. We talked about 3 ways the shepherd guides his sheep.
-He guides us to health.
-He gently guides those that stray.
-He lovingly guides those that are stubborn.
Have you experienced the Great Shepherd guiding you in these ways? How?
Read Psalm 119:67-68. Talk about how this verse applies to your life.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Discussion Questions for week of Feb 18
1- This week we started off our message talking about the story of the sheep named Shrek. The analogy was that if we aren't careful we can neglect "care for our souls". Why do you think that taking care of ourselves spiritually tends to get pushed to the "back burner" in our lives?
2- Doug asked us the question, "What have you done this week to care for your soul?". How did you answer that question?
3- Re-read the Mike Yaconelli quote and share your thoughts about his brutal honesty concerning his spiritual life...
“I knew what it meant to believe in Jesus, I didn’t know what it meant to be with Jesus. I knew how to talk with Jesus, I didn’t know how to sit still long enough to let Jesus talk to me. I found it easy to do the work of God, but I had no idea how to let God work in me. I understood soul-saving, but I was clueless about soul making. I knew how to be busy, but I didn’t know how to be still. I could talk about God; I just couldn’t listen to God. I felt comfortable with God’s people, but I felt uncomfortable alone with God. I was acquainted with the God ‘out-there’, but I was a complete stranger to the God ‘in-here’. I could meet God anywhere…except in my heart, in my soul, in my being.”
4- Doug talked about our need to SLOW DOWN. In his message he shared a prescription to R.E.L.A.X. Review each of these points and the verses together and share your thoughts.
1. REALIZE MY WORTH (James 1:18)
2. ENJOY WHAT I ALREADY HAVE (Ecc. 3:13)
3. LIMIT MY LABOR (Ex. 20:8-11)
4. ADJUST MY VALUES (Mark 8:36)
5. EXCHANGE MY PRESSURE FOR GOD'S PEACE (Isa. 26:3 & Eph. 2:8)
4- What are some things that you can intentionally do this week to prepare for Doug asking again this Sunday, "What I have done to care for my soul"?
2- Doug asked us the question, "What have you done this week to care for your soul?". How did you answer that question?
3- Re-read the Mike Yaconelli quote and share your thoughts about his brutal honesty concerning his spiritual life...
“I knew what it meant to believe in Jesus, I didn’t know what it meant to be with Jesus. I knew how to talk with Jesus, I didn’t know how to sit still long enough to let Jesus talk to me. I found it easy to do the work of God, but I had no idea how to let God work in me. I understood soul-saving, but I was clueless about soul making. I knew how to be busy, but I didn’t know how to be still. I could talk about God; I just couldn’t listen to God. I felt comfortable with God’s people, but I felt uncomfortable alone with God. I was acquainted with the God ‘out-there’, but I was a complete stranger to the God ‘in-here’. I could meet God anywhere…except in my heart, in my soul, in my being.”
4- Doug talked about our need to SLOW DOWN. In his message he shared a prescription to R.E.L.A.X. Review each of these points and the verses together and share your thoughts.
1. REALIZE MY WORTH (James 1:18)
2. ENJOY WHAT I ALREADY HAVE (Ecc. 3:13)
3. LIMIT MY LABOR (Ex. 20:8-11)
4. ADJUST MY VALUES (Mark 8:36)
5. EXCHANGE MY PRESSURE FOR GOD'S PEACE (Isa. 26:3 & Eph. 2:8)
4- What are some things that you can intentionally do this week to prepare for Doug asking again this Sunday, "What I have done to care for my soul"?
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Discussion Questions for week of Feb 10
Discussion Questions
“God’s Cure for Worry”
Sunday, February 10, 2008
1. Why do people tend to worry? What are some of your “pet” worries?
2. Gary said that worry is "unhelpful, unreasonable and unhealthy". How have you seen this lived out in people you know? Yourself?
3. The 3 Cures for Worry Gary shared on Sunday were 1) Believe my Shepherd will take care of me, 2) Talk to my Shepherd about everything and 3) Live one day at time. Why can “The Cure” bring hope to the one burdened by worry?
4. Which of these three “cures” is easiest for you to do? Hardest? Why?
5. Are some areas of “worry” easier/harder to give to the Lord? Do you sometimes “cast” your worries like you cast in fishing…you keep reeling them back in? Why?
6. Spend some time on each of these verses from the sermon notes (Psa. 23:1, John 16:33, Php. 4:19, Php. 4:6-7 and I Pet. 5:7). Ask: What does my Shepherd want me to know about His heart? How do my words, thoughts and actions demonstrate I believe Him?
7. Read Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:25-34. How does your heart respond to His words? Why does Jesus speak these words? What does Jesus want His followers to know?
8. Now that I know these things about worry and God’s cure for it, how will my life be different?
“God’s Cure for Worry”
Sunday, February 10, 2008
1. Why do people tend to worry? What are some of your “pet” worries?
2. Gary said that worry is "unhelpful, unreasonable and unhealthy". How have you seen this lived out in people you know? Yourself?
3. The 3 Cures for Worry Gary shared on Sunday were 1) Believe my Shepherd will take care of me, 2) Talk to my Shepherd about everything and 3) Live one day at time. Why can “The Cure” bring hope to the one burdened by worry?
4. Which of these three “cures” is easiest for you to do? Hardest? Why?
5. Are some areas of “worry” easier/harder to give to the Lord? Do you sometimes “cast” your worries like you cast in fishing…you keep reeling them back in? Why?
6. Spend some time on each of these verses from the sermon notes (Psa. 23:1, John 16:33, Php. 4:19, Php. 4:6-7 and I Pet. 5:7). Ask: What does my Shepherd want me to know about His heart? How do my words, thoughts and actions demonstrate I believe Him?
7. Read Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:25-34. How does your heart respond to His words? Why does Jesus speak these words? What does Jesus want His followers to know?
8. Now that I know these things about worry and God’s cure for it, how will my life be different?
Monday, February 4, 2008
Discussion Questions for week of Feb 3
Hey Guys,
Here are the questions for this week...
1- What are some of your memories surrounding the 23rd Psalm?
2 - Doug's first point this week was that we need to know who is
LORD. What are your thoughts about David's use of the name Yahweh?
What did you learn about this Hebrew word that God used when asked what His name was? (Ex. 3:13-15)
3 - Doug also mentioned the Bob Dylan song, "You've Got To Serve Somebody". The reality is that we all have the tendencies to allow other things besides God to become "lords" in our lives. What do you find are the things that most easily become "lords" in your life?
4 - David uses the metaphor of a sheep and shepherd to describe our relationship with God. How accurate do you feel this is in your life?
5 - What stuck out in your mind the most concerning God's "shepherding" qualities?
6 - Read Ephesians 1:13-14. If Shepherds "mark" their sheep so that others will know they belong to a certain shepherd, what does God's mark look like on your life? Do you think that people who observe your life see the mark of God? Why? / Why Not? How?
7 - Can you like David say, "The LORD is my Shepherd"?
8 - What can you do to help that statement be more of a reality in your life?
Here are the questions for this week...
1- What are some of your memories surrounding the 23rd Psalm?
2 - Doug's first point this week was that we need to know who is
LORD. What are your thoughts about David's use of the name Yahweh?
What did you learn about this Hebrew word that God used when asked what His name was? (Ex. 3:13-15)
3 - Doug also mentioned the Bob Dylan song, "You've Got To Serve Somebody". The reality is that we all have the tendencies to allow other things besides God to become "lords" in our lives. What do you find are the things that most easily become "lords" in your life?
4 - David uses the metaphor of a sheep and shepherd to describe our relationship with God. How accurate do you feel this is in your life?
5 - What stuck out in your mind the most concerning God's "shepherding" qualities?
6 - Read Ephesians 1:13-14. If Shepherds "mark" their sheep so that others will know they belong to a certain shepherd, what does God's mark look like on your life? Do you think that people who observe your life see the mark of God? Why? / Why Not? How?
7 - Can you like David say, "The LORD is my Shepherd"?
8 - What can you do to help that statement be more of a reality in your life?
Monday, January 28, 2008
Discussion Questions - Week of Jan 27
1) This week Doug talked about the "NPS Score" that businesses use to determine their clientele's passion and loyalty. Doug then asked us to think about this question based on your own personal relationship with God. "Would you recommend God to a friend?"
Do you? Why?
2) Go back and read Gen 3:7-12:
At that moment, their eyes were opened, and they suddenly felt shame at their nakedness. So they strung fig leaves together around their hips to cover themselves. 8 Toward evening they heard the Lord God walking about in the garden, so they hid themselves among the trees. 9 The Lord God called to Adam, "Where are you?" 10 He replied, "I heard you, so I hid. I was afraid because I was naked." 11 "Who told you that you were naked?" the Lord God asked. "Have you eaten the fruit I commanded you not to eat?" 12 "Yes," Adam admitted, "but it was the woman you gave me who brought me the fruit, and I ate it."
The consequences of sin are real. Can you see evidenced in this passage the consequences of broken connectedness to God, ourselves & each other? Have you seen similar consequences your own life as well?
3) Of the three areas that we discussed this weekend; connecting to God, connecting to who I am in Christ & connecting to others, which is the biggest challenge for you? Why do you think this is the case?
4) What steps do you need to take to be proactive in re-connecting in these areas?
5) We have spent the last 4 weeks looking at what it takes to have an E.P.I.C. Faith. The definition of Epic is, "Extending beyond the usual or ordinary especially in size or scope." The topics for each week were; Experiential, Participatory, Image-rich & Connected. As you look back over the series we have just completed what stands out in your mind the most? Would you describe your personal relationship with God as EPIC? What are some practical things that you can do in your life to continue moving in the direction of an EPIC Faith.
6) As a group in preparation for our new series that starts next week. Read Psalm 23.
Do you? Why?
2) Go back and read Gen 3:7-12:
At that moment, their eyes were opened, and they suddenly felt shame at their nakedness. So they strung fig leaves together around their hips to cover themselves. 8 Toward evening they heard the Lord God walking about in the garden, so they hid themselves among the trees. 9 The Lord God called to Adam, "Where are you?" 10 He replied, "I heard you, so I hid. I was afraid because I was naked." 11 "Who told you that you were naked?" the Lord God asked. "Have you eaten the fruit I commanded you not to eat?" 12 "Yes," Adam admitted, "but it was the woman you gave me who brought me the fruit, and I ate it."
The consequences of sin are real. Can you see evidenced in this passage the consequences of broken connectedness to God, ourselves & each other? Have you seen similar consequences your own life as well?
3) Of the three areas that we discussed this weekend; connecting to God, connecting to who I am in Christ & connecting to others, which is the biggest challenge for you? Why do you think this is the case?
4) What steps do you need to take to be proactive in re-connecting in these areas?
5) We have spent the last 4 weeks looking at what it takes to have an E.P.I.C. Faith. The definition of Epic is, "Extending beyond the usual or ordinary especially in size or scope." The topics for each week were; Experiential, Participatory, Image-rich & Connected. As you look back over the series we have just completed what stands out in your mind the most? Would you describe your personal relationship with God as EPIC? What are some practical things that you can do in your life to continue moving in the direction of an EPIC Faith.
6) As a group in preparation for our new series that starts next week. Read Psalm 23.
Friday, January 25, 2008
SMALL GROUPS
SMALL GROUPS HAVE FORMED!
Tuesday at 8:30 am in Castle Rock - Leader: Jeff Arlotti
> Space Available jarlotti@yahoo.com
Wednesday 11:45 Lunch in Castle Rock - Leader: Charles Oster
> Filled
Thursday Early Morning - South Denver - Leader: Mike Kelly
> Space Available mkelly007@comcast.net
Thursday Early Morning in Castle Rock - Leader: Brent Gravlee
> Space Available bgavlee@clifbar.com
S. Denver Lunch/Coffee (Day to be determined) - Leader: Chad Rodriguez
> Space Available rodriguezchad@yahoo.com
NEED: EVENING & PARKER GROUP LEADERS
Tuesday at 8:30 am in Castle Rock - Leader: Jeff Arlotti
> Space Available jarlotti@yahoo.com
Wednesday 11:45 Lunch in Castle Rock - Leader: Charles Oster
> Filled
Thursday Early Morning - South Denver - Leader: Mike Kelly
> Space Available mkelly007@comcast.net
Thursday Early Morning in Castle Rock - Leader: Brent Gravlee
> Space Available bgavlee@clifbar.com
S. Denver Lunch/Coffee (Day to be determined) - Leader: Chad Rodriguez
> Space Available rodriguezchad@yahoo.com
NEED: EVENING & PARKER GROUP LEADERS
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Update on the Clocks
Hey guys,
I received this from the Kim Clock this morning. I am hoping you all can make the Spaghetti dinner on Friday. It is from 4-8. We are going to go from 4-5 since Cole has a B-ball game and we have another engagement after the game.
We still need some stuff to donate for the silent auction. Anything will help - PlayStation's, gift certificates, etc.
Please keep praying!
--------------
Good morning,I'm not sure when I wrote you last, so I'll do a quick update. On Dec 14th D had a tumor removed from his right lung ( about a golf ball size). It was sent away for drug resistance testing. There are three chemo drugs that showed a 20 o/o chance of effecting the cancer. Two of these drugs were used the first time D was in chemo and if you remember made him deathly sick, Dr. Parra said he would cut the dosage and mix it with the third drug. Darrin's cancer grew through the first chemo drugs, but his cancer is changing, trying to stay alive. D's chemo treatment is a 3 week treatment. Week one mon-fri, week two monday, week 3 monday, week 4 rest. There will be only 2 treatments which takes us to March, there will be a PET scan then to see if the chemo is effective, D's body is not nearly as strong as it was in the beginning so please pray. Also D has not been back to work since his Dec surg, he is on oxygen through the night and at times throughout the day. We are still believing for a miracle. Short term disability has now started and that will be for three months then long term disability, Social security stuff is in the works but usually takes 5 months to get that going, they are trying to rush it since D has been labeled terminal. as weird as it may sound the financial does not scare us, God has proven that He will take care of us, and for all of you how have been His hands, feet and mouth we thank you. I'll keep you updated. As for Katee, she started # 11 yesterday (21rst) and will have chemo today and wed, She has chemo monday and tues and those nights she is also hooked to an IV pump that pumps chemo through the night, on Wed she will have chemo but no night pump. She is so thankful she is almost done. We all are. As for Ami and I we are trying to help where we can but find ourselves lost in what to do most of the time. The senior center is again including us in their spaghetti feed, this friday, they are keeping all the money from the food but there will be a silent auction with alot of wonderful things people have donated. The spaghetti dinner is at the event center here in castle rock ( in one of the side buildings, we just look for the cars and lights) I'll write more when I have more.
Kim Clock
197 GordonPlace
Castle Rock, CO 80104
I received this from the Kim Clock this morning. I am hoping you all can make the Spaghetti dinner on Friday. It is from 4-8. We are going to go from 4-5 since Cole has a B-ball game and we have another engagement after the game.
We still need some stuff to donate for the silent auction. Anything will help - PlayStation's, gift certificates, etc.
Please keep praying!
--------------
Good morning,I'm not sure when I wrote you last, so I'll do a quick update. On Dec 14th D had a tumor removed from his right lung ( about a golf ball size). It was sent away for drug resistance testing. There are three chemo drugs that showed a 20 o/o chance of effecting the cancer. Two of these drugs were used the first time D was in chemo and if you remember made him deathly sick, Dr. Parra said he would cut the dosage and mix it with the third drug. Darrin's cancer grew through the first chemo drugs, but his cancer is changing, trying to stay alive. D's chemo treatment is a 3 week treatment. Week one mon-fri, week two monday, week 3 monday, week 4 rest. There will be only 2 treatments which takes us to March, there will be a PET scan then to see if the chemo is effective, D's body is not nearly as strong as it was in the beginning so please pray. Also D has not been back to work since his Dec surg, he is on oxygen through the night and at times throughout the day. We are still believing for a miracle. Short term disability has now started and that will be for three months then long term disability, Social security stuff is in the works but usually takes 5 months to get that going, they are trying to rush it since D has been labeled terminal. as weird as it may sound the financial does not scare us, God has proven that He will take care of us, and for all of you how have been His hands, feet and mouth we thank you. I'll keep you updated. As for Katee, she started # 11 yesterday (21rst) and will have chemo today and wed, She has chemo monday and tues and those nights she is also hooked to an IV pump that pumps chemo through the night, on Wed she will have chemo but no night pump. She is so thankful she is almost done. We all are. As for Ami and I we are trying to help where we can but find ourselves lost in what to do most of the time. The senior center is again including us in their spaghetti feed, this friday, they are keeping all the money from the food but there will be a silent auction with alot of wonderful things people have donated. The spaghetti dinner is at the event center here in castle rock ( in one of the side buildings, we just look for the cars and lights) I'll write more when I have more.
Kim Clock
197 GordonPlace
Castle Rock, CO 80104
Sunday, January 20, 2008
DIscussion questions for week of Jan 20
Hey guys,
Below are some questions to discuss when you get together with your JourneyMEN group this week. Please let me know when and where your group is meeting so we can inform and connect new guys with your group...
Have an awesome week!
------------------
1. ) What were your first thoughts when Doug said that an “EPIC Faith” needs to be "image-rich"?
2.) What are your thoughts about the A.W. Tozer quote: “The most important fact about any man is not what he at a given time may say or do, but what he in his deep heart conceives God to be.”?
3.) John 1:14 “So the Word became human and lived here on earth among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the only Son of the Father.”
4.) What are your thoughts about the “Word becoming flesh”? Why is it so important for us to study the life of Jesus and the images that were part of His life and His teachings?
5.) Of the 7 images that Doug talked about this weekend which one sticks out in your mind & heart the most?
6.) What other images from Jesus’ life are significant to you?
7.) Doug finished his message by challenging us to think of Monday as “Game Day”. What do you think about this challenge?
8.) Finally, Doug also asked us to evaluate what image others are seeing in our lives. Are you clearly presenting the Lord by the way you live your life? What steps can you take to do this more effectively?
Below are some questions to discuss when you get together with your JourneyMEN group this week. Please let me know when and where your group is meeting so we can inform and connect new guys with your group...
Have an awesome week!
------------------
1. ) What were your first thoughts when Doug said that an “EPIC Faith” needs to be "image-rich"?
2.) What are your thoughts about the A.W. Tozer quote: “The most important fact about any man is not what he at a given time may say or do, but what he in his deep heart conceives God to be.”?
3.) John 1:14 “So the Word became human and lived here on earth among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the only Son of the Father.”
4.) What are your thoughts about the “Word becoming flesh”? Why is it so important for us to study the life of Jesus and the images that were part of His life and His teachings?
5.) Of the 7 images that Doug talked about this weekend which one sticks out in your mind & heart the most?
6.) What other images from Jesus’ life are significant to you?
7.) Doug finished his message by challenging us to think of Monday as “Game Day”. What do you think about this challenge?
8.) Finally, Doug also asked us to evaluate what image others are seeing in our lives. Are you clearly presenting the Lord by the way you live your life? What steps can you take to do this more effectively?
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Daddy/Daughter Dance!
Let's get behind this...
It's almost time for the best dance of the year! Due to the outstanding attendance the dance experienced last year, we've changed venues this year to allow for more dancing space, more couples and more fun. The Town of Castle Rock's annual Daddy-Daughter ball (open to daddies and daughters of all ages) will be held on Saturday, February 9th from 6:30 - 8:30 pm at Castle View High School.
Register early and save!
$25 per couple pre-registration ($20 resident discount)
$30 per couple at the door ($25 resident discount)
$8.00 per additional child
Click here to register online http://www.crgov.com/crpub/listing.asp Go to the Special Interest link to find the Daddy-Daughter ball.
See the attached flyer for more details, and please contact me if you have any questions. I hope to see you for A Fairy Tale Evening!
It's almost time for the best dance of the year! Due to the outstanding attendance the dance experienced last year, we've changed venues this year to allow for more dancing space, more couples and more fun. The Town of Castle Rock's annual Daddy-Daughter ball (open to daddies and daughters of all ages) will be held on Saturday, February 9th from 6:30 - 8:30 pm at Castle View High School.
Register early and save!
$25 per couple pre-registration ($20 resident discount)
$30 per couple at the door ($25 resident discount)
$8.00 per additional child
Click here to register online http://www.crgov.com/crpub/listing.asp Go to the Special Interest link to find the Daddy-Daughter ball.
See the attached flyer for more details, and please contact me if you have any questions. I hope to see you for A Fairy Tale Evening!
JourneyMEN - Small Groups!
Good afternoon!
I have talked to many of you personally throughout the day and I am totally excited and enthused about our new format!
To summarize;
We are going to form small groups to accommodate more schedules and encourage each group to meet weekly. We will provide the weekly discussion questions on Sunday right here on the JourneyMEN Blog. The discussion and supporting scripture will compliment the lesson/message from the Sunday before at church.
We will have a "All Hands JourneyMEN" event once per quarter. More information to come on this.
Currently, it is looking like we have 4-5 groups forming. Here is what we are looking like so far;
Early Morning (6:30)- Castle Rock Leader: Mike Kelly mvkelly007@comcast.net
Mid Morning- Castle Rock
Lunch - Castle Rock
Lunch - South Denver
Possibly Castle Pines North
Would like more leaders/organizers in/at;
Parker, Morning
Castle Rock, Evening
Stay tuned for more information!
Charles
I have talked to many of you personally throughout the day and I am totally excited and enthused about our new format!
To summarize;
We are going to form small groups to accommodate more schedules and encourage each group to meet weekly. We will provide the weekly discussion questions on Sunday right here on the JourneyMEN Blog. The discussion and supporting scripture will compliment the lesson/message from the Sunday before at church.
We will have a "All Hands JourneyMEN" event once per quarter. More information to come on this.
Currently, it is looking like we have 4-5 groups forming. Here is what we are looking like so far;
Early Morning (6:30)- Castle Rock Leader: Mike Kelly mvkelly007@comcast.net
Mid Morning- Castle Rock
Lunch - Castle Rock
Lunch - South Denver
Possibly Castle Pines North
Would like more leaders/organizers in/at;
Parker, Morning
Castle Rock, Evening
Stay tuned for more information!
Charles
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
E.P.I.C. - Participate
JourneyMEN – January 17, 2008
INTRODUCTION – Series – The E.P.I.C. LifeThis past weekend we were called to be Participatory in our faith.
Matthew 4:19“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” Jesus began His public ministry with a simple invitation…“Come, follow me,” Arguably the Disciples who heard this call are the ones that Participated at the highest level! The people whose lives were really impacted and changed by God were the ones that understood the EPIC kind of life.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Why is it important to God that we participate?
Why is it important to the Church and each other that we participate?
In what ways can I Participate in the community and in the church in order for Jesus to accomplish his mission in the world?
As men, why do we sometimes find it hard to take the step to participate? How can we overcome that?
How can participating keep us passionate about our enthusiasm for God?
WHAT WILL YOU DO?Starting this week, how will you get involved? What will your involvement and participation look like in JourneyMEN in 2008?
CHANGING YOUR MIND Matthew 28:18-20
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
INTRODUCTION – Series – The E.P.I.C. LifeThis past weekend we were called to be Participatory in our faith.
Matthew 4:19“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” Jesus began His public ministry with a simple invitation…“Come, follow me,” Arguably the Disciples who heard this call are the ones that Participated at the highest level! The people whose lives were really impacted and changed by God were the ones that understood the EPIC kind of life.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Why is it important to God that we participate?
Why is it important to the Church and each other that we participate?
In what ways can I Participate in the community and in the church in order for Jesus to accomplish his mission in the world?
As men, why do we sometimes find it hard to take the step to participate? How can we overcome that?
How can participating keep us passionate about our enthusiasm for God?
WHAT WILL YOU DO?Starting this week, how will you get involved? What will your involvement and participation look like in JourneyMEN in 2008?
CHANGING YOUR MIND Matthew 28:18-20
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
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