Sunday Rewind | 9.8.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Endless Light (Psalm 113:3-4) – Cornerstone by Hillsong
The Lord Our God (James 1:17) – Let The Future Begin by Kristian Stanfill (Passion)
Come Thou Fount (Psalm 16:11) – Original Arrangement
I Stand Amazed (2 Corinthians 8:9) – North Point Live by Candi Pearson (North Point)
God Is Able (Ephesians 3:20-21) – Forever Reign by Hillsong Chapel
Agnus Dei (Revelation 5:20-21) – Original Arrangement
TEACHING: Getting to Know Scripture, Part 2
Meditating on Scriptures helps us move the precepts of the Bible from head to heart. Meditation is seeking the richness of God’s Word by being still as we reflect on the greater possibilities of meaning and application without violating the intended meaning of the text.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What was one thing from this sermon you found particularly insightful, helpful or difficult to grasp?
- What tends to come to mind when you think of “meditation”? How is that similar or different to meditation from a biblical perspective?
- Read and discuss Psalm 1. What does this chapter tell or infer about the nature of man? What do you observe about who God is? What does Psalm 1 tell us about mediation and the Word of God?
- What are some benefits of meditating on Scripture? How have you personally experienced some of those benefits?
What is the difference between studying Scripture and meditating on Scripture? Are both necessary? Why or why not? - Pastor Mike defines mediation as “seeking the richness of God’s Word by being still as you reflect on the greater possibilities of meaning and application without violating the intended meaning of the text.” What does it mean to violate the intended meaning of a text? How can we avoid that?
- Look over the account of David & Goliath in 1 Samuel 17. As Pastor Mike shared from his own meditations, what insights were fresh for you from this well-known account? How is this account pointing us to Jesus?
- What practical steps can you take to incorporate meditation as a regular discipline in your walk?
- Pick a portion of Scripture to meditate on as a group. Spend the next week meditating on those verses. Take some time to share any below-the-surface insights with each other the next time your group meets.
Sunday Rewind | 9.1.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Sing, Sing, Sing (Psalm 47:6-7) – Hello Love by Chris Tomlin
Blessed Be Your Name (Job 1:21) – Sacred Revolution by Matt Redman (Passion)
By Faith (Psalm 145:13) – Awaken the Dawn by Keith & Kristyn Getty
As It Is In Heaven (Psalm 149:1) – Overflow by Matt Maher
I Lift My Hands (Psalm 46:10) – And If Our God is For Us… by Chris Tomlin
TEACHING: Getting to Know Scripture, Part 1
After His resurrection, Jesus rebuked two of His disciples for disbelief and “interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.” (Luke 24:27). The Old Testament is full of prophecy, foreshadowing, and models that point to the Messiah who was to come, all of which should build our faith in Him and the Bible that speaks of Him.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- Did this message encourage your faith in the Scripture? How so?
- Pastor Mike mentioned the narratives of Noah and the ark (Genesis 6-8), Abraham and Isaac (Genesis 17,21-22), Joseph (Genesis 37,39-49), Jonah, the Passover (Exodus 12), and the tabernacle (Exodus 25-26). Take one or two of these and discuss some of the ways in which they foreshadow Christ. Are there any other models or types of Christ in the Old Testament that come to mind?
- Why do you think the disciples on the Road to Emmaus failed to recognize Jesus as He talked to them?
- Read Luke 24:13-25 and Acts 8:26-39. What seems to be the response when someone “gets to know” the Old Testament? Is your response the same?
- How would you answer someone (or how have you answered) who tells you that the Bible is just a bunch of stories written “around a campfire”?
- Are there areas where you feel your understanding of Scripture is lacking? Spend some time as a group talking about and praying over ways you can grow in those areas.
Sunday Rewind | 8.25.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
O Worship The King (Psalm 145:9-10) – Hymns Ancient & Modern by Chris Tomlin (Passion)
Open Up Our Eyes (Ephesians 1:18-19a) – Nothing is Wasted by Elevation Worship
Beautiful Lord (Ephesians 2:4-5) – The Sound of Melodies by Leeland
Mighty To Save (Zephaniah 3:17) – Yahweh by Hillsong Chapel
Son of God (Psalm 145:3-4) – Beauty in the Broken by Starfield
TEACHING: Ruth: A Story of God’s Redemptive Love, Part 7
As we conclude our series in the book of Ruth, Pastor Mike explains how the main theme of the story is redemption. Ruth and Naomi’s redemption through Boaz is a foreshadowing of the ultimate redemption by our kinsman-redeemer, Jesus Christ.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- How does Boaz’s redemption of Ruth and Naomi point to the redemption of God’s people through Christ? Can you think of other stories in the Old Testament that point to that redemption?
- Pastor Mike said the qualifications of a kinsman-redeemer are: 1) He is a relative. 2) He is able to redeem. 3) He is willing to redeem. 4) He is free from the problem of the one he is to redeem. Talk about the reasons that Christ is eligible to be our kinsman-redeemer.
- Read and discuss Galatians 3:10-29 and Romans 3:19-24. How do these passages explain the “problem” from which we need to be redeemed?
- Referring to the genealogy of Jesus, Pastor Mike said, “God redeems the mess. God even takes messes and uses them for His redemptive purposes.” Is this encouraging to you? Do you see any ways that God has used the “mess” in your own life, or those around you?
- What is one thing you’ve learned (or re-learned) from the study of Ruth that has encouraged you or challenged you in your Christian walk?
- Spend some time in prayer thanking God for providing us a kinsman-redeemer and Savior.
Sunday Rewind | 8.18.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Be Lifted High (John 3:30) – Nothing is Wasted by Elevation Worship
Rock of Ages (Deuteronomy 32:3-4) – Death of Death by Charlie Hall
In Your Presence (Deuteronomy 31:6) – Nothing is Wasted by Elevation Worship
Glorious (Psalm 111:2-3) – Glorious by Paul Baloche
Whom Shall I Fear (God of Angel Armies) (Psalm 27:1) – Let the Future Begin by Chris Tomlin (Passion)
TEACHING: Ruth: A Story of God’s Redemptive Love, Part 6
As we continue our series in the book of Ruth, Pastor Mike delves into the concept of the kinsman-redeemer. When the redemptive power of the gospel is lived out in our lives, it will draw others to us.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- If you were give a one-sentence synopsis of this message, what would it be?
- Read and discuss Ruth 4:1-12. What is the significance of this exchange between Boaz, the town elders, and the other kinsman-redeemer? What are the implications for Ruth?
- What is the significance of a kinsman-redeemer? How is Jesus a kinsman-redeemer?
- Pastor Mike shared this quote: “When we act, think, talk, and love like Jesus, we’ll have more walk-in business than we can handle.” What does that mean? What are the implications for us?
- Can you think of someone to whom you have felt drawn because of Jesus in their life?
- Do you feel you are living in such a way that people are drawn to you? Why or why not?
- How is the gospel attractive? In what ways is it repulsive?
- The great commission (Matthew 28:19) can be translated as “as you are going, make disciples.” What does this mean? How can you put this to practice as you go about your life? Spend some time in prayer with your group for this.
Sunday Rewind | 8.11.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Our God Is Love (1 John 4:9-10) – A Beautiful Exchange by Hillsong
Glorious (Psalm 111:2-3) – Everything Glorious by Chris Tomlin (Passion)
You Never Let Go (Psalm 23:4) – Beautiful News by Matt Redman
Beautiful Scandalous Night (Romans 5:7-8) – Give Yourself Away by Robbie Seay Band
Nothing But The Blood (1 John 1:7) – Original Arrangement
TEACHING: Ruth: A Story of God’s Redemptive Love, Part 5
The third chapter in the book of Ruth brings up the question: can the will of God be managed or manipulated? From a human perspective, it is terribly risky to follow the will of God and to live a life of godly character for His glory.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What is one thing from this sermon you hope to talk about as a group?
- Do you tend to be a person who runs from risk or seeks out risk?
- Read and discuss Ruth 3. What insight does this give about the character of Naomi, Ruth and Boaz? Where do you see themes of wisdom, obedience & generosity? What other themes do you see in this chapter?
- How do we know what the will of God is? Why is it “risky” to follow the will of God?
- In what ways is it risky to live a life of godly character?
- What does it mean to “manage” the will of God? How is that different from “manipulating” the will of God?
- How does the gospel deal with our propensity to manipulate the will of God?
- Is there an area of your life where God is currently asking you to take a risk? How are you tempted to “manipulate” the will of God in this situation? What would it look like to “manage” this for the glory of God? Spend some time in prayer with your group for this.
Sunday Rewind | 7.21.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Endless Light (Psalm 113:3-4) – Cornerstone by Hillsong
Open Up Our Eyes (Ephesians 1:18-19a) – Nothing Is Wasted by Elevation Worship
Rock of Ages (Deuteronomy 32:3-4) – Death of Death by Charlie Hall
Forever Reign (Lamentations 5:19) – A Beautiful Exchange by Hillsong
Jesus Paid It All (Colossians 2:13-14) – North Point Live by Kristian Stanfill (North Point)
TEACHING: Ruth: A Story of God’s Redemptive Love, Part 4
There is often a disconnect between how we see ourselves and how others see us. As representatives of Christ in a fallen world, we should take inventory of our character in light of Scripture. The character of Ruth and generosity of Boaz point us toward an integral life in Christ.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- As you reflect on this sermon, what one insight or principle stands out as being particularly helpful, insightful or difficult to grasp?
- What is “character”? Can you think of any examples of bad character? Of good character?
- Read and discuss Ruth 2. In terms of character, how does the foreman view Ruth? How does Boaz view Ruth? How does Ruth view Boaz? How does Naomi view Boaz? How does the author view Naomi?
- How does the character and generosity of Boaz point us to Christ?
- Is it important to consider how others see us? Why or why not?
- In what ways are you prone to have a “heat index” in your view of yourself and think more highly of yourself than you ought?
- How does the gospel help us see ourselves as we really are? How does the gospel tell us about how God views us? How are our personal character deficits redeemed in the gospel?
- Just based on outward observation, would your faith in Christ be evident to others? Why or why not? Can you think of any areas for intentional improvement? Spend some time in prayer about this with your group.
Sunday Rewind | 7.14.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Be Lifted High (John 3:30) – Nothing is Wasted by Elevation Worship
Majesty (Isaiah 53:5) – Majesty: The Worship EP by Leeland
Lord of All (Psalm 97:5-6) – Louder Than Creation by Kristian Stanfill (North Point)
With Us (Psalm 46:10-11a) – God Is Able by Hillsong
Unending Love (Romans 8:38-39) – God Is Able by Hillsong
TEACHING: Ruth: A Story of God’s Redemptive Love, Part 3
How does God accomplish His great purposes without negating our choices as free moral agents? As we continue our series, Pastor Mike looks at how the providential goodness of God is seen in the life of Ruth and in the arrival of Christ.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- If you were to give a one-sentence synopsis of this message, what would it be?
- What is “providence”? What theological or practical tensions are there when considering the providence & sovereignty of God?
- Do you have any stories, situations or scenarios from your own life that can only be explained by the providence of God?
- Read and discuss Ruth 2:1-13. Where do you see the providence of God at work? What does this tell us about the nature of man? What do we see about the nature of God?
- How does personal character & integrity play out in to the story of Ruth & Boaz in the verses above?
- How are we “resident aliens” like Ruth? What impact should this have on our daily life?
- How does the Gospel give purpose to even the most mundane aspects of our lives? Can you think of someone with whom you could pray to “find favor” with for the sake of the Gospel?
- Is there an area or situation in your life where you are “playing chess with God”? What would it look like for you to surrender, trust and obey Him instead? Spend some time in prayer about this with your group.
Sunday Rewind | 7.7.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Sing to the King – The Best of Passion by Candi Pearson (Passion)
King of Glory – Hello Love by Chris Tomlin
In Your Presence (Deuteronomy 31:6) – Nothing is Wasted by Elevation Worship
Blessed Be the Name (Job 1:21) – Sacred Revolution by Matt Redman (Passion)
Amazing Grace (My Chains are Gone) – See The Morning by Chris Tomlin
TEACHING: Ruth: A Story of God’s Redemptive Love, Part 2
Both Ruth & Naomi experienced seasons of famine, departure, harvest and return – but one returned full of faith, the other full of bitterness. The mystery of pain & suffering in the hands of a sovereign & loving God should lead us not to bitterness, but to greater faith in Him.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What is one thing from this message that you hope to discuss as a group?
- If God is good and sovereign, why does He allow suffering? Have you ever had a season in life where you struggled to reconcile the sovereignty/goodness of God with the suffering of a painful circumstance? What happened?
- Read and discuss Ruth, chapter 1. With whom do you relate to more – Ruth or Naomi? How would you describe Naomi’s spiritual state? How would you describe Ruth’s?
- What role does suffering and pain play in the life of a Christ-follower?
- Read and discuss 1 Corinthians 13:12. How might this verse encourage Naomi? What other verses can you think of that would encourage her away from bitterness and toward deeper faith?
- How does the Gospel of Jesus Christ provide context for our pain and redeem our suffering?
- Is there an area of pain in your life that has lead you to bitterness toward God or others? What would it look like for you to rest in God’s grace in that area? Spend some time in prayer with your group about that.
Sunday Rewind | 6.30.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Sing, Sing, Sing (Psalm 47:6-7) – Hello Love by Chris Tomlin
Alive In Us (Ephesians 2:4-5) – God Is Able by Hillsong
Give Me Faith (Psalm 73:25-26) – Nothing Is Wasted by Elevation Worship
The Solid Rock (Psalm 18:2) – Original Arrangement
I Stand Amazed (2 Corinthians 8:9) – North Point Live by Candi Pearson Shelton (North Point)
TEACHING: Ruth: A Story of God’s Redemptive Love, Part 1
In Ruth Chapter 1, Naomi and her daughter-in-law Ruth suffer the tragedy of losing their husbands. But Naomi’s honest faith and Ruth’s unyielding loyalty pave the way for royal line of the Messiah.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- How can we become people whom others want to “follow” through life with such eager commitment as Ruth’s? Do you know any people like that?
- Read Ruth 1:11-13 and 20-21 and discuss Naomi’s reaction to her circumstances. What do her words reveal about her walk with Lord? Can you think of other examples in Scripture where people responded similarly? Do you ever express yourself to God like that?
- Have you ever had a season in life where you felt called to abandon all that you know to follow God’s plan? Did you go?
- Read Ruth 1:15-17. What does this section reveal about Ruth’s persistent faithfulness to Naomi?
- What are some ways you can already see in this section that God is using the lives of these two women to prepare the way for Christ’s arrival on earth?
Sunday Rewind | 6.16.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
God Is Able (Ephesians 3:20-21) – God Is Able by Hillsong
Be Lifted High (John 3:30) – Nothing Is Wasted by Elevation Worship
Nothing But The Blood (Ephesians 1:7-8) – Facedown by Matt Redman
Our King Has Come (Romans 5:1-2) – For The Honor by Elevation Worship
In Your Presence (Deuteronomy 31:6) – Nothing Is Wasted by Elevation Worship
TEACHING: The Prodigal Son, Part 4
The prodigal son’s older sibling seems to carry an attitude of contempt toward his younger brother – and toward his father, from whom he felt entitled to be rewarded for his righteous deeds. The older brother hoped for justice and favor but received a rebuke.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- Take a few minutes to reflect on the Rembrandt painting “The Return of the Prodigal Son.” (See the image here.) Which parts of the painting and its symbolism are especially meaningful to you? Did you observe any additional symbolism in it?
- Read and discuss Luke 15:25-32. In what ways does the older brother go to his own “far country”?
- How do you avoid the self-righteous mentality that says to God, “You owe me”? Can you think of some scriptural truths that counter such a mindset?
- Is it easier to preach the Gospel to people rooted in vile behavior, or to those rooted in self-righteousness? How can we talk about God’s grace to either group (including one we might be in)?
- Where do you fit in this story? Are you the prodigal son? The older brother? Or do you find elements of both in your own heart?
- How has your view of the prodigal son story changed during this series? How has your view of yourself changed?