Encounter Church

Stop Trying - Further Study Questions.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:07:00 +0000

This past Sunday's lesson was titled Stop Trying. Take time to continue studying, considering, and applying the lesson through the following questions and Scripture passages.

Do you try to live a life pleasing to the Lord or do you train to live a life pleasing to the Lord? Why is it often easier to try as opposed to training?

How much effort do you put toward training to be Godly?

Think through the events and activities of your day. What is it that you train for in life?

Describe a time when you trained to reach a specific goal. Can you think of a time when you did not reach a goal because of a lack of training?

Is holiness an option for Christians? Why or why not?

What does 1 Peter 1:15-16 tell us about being holy?

Read Matthew 11:29 and Luke 9:23. What can we learn about discipline and training from these two passages?

Read 2 Peter 1:5-9. Within this passage we see a progression of development in our pursuit of Godliness. What role does training ourselves in Spiritual Disciplines have within this process?

In the study guide for his book, Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life, Donald Whitney writes that…

Three things, when understood, will help you persevere in the practice of the Spiritual Disciplines: the role of the Holy Spirit, the role of fellowship, and the role of struggle in Christian living.

Consider these three things mentioned by Donald Whitney. How do they help one persevere in the practice of Spiritual Disciplines?

Think of someone whom you know who actively practices Spiritual Disciplines. How has their willingness to train to be Godly impacted their life?

Read Matthew 4:2; Luke 2:46-47; John 13:2-6, 17:4. What does each of these verses say about Jesus and His pursuit of Spiritual Disciplines?

How does the goal of Godliness impact your willingness to train in the Spiritual Disciplines?

What practical steps are you willing to take this week to stop trying and to begin training?

It's Just Easier - Further Study Questions.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 19:02:00 +0000

This past Sunday's lesson was titled It's Just Easier. Take time to continue studying, considering and applying the lesson through the following questions and Scripture passages.

Are you a disciplined person? Do you make the Spiritual Disciplines a part of your daily life? On a scale of 1-10, how disciplined are you?

What are some excuses we tend to use as to why we don’t practice the spiritual disciplines or live a disciplined life?

Read and review the following verses that discuss the importance of discipline and training. What truths do you learn from these verses?

Galatians 6:7-10

James 1:22-25

1 Timothy 4:7

Titus 2:11-12

2 Timothy 3:14-17

Mark 1:35-39

1 Corinthians 9:23-27

2 Timothy 4:7-8

2 Timothy 2:1-5

Are there any dangers in practicing spiritual disciplines? If so, what are they? How can we avoid these dangers?

It’s been said that…

Discipline is denying the lesser to gain the greater.

What is the lesser we are denying and what is the greater we are gaining when we are practicing spiritual disciplines?

Consider and comment on the following quote…

One can achieve discipline and bypass God altogether!

What is the difference between disciplined-living and holy living? Do these two ways of living go hand-in-hand? Do you believe that you can have one way of living without the other?

Read the following passages to discover that growth in holiness is a gift from God.

John 17:17

1 Thessalonians 5:23

Hebrews 2:11

If our growth in holiness is a gift from God then what role does disciplined living play in the process, if any?

According to 1 Timothy 4:7, what is the reason why we should train and discipline our lives? How does having a purpose or goal help you to be more disciplined?

Are there areas in your life, other than the spiritual disciplines, where a lack of discipline is proving to be detrimental? Consider some of the following areas and determine if a more disciplined approach needs to be taken. What effect does a lack of discipline in these various areas have on your spiritual journey with Jesus or vice-versa?

Work

Money

Food

Relationships

Learning

Speech

Entertainment

Thoughts and Emotions

Schedule

Take time to develop a plan for practicing the spiritual disciplines. What does this plan look like in your daily life? What steps will you take to make this a reality?

Key Elements - Further Study Questions.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 16:43:00 +0000

This past Sunday's lesson was titled Key Elements for Spiritual Awakening. Take time to continue studying, considering and applying the lesson through the following questions and Scripture passages.

On Sunday we reviewed three activities Jesus was engaged in that helped Him stay spiritually focused. Name all three.

Which of the three areas do you currently find the most challenging? Why?

What does it mean to go “public” with your faith? After baptism, how can you go “public” with your faith?

Reflect: Think of individuals you’ve known from the past who had a dynamic reputation for God with their peers. What made their life so dynamic? What were their personal habits?

Jesus was tempted in three different ways in Matthew 4:1-11. What are the areas the devil attempts to get you to stumble into sin?

Read I Corinthians 10:13 and think how God may help you in during times of temptation.

Identify your 4 key roles you play as a person. With each role write down one prayer request that God can help you with in 2012.

Role 1)

Role 2)

Role 3)

Role 4)

Read Hebrews 12:1-2. What was it that motivated Jesus to stay focused at the task at hand? What is the task that God has asked you to do in 2012? Does it bring you joy? Will He reward you if you perform well in that role?

Extreme Obedience - Further Study Questions.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 21:38:00 +0000

This past Sunday's lesson was titled Extreme Obedience. Take time to continue studying, considering and applying the lesson through the following questions and Scripture passages.

Read and review Genesis 22. What observations do you make from this passage?

Put yourself in Abraham’s position, how would you have responded to such a test of faith and obedience?

Often we forget about Sarah. How do you think she would have responded to her husband’s belief in God and desire to obey God?

Do you find your life to be a life of obedience to God? Why or why not?

Do you ever find yourself trying really hard to obey God?

Explain what Charles Spurgeon meant when he once stated that…

Faith is the morning star to obedience.

Let’s imagine what Abraham’s day to day life must have been like. How do you think Abraham got to the point to where he was able to believe God so deeply that he was willing to sacrifice his son (see Hebrews 11:17-19)? Was his ability to believe an immediate change in his life? Did his ability to believe grow over time? Did his ability to believe grow through individual choices made? What are your thoughts?

Obedience without belief in God’s promises leads to rebellion. Why is this the so?

Do you think there is ever a time when obedience is required without the foundation of belief or faith in what God is doing?

Based upon your obedience to God, is your faith dead? See James 2:26.

Take time to read and consider the following passages. What do these passages tell us about Abraham?

Romans 4

Acts 7:2-8

Galatians 3

Hebrews 6:13-15

Hebrews 11:8-19

James 2:20-24

The true test of our faith is when obedience is required in a difficult situation. Can you recall any times in your life when you found it difficult to obey because of difficult circumstances? Maybe you’re in a difficult circumstance even now?

What, in your life, is challenging your obedience to God? What do you need to surrender to God?

Total obedience is not only measured by what you surrender to God; God also takes into account what you keep for yourself. Can God get close to the most important things in your life: your possessions, business, plans and dreams, and relationships? Sometimes the supreme test of your faith will be a matter of putting obedience to God above something you have lived for all of our lives. Sometimes it will involve something that might, to everyone else, seem foolish and ridiculous. Are you willing to be obedient to God in every area of your life?

What are some ways you can begin learning to believe God more? Give specific examples you can put into action this week.

Learning to Believe the Promises of God - Further Study Questions

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 12:23:00 +0000

This past Sunday's lesson was titled Learning to Believe the Promises of God. Take time to continue studying, considering and applying the lesson through the following questions and Scripture passages.

The Impact Statement this week was, “God can be trusted to fulfill His promises to us.” On a scale from 1-10 with 1 being I don’t believe and 10 being I believe on all levels, how would you rate your overall faith in regards to God’s promises?

|--------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------|

1 5 10

On Sunday, Mike Grine said that fear is a result of not trusting God in a given area. What areas of your life would you say you have fear? Is that fear a direct result of not trusting God? Meditate on that thought for a few minutes. Ask God to reveal His plan for your life as it relates to this area of fear.

Abram had established a pattern with God by not believing, hearing from God to reemphasize a particular promise and then believing again. Is this true of your life? What steps could you take to break this cycle?

What are some of the promises in the Bible that you are absolutely trusting God for? Write down the references and create a 3x5 card for each one. Make sure that you have it thoroughly memorized in your mind, so you can utilize it when needed.

Name some promises in your life that you know God has made but you have not seen them fulfilled yet. Ask yourself why haven’t they been fulfilled? Are you still trusting God to make good on them? Pray and ask Him for faith to continue to trust Him.

Do a Bible search and write down the names of people that God made a promise to and then later fulfilled that promise to that person.

Write down a list of everyday items that you find yourself trusting in to do something for you (i.e. a light switch, your ignition in your car, your bank account balance). After writing down these items, reflect on how much trust you place in them and how little you trust God to fulfill His promises to you. Confess any unbelief you have to Him and ask Him to give you more faith to believe.

Go Back - Further Study Questions.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 16:55:00 +0000

This past Sunday's lesson was titled Go Back. Take time to continue studying, considering and applying the lesson through the following questions and Scripture passages.

In your day to day life, are you ever required to take a test? For example, have you ever had to take a certification test for your job? Why are you required to take tests in various areas of your occupation or day to day life?

Spiritually thinking, can you recall a time in your life when your faith was tested. How did you respond to this time of testing?

Go back and read Genesis 12:6-20. How did Abraham respond to his faith being tested? Put yourself in Abraham’s position, how do you think you would have responded?

Is there a difference between God testing your faith and God disciplining you? Why is it important to make and remember this distinction? Should you respond differently to God’s testing as compared to God’s discipline?

There are times when your faith will be tested. Take time to read through and study what the following passages tell about faith, testing, learning to trust and your walk with Jesus…

Deuteronomy 13:3

Luke 8:13

Proverbs 17:3

1 Thessalonians 2:4

Matthew 14:22-33

Job 7:18

1 Peter 1:6-7

Isaiah 48:10

Romans 5:3-4

Job 23:10

Take time to consider and meditate on James 1:2-18. How is this passage an encouragement during times when it is difficult to respond in faith?

As you find yourself in the midst of testing, the lesson on Sunday focused on going back and remembering the faithfulness of God. List out specific ways you’ve seen God’s faithfulness in your life in the past. Go ahead; make the list as long as possible.

What is the significance of repentance when you find yourself in the midst of failed faith?

While you’re in the midst of testing, it is important to not ask the question, “How can I get out of this,” but rather “What can I get out of this?” Think back to some of the testing experiences you’ve gone through. What have you gotten out of them?

How will you construct “altars” which will serve as reminders of God’s faithfulness. These “altars” will allow you to go back before going forward in your faith.

What are some daily practices you can put into place to help strengthen your faith?

As testing comes into your life, how will you choose to respond in faith?

Prepare for the next lesson in this series by reading Genesis 15. Go ahead and make your own observations and life applications.

Blind Faith - Further Study Questions.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 20:16:00 +0000

This past Sunday's lesson was titled Blind Faith. Take time to continue studying, considering and applying the lesson through the following questions and Scripture passages.

Think through the events of your day when you put faith into practice outside of your spiritual life. For example, when you drove your car today, you had faith in the mechanic that he fixed your brakes properly. What are some other examples of faith you can think of?

What barriers cause you to have difficulty in placing your faith in God in all areas of your life?

Everyone has faith. What is important is identifying what or who your faith is in. What or who is the object of your faith? Is your faith truly in God for all of your life’s circumstances or have you set-up other “gods” in which you’ve entrusted areas of your life? Prayerfully identify those “gods”.

What do you know about God that gives you confidence that your faith is well placed in Him?

Read Genesis 11:27-12:9. Reconsider the observations we made on Sunday regarding Abraham’s faith. What other observations can you discover within this passage? How might you apply these observations to your life?

Learning to live a life of faith is foundational to a Christian’s daily walk with Jesus. Take time to read through and study what the following passages tell us about faith, trusting God and your walk with Jesus…

Ephesians 2:8-9

Romans 1:16-17

2 Corinthians 5:7

Colossians 2:6-7

Matthew 6:30

Hebrews 11:1

Romans 14:23

Hebrews 4:2-3

Hebrews 11:6

Read and consider Hebrews 11. What observations do you make regarding faith and the men and women of faith listed?

By faith, have you placed your eternal spiritual condition in what Jesus has done for you on the cross? Have you, by faith, received the forgiveness of your sins (wrong doings against God)? Have you turned over the leadership of your life to Jesus and Jesus alone? If not, what barriers are holding you back from making this most important decision in your life?

Do you sense God calling you to take another step forward in faith? In what way might God be calling you? What is holding you back from moving forward with God to where He wants you to go?

What are some daily practices you can put in place in your life to help deepen your faith in God?

On Sunday we identified that a life of faith puts us in a position to be a blessing to others. How will you be a blessing to others today based upon your faith?

On Sunday we identified that faith leads us to worship of God. How will you worship God today based upon your faith in Him?

In preparation for next Sunday’s lesson, read Genesis 12:10-13:4. Take time to make observations from this passage.

Write out a prayer to God, asking Him to help strengthen and deepen your faith in Him.

What if We Realized the Impact of our Words? - Further Study Questions.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 18:54:00 +0000

This past Sunday's lesson was titled "What if we realized the impact of our words?". Take time to continue studying, considering and applying the lesson through the following questions and Scripture passages.

When is a time that I can recall the words of another building me up? What about a time when the words of another broke me down?

What unwholesome words do I tend to struggle with?

Review the 4 Applications from the lesson and consider ways in which I can live these applications out in my daily life.

How do I learn to recognize the needs of others and transform my speech accordingly?

Does my mouth usually feed people with the truth and substance of what I say, or does it starve people through silence or empty speech?

Does my mouth heal people with words of grace?

Does my mouth deliver and protect others or do I join in on the attack?

Do my words encourage others in their walk with the Lord?

The beginning of communication is within the heart of a person. Read Proverbs 4:20-27. In Matthew 12:34 Jesus tells the religious rulers of the day that out of the overflow of the heart a person’s mouth will speak. What I say is a result of my heart’s condition. What am I allowing to influence my heart? Are there some influences on my heart that are having a negative impact on my communication?

Read James 3:2-12. Study and make observations from this passage. How powerful is the tongue? Do I have control over my tongue? Have you been guilty of using my tongue to praise God and then the next minute say hurtful things to another person? What will I do today to work at taming your tongue?

Take time to study the following passages about words and communication…

Proverbs 10:19-21

Proverbs 11:13

Proverbs 12:18

Proverbs 12:25

Proverbs 15:1

Proverbs 15:28

Proverbs 16:24

Proverbs 17:9

Proverbs 23:6-8

Proverbs 25:11-12

Proverbs 27:6

Proverbs 27:15-16

Ephesians 4:31-32

James 1:19-20

Colossians 4:6

There are times when my words go sour. Often, a first response is to hurl back hurting words toward that person who is verbally hurting. Read and study 1 Peter 2:21-25 and take note of how Jesus responded to verbal abuse. What is it that I can learn from His example? How will I adjust my future responses to such situations?

This week, meditate on Ephesians 4:29 and determine how I will be intentional with my words in the lives of others.

What if We Learned to Forgive? - Further Study Questions.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 17:17:00 +0000

This past Sunday's lesson was titled "What if we learned to forgive?". Take some time to continue studying, considering and applying the lesson through the following questions and Scripture passages.

What are some of the reasons why I struggle to forgive others?

How does an unwillingness to forgive others impact my life?

It is important that I understand God’s forgiveness toward me. Read Romans 5:8. Consider what this verse tells me about God’s love and forgiveness. What other verses help me to understand God’s forgiveness?

In Matthew 18:15-35, what is Peter’s concern when he comes to Jesus and asks his question? How does Jesus answer Peter? What does seventy times seven mean?

In Matthew 18:15-35, to illustrate His teaching on forgiveness, Jesus tells a story about a king’s servant who becomes an object of the king’s mercy. What is Jesus’ point in the parable?

Meditate on and consider how I have seen and tasted Christ’s forgiveness and mercy in my life. What does my willingness to forgive or not forgive others say about me?

According to Matthew 5:25, how quickly must I forgive?

How do I forgive even when I don’t feel like forgiving?

REACH – An acronym on forgiveness.

R – Remember how much I’ve been forgiven. Read Ephesians 4:32.

E – Empathize with the person who hurt you. Try to understand why. Avoid judging. Read Luke 6:37.

A – Give an altruistic gift of forgiveness. Try to recall a time when I harmed someone who later forgave me. Read John 21.

C- Commit publicly to forgive. I can truly forgive in your heart but sometimes a public act helps to remind me that I have forgiven them. Restore the other. Read Luke 15 and Galatians 6:1.

H – Hold onto forgiveness. I never truly forget and forgiveness takes time to do its work. Read Matthew 18:21-22.

What do the following verses tell me about forgiveness?

Luke 23:34

Colossians 3:13

Matthew 6:14-15

1 John 1:9

Romans 12:19

Is there someone to whom I need to extend forgiveness and mercy?

What if We Served Others? - Further Study Questions.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 18:48:00 +0000

This past Sunday's lesson was titled "What if we served others?". Take some time to continue studying, considering and applying the lesson through the following questions and Scripture passages.

Do I serve others or expect others to serve me?

Who are those individuals that I find it easy to serve? Who are those individuals I find it hard to serve?

What are some reasons why I might struggle at serving others?

What are some of my unspoken rules when it comes to serving others?

Review Luke 10:25-37. What are some observations I make regarding the topic of loving and serving others?

How do I respond to the following statement?

A Christian who isn’t serving others is a contradiction.

Scripture passages for further study:

Philippians 1:1-17

Matthew 23:11

Mark 9:35

1 Peter 4:10

Ephesians 6:5-8

Luke 22:25-27

Matthew 20:28

1 John 3:17-18

John 13:1-17

Matthew 20:20-28

Is there ever any danger when I focus on serving others? Read Revelation 2:2-4. Is it possible that my love of serving others could take the place of loving God?

There in Revelation 2:4, the church of Ephesus had become so involved in their good deeds that they had forsaken their first love. The word forsaken in this passage gives us the idea of moving away from. It is not the first love that has moved but instead the self-proclaimed lover has moved away from the beloved little, by little, by little, by little.

Have I ever found myself so busy serving and attempting to meet the needs of others that I’ve forgotten my first love?

How can I be certain that my desire to serve others does not take the place of my desire to serve God?

This week, how will I go and be the neighbor? Get specific and list out some of the various ways I’ll be a neighbor this week and serve others.

In conclusion, D.L. Moody reminded us…

The beginning of greatness is to be little, the increase of greatness is to be less, and the perfection of greatness is to be nothing.

What if We Lived Generously? - Further Study Questions.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 18:10:00 +0000

This past Sunday's lesson was titled "What if we lived generously?". Take some time to continue studying, considering and applying the lesson through the following questions and Scripture passages.

Would I like to be known as a generous person?

Am I generous person?

How do I respond to the IMPACT STATEMENT from the lesson?

Generosity is not about your money; it’s about your heart.

Which of the 5 Heart Issues hold me back from being generous? How are some of these heart issues seen in my everyday life?

Discontentment – 1 Timothy 6:3-10

Debt – Proverbs 22:7 and Proverbs 15:16-18

Greed – Luke 12:13-31

Misunderstanding of Generosity’s Source – 2 Corinthians 9:6-7

Lack of Faith – 2 Corinthians 9:8-11

Consider this quote by John Calvin…

Where riches hold the dominion of the heart, God has lost His authority.

Consider this quote by George Mueller…

God judges what we give by what we keep.

How does a proper understanding of the generosity of God impact my generosity toward others? Below are just a few Bible verses that speak of the generosity of God…

Romans 5:5

Philippians 4:19

Ephesians 3:20

Romans 8:31-32

Hebrews 12:2

Scripture passages on finances to study:

Proverbs 3:9

Proverbs 28:20,22

Proverbs 18:10-11

Mark 12:41-44

Luke 16:1-15

Matthew 6:19-24

Acts 4:32-5:11

What changes in my life will I make so that I can become a more generous person?

Spend time in prayer. Read Proverbs 30:8-9 and make it the theme of your prayer to God!

What if We Didn't Worry? - Further Study Questions.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 16:28:00 +0000

This past Sunday's lesson was titled "What if we didn't worry?". Take some time to continue studying, considering, and applying the lesson through the following questions and Scripture passages.

1) Why do I worry?

2) What do I worry about?

3) What are the effects of worry on my life?

4) In Matthew 6, the first reason Jesus identifies why we worry is because we don’t recognize how valuable we are to God. What are some Bible verses that remind me of my value to God? (This may require some searching through the Bible.)

5) The second reason Jesus identifies in Matthew 6 why we worry is because we lack faith. What causes me to have a small faith? What is it about God that I struggle to truly believe? How can I work at strengthening my faith? What is a faith building plan of action I can put together and make a part of my daily life?

6) The third reason Jesus identifies in Matthew 6 why we worry is because we are pursuing to build our own kingdom. What does it mean to seek God’s Kingdom and His righteousness? How would seeking God’s Kingdom and His righteousness cause me not to worry?

7) Consider and respond to the following quote by A.W. Tozer…

Faith is a redirecting of our sight, a getting out of the focus of our vision and getting God into focus. Sin has twisted our vision inward and made it self-regarding. Unbelief [worry] has put self where God should be…Faith looks out instead of in and the whole life falls into line.

8) Read through and study the following verses that discuss worry. How do these verses apply to my life?

Matthew 6:25-27

Matthew 6:34

Matthew 11:28-30

Luke 12:25

John 14:27

Colossians 3:15

2 Thessalonians 3:16

Psalm 55:22

Proverbs 12:25

Philippians 4:6-7

1 Peter 5:7

Psalm 23:4

Isaiah 43:1-3

Hebrews 13:6

Psalm 46:10

Psalm 56:3

Psalm 121:1-2

Proverbs 3:5-6

1 Corinthians 10:13

Romans 8:31

9) Take time to write out a prayer, sharing with God the areas where you worry, and asking Him to help you with your unbelief.

Mud Pie Anyone?

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 01:00:00 +0000

C.S. Lewis once wrote...

If we consider the unblushing promises of reward and the staggering nature of the rewards promised in the Gospels, it would seem that our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered to us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.

Are you simply pleased with mud pies? ~MB

Never Satisfied and Never Enough.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 03:47:00 +0000

There are three things that are never satisfied, four that never say, ‘Enough!’: the grave, the barren womb, land, which is never satisfied with water, and fire, which never says, ‘Enough!’ (Proverbs 30:15b-16)

We’ve all had those friends who never seem to be satisfied. You know, the ones who, when we were younger, couldn’t wait till they could drive. Then, once they had their driver’s license, they couldn’t wait to go to college. Then, once they were in college, they couldn’t wait till they were married. Then, once they were married, they couldn’t wait till they had children.

Before you know it, the only event a person can't wait for here on earth is their funeral.

What I just described is a never ending cycle that prohibits oneself from enjoying, appreciating and being thankful for what has already been and is currently.

(And here, for me at least, is where it gets personal.)

Interestingly, I’ve found that the same struggle can exist within a church, especially for a pastor. Here are a few examples…

Never satisfied with how many people were in attendance last Sunday. (There were too many people on vacation and no one brought a guest.)

Never satisfied with how many people made a life changing decision. (Such and such really needed to respond but they didn’t.)

Never satisfied with the worship set. (The transitions could have gone much smoother.)

Never satisfied with the lesson. (I forgot that one illustration which would have driven the main point home. It may have even made people tear up.)

Never satisfied with…

Never satisfied…

Never…

In the midst of my dissatisfaction and enough not being enough…

I missed out on the relationships of those who were at the Worship Gathering.

I missed out on seeing the faithful hand of God shape and mold people into the image of His Son.

I missed out on truly worshiping with other believers.

I missed out on being able to see the Holy Spirit move in the lives of people.

So, maybe it is time to stop and remember what God has already done in and through Encounter Church. Maybe it is time to celebrate where we are at this very moment.

This doesn’t mean that we stop being about our mission, planning for the future or dreaming. You can't stop being faithful to God's call.

Yet, we must never allow the dreams of what will be to overshadow and take away from what already has been and is!

Let's celebrate and appreciate who we are as Encounter Church at this very stage of our journey and, in doing so, God will receive all the glory. ~MB

Church Picnic Fun-ness!

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Wed, 25 May 2011 20:43:00 +0000

You don't want to miss the church picnic coming up this Sunday at 11 AM at Des Pres Park (click here for park info). This will be a great time for our church family to gather. As well, consider inviting some friends to this event. We all have friends who might not be interested in coming to a Worship Gathering but they would certainly be open to a picnic. You never know which of your friends will come if you don't at least extend the invitation.

We are needing a few extra hands the day of the picnic. We need individuals to help set-up, serve, grill and tear down. If you're able to roll up your sleeves and help out, be sure to email Justin Beverly at justinbeverly@gmail.com. He'll get back with you regarding the various service opportunities.

Regarding the meal, Encounter will be providing the sandwiches, drinks and paper products. If your last name begins with an A-L, please bring a side dish. If your last name begins with an M-Z, please bring a dessert. Of course, if you want to bring one or two or three of each, we'll be sure to help you eat it!

You'll also want to bring yard games (i.e corn hole, frisbee, football, etc.).

Huge PROPS to Justin and Angela Beverly for being the key leaders with this picnic. Their help is greatly appreciated! Interestingly enough, our church picnic last Memorial Day weekend was Justin and Angela's first exposure to Encounter. Kellie Meurer simply invited them to come and they've stuck around (hip, hip, hooray!). You see what a simple invitation will do. Encounter wouldn't be the same without the Beverly family.

Remember, there is no Worship Gathering this Sunday morning at 10 AM. Sleep in. Read the paper. Sip on a cup of coffee. Chase the kids around. Do whatever you'd like to do in the morning and then show up at 11 AM for some picnic fun-ness (to steal a Sharonism).

See you this Sunday morning at Des Pres Park at 11 AM. Good times will be had by all.

Fear or Courage?

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Wed, 18 May 2011 18:43:00 +0000

(Guest blogger, Lisa Thurman, brings us a few thoughts on fear and courage.)

Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage. (Anais Nin)

I read this quote the other day and it made me think how sometimes what we do or don’t do revolves around our fears and how much of life we miss out on when the latter happens. That, in turn, got me thinking about what God says about fear.

God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. (1 John 4:16-18)

What fear is overcoming you?

Failing, losing, doing, not having enough, not being good enough, harm, death, life, abuse, panic, sickness…

How is it impacting your life?

Paralyzed, scared, unable, limited, paranoid, unhappy, miserable, threatened, immobile, trapped, missing out…

Do you have the courage to break free?

Yes? No?

Do you believe?

The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. (Deuteronomy 31:8)

In God, whose word I praise— in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? (Psalm 56:4)

When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. (Proverbs 3:24)

Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The LORD, the LORD himself, is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation. (Isaiah 12:2)

So do not be afraid of them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. (Matthew 10:26)

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (John 14:27)

…teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. (Matthew 28:20)

And my personal favorite...

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)

Start expanding your life with God given courage. ~LT

Be Still.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Wed, 11 May 2011 19:48:00 +0000

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him (Psalm 37:7).

Be still and know that I am God (Psalm 46:10).

Be still before the Lord, all mankind (Zechariah 2:13).

With our eyes fixed on God, may our unbelieving thoughts be stilled. When we only see trouble and not God, these unbelieving thoughts only frustrate and lead to a complaining spirit.

When Jacob thought he had lost his son Joseph and then possibly Simeon, he cried out, “Everything is against me” (Genesis 42:36). Elijah ran in fear for his life and said, “I have had enough Lord, take my life” (1 Kings 19:4). Jonah, in the midst of throwing an angry fit toward God, burst out by saying, “I am angry enough to die” (Jonah 4:9).

Even during the most difficult of times, Psalm 46:10 reminds us that we should be still and know that He is God. While our complaining hearts are to be still and silent, our praying hearts are to continue. Within that prayerful and meditative stillness our hearts turn to God. Confiding all our grief and fear in God will bring strength and patience. We'll come to realize that our concerns are safer in His hands than our own.

Choose to be still before God today. ~KW

Michael's Memo.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 19:44:00 +0000

The J-town McDonalds is where I’m hanging my hat this afternoon. There are four reasons why I’m here at the J-town McDonalds…

Reason 1: It’s part of my Jerusalem.

Reason 2: They’ve got wi-fi.

Reason 3: Their coffee is at least wet.

Reason 4: The smell of a greasy McDouble is intoxicating to me!!

What a Sunday we had last weekend. WOW! Don't you just love seeing God work in the lives of people.

I don’t know about you, but I can sense the momentum building not only for Easter but for how God is going to use Encounter Church within the J-town area. With this in mind, here are a few highlights to mention…

Highlight 1: 5 DAYS. We’ve had a great response to 5 DAYS. If you have not yet experienced 5 DAYS, what are you waiting on? Get there tonight! Take time to remind yourself of the significance of Christ’s death burial and resurrection. Huge thanks to all who made 5 DAYS a reality. Love it.

Highlight 2: EASTER IS THIS SUNDAY! We worship and serve a LIVING Jesus and we’re really going to throw a party this Sunday. Invite everyone you know to come and celebrate. Pray for some big time decisions to be made.

Highlight 3: New Faces. In recent weeks we’ve had quite a few new faces joining with us at our Worship Gatherings. With all of these new faces, it means that we need to be more INTENTIONAL in welcoming and including others into our already existing friendships. Let’s work hard at establishing Loving Relationships.

Highlight 4: Financial Peace University is coming to Encounter Church. Matt and Kristin Cohee will be facilitating this dynamic 13-week class. I encourage you to spread the word about this class which we’re making available. Let’s pack the house every Wednesday evening beginning May 25.

Highlight 5: Church Picnic. Encounter Church is a party waiting to happen! On Sunday, May 29 we are going to have a church picnic that will give all of us a chance to strengthen our relationships with each other. Good food will be eaten and good times will be had by all! More details will be coming soon.

Highlight 6: Vacation Bible School (VBS). Last year our single most effective outreach was VBS. We’re gearing up to reach the community again this year! The dates for VBS are July 25-31. Start praying and plan on getting involved.

God is just getting started with us Encounter. Are you ready? ~MB

Where the Cross Ought to Be.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 01:43:00 +0000

George MacLeod, a Scottish clergyman, once stated…

I simply argue that the cross be raised again at the center of the market place as well as on the steeple of the church. I am recovering the claim that Jesus was not crucified in a cathedral between two candles: but on a cross between two thieves; on a town garbage heap; at a crossroad of politics so cosmopolitan that they had to write His title in Hebrew and in Latin and in Greek...And at the kind of place where cynics talk smut, thieves curse and soldiers gamble. Because that is where He died, and that is what He died about. And that is where Christ's men ought to be, and what church people ought to be about.

Let's get the message of the cross out where it ought to be. Easter is coming!

Common-Unity and a Gift Card.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 20:45:00 +0000

***GIFT CARD DRAWING ALERT***

This past Sunday we discussed that a church best communicates the message of Jesus through the commitment they share toward each other. The community (common-unity) that exists within Encounter Church will either point people toward Jesus or away from Him (John 17:20-26 and Acts 2:42-47).

Regarding this truth, allow me to throw out a few statements that have been made by people who are a lot smarter than I am…

George Gallup (statistician and pollster) stated that…

Americans are among the loneliest people in the world.

Author Randy Freeze claims that we’re living in a…

Crowded loneliness.

Mother Theresa said that…

Loneliness is the leprosy of modern society.

Marketing guru Seth Godin believes that one of the deepest desires of humanity is…

To be missed.

Understanding that we live in a community and relationally deprived culture, as a church, we have an incredible opportunity to show people who God is by allowing them to see and experience the common-unity we have with each other through Jesus.

So, this week, how are you going to work at building common-unity with those who are a part of Encounter Church? A phone call? An invitation for dessert? Going to the park with your families?

Share an idea in the comment section below. Those who leave an idea/comment will be entered into a drawing for a gift card that will be given away at this Sunday’s Worship Gathering. Go ahead and share your idea; if you win the gift card you'll be glad you did! ~MB

A New Record!

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 20:26:00 +0000

We praise God for a great Dedication Service this past week. Wow! What a day.

We set a new attendance record on Sunday with 181 in attendance. That simply crushed our old record of 121. While there were a number of individuals in attendance from out of town, we had a ton of first-time guests from Louisville. Many of you invited your friends and brought them. Thanks for simply extending an invitation. God works through our invitations. Keep inviting.

The most exciting part of the day was hearing the stories of lives that have been changed. Many of us were shedding tears as the stories were shared. Seeing and hearing of God changing lives never, ever gets old. The stories shared on Sunday are but the beginning!

This Sunday we’re starting a new teaching series titled Plan A. We’ll be studying the first six chapters of the book of Acts. I’d like to encourage you to read Acts 1-2 (chapters 1 & 2) in preparation for this Sunday’s lesson. The book of Acts is the fifth book of the New Testament. Come on Sunday ready to be challenged!

Finally, two of my Sunday school teachers from 25-30 years ago were in attendance on Sunday at our Dedication Service. Many children that these two ladies taught have grown up and taken the life changing message of Jesus literally all around the world. Because of Janet and Ruth Anna's diligence and faithful ministry to children, entire family trees have been changed for all of eternity! You never know how your ministry is going to change lives for years to come. I praise God for faithful individuals like Janet and Ruth Anna!

God's just getting started with us Encounter! See you on Sunday at 10 AM. ~MB

P.S. Be sure to leave a comment about your reaction to our Dedication Service this past Sunday. How were you inspired?

Baggy Pants and Skateboards in Tow.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 04:18:00 +0000

Earlier this evening I bought a pizza from the Little Caesars that is just a few doors down from our new location. As I walked toward the pizza shop, I glanced down at Encounter’s new location. Standing outside Encounter’s front doors was a group of baggy-pants-let-me-show-you-my-boxer-shorts-wearing teenagers. Their skateboards were in tow.

Admittedly, I wondered what these social misfits were doing standing outside the doors of Encounter Church. Thoughts ran through my mind. Such as…

“What are they scheming?”

“Did I remember to set the alarm?”

“Are they planning on returning later tonight with their cans of spray paint?”

If we can be honest, this is how we often categorize young men with baggy pants and skateboards in tow.

Obviously, and I don’t think I’m alone in my thinking, my summary of their intent was determined by a fear of who they are rather than a belief in who they can become.

This Sunday we’ll be discussing how God’s plan for redemption changes the way we view everything, including how we view young men with baggy pants and skateboards in tow.

I wonder how many opportunities I’ve missed because of my inability to view the world through God’s plan of redemption.

How about you? Do you struggle to see the world through God’s plan of redemption? Are you missing opportunities to be a catalyst of redemption? Take a minute to comment and share your thoughts. ~MB

A Note from Michael.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 21:14:00 +0000

I LOVE ENCOUNTER CHURCH!

Happy mid-week greetings Encounter Church! Don't you just love this weather? Here are a few items I’d like to share with you as we CELEBRATE what God is doing and ANTICIPATE what He is going to do!

1) What a great Worship Gathering we had this past Sunday. Thanks to the band and sound crew for the work they put toward preparing for the gatherings each week. This past Sunday was truly Inspiring Worship. They set a new standard!

2) I’m working hard on this Sunday’s teaching lesson. We’re in week two of our series titled Catalyst of Redemption. Pray for me as I prepare for this week’s lesson.

3) Don’t miss Encounter’s Building Dedication on Sunday, March 6. This is going to be a HUGE Sunday for Encounter Church. Invite your friends and family to be a part of this historic day. I dropped a ton of postcards in the mail yesterday to friends and family. Earlier this afternoon I received a phone call from a friend who received the postcard and is going to attend. Who are you inviting?

4) I just met with Kerris and we spent extended time talking about Encounter’s Passion Week Experience (April 18-22). This is the week leading up to Easter Sunday (April 24) and will be a great time for us to remember the significance of Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection. I can’t wait to share more details in the coming weeks. Get ready and plan on being involved every evening.

5) Have you “Liked” Encounter’s Facebook page yet? If not, what are you waiting for?

6) Some of you have asked about the sermon podcasts. Honestly, I didn’t realize anyone listened to them. Hopefully we can get them loaded up within the next week. Thanks for your patience. (I’d give you a good excuse if I had one.)

7) After our Dedication Sunday on March 6, I’ll be starting a teaching series titled Plan A. This series will look at the early church in the book of Acts and the significant role the church has in God’s redemptive plan. I’m really looking forward to this series.

8) Be sure to arrive to our Worship Gatherings EARLY! If you show up at 10:15, you’ve already missed most of the good stuff. The coffee shop tables give you a great place to enjoy a donut, sip on a cup of coffee and build Loving Relationships.

Have I mentioned, I LOVE ENCOUNTER CHURCH? ~MB

Preparing for Communion.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 22:02:00 +0000

This Sunday, at our 10 AM Worship Gathering, we'll be taking part in communion.

Communion is a time for Christians to remember and reflect on the significance of Jesus' death, burial and resurrection. 1 Corinthians 11:17-34 gives us some very important instructions concerning communion...

17 In the following directives I have no praise for you, for your meetings do more harm than good. 18 In the first place, I hear that when you come together as a church, there are divisions among you, and to some extent I believe it. 19 No doubt there have to be differences among you to show which of you have God’s approval. 20 So then, when you come together, it is not the Lord’s Supper you eat, 21 for when you are eating, some of you go ahead with your own private suppers. As a result, one person remains hungry and another gets drunk. 22 Don’t you have homes to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God by humiliating those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you? Certainly not in this matter!

23 For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, 24 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.” 25 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.” 26 For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.

27 So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. 28 Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup. 29 For those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgment on themselves. 30 That is why many among you are weak and sick, and a number of you have fallen asleep. 31 But if we were more discerning with regard to ourselves, we would not come under such judgment. 32Nevertheless, when we are judged in this way by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be finally condemned with the world.

33 So then, my brothers and sisters, when you gather to eat, you should all eat together. 34 Anyone who is hungry should eat something at home, so that when you meet together it may not result in judgment.

And when I come I will give further directions.

This Sunday come ready to remember the grace and mercy that is available to us through the cross of Christ!

Dedication Sunday, March 6.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 23:07:00 +0000

After King Solomon completed the building of the Temple in the Old Testament, a special celebration was held to dedicate the Temple to the Lord. The book of 2 Chronicles 5-7 recorded for us this historic account.

In 2 Chronicles 6:33, King Solomon declared…

So that all the peoples of the earth may know Your name and fear You, as do Your own people Israel, and may know that this house I have built bears Your Name.

Encounter Church, we’ve been blessed with a great facility to use in engaging the culture with God’s Love and Truth. Many of you rolled up your sleeves and got involved in transforming an old warehouse space into what it is today, a space where God’s Name will be declared and lives transformed.

On Sunday, March 6 we are going to have a special time of celebration so that we, just like King Solomon did, can dedicate our new facility to the service of the Lord. It will be a time of festivity, recognition, prayer and commitment.

You do not want to miss out on this historic Sunday in the life of Encounter Church. Mark your calendars and invite your friends, family and neighbors to take part.

Join with us in dedicating 9105 Galene Drive to be a place that bears the Name of our Lord! ~MB