Encounter Church

Worship Today!

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 22:33:00 +0000

As I was reading through chapter six of the book Galatians, two verses stood out to me, verses 9 and 10.

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially those who belong to the family of believers.”

As I read the Bible, I am always looking for ways to worship God in the way I live my life. For too long I lived my life with the idea that worship was only on a Sunday morning with a group of believers singing together, or in a small group setting doing the same thing. Worship is so much more than merely singing and praying together. It’s how we live our lives every day. Before moving on, let’s look at a few words that can help us in our understanding of what worship is.

WORSHIP – “to attribute worth” suggests that when we worship God, we ascribe Him supreme worth. It’s an action meaning to render or give praise that’s due Him.

See Psalm 96:7-8 and Revelation 5:12.

PAYING HOMAGE – means to respect, revere, or acknowledge the worth of another.

VENERATION – is a feeling of profound respect and the willingness to serve someone or something. This respect isn’t a respect like I have for Michael in our friendship. Rather, it’s a respect with a sense of awe wrapped around it. (Sorry Michael, but I’m not in awe of you.)

So, when we consider these words and apply them with the verses here in Galatians, we can come up with some pretty good ideas how we can worship God every day, more than through song or prayer.

“as we have opportunity” does not mean…here or there, or for a limited time only. It means during our entire time of existence in this present life.

“let us do” is an action calling us to make an effort. We don’t sit on our couches and let things come to us as we watch the TV. Instead, we go out of our way to meet others and make a positive difference to advance Gods kingdom.

“all people” means everybody!!! We cannot be selective, for God wants all to be saved and come to the knowledge of truth. See 1Timothy 2:4.

“especially to those who belong to the family of believers” hold on to your seats, this one might knock you around. 1 John 4:20-21 says: “If anyone says, ‘I love God,’ yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother.” Ouch, that hurt! Just think, how much more would somebody who doesn't believe in Jesus, want to come to church if they saw us treating each other with love. Check out 1 Peter 2:12.

What do we learn about worship from this passage?

1. Worship is an action. Be willing to look for and act upon opportunities to serve others.

2. Do good to people, especially to those who you call a brother or sister in Christ.

Jesus asked Peter three times, “Do you love me?” Peter replied three times, “you know that I love you.” Jesus didn't stop there, but he asked Peter to do something. Jesus asked Peter to feed His sheep, he also told Peter to “Follow me!”

Peter lived out the word veneration. Are you willing to do the same, and make opportunities, or take action on the ones that have been handed to you?

Worship as King David did in Psalm 103, with all your soul and all your inmost being!

Fullness in Christ - Further Study Questions.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 20:48:00 +0000

This past Sunday's lesson was titled Fullness in Christ (Colossians 2:6-15). Take time to continue studying, considering, and applying the lesson through the following questions and Scripture passages.

Read Colossians 2:6-15. What are some general observations you make from reading this passage?

What does Paul mean when he tells us in Colossians 2:6…

So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in Him…

How does this challenge apply to our lives?

Why is it so difficult to believe that we have been given fullness in Christ?

In Colossians 2:6-15, Paul is highlighting that it’s not that we need to receive anything more than we’ve already received. Rather it’s that we need to come to understand more of what we have received. All too often we forget what we have in Christ. The following list of verses remind us of what we have in Christ. Carefully read and review each of the verses and consider how our lives are impacted based upon such Truth.

2 Corinthians 5:18-19

Romans 5:10

Romans 8:1

1 Peter 2:24

Colossians 3:1

Galatians 3:26-29

Philippians 3:9

Ephesians 2:18

1 Peter 1:4

Philippians 3:20

Ephesians 1:3

What other promises of God can we add to this list?

Why do we search for fullness and completeness anywhere but in Christ?

With all the provisions Christ has made for victory over the old sin nature, how does Satan get a foothold in our lives?

How should our daily lives be changed by the fullness in Christ? Think deeply on how a proper understanding of our fullness in Christ and how it must impact every area of our lives.

Red Rover - Further Study Questions.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 18:51:00 +0000

This past Sunday's lesson was titled Red Rover (Colossians 1:24-2:5). Take time to continue studying, considering, and applying the lesson through the following questions and Scripture passages.

Read Colossians 1:24-2:5. What are some general observations you make from this passage? What are some questions you have regarding this passage?

Describe what Christian maturity looks like?

What are some reasons why Christians seem to stop maturing and lose their vitality in their walk with Christ?

Have you stopped maturing? Have you lost your vitality in your walk with Christ? Explain your answer.

What are some of the consequences of being spiritually stagnant?

Read and respond to the following statement…

Those Christians who are not making spiritual progress are opening themselves up to the attacks of the Devil. He’ll find you, identify your laziness, and attack you.

How does a Christian grow in their maturity? Is it simply through reading the Bible? Are there other avenues God uses to mature a Christian? Explain your answer.

Read Colossians 2:3. If Jesus is the exclusive source of all wisdom and knowledge, what does this mean for other religious and philosophical systems? In light of this verse, what is the true pathway to wisdom and knowledge? How do we attain wisdom and knowledge?

Read Colossians 2:2-5. Christians in today’s world are literally inundated with false and deceptive teachings. How can believers protect themselves in our culture today?

What or who is the source given to us for the specific purpose of growing in our maturity? Have you partnered together with this source or have you tried to grow in your maturity on your own? Explain your answer.

Review the 5 Roles Paul played in the Colossian Church’s maturity. Do you find yourself fulfilling any of these roles in an attempt to help another individual become more mature? How can you play a role in someone else’s maturity?

Michael described how your maturity matters to the church’s effectiveness and strength. Why is this? Based upon your maturity, are you adding to the effectiveness and strength of Encounter?

Discuss what you desire for maturity to look like in your life. What can you do this week to grow in your Christian maturity?

First - Further Study Questions.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 19:24:00 +0000

This past Sunday's lesson was titled First (Colossians 1:15-23). Take time to continue studying, considering, and applying the lesson through the following questions and Scripture passages.

Read Colossians 1:15-23. What are some general observations you make from this passage? What are some questions you have regarding this passage?

How does our society view Jesus?

Consider this quote by Warren Wiersbe…

The false teachers in Colosse, like the false teachers of our own day, would not deny the importance of Jesus Christ. They would simply dethrone Him, giving Him prominence but not preeminence.

Does this quote accurately describe how many view Jesus today? What are your thoughts?

How would you describe Jesus in one word or phrase?

Read Colossians 1:13-20. How did Paul describe Christ?

How is Christ the firstborn of every creature?

What does the fact that Christ is the Creator tell us about Him?

What is the significance of Christ as the head of the body, the church?

How does God’s fullness dwell in Christ? What does this mean for us?

How did Paul explain Christ’s deity and refute Gnosticism in this passage?

Look at verses 15-17 and identify the five things which illustrate Christ's preeminence in creation.

1) He is the image of the invisible God

Read verses 18-20. List four things which illustrate Christ's preeminence in redemption.

1) He is the head of the body, the church.

How is our former condition described in Colossians 1:21?

Consider that the some of the false teaching which Paul was refuting through Colossians dealt with the false belief that Jesus was not a physical person but rather was an angelic spiritual being. Look through Colossians 1:15-23 and identify how Paul addressed this false belief.

Read Colossians 1:22. Identify and be reminded of the three ways God views a person who is reconciled through Jesus Christ.

Knowing these facts about Christ, what difference will it make in the way you live? How will you make Christ first in your life this week?

Refurbished To Be Used

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 19:39:00 +0000

(Enjoy and be challenged by this guest post by Lisa Thurman. And, no, this is not a picture of the refurbished guest bedroom. Sorry. Contact Lisa directly if you're interested in an overnight stay at the Thurman Bed & Get-Your-Own-Breakfast.)

We recently completed a home improvement project at our house and I have to say I’m quite pleased with the results! Although there were no tearing down or building up of walls or ripping out of anything, we did repaint, refurnish, and redecorate our guest room. The transformation is astounding, as the many people I have drug through there can testify too.

There was one small snag. In my mind it no longer was a guest room but now a shrine of beauty; it was to be looked at and admired but not touched. Until the morning that as I was enjoying my first cup of coffee one of my son’s friends bounded down the stairs and said, “Your guest room is great! Very comfortable and welcoming. A little on the girly side but other than that it’s great. I tried to put your pillows back like you had them. Love you, see you later!” I stood there shell shocked mumbling a “love you too” and realized this must be what it feels like to get the first ding in the door of a brand new car. With the sting of a band-aid being ripped off I had been served a good dose of “get over it” for breakfast. Yummy, like fish oil.

I had to do a little self evaluation over my feelings and what was behind them. So, it was ok for anyone to use the guest room when it was a hodge-podge of early marriage eclectic stuff but when it actually looked like a decent room, suddenly the clientele should be different? Why did I now think it was too nice for the people who actually used it frequently? Interesting. Not very flattering, but interesting.

Then the Holy Spirit did a connect the dots for me. Do I ever think I’m too spiffy and put together to engage with those who are more…eclectic? Do you know what I mean? I’ve been cleansed and forgiven and made new but now I think that I’m so good that I shouldn’t be used for just anyone, I need to just interact with those who can appreciate and are similar to my goodness. What a load of manure.

As my pastor says, “Here’s the impact statement”, in this case, impact paragraphs.

The function of a guest room is to host guests, no matter how pretty it is; in fact, don’t all my guests deserve the best I can offer them? A room that I don’t allow to be used is, well, useless. What was the point of making it nice if it can’t be used?

It’s the same with my life. The closer I imitate my Lord, the more “refurbished” I get. What’s the point if He can’t use me to interact with anyone He wants to bring across my path? And typically, it’s not other “refurbished” people but those who need a new paint job plus. He wants to show His best to the lost so that they can see Him through us, but if we think we are too good, what good are we?

No other religion, no other philosophy promises new bodies, hearts, and minds. Only in the gospel of Christ do hurting people find such incredible hope. Joni Eareckson Tada

Love must be without hypocrisy. Detest evil; cling to what is good. Show family affection to one another with brotherly love. Outdo one another in showing honor. Romans 12:9-10

Paul's Prayer - Further Study Questions.

noreply@blogger.com (Encounter Church) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:12:00 +0000

This past Sunday's lesson was titled Paul's Prayer (Colossians 1:1-14). Take time to continue studying, considering, and applying the lesson through the following questions and Scripture passages.

Read Colossians 1:1-14. Begin by making some general observations of the passage.

How did Paul introduce himself in this letter? What is significant about this introduction?

In verse 2, how does Paul greet the Christians to whom he is writing this letter? If Paul was writing this letter to you today, what words would he use to describe you in his greeting?

To establish some background information it is important to know that Gnosticism was a heresy which was threatening the church in Colosse. What is Gnosticism (don’t hesitate to Google the word if needed)? Why is Gnosticism so dangerous? How did Paul refute this heresy?

Consider our culture today. What erroneous teachings are threatening the church? What must we do to make sure we do not fall to such false teachings?

Read Colossians 1:3-8. Within these verses, Paul describes all the positive marks of the church in Colosse. The 4 marks which Paul uses to describe the church include…

Faith in Christ Jesus.

Love for all the saints (other Christians).

Hope.

Bearing fruit (lives are being changed).

From your perspective, how can a church do a better job at living out these 4 marks?

In verse 10, what is Paul’s prayer request for the Colossian church?

Why is knowledge so important?

Read and respond to Hosea 4:6.

Are there any dangers to growing in knowledge? If so, what are they? How do we avoid such dangers?

What is the relationship between knowledge and wisdom?

Read Psalm 1:1-8. Look specifically at verses 2-3. Regarding knowledge, what is promised in this verse and how can we apply it to our daily living?

Respond to the following quote by Donald Whitney…

Christians must realize that just as a fire cannot blaze without fuel, so burning hearts are not kindled by brainless heads. We must not be content to have zeal without knowledge… To follow Christ and become more like Him, we must engage in the Spiritual Discipline of learning.

According to Donald Whitney (see Proverbs 19:1), one must not be content to have zeal without knowledge? Why is this so? How can it be dangerous to have zeal without knowledge?

Read Colossians 1:10-14. In these verses, Paul refers to the positive results of knowledge. What other positive results of having knowledge can you think of?

Are you seeking to be filled with knowledge? What is stopping you from seeking to be filled with knowledge?

What can I do to allow myself to be filled with the knowledge of God’s will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding? Take time to develop a plan and then determine to put the plan into action.

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!