VISION 2017 // NEW CITY CHURCH

WWW.NEWCITYPHX.COM/SERMONS

The following content is based on the message “Vision 2017//Day 12 People” on 1/8/17 at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

SCRIPTURE: DUETERONOMY 1:1-38

IN THE WILDERNESS FOR TOO LONG

A journey that should have taken 11 days ending with Israel going into the promised land on day 12, ended up taking the Israelites 40 years to complete. God promised them a land to dwell in, and gave them vision of how to take it, but it was too scary for them to believe.

• Why did it take the Israelites 14,600 days rather than 11 days to enter the promised land?

• How have you felt like the Israelites wandering in the wilderness?

WAS THERE AN EASIER WAY?

The Israelites wanted an easier way than the way God laid out before them. After wandering around in the desert, they came to the promised land again. And again, God told them to enter into it, but they were afraid.

• What do you think about the Israelites when you see how they refused trust God?

• What vision may God be calling you to that you need to get on board with him about?

God is a god of movement. He has a  journey for us. Yet, if you have followed Jesus for any length of time, you know that the journey may not be what we expect. It may be harder than we thought. It often takes more faith to trust God’s plan. For Israel, the way that God wanted them to go would have led to a more “successful” journey. However, that isn’t always the case. If you want to do anything great and meaningful that honors God, it will be a battle!

• Why is it always easier to see God working in someone else’s story?

• What if God takes you on a journey that doesn’t lead to your success in the eyes of people? How would you handle this type of journey?

• What is the difference between doing something with significance and egotism? How can we guard against egotism?

GOD IS WITH US ON THE JOURNEY

Deuteronomy 1:29-30 says, “Do not be in dread or afraid of them. The Lord your God who goes before you will himself fight for you, just as he did for you in Egypt before your eyes,”. If God is the one calling you, then you will need him to do the work. We often try to “power up” and do the work in our own strength.

• Like Israel should have looked back at how God worked in their journey, take a moment to share a time in your life where you can see God at work in a difficult situation.

• Where do you think God is working in your story where you are having a hard time trusting him? How can we pray for you in this journey?

• Pray with each other as you try to trust God’s plan for your life and get on board with him.

SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES IN ADVENT // A SERIES FOR NEW CITY CHURCH

www.newcityphx.com/sermons

The following content is based on the message “Eat this Book” spoken on 12/18/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas. To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: ROMANS 15:1-13,
 REVELATION 10:8-10

EAT THIS BOOK

In the book of Revelation, John interacts with an angel who tells him to actually eat a scroll of Scripture. The angel told him to consume the Scripture—to eat this book. As followers of Jesus today, we also strive to read and consume the Scripture because we want to hear the voice of God speaking to us.

Why are we, as followers of Jesus, often prone to struggling with reading the Bible at all by finding time and making it a priority?

LIVING LIFE WITH THE BIBLE

When we do read Scripture, we are woefully comfortable with consuming portions of the Bible that have no resonance beyond our retinas. We say, “Ah yes, this verse satisfies my urge for today.” Sometimes this approach to the Bible ends in a faithful, dynamic life of commitment to Jesus, but mostly it just ends in reposting verses on social media, which unfortunately doesn’t typically result in vibrant spirituality.

When you do read your Bible, how is it easy to treat the words of Scripture like something that we skip around in until we find a verse that satisfies our desires for the day?

The point of reading the Bible isn’t just to actually read the Bible, but to live with the Bible. Living with the Bible results in confusion and anger and occasionally doubt; but it also fills life with longing and hope, vitality and peace. Because just like life, the Bible is a story. This means there are hard things in this Book—hard things to hear and hard things to obey. This is why we must eat it, sit with it, and love it. Some days it is as sweet as honey and other days it is sour in our stomachs.

Just like life. This is a Book for real life and real living.

In what ways does the Bible feel “sour” when you eat it? How do you allow it to challenge your way of living? Or do you allow it to do so?

What kind of respect would you have for the Bible if it didn’t include real life people and stories?

JESUS AND THE SCRIPTURE

Back in our Romans passage, Paul said, “the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled.” The Scriptures point to Jesus. As we live this book, it transforms us to be more like Jesus.

The Bible is the manger in which Christ is laid. – Martin Luther

If the Bible is a manger—a feeding trough—with Jesus laid in it, how does that image resonate with you this Christmas as you look at Jesus in a manger?

HOW ARE YOU EATING THIS BOOK?

Jesus, who is the “bread of life,” was born in a town called Bethlehem in a feeding trough that would nourish the world. The purpose of the discipline of bible reading is for total transformation of the person. The aim is replacing old destructive habits with new life-giving habits. The question becomes: Are you letting the things of this world feed you, or are you eating this Book?

When you desire to read the Bible, what do you think the actual desire is deep down?

Even when you don’t have a desire to read the Bible, why might it be important to discipline yourself to read it anyway? What can that ignite in your heart?

Using the ideas and resources list given, what are some practical ways that we can “eat this book” and let the word of Christ dwell in you richly?

RESOURCES AND IDEAS

YouVersion is an app that you can download on your electronic device to give access to the Scripture anywhere you have your device. It also has thousands of reading plans to help guide you through the Bible.
https://www.youversion.com/

The Bible Project is a video-based resource that unites the Scripture in a story pointing to Jesus. There are reading plans for the whole year.
https://thebibleproject.com/

Peterson, Eugene., Eat this Book: A Conversation on the Art of Spiritual Reading
Eat This Book challenges us to read the Scriptures on their own terms, as God’s revelation, and to live them as we read them. With warmth and wisdom Peterson offers greatly needed, down-to-earth counsel on spiritual reading. In these pages he draws readers into a fascinating conversation on the nature of language, the ancient practice of Lectio Divina, and the role of Scripture translations; included here is the “inside story” behind Peterson’s own popular Bible translation, The Message.

Lectio Divina is an ancient way of reading the Scripture. Here is a website that teaches the basics of how to read through Lectio Divina:
https://wau.org/archives/article/read_think_pray_act/

The Revised Lectionary is a weekly plan to read the Scripture based on the traditional Christian calendar of readings. Here is a link:
http://lectionary.library.vanderbilt.edu/

ADVENT // A SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH

www.newcityphx.com/sermons

The following content is based on the message “God is Love” spoken on 12/11/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: 1 JOHN 4:7-21

LOVE ONE ANOTHER

John’s exhortation here is for Christians to love Christians. Look around the room.  You should love these people—your brothers and sisters. However, not only our brothers and sisters, but Jesus tells us in other places that we are to love our enemies as well. So basically, we are to live a life of love and lots seems to hanging on this because John says, “love is from God and that whoever loves has been born of God and knows God!”

Our ability to love, in a true way, comes from the love of Jesus.

• Who are the people you generally think about when you hear that Christians need to love people?

• It is true that Christians are commanded to love their enemies, but why do you think John so often commands Christians to love other Christians?

• What are your first thoughts about John saying that “the one who does not love does not know God”?

GOD IS LOVE

This is not an abstract quality of “love,” but a sovereign, living God who is the source of all love, and who (as love himself) loves. God can’t help but love because that is who He is and what He does. That is important to remind ourselves of this because many people don’t feel like they could be loved by God.  The creator of heaven and earth LOVES YOU and did something about it. The love of God is so personal that He became ONE OF US. The Word became flesh and lived with us. Our act was to sin and reject the love of God, but God’s act was to love us and send His Son on a mission to get us back.

If God sending His son is the ultimate act of love than love at its truest is costly and sacrificial. 

• Why do you think we think of love in lighthearted, abstract terms rather than as costly and sacrificial?

LOVE IS AND LOVE DOES

Our love cannot be static or complacent if it is to be true love. Even though we were sinners, God showed his love for us by sending His only Son to die for us. Therefore we have no right to withhold love from each other. And, when we love others, people SEE GOD! Read 1 Corinthians 13:1-8.

No man has seen God in his unveiled essence, glory, and majesty. He can be seen, however, in the lives of those who demonstrate his love to others.

• Science has proven that forgiveness improves mental and physical health. How have you experienced that firsthand?

• What are some ideas that can help us practice 1 Corinthians 13 with people who we disagree with?

• Jesus initiated love toward us, which means we are going to have initiate love toward others. What are some ways that you can initiate love this week?

• What are some practical ways that we as a group show love for each other? And then, for people outside of our group?

• As a practice of love, pray for each other to initiate love this week.

The following content is based on the message “The Joy of Giving” spoken on 12/4/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas. To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: JOHN 2:1-12

DO WHATEVER JESUS TELLS YOU TO DO

To fail in wedding supplies was a major embarrassment for the married parties and families. The anxiety of Jesus’ mother is quite understandable, and so because of that, she tells the servants to do whatever Jesus tells them to do.

Jesus never asks you to give something you don’t have. We are called to give from what we have, knowing that it is all God’s anyway. Everything is his. It is on loan to you. We are stewards of it!

What experience do you have with God telling you to do something crazy and then you doing it?

DON’T NEGLECT GIVING A TITHE

If we believe that we are to do everything Jesus asked, in Luke 11:42 Jesus said that people should not neglect giving a tithe—which is actually an Old Testament principle that he is continuing in the New Testament.

What are some of the reasons that you’ve used to say that you can’t tithe?

Maybe we don’t present what we have to Him because we don’t trust him. Maybe we can’t or don’t because we don’t really LOVE Jesus like we say we do. Or maybe, to go deeper, it is because we don’t find our pleasure or our joy in him. This isn’t really about “generosity” per se, it is about where we find our joy.

• What do you honestly think when someone says that you should present what you have to Jesus?

WHAT DO YOU LOVE?

In Matthew 6:19-21, Jesus told us to store up treasures in heaven, not on earth. The “Treasure Principle” says: “where we choose to store our treasures depends largely on where we find our pleasure”. When people really find the kingdom, they sell out for it. As we joyfully receive the kingdom, we experience his love, taking pleasure in him and giving back.

• Using your own resources as a gage, where do you honestly think your treasure is?

KINGDOM JOY

When the people in this wedding story did what Jesus said, they saw God at work. People believed in him. It is the Father’s good pleasure to give us the kingdom (Luke 12:32). But the bad news is that the Fall means our inclinations are often skewed. Our pleasures can be pointed in the wrong direction. This isn’t really about “generosity” per se, it is about where we find our joy. We don’t give to receive earthly happiness. We give to receive Kingdom Joy.

• If we give without a kingdom currency then we will always be disappointed.
• How do you think a kingdom currency is different than an earthy currency?
• In what ways do we give expecting earthly currency in return?
• How has an earthly currency been disappointing to you?
• In what ways can we practice the joy of giving?
• Pray together that we would all be more kingdom minded.

SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES IN ADVENT // A SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH

www.newcityphx.com/sermons

The following content is based on the message “Advent Hope: Confession” spoken on 11/27/16 by Nate Benner at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: 1 JOHN 1:5-2:2

CONFESSION

• What do feel like confession is?

• What are your experiences with confession?

WHY DO WE CONFESS?

John describes God as light. He said, “God is light, and in him there is no darkness”. Throughout the Scriptures, light is referred to as holiness, and darkness is referred to as sin. The apostle Paul tells us that light is all that is “good, and right, and true” (Ephesians 5:8-11). As children of him, we are able imitate him, to stay away from sin, and to be able to walk in his light. The light exposes our sin. We have to be ready to confess that the darkness is trying to mold us. If not, it will try to take us over.

• Why do you think it is hard to see God as holy (light) and see ourselves as sin (darkness)?

WHAT IS CONFESSION?

Confession was mostly used in the ancient word in legal documents describing a courtroom setting, often before a government official, and in public.

Plato described it like this: True confession, which is agreement on a moral demand, necessarily includes action. The opposite is the childish prattle which does not even take itself seriously.

Confession is seen as a legal declaration, that always includes action.

If you are a Christian, you have confessed your sin (legal declaration), placed your faith in Jesus (acting on it). Because of that we share in the light of Christ.     

• Why do you think “true confession” always includes action?
  

SO WHAT DO WE DO?

While we have the power of Christ to not sin, we still do. So what do we do as people who want to walk in the light? We let the light continually expose the sin that is trying to mold us. We let Christ expose our sin. But when Christ exposes our sin, we want to react. We want to fight and deny it. We try to justify ourselves.

• How do you react when your sin is exposed?

• In your human relationships, how does your reaction to your sin being exposed make you lose fellowship with others?
  

JESUS, OUR ADVOCATE

If we confess our sin, rather than trying hide or fight, Jesus is there as our Advocate. We all already know that we are broken, and isn’t it what everyone wants, to be accepted as they are? Jesus does that.

• When we are feeling exposed, Jesus is there defending us.
• When we are feeling shame for our sin, Jesus is there glorifying us.
• When we are feeling like we need to fight, Jesus is there having already taken the blows for us.
• When we are feeling like we need to justify ourselves, Jesus is there having already justified us.

Confession allows us to live in a state of knowing that we are forgiven, which should make us want to walk in the light of Christ.

• How does knowing that Jesus accepts you as you are make you want to confess?

• How should knowing that we are forgiven make us interact with others?

• What are some ways that you can make confession a regular part of your life?

• Pray that the Holy Spirit strengthens you to confess as He has led you to do.

PSALM 23 // A MESSAGE AT NEW CITY CHURCH

www.newcityphx.com/sermons

The following content is based on the message “Psalm 23” spoken on 11/27/16 by Tom Schrader at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: PSALM 23

LIFE IS FILLED WITH UNCERTAINTY

Psalm 23 is typically associated with a death because it mentions the shadow of death. However, it is not about dying, it is about living. As we all know, life is filled with uncertainty, but standing in the middle of that uncertainty is Psalm 23. We find God shepherding us, and as the shepherd to his sheep, he wants to guard us and fight for us. However, it isn’t true for everyone, because the Lord is only the shepherd of those who know Christ in a personal way. Re-read Psalm 23:1-4 by starting with the word “because” (Because the Lord is my shepherd…) to see how he wants to guide us.

• What are some things in your life currently that have caused you to feel like life is uncertain?

• Share about some of the times in your life when you’ve looked to God as your shepherd more regularly.

A PRAYER ROOTED IN GOD

Psalm 23 isn’t telling us that life is going to be easy. But it does give us a model of hope a rooted in who God is. Verse 5-6 can represent a prayer that is rooted in the: character of God, promises of God, faithfulness of God, and sovereignty of God. But even though we can know that our hope rests on these things, we’ll never understand that Jesus is all we need, until Jesus is all we have. Why? Because we are like sheep.

Here are a few things that we know about sheep:

-they are stupid

-they are defenseless

-they are really dirty

-they are stubborn

-they are always lost

-they have a mob mentality.

Sheep need a shepherd. You need a shepherd, and the Good Shepherd came along to find you right where you are. God loves you in spite of you, not because of you.

• Why should our hope be rooted in God’s character and not in the things of this life?

• How does the description of sheep resonate with you?

• Talk about how you either believe or don’t believe that God loves you in spite of you, not because of you.

HOW DOES LIFE LIKE THEN?

The shepherd knows the sheep and knows what you need. We can live confidently, boldly because of him.  God is bigger than anything that you don’t have. God is bigger than anything that you do have. The shepherd knows each sheep to know what they need to be safe and secure.

You have everything you need for right now.

While this is true, this doesn’t line up with our personal experience. We don’t feel like we have everything we need. Our Christian lives weren’t meant to be problem free. Difficulties are designed to make you draw near to him. God is never going to say to you that he doesn’t love you if you come to him in repentance and faith. Even if you have had this all along, but never realized it, all these blessings are yours.

• Especially going into Advent, how difficult is it for you to believe that God is bigger than anything you don’t have or anything you do have?

• Why do we struggle with believing that we have everything that we need right now?

• We might say that we understand that the Christian life isn’t meant to be problem-free, but how do we often fall into the trap of believing that it’s meant to be problem-free?

• What are some ways that the Good Shepherd reminds you that he cares for you?

• Pray with each other and ask God to lead us individually and as a group.

SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES IN ADVENT // A SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH

www.newcityphx.com/sermons

The following content is based on the message “Advent Hope: Prayer” spoken on 11/20/16 by Chris Townley at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: MATTHEW 5:5-13

WHAT IS PRAYER?

We are going to start with some broad discussion questions. Answer the questions with your own words.

• What is prayer?

• Why do we pray?

• What is the purpose of praying?

The disciples spent their whole lives praying. They knew how to pray. Yet, they still asked Jesus to teach them how. Why would they ask him this? Because they wanted him to teach them. They wanted to be like Jesus. As Christians, we too want to be transformed to be like Jesus. Learning to pray like him is part of what transform us to be like him.

Prayer changes things. It changes us.

We want prayer to be an earthquake, immediately changing the topography of reality. But really it’s water over rocks, smoothing us out over time.

• Share a way that God has answered prayer in your life.

• Share a way that God has answered prayer by changing your perspective to be more like Christ’s.

HOW DO WE PRAY?

Jesus didn’t tell them, “It’s easy. Just pray whatever comes to mind”. Instead, he taught them this pattern of prayer to shape their own prayer habits.

• Walk through the whole passage as a group, pausing to talk about the elements of prayer that you see. Start with Jesus’s teaching in verse 5, and then go line by line of the prayer. **After talking about the passage, if you want to see the points Pastor Chris talked about, the second page of the study guide has an outline.**

• What is something that the Holy Spirit is convicting you about your own prayer life by using this passage?

DO WE ACTUALLY PRAY LIKE THIS?

To learn to pray is train our prayer muscles to stretch in ways that don’t come naturally. For instance, to pray for our enemies is a difficult task. When we’ve been deeply wronged or hurt (or those I love have been wronged or hurt), the prayer that comes naturally are ones for our own vindication. But those prayers do little to shape us into people capable of loving our enemies. By praying this 2000 year old prayer our hearts inch toward forgiveness and love, even in spite of ourselves as we ask that we may “forgive those who sin against us.”

• What are some of the elements of this prayer that transform us to be like Christ?

• There are a lot of communal aspect to this prayer. Why do you think it is important to pray together?

• Most Christians would say that they’d like to pray more. Share with each other different ways that you’ve learned to pray.

• Pray the Lord’s Prayer together. (Choose a translation to pray the same words together.)

Prayer Outline from Pastor Chris:

• The teaching before the prayer. (Vss5-8)
  • Prayer is not a spectacle… because it’s not about us. (vss 5-6)
  • Your Father knows exactly what you need… you are known! (vss 7-8)

• Vs 9:
  • We are not praying to MY Father. We are a family, praying to OUR Father, unified around the God to whom we are praying.
  • Jesus is inviting us to pray as Jesus-people, His people, a family united in the Kingdom of God.
  • “Our Father” is both a gift and a goal.

• Vs 10:
  • We are the Kingdom bringers that God is using.
  • We are agreeing to participate as healed healers, as His Church.

• Vs 11:
  • What we are praying for is also a feasting on the Word of God. As we follow Jesus’ teaching on prayer we find that if we are to pray for our needs up front, like we’re often prone to do, we get here too quickly and let greed overrun grace.
  • But let’s not look past the prayer for something physical to eat… God wants to provide. And He wants to provide by using His Kingdom bringers, to bring the bread.
  • We cannot see only our needs without also seeing the needs of others.

• Vs 12:
  • Having received God’s forgiveness ourselves, we are to practice it amongst ourselves. Not to do so would mean we haven’t grasped what is going on.

• Vs 13:
  • Temptation will come. As we pray, temptation is an opportunity to choose our allegiance. Is it to the Kingdom or to the destructiveness of sin?
  • There is a real force of evil to be rescued from.
  • The Satan which means, literally, The Accuser. We participate with the evil one when we live the lie of accusation. Is this not one of the great forces at work within our country, and ultimately our churches, on this very day? We must pray for rescue from the evil one, the accuser, lest we miss our calling as Kingdom people.

The following content is based on the message “Honor The Emperor” spoken on 11/13/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas. To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: 1 PETER 2:13-25

HONOR, LOVE, FEAR, HONOR?

In our last week in this series, we saw the apostle Peter outline how Christians should act toward other people and toward God.

Honor everyone. Everyone is made in the image of God—yes, everyone. To honor someone is to give proper respect to them. It doesn’t mean we don’t call out sin, but we are called to honor every human being. We know life is complicated, so this means getting to know people—getting to know their stories.

In order to learn more about each other (not to compare with each other), take a minute to share where you were raised and what kind of life you had.

Love the brotherhood and sisterhood. Jesus himself prayed that his followers would be united as one. When we don’t love each other, we don’t honor the prayer of our Lord and Savior.

• Why do you think loving people in the family of God is so difficult?
• What kind of witness is it when the church truly loves each other despite its differences?

Fear God. As Christians we should have a healthy fear of God. To fear means to have profound reverence and respect for, with the implication of awe bordering on fear—‘to reverence, to worship.’ A lot of people fear other people, but don’t God.

• Why could it be easier to fear man rather than God?
  Honor the emperor. Your vote isn’t an out for you to just try to reform the political system and to stop caring about the church. Your vote isn’t an out for you to not care about systems, laws and injustice. Your vote isn’t an out to your behavior.
• The president is an image-bearer of God. For us as Christians, what kind of honor is appropriate?

SUFFERING AS CHRISTIAN

Suffering is part of the Christian life. Suffering comes from things outside of our control. Reaping the consequences of our own bad choices is justice, not suffering. The glory of Christianity is not that we escape suffering but that something in us can turn suffering into something great.

Realize the others are suffering when you are not.

Realize that sometimes you cause suffering to others too.

• Why do we want to see hard things in someone else’s life as justice, but we want to see hard things in our own life as suffering?
• How might we be able to see the difference between suffering and justice in someone else’s life?
• Since we are Christians, and suffering is a Christian thing, how can we enter into suffering with our brothers and sisters, rather than simply pointing out that suffering can be a good thing for them?

THE REWARD OF SUFFERING WELL

We have forgotten how to suffer well…and how to suffer well with each other.

Suffering reminds us of the grace we have received in Jesus because He suffered so well for us.

None of us will really know how much we needed Jesus until we meet God face to face. When we meet him we will know that Jesus will be enough and that God will not pick us apart because of our sin. We can live in that truth now.

• How can we see the grace of God when brothers and sisters suffer together?
• Pray for each other and for our community.

HONOR THE EMPEROR // A SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH

WWW.NEWCITYPHX.COM/SERMONS

The following content is based on the message “Who Would Jesus Vote For?” spoken on 11/06/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas. To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: 1 PETER 2:9-17

RESIDENT ALIENS

As a group, you may be going through this together before, after, or on election day. The goal of this study will be to try to understand this scripture text. To rightly approach this text we have to understand this first:  if we are Christian, this country isn’t our home. Notice we are resident aliens committed to the new world.

• As a Christian, do you feel like a resident alien in our country? If yes, explain how. If not, explain why not.

LIBERAL AND CONSERVATIVE

This new race, this new “nation”, of people didn’t fit into political categories. Let’s look at some of the things these Christians stood for in their culture. See if you can label each statement as generally liberal or conservative.

1. Did not go to the bloodiest, gladiator tests as entertainment
2. Did not serve in war to advance Caesars conquest
3. Against abortion and infanticide
4. Had women in leadership
5. Against sex outside of marriage
6. Gave radically to the poor, way beyond Greeks and Romans
7. Mixed-races together
8. Believed that Christ was the only way

We are foreigners, resident aliens—not Republicans or Democrats. We don’t fit!

There are different ways to approach our differences. Usually people either (1) dig in and boycott, or (2) say that all truth is relative and that we should trust the government to meet our needs. However, the Scripture seems to point us to a third option. Paul uses this option in Acts 17 (if you want to read, Acts 17:22-34). He went into the culture and started with common ground. He used that common ground to talk about how nothing other than Jesus can save us—even political legislation can’t save us.

• What do you think about hearing both liberal and conservative principles attached to the Christian name?

• Why do you think people can’t find common group with these principles?

• What kind of witnesses would Christians be if we just fit in with cultural labels?

KING JESUS

The day is coming when the state and the church will merge. This will happen when Jesus returns as the perfectly just ruler. However until then, ”the relationship between the church (or we could say, the Christian) and the state will be at best conflicted, and at worst deadly.” – John Piper

So as a result, let’s turn back to our passage to see how we should live.

¹¹Beloved, I urge you as foreigners and resident aliens to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. ¹²Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of Jesus returns. … ¹⁵For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. ¹⁶Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.

• What other possible outcomes should we expect besides putting people to “silence”?

• Even if we don’t always have freedom in our government, how can we bind together as a Christian community that is honorable?

• What can happen in our hearts when we truly believe that freedom in Christ is so much greater than freedom in our government?

• Pray for our group, and Christians as a whole, to live honorably this week.

HONOR THE EMPEROR // A SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH

www.newcityphx.com/sermons

The following content is based on the message “Why Government Exists” spoken on 10/30/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas. To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: ROMANS 13:1-8

ELEMENTS OF GOVERNMENT

If you are being honest, what are some reasons that you don’t really want to talk about government in our Community Group?

As we look at this passage, there are some descriptors of government that Paul writes about. List those descriptors that you see from the passage.

Paul was writing to real people living under real governments at a real point in human history. Paul writes this letter to the Romans while Nero was in control in the Roman Empire. Nero was specifically known for his brutality to Christians, and was responsible for the martyrdom of Paul (and other well-known disciples) himself.

• How do you feel about this passage when you hear about the situation of the people to whom it was written?
• What is the call of Christians when government oversteps their boundaries? Historically, how has that ended for the Christian?

MYTHS OF GOVERNMENT

It can be especially difficult not to fall into the trap of two different myths regarding government. Surely you’ve seen or experienced both during this election cycle.

Myth #1: All government is evil and demonic.

• How do you see this myth playing out currently? How is it dangerous?

Jeremiah 29:7 says “But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.” This means that not all government is evil and demonic, however the logical end of this means that we probably have to guard against this next myth.

Myth #2: The government will save us.

• How do you see this myth playing out currently? How is it dangerous?

THE CHRISTIAN’S ROLE

The role of the Christian begins with identity. Fundamentally, followers of Jesus are Christian—not American, not caucasian, not Mexican, not black, not man, not woman, not conservative, not liberal. We are first and foremost Christians. As Christians we are supposed to be known for our love for each other (John 13:35). Look at the passages surrounding our original passage. Read Romans 12:16-18. Then read Romans 13:8-10.

• Who have you found to be more difficult to love—the candidates or the Christians voting for those candidates?
• How have your actions in this election cycle revealed deep down where you may be placing your citizenship?
• Returning to the beginning of our discussion, if the historical context of this passage was the context that we found ourselves in today, how do you think that could lead to strength and unity in the church?
• Pray for love to be the overwhelming action taken by Christians leading up to the election and and afterwards.
• Pray for our government leaders.

The following content is based on the message “Idol Worship” spoken on 10/23/16 by Oye Waddell at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: ROMANS 1:18-31

IDOL WORSHIP IN THE STORY OF GOD

Idol worship is throughout the whole story of God. Adam and Eve did this. Israel did this. God’s closest people did this. Repeatedly, they failed to acknowledge God which led to them substituting other gods in his place. They separated themselves so far from him that they were sent into exile.

We are just like Israel. We worship everything—we just don’t call them idols.

• Define “idol” from your experience with how others define “idol”.

• What are some things that you see our culture worshipping?

SUPPRESSION

How do we know that we are worshiping idols? When we suppress and fail to acknowledge God. This is the first step in idol worship. When we suppress God, it turns into two things God hates—ungodliness and wickedness. Not only is our relationship with him suppressed (ungodliness), so also is our relationship with our neighbor suppressed (wickedness).

The opposite of suppression is to acknowledge God, which leads to honor and praise.

• Where is your favorite place to visit in nature? Why?

• How have you been able to slow down in everyday life and see God moving around you?

• Share a piece of your story. What is a way that God has moved in your life?

SUBSTITUTION

What do we actually do when we worship idols? We substitute. We step out. When we step out, God gets jealous. He created us to be worshippers, which means we live for purpose. However, in our human hearts, we make good things into the ultimate thing. We substitute the created thing in place of the Creator.

• What are the some things that you think could be fighting for God’s attention in your life?

• Talk about some questions that could help us recognize when good things become ultimate things. (i.e. What are you most afraid to live without?)

SEPARATION

What is the result of idol worship? Separation. In the end God will ultimately give you up to your allegiance, which will lead to separation. In vss 24 – 31, Paul says that God “gave them up” to their hearts desires, their dishonorable passions, and their debased minds. God basically says “go ahead and worship these.” However, in the end, we can see that worshipping other things leads to economic disorder, social disorder, family disorder, and relational disorder.

The worst thing that can happen to us is that we are given over to what we over desire.

• Why do you think someone’s success could be the worst thing for them?

• What are some things we can do to keep success from becoming idol worship?

BUT GOD…

Jesus completely flips the idol worship around.

1. Rather than being separated from, Jesus came near to us bringing grace and truth.
2. Rather than being substituted for, Jesus substituted himself for our punishment.
3. Rather than being suppressed, Jesus rose again in victory over death so that we can live in close relationship with him.

• Think about what Jesus did here. What does it do in your own heart to see that Jesus chased after us by flipping idol worship upside down? (As a exercise in worship, have everyone share even if they have the same answer as others in the group)

• Pray and ask God to strengthen us as we seek to suppress the idols in our own life.

The following content is based on the message “Being a Disciple” spoken on 10/16/16 by Chris Townley at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas. To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: MATTHEW 4:18-22

BEING A DISCIPLE OF JESUS

Simon, Andrew, John, and James became disciples of Jesus by leaving everything and following him. We too, have to figure out what it means to be a disciple of Jesus.

Being a disciple of Jesus is learning to become like Jesus.

Jesus is saying the same thing to each of us: “Follow me, you have what it takes to be like Me, to find out who you really are. Let me help you.”

• What is your reaction to seeing Simon, Andrew, John, and James leave everything to follow Jesus?
• Since we have the same call, why are we often hesitant to hold onto our nets, our jobs, our boats, our dads, our comfort?

ARE YOU A DISCIPLE OF JESUS?

Jesus begins to teach his disciples what it means to be like him. Read Matthew 5:1-16. Jesus’s disciples are blessed. They are the “salt of the earth” and the “light of the world”. As His disciples this is who we are! At the same time, through His actions, He is saying we are loved, known, accepted. His actions communicate His grace, a grace that renews and transforms.

• Jesus changes WHO we are. What does it mean to you that Jesus changes your identity?
• Jesus doesn’t want us to stay where we are. He also changes who we MUST be. Why do you think Jesus doesn’t want us to stay where we were when we first started following him?

BEING A DISCIPLE IN COMMUNITY

We see that disciples can only be discipled into being like Jesus insofar as they are engaging in authentic relationships with a community of God’s people. All Christians are disciples and disciplers—learners and teachers.

It seems that we need each other to learn to become like Jesus.

• Was there ever a time that you felt completely alone while following Jesus? Is so, talk about your experience.
• How does having different people from different walks of life in our community make us more complete disciples?

THE WAY OF THE CROSS

Jesus says if you want to follow Him, turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross, and then follow Him. Give up your life, He says. It will cost you everything.

Certainly, undeniably, discipleship is the Way of the Cross.

Jesus also says that the burden he gives to us is easy and light. If we are to be people who learn, the thing is, there is space to learn. We haven’t fully arrived, and that’s OKAY, because Jesus rose from the dead and he promises to be with us.

What is your experience with people who think they are learning to be like Jesus, but don’t act like him? How is acting like Jesus a part of learning to be like him?

Read Matthew 28:18-20. With power and authority (you know, since he rose from the dead) Jesus promises to be with us with that same power and authority. How does the power of Christ in you, lead you to live like Jesus?

How can our group be a community learning to be like Jesus?

Pray that we act like disciples with much grace for each other.

The following content is based on the message “What is Truth?” spoken on 10/09/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: JOHN 18:33-40

HOW DOES TRUTH COME FROM THE KINGDOM?

Jesus said, “everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice”. If we think about listening to Jesus’ voice, more than anything else, Jesus spoke of his kingdom. That is where we find truth if we submit ourselves to the king.

Truth comes from having a kingdom perspective.

There are two kingdoms that we could live in—man’s kingdom or God’s kingdom. In man’s kingdom, man decides what is true. In the kingdom of God, we humbly acknowledge God as the one who states what’s true.

• What are some reasons that living in man’s kingdom might seem easier than living in God’s kingdom?

• What kind of link do you see between someone’s kingdom perspective and their perception of truth?

• What are some ways that you see the kingdom of God operating in a different manner than the kingdoms of men?

DISCOVER THE TRUTH?

Truth is not something that we need to create. But we don’t believe that anymore. We think that we conform reality to our wishes, and that truth is something that we decide. When we look to self for truth, we will eventually become disillusioned. Pilate falls into this trap in our passage. The idea of identity shaped completely alone, apart from anything external, is a myth.

Truth is not created. Truth is.

• If you look in the world around you, how do you see people trying to create their own truth?

• How could someone’s identity, formed on a created reality, be unstable?

HOW DO WE FOLLOW THE TRUTH?

You discover the Kingdom of truth when turn from your own way and turn to Jesus. Jesus came to earth and dwelled among us, filled with grace and truth. This is how we should live.

In John 14:6, Jesus himself said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

• What kind of identity do followers of Jesus receive through him?

• How does repentance play a role in following the Truth?

• Talk about a time that you did not walk in a balance of grace and truth.

• Why do you think that people who walk in grace and truth will have enemies on both sides of an issue?

• Pray that God would lead each of us in grace and truth.

The following content is based on the message “Communion: More than Grapes and Grain” spoken on 10/02/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ.  The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: MATTHEW 26:17-30

THE FIRST PASSOVER

As a Jewish person, Jesus celebrated the passover every year. This feast was a remembrance of how the Lord passed over the Jewish families during the final plague when he rescued the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Every year the Jewish people traveled to Jerusalem to celebrate this exodus. Read Exodus 12:5-15.

• Every year, the Jewish people made the pilgrimage to Jerusalem to remember the exodus. What things do you show similar levels of dedication to?

JESUS BEGINS A NEW EXODUS

Jesus was taking his execution and turning it into an offering—a passover offering in which he was instituting a New Exodus (more information for study in resources section). This means there needed to be a:

1. New Moses
2. Making of a New Covenant
3. Building of a New Temple
4. Journey to a New Promised Land

• Talk about what the original exodus looked like, and how a New Exodus by Jesus in the life of a believer is parallel.

A NEW PASSOVER

Now, to this night of the Last Supper or the Final (New) Passover for Jesus. There were some things about that night that were the same as the first passover and some things that were different.

SAME:

• They ate the passover right after the sacrifices. (Matthew 26:17)
• They ate in Jerusalem and not in Bethany where they had been staying.
• It was observed at night (Deuteronomy 16:6) and with wine.
• Jesus explained the bread, just like a Jewish father would explain the bread.

DIFFERENT: 

• They normally ate with family, but Jesus ate with his new family this was a new family!
• Instead of speaking about the past exodus, Jesus talked about his future suffering and death.
• Instead of explaining the meaning of the passover lamb, Jesus identified the bread and wine on the upper room as his own body and blood and commanded the disciples to eat and drink. Imagine it—when Jesus started talking about being the passover lamb, he KNEW what it meant!

• Hearing about what the passover lamb meant, why is it significant that Jesus became the new passover lamb?

• Why is taking communion with others so important? What does it signify?

JESUS SETS US FREE

In Matthew 27:51, the veil to the temple was torn in two, giving us full access to the Holy One. Jesus reinstalled us as priests. We are a royal priesthood. 

Jesus came to set us free and give us life.

• Why do you think it is important to receive communion when we gather on Sundays?

• How should communion change the way that we worship?

• How can we practically live out these principles when we partake in communion?

SCRIPTURE FOR REFERENCE AND DEEPER STUDY

THE ORIGINAL PASSOVER

1. Choose an unblemished Male Lamb. This lamb was supposed to be male, in its prime, and unblemished.  It was supposed to be free of defects. It was supposed to be perfect! (Exodus 12:1-16)

2. Father of each household was supposed to sacrifice the lamb. Exodus 12:6  They were not supposed to break a bone in the body. (Exodus 12:46) This started with the father doing it, but later it had to be done by a priest due to the sin that marred the other tribes of Israel (Exodus 32)

3. They put the blood of the lamb on the entryways of the home as a sign (Exodus 12:7). In 12:21-23, they were supposed to stain the wood using a Hyssop branch by dipping it in the blood and touch the lintel (top) and the two door posts. They were delivered from death through the blood of the lamb.

4. They ate the flesh of the lamb. (Ex 12:8-12) When roasting the lamb, they would put a wooden rod between the shoulders and from neck through the buttock, forming a cross. (From a Jewish commentary on the Scripture—Pesharim 5:9 and 7:1)

5. Every year they were supposed to keep the Passover as a “Day of Remembrance” (Exodus 12:14). Tell them why … every year in the sprint on the 14th day of the month Nisan

THE SIGNS OF A NEW EXODUS

NEW MOSES

Moses – Moses took his wife and his sons and had them ride on a donkey, and went back to the land of Egypt. And Moses took the staff of God in his hand. (Exodus 4:20)

Jesus – Rode into Jerusalem on a donkey

Moses – fasted 40 days and 40 nights (Exodus 34) before when He received the law

Jesus – 40 days and 40 nights when the Spirit (new law) fell on Him (Jeremiah 31!!!)

Moses – water to blood (Exodus 7)

Jesus – water to wine  (John 2)

Moses – blood covenant (Exodus 24)

Jesus – New Covenant in His Blood (Matthew 26)

NEW COVENANT

Jesus in the upper room Matthew 26:28 “A new covenant I give you … sealed in my blood.”

This covenant was prophesied about in Jeremiah 31:

 “Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah, 32 not like the covenant that I made with their fathers on the day when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt, my covenant that they broke, though I was their husband, declares the Lord. 33 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. Jeremiah 31:31-33

NEW TEMPLE

The Temple had been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times in Jerusalem. They talked about a coming New Temple to be built in the age of salvation at the time of the new exodus. They believed that God would set his sanctuary (his temple) in the midst of Israel and the Gentile shall convert to worship the Lord. (Ezekiel 37)

 So the Jews said to him, “What sign do you show us for doing these things?” 19 Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” 20 The Jews then said, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will you raise it up in three days?” 21 But he was speaking about the temple of his body. John 2:18

Jesus said, “something greater than the temple is here.” – Matthew 12:41 

Greater than the TEMPLE!  That is where God dwells! How can it be greater than that?!

NEW PROMISED LAND

Isaiah 65:17-25 promises a new kingdom—a new heaven and earth. In John 18:36, Jesus claimed, “my kingdom is not of this world”. In Revelation 21, the fullness of that kingdom is realized in the New Heavens and New Earth.

The following content is based on the message “Hell (Why the…)” spoken on 09/25/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas. To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: 2 THESSALONIANS 1:3-11

BEGINNING BEAUTIFULLY

Going back to the beginning (Genesis 1 and 2), there was no sickness, no pain, and no shame. Then, as a result of sin, a form of hell entered into the world. Now our world is filled with racism, sexism, abuse, abortion, and broken families. This is hell. As followers of Jesus, we are to contrast that by bringing the kingdom of Heaven to this world through Jesus’s message. However, there will be one day when Hell will be completely kicked out from the world.

When you look at the world today, what specific effect of sin breaks your heart the most?

Sometimes people look on from the outside and say that Christianity is about rule-keeping. However, if people followed the commands of Jesus, how do you feel like that would actually lead to the flourishing of our city?

ISN’T HELL AN OVER-REACTION?

Those in Hell have committed the ultimate, infinite sin in rejecting a relationship with the self-giving God—not simply a string of finite sins. Hell is the logical outcome of a mindset to live life apart from God—not simply committing individual sins.

• How could Hell seem like an over-reaction?
• In what ways does Hell actually give people what they want?

HELL IS WHERE PEOPLE CHOOSE TO GO

If someone doesn’t believe in Jesus, then they probably don’t want to be with him forever. Those who have resisted God on earth continue in their hard-heartedness thereafter. God’s holy presence would truly be “hell” for those wanting their own way. We have no hint from Scripture of repentance in hell. Rebellion, hate, and selfishness continue. The rich man in hell (Luke 16:19–26) is remorseful, but not repentant. He does not want to change, but just to find relief.

• Prior to this, how did you think people in Hell viewed getting out of Hell?
• Even after surrendering to Jesus, how can it still be difficult to turn from our own way?
• What does Hell actually teach us about God?

BEHOLD, I AM COMING SOON

Read Revelation 21:1-4. The scene in this passage is what the followers of Jesus can look forward to when Hell is cast out. In Revelation 22 Jesus says “I am coming soon” three different times. It is a promise that we can find hope in.

• What are some of the things that stand out to you about how God views us in Revelation 21:1-4?
• In what ways have you already seen Jesus keep his promises in your life?

SCRIPTURE FOR REFERENCE & DEEPER STUDY

Universalism (the idea that everyone will be saved):

Therefore, as one trespass led to condemnation for all men, so one act of righteousness leads to justification and life for all men. Romans 5:18 (Goes on to say how we must repent and be baptized into Christ.)

21For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead. 22For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive. 23But each in his own order: Christ the first-fruits, then at his coming those who belong to Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:22

9For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, 20and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross. 21And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, 22he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him, 23if indeed you continue in the faith. Colossians 1:20

Second Chance (the idea that people will get a second chance to repent after they die):

1 Peter 3:19-20 (preaching to souls in prison)

For this is why the gospel was preached even to those who are (NOW) dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does. 1 Peter 4:6

However, we must keep Luke 16:9-31, John 8:24, and Hebrews 9:27-28 in balance with these two verses above.

And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment, 28so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him. Hebrews 9:27-28

Annihilationism (the idea that hell’s inhabitants do not suffer forever, but are consumed in judgment):

…they will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction. 2 Thessalonians 1:9

Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire. 15And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire. Revelation 20:14-15

…destroy the soul and body in hell. Matthew 10:28
However, we have to balance the above passages with passages such as these:

And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal
life.” Matthew 25:46

…where their worm does not die and the fire is not quenched. Mark 9:48

Eternal Hell:

Mark 9:48 (Endless fire: unquenchable fire – worm does not die)

Matthew 25:46 (Eternal punishment)

Luke 16:19–31 (Fixed chasm that cannot be crossed separates the wicked in Hell from the righteous in Paradise. It shows that people remain conscious, retain their memories, cannot find comfort, cannot leave their torment, and have no hope.)

Revelation 14:11 (smoke rising forever)

Revelation 20:10 (tormented “forever and ever”, which is the most emphatic way of saying “forever” in the New Testament.)

And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had been thrown. They will be tormented day and night for ever and ever. Revelation 20:10

The following content is based on the message “Hell (Who the…)” spoken on 09/18/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas. To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: MATTHEW 25:31-46

WHO’S WHO?

Jesus uses the imagery of a shepherd separating sheep and goats in order to show his disciples what the final judgment will look like. Sheep and goats can look similar at a glance, but a true shepherd can see the difference. Jesus is the true Shepherd and the only one who can rightfully separate people like sheep and goats. However, when talking specifically about hell and judgement, Jesus says to look for some things in those who believe. We can look at the fruit in someone’s life—particularly our own life, because it is not just about what we say, but it is about what we do.

• When you read the Matthew 25 passage, do you think of the way you live, or the way that others live?

WHAT DO SHEEP LOOK LIKE?

Sheep are saved by the Good Shepherd with His grace. Read Ephesians 2:8-9.

• How is it difficult for you, or easy for you, to believe in salvation by grace alone?

Sometimes when talking about grace, we forget to read the rest of this passage. Read Ephesians 2:10. A consistent theme in Scripture is that we are saved by grace in order to do good works.

Grace is a gift which is responded to in faith and shown by good works.

• What would our lives look like if we talk about grace without talking about how that grace should motivate us to live?

WHAT JESUS SAYS ABOUT HOW SHEEP LIVE

Read Mark 9:42-50.

• Why do you think Jesus’s words are so extreme here?

• What do we do with this extreme language?

WHAT JESUS SAYS ABOUT HOW SHEEP SERVE OTHERS

From the Matthew 25 passage that we read at the beginning, Jesus shares some strong words about serving others.

• Why do you think Jesus says that serving the least of these is like serving him?

WHAT JESUS SAYS ABOUT HOW SHEEP LEAD AND TEACH OTHERS

Many of these passages speak about leaders who do not lead well. This has been a common theme for the people of God. In Ezekiel, God warns the shepherds of Israel against how they lived. Read Ezekiel 34:1-4.

• How does this look like all of our lives, but specifically your life?

WHAT JESUS SAYS ABOUT HOW SHEEP REPENT

Repentance is linchpin to being a follower of Jesus. It is turning from our own will to the will of the Father. Jesus laid down his life for us so that we can repent. He is always there with us, ready for us to turn to him. This is Jesus—read Ezekiel 34:11-16.

• Jesus served us, but why is it so hard to serve others the way He served us?

• Maybe we’ve turned to Christ, but how do we need to repent for the way we have been living?

• How do we need to give ourselves grace, but not let ourselves off the hook for failing to serve others more sacrificially?

HELL

A SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH

www.newcityphx.com/sermons

The following content is based on the message “ Hell (What the…)” spoken on 09/11/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas. To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: MARK 9:42-48

HELL CANNOT BE IGNORED

Jesus speaks about Hell/Gehenna more than any other person in the Bible. In spite of that, only about 70% of Christians believe that Hell exists.

• What are some reasons that you think people (us included) don’t want to talk about Hell?

BIBLICAL IMAGERY

While everything in the Bible is literally true, not everything is always true literally. The Bible describes the reality of Hell through forceful figures of speech like, darkness, weeping and gnashing of teeth, eternal fire, bottomless pit, and prison (see Scripture References included at the end).

• Why do you think the biblical imagery to describe Hell is so strong?

NATURE OF HELL

The Bible does not describe it as a “torture chamber” where people are forced against their will to be tortured by others. This is a caricature. However, Hell is torment. Jesus said it was (Luke 16:24) torment, but unlike torture which is inflicted from without, against one’s will, torment can be self-inflicted. Torment is living with the consequences of our own choices. Think of Hell as being locked from the inside.

• Why do you think it is important to distinguish that Hell is torment, not torture?

• How would your view of God change if you believed that he was torturing people in Hell?

SIN IS WHAT LEADS TO ETERNAL HELL

If heaven is having your identity rooted in Jesus forever, then Hell is having your identity rooted in sin forever. Tim Keller says this:

“Hell is a chosen identity based on something else beside God going on forever.”

Heaven has no place for sin, and will sin won’t be able to get into this new city (Rev 22:15).

• When you find yourself basing your identity on something other than God, how have you experienced that identity tormenting you?

• What does knowing that sin won’t be able to get into heaven stir up within you?

JESUS DEFEATED HELL

Jesus descended into Hell on the cross, and he took on Hell. That shows you His love because He lost relationship with His father, if even for a moment, to take on death and Hell. This is costly love. Love without a cost is a “nice” story but it isn’t deep love.  It is nice, but it isn’t transformational. True love comes at a cost and requires a cost!

Jesus is patient and wants everyone to repent. He doesn’t want any one to perish.

The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. 2 Peter  3:9

• Share about how you have grown to realize that true love is costly.

• How can you love a God who allows people to go to Hell?

• How should the reality of Hell change the way that we live with God and others?

SCRIPTURE FOR REFERENCE & DEEPER STUDY

HADES (SHEOL)

Sheol differs from the doctrine of Hell: it is the place where all the dead are gathered indiscriminately, saints and the sinners. Sheol but almost always it is a place of weakness and joylessness.

Scripture describing Sheol:

• Below the surface of the earth (Ezk. 31:15, 17; Ps. 86:13),
• A place of dust (Jb. 17:16), darkness (Jb. 10:21), silence (Ps. 94:17) and forgetfulness (Ps. 88:12).

In Jewish literature we see divisions within Sheol for the wicked and the righteous. This idea appears to underlie the imagery of the parable of the rich man and Lazarus in Lk. 16:19–31. The Greek word “hadēs” used in this passage represents the underworld, or realm of the dead, in classic literature. Hades is the NT equivalent of Sheol.

Scripture describing Hades:

• You will descend to Hades (Mt 11:23);
• The gates of Hades will not prevail against it (Mt 16:18);
• You will be brought down to Hades (Lk 10:15);
• In Hades he lifted up his eyes (Lk 16:23);
• For you will not abandon my soul to Hades (Acts 2:27, 31)
• I have the keys of death and of Hades (Rv 1:18);
• Hades was following with him (Rev 6:8);
• Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. (Rev 20:13-14)

GEHENNA/HELL

Gehenna/Hell was a valley south of Jerusalem known as “Valley of Hinnom.” It became infamous for its sacrificial site where children were offered to the god Molech during the evil reigns of kings in the Old Testament (2 Chronicles 28:3; 33:6). King Josiah came in and reformed it so that children no longer would be sacrificed there (2 Kings 23:10). This valley was known as a burning dump. (Mt 5:22, 29, 30; Mt 10:28; Mk 9:43, 45, 47; Lk 12:5 Jas 3:6; 2C 5.4;18:9; 23:15, 33)

The Bible describes the reality of hell in forceful figures of speech:

• A place of darkness where there is weeping and gnashing of teeth.(Matt. 8:12; 22:13)
• Jesus describes hell as an eternal fire (Matt 25:41) and an abyss (Luke 8:31)
• It is like being left outside in the dark forever (Matt. 8:12)
• A perpetually burning dump (Mark 9:43–48)
• A bottomless pit (Rev. 20:1, 3)
• A prison (1 Peter 3:19)
• A place of anguish (Luke 16:28)

There are some other things that we know about hell which we have to balance with these figures of speech listed above.

• Away from the “presence of the Lord” (Matt. 25:41; 2 Thess. 1:7–9).
• People will have physical bodies (John 5:28–29; Rev. 20:13–15).
• Jesus said it was torment (Luke 16:24).

IS IT REALLY FOREVER?

Heaven is described as “everlasting” in the Bible.

The same Greek word used to affirm that hell is “everlasting” is also used in the same sentence to affirm that heaven is “everlasting”.  (Matt. 25:41; cf. vs. 46; 2 Thess. 1:9; Rev. 20:10).

We Are Family

A SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH

www.newcityphx.com/sermons

The following content is based on the message “The Nature of Evil” spoken on 08/28/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas. To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  www.newcityphx.com/sermons.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: Ephesians 6:10-18

INTRODUCTION

Culture often sensationalizes evil with different forms of media. We lose sight of the truth of evil. We lose sight that it is nuanced and it is real.

• Talk about how we lose sight of the truth of evil through culture’s portrayal of it.

TRANSCENDENCE OF EVIL

Our battle is not only against flesh and blood (what we see), but it also against and evil that we don’t see. Satan leads an evil force of demons that fell from heaven and now fights against the goodness of God. People used to accept evil as legitimate, but now evil is explained away or “fixed”.

• Why do you think some people don’t like to talk about evil?

• How do you think that evil can work through things that we use to explain evil away?

COMPLEXITY OF EVIL

Evil is complex so there are two errors that we fall into when we look at it. The first error is to say that all bad things are a result of the devil’s work. The second error is to say that there is nothing at all behind evil.

• Which error do you fall into more often?

• How do both of those errors simplify evil?

• Why do you think some people would rather just blame the devil for every bad thing?

Evil never comes pure and simple. In fact, the best lies have a ton of truth wrapped up in them. The religious leaders were the ones that killed Jesus, not a visible army of demons. It isn’t just about evil at work in others because some of the biggest evil is within us. Our flesh turns good things into idols that rule us.

• Talk about a time in your life that something good in your life began to rule you.

• Why do you think Satan loves to use good things to advance his rule?

DEFEATING OF EVIL

We are at war fighting against evil and God gives us armor to fight with because we are not strong enough to do it alone. Read Ephesians 6:14-18 again. Jesus already fought evil and has defeated it, but it didn’t look like we would expect. Jesus looked like he was becoming a slave, but he became a king. Satan tried to be king, but is actually a slave.

• In what ways do we naturally want to fight the battle against evil by attacking like Satan does?

• How is the power of Christ different than the power of Satan?

• Look at the armor that God gives us. How do you see Jesus in each one of those pieces?

• By looking at the pieces of armor, in what specific ways is the Holy Spirit leading you to be more like Jesus by putting on these on?

• Pray together and ask that Jesus would make us more like him and that he would protect us from evil and the evil one.

We Are Family

A SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH

www.newcityphx.com/sermons

The following content is based on the message “Biblical Parenthood” spoken on 08/21/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ.  The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: Ephesians 6:1-4

OBEY AND HONOR

Paul subverts culture with his instruction to children. They would not have been addressed like this. In fact, Paul is treating everyone in the home with dignity. He instructs children to obey their parents and to honor them. To obey means “to do what they say”. To honor is a commercial term, meaning “to give proper weight to something”.

• Talk about the type of parenting you experienced growing up.

• In the past what are some things that made it difficult to obey?

• What was harder for you—to obey or to honor? Why? How are they different?

TWO MODERN SHIFTS

There are two modern shifts in parenting. The first one is that the parent-centered nuclear family is becoming more children-centered. Parents are acting more and more like a child’s peer.

• Why do you think it is dangerous to have a children-centered family?

• What can parents provide that peers cannot?

• What good has unlimited empowerment done to children?

• What bad has unlimited empowerment done to children?

The second shift is the effect of technology. People are able to demand what they want with themselves at the center. Life has become about getting what I want and I need now.

• How do you see technology changing parenting?

• Why do you think it is so easy to let technology parent?

HOW DO WE PARENT?

Paul addresses the children with lower authority first, and then turns his attention to parents. He tells mothers and fathers that they need conduct themselves in a way that is worthy of respect and demands respect by their actions!

1. Encourage them.
2. Be present with them.
3. Pray for them.
4. Repent and confess in front of them.
5. Be in the word.

• What is the difference between not giving children just what they want and provoking children to anger?

• What was your experience with your parents repenting?

• We all need to work on these, but which one do need to work on the most as a parent? (If you are not a parent, which one do you need to better in your close relationships?)

LIVING AS CHILDREN AND PARENTS

Regardless of what has happened (what you’ve done or what others have done), repent, seek forgiveness, and grant it. We are able to do that because Jesus did that for us. No matter what and regardless of your experience, remember that you have the best father ever.

My actions towards other is determined by my relationship with Christ, and not by the standing or performance of others.

• What is God laying on your heart as a child or a parent or both?

• How can does your relationship with Jesus motivate you to live as a parent or as someone’s child?

• Pray for parents. Pray for families. Pray that we all could live as people that are motivated by Christ’s love.

RESOURCES FOR PARENTS

General:

• Boundaries: When to Say YES, When to Say NO, To Take Control of Your Life by Henry Cloud and John Townsend

Parenting: 

• Shepherding a Child’s Heart by Tedd Tripp
• Boundaries with Kids by Cloud and Townsend

Devotional resources for kids:

• The Jesus Storybook Bible: Every Story Whispers His Name

by Sally Lloyd-Jones

• Day by Day Devotions: A year of character building devotions for kids by Karyn Henley

Online devotion for students:

• Youversion:  http://www.youversion.com/reading-plans/category/youth

A SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH (Summer 2016)

WWW.NEWCITYPHX.COM/SERMONS –  BRIAN KRUCKENBERG

The following content is based on the message “The Church is Family” spoken on 08/07/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas. To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: Ephesians 4:1-16

WHAT IS GOD’S PLAN?

This passage describes the church, but it starts with Paul pleading with the Ephesian church to live up to their calling that he described in chapter 3. So what is the calling? Read Ephesians 3:7-11.

The church is the plan. We are the plan. As the church we are supposed to live out God’s gospel—his good news. When we live out the good news, God’s plan is made known on earth and the heavenly places.

• In the past what have you thought that God’s plan is for the church?

• Why do you think it is important to know that living out God’s plan not only makes his wisdom visible on earth, but also in the heavenly places?

WHAT IS THIS GOSPEL?

In order to live out this gospel that Paul described, we have to know what it is. To see it, we have to go back to Ephesians chapter 2.  Read Ephesians 2:13-16.

It is good news, or gospel, that we can reconciled back to God. Because of our sin, we were all considered far off from God, but the blood of Jesus makes peace.

• The word “gospel” is used a lot. How would you describe this gospel that Paul is describing?

• As people, how do you see us with walls of hostility up toward others?

• How does Jesus body and blood break down human walls of hostility?

• What are some ways can the church live out its calling to be one new person?

THEREFORE WALK IN THIS WAY

The church is supposed to be like nothing anyone has seen before. 

The church is for everyone. 

The church is united as one.

The church is eternal.

The church is us.

….and Christ is the one who did it!

Therefore we should live each other in humility, gentleness, patience. We were brought together in love as one.

• Even when we disagree, how can we be united in humility, gentleness, patience, and love?

GIFTED PEOPLE

God gave his church gifts as a sign of his victory. These gifts are to be used to equip the the body as whole, which means gifts are meant to be used. If they just sit there without being used and developed, they don’t build up the rest of the body. Every person is important, so every person needs to play their part.

• What kind of role do you feel like you have in the church?

• How do you feel like you are developing your gifting?

• When every person realizes their importance, what kind of strength does that bring to the whole body?

• What are some things that we can be doing as Community Group to help each other develop our own gifts?

• Pray for unity in our group and church. Pray that everyone feels like they can get involved and everyone feels important.

The Merciful Samaritan

A MESSAGE AT NEW CITY CHURCH (Summer 2016)

WWW.NEWCITYPHX.COM/SERMONS –  CHRIS TOWNLEY

The following content is based on the message “The Merciful Samaritan” spoken on 07/31/16 by Chris Townley at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ.  The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: LUKE 10:25-37

THE LAWYER’S EXCHANGE WITH JESUS

A lawyer tried to put Jesus to the test by asking how to inherit eternal life. However, eternal life is a gift freely given. This lawyer is thinking in terms of a single action rather than an ongoing life of righteousness. Plus, he really does already know the answer to his question—he should love God and love neighbor NOW.

• How do you tend to think of life—as single actions or ongoing commitments?

• Share about a time when you questioned God even though you already knew the answer.

The lawyer still wanted to justify his own actions, so he asked Jesus, “and who is my neighbor?”. This was a polite way of saying, “who is NOT my neighbor?”

• Why do you think we try to push the commands of Jesus as far as possible?

JESUS RESPONDS WITH A PARABLE

Jesus responds to the man with a parable. Parables are intended to drive a wedge between how people think they are supposed to act and how people actually are supposed to act.

• How do you normally approach a parable? Do you justify yourself with it, or are you challenged by it?

THE UNEXPECTED RESPONSE

The listeners related to the man who was attacked. As they heard of his situation—robbed of his possessions, dignity, health, and almost his life—they would have been asking “will rescue come?”

• In your world who do you relate to, asking “will rescue come for them?”

• To whom should you relate, but don’t want to relate?

The first two people that passed by the victim were asking “what will happen to me if I stop to help this man?”.

• How do you feel about the priest and the temple worker who walk by the victim?

• In what ways do you feel like these two people?

THE REALLY UNEXPECTED RESPONSE

A Samaritan (who was considered an enemy of the listener) sees the victim, has compassion for him, and begins taking care of him. He does not just offer one-time aid, but long-term care.

• What kind of sacrifice do you think it took for the Samaritan to care for the Jewish man who had been attacked?

• Why do we think caring for people will be easy?

WHAT WILL OUR RESPONSE BE?

Compassion can be felt in the gut, but mercy must be enacted with the body. Loving neighbor simply cannot exist as something abstract. It requires action. Our only options are not 1) to ignore the violence and suffering as we insulate ourselves in our privilege or 2) to see nothing but the present darkness.

There is another way where we side with suffering and we choose love.

• How do you usually respond to suffering—ignoring it or getting lost in the darkness of it?

• In what ways is the world dark right now?

• How can we choose active love and mercy in the middle of the darkness?

• Should it ever go bigger than what we just described?

• Why do you think God wants his people to care even for their enemies?

• Take a moment to reflect on what Jesus has done for us, and ask him to show us how to live an active love, not an abstract love.

A MESSAGE SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH (Summer 2016)
WWW.NEWCITYPHX.COM/SERMONS –  BRIAN KRUCKENBERG

The following content is based on the message “The Power of the Testimony” spoken on 07/24/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ.  The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: ACTS 26:1-29

THIS IS WHO I AM (ACTS 26:4-11)

Paul consistently shares his story. In this week’s story, we see him standing before King Agrippa begging the king to hear the what Jesus had done in his life. Paul shared how he used to be far away from Jesus and fought against God’s plan even though he followed all the rules. There are often two ways that people live—as either a bad person or a good person, as a rule-breaker or a rule-follower, as a prodigal son or older brother.

• Who do you relate to more, the prodigal son (the rule-breaker) or the older brother (the rule-follower)?

• Talk about how you follow all the rules or break all the rules.

THIS IS WHO JESUS IS AND WHAT HE DID (ACTS 26:12-18)

There is a third way to live—the Gospel way. Paul was on a road away from Jesus until Jesus met him on the road to Damascus. We are all on a road to somewhere if we aren’t on our way toward God.

• Did you have a time in your life where you were like Paul—kicking against God’s plan for your life? If so, share about how you were kicking against God’s plan.

• Why do we fight against God’s plan sometimes?

THIS IS HOW I RESPONDED TO JESUS (ACTS 26:19-23)

On the road that he was on, Paul responded to Jesus and began following him. Jesus shows us everything that we are, but are unwilling to admit. When we begin following Jesus, we are admitting that we need him.

• Remember everyone’s story is important, and so share what kind of moment you had when you met Jesus.

THIS IS WHAT YOU SHOULD DO (ACTS 26:24-26)

Paul shared his story and people called him crazy for believing that Jesus rose from the dead. They called him crazy for believing that God’s message is for everyone. People will call our stories crazy. However, people observing our lives should see the work of Jesus if we are living openly for Jesus. 

Our lives should not be hidden in a corner.

• Talk about some ways that you have been called crazy for believing in Jesus.

• How has it been difficult for you to not “live in a corner?”

• Is God laying anything on your heart about how to live in the open, not in a corner?

OUR TESTIMONY

Revelation says that Satan is conquered by “the blood of the lamb, and the word of our testimony.” Our testimonies matter. Our stories matter. They tell the story of what God has done in our lives. Our testimonies don’t have to look different than Paul’s did.

1) This is who I was.

2) This is who Jesus is and what He did.

3) This is who I am now and who I am becoming.

• How has someone else’s story impacted you?

• How do you feel that sharing what Jesus has done can sound crazy?

• What fears do you have about sharing your own story?

• In what ways are sharing your own story difficult?

• In what ways are sharing your own story easy?

• Pray together to thank God for what he has done in our lives. Ask him to give us the courage to share our stories.

A MESSAGE SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH (Summer 2016)

WWW.NEWCITYPHX.COM/SERMONS –  CHRIS TOWNLEY

The following content is based on the message “Paul’s Story and the Armor of God” spoken on 07/17/16 by Chris Townley at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: ACTS 22:1-23

PAUL’S LIFE-SUMMARIZING DEFENSE

Paul is in chains to be punished. He is addressing a group of Jewish people deeply committed to the Law of Moses. He starts his defense by sharing his story with the crowd of people.

• What makes someone’s story so powerful?
• How often do you feel like your story matters?
• What parts of your story do you think no one else would connect with?

THE CROWD RESPONDS

The crowd was engaged in Paul’s story until he told them that God’s message included the outsider.

• How does the crowd respond to what Paul says?
• Why do you think it was so difficult for the crowd to hear that God’s message was for the outsider?

We are off the tracks of Jesus when we cannot imagine a “they” that might actually be an “us”.

• What kind of similarities do you see in our world today?
• In some ways, we all imagine a “them”. How do you imagine a “them” rather than an “us”?

PAUL PUTS ON JESUS

Remember, Paul used to incite violence, now he doesn’t lift a finger. He actually lets himself get beat up and jailed. This should not just be glossed over. We can’t let this become tame or mundane.

What made Paul unique is that he put on Jesus

This doesn’t mean that he wrapped Jesus’ skin around him. That’s weird. However, he does write about putting something on in Ephesians. Read Ephesians 6:10-18. The armor of God is the armor God wears. The armor here is for protection against attack, not for going on the offensive against Satan.

• We’ve talked a lot about Paul’s life being different after Jesus. How do you see Paul’s life being different after putting on Jesus?
• How does it feel to know that you can put on the same armor that God wears?

JESUS’S ARMOR IS DIFFERENT

When we put of the armor of God we are “putting on” Jesus!

To put on Jesus is to put on humble, genuine love because without love, you’re just a mercenary in really nice armor.

What if we, like Paul, and of course Jesus before him, were outfitted in belts of truth, and body armor of righteousness, and shoes of peace (please more shoes with the Gospel of peace!), and shields of faith, and helmets of salvation, and swords of the Spirit… not swords that wound and destroy, but SWORDS THAT HEAL?

• How is Jesus’s armor a paradigm shift to what we normally think armor to be?
• Have you seen people use this armor to hurt others? If so, how?
• Why do you think that Jesus’ armor is different?
• Which piece of Jesus’s armor do you need most help with?
• How can we wear Jesus’s armor together as a group?
• What do you think things would look like if we put on Jesus’s armor?
• Pray for God to strengthen us to wear his armor with love—as Jesus would wear it.

A MESSAGE SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH (Summer 2016)

WWW.NEWCITYPHX.COM/SERMONS –  BRIAN KRUCKENBERG

The following content is based on the message “Walking and Suffering with Jesus” spoken on 07/10/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ.  The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray and ask God to lead the discussion as everyone gets to share.

NOTE to leader: Today’s discussion leads people into a lot of vulnerability. It might be wise to start the discussion with a funny question to get people comfortable with conversation.

THE SCRIPTURE: ACTS 21:1-16

WHAT IS PROPHECY?

In this account, prophecy is brought up multiple times. A prophet or prophetess is one who proclaims inspired utterances on behalf of God—an inspired preacher. Prophecy can include elements of telling future events or occurrences. In Acts 20:22; 21:4; 21:12, there seems to be different “prophesies about Jerusalem”.

• What are some experiences that you have had with one Christian telling you one thing in the name of Jesus, and another Christian telling you something else in the name of Jesus?

CONFIRMING PROPHECY

Scripture teaches us some things about confirming prophecy:

1 Corinthians 14: 29 — Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others weigh what is said. 30 If a revelation is made to another sitting there, let the first be silent.

1 Thessalonians 5:19 — Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise prophecies, 21 but test everything; hold fast what is good.

• How does someone test a prophecy?
• Why is it important to test prophecy?

PROPHECY FOR PAUL: SUFFERING

God doesn’t contradict himself, but the Spirit’s role is best seen as informing them of those coming hardships for the apostle. It was clear. Paul was going to face suffering. The very natural reaction of his friends was to urge him not to go.

• Share about a time in your life, when God called you to something that wasn’t easy.
• How did other people respond to how difficult your situation was?
• What can you learn from your own situation about how to respond to people?

As followers of Jesus, we order our lives around God’s principles.  That means we put our lives in God’s hands. In some ways that means: our marriages aren’t ours, our dating relationships aren’t ours., our money isn’t ours, our kids aren’t ours, and etc.

• Where is God calling you to “go”? What if go means stay? For example, is He calling you to go deeper into your marriage—into the painful parts? What has God said about your situation? Start there if you can.
• If you don’t know what God is calling you to do, what can you do?

MISSING OUT ON GOD’S PLAN

Romans 8:17 says that Christians will suffer. However, we don’t want people to get hurt or to suffer! That is normal! It is a HUMAN thing not just a western American thing to want to avoid suffering.

• How do you feel about God prophesying suffering for Christians?
• God says that suffering will happen, but how do you think He feels about it? Do you think there are some things that are straight evil?

If Paul hadn’t gone to Jerusalem, and he tried to avoid suffering, he would have missed all the opportunities to testify to the most powerful people in the Roman Empire about Jesus. Instead of asking “what will happen to me if I go?”, what about asking, “what might I miss if I don’t go?”

• If you are facing a difficult situation and someone says, “what might you miss if you don’t go?”, how do you think you would REALLY respond to that?
• Besides just their answer, what might you need from someone who says, “what might you miss if you don’t go?”?
• How does knowing that God works in difficult situations strengthen your faith?

REFLECTING ON JESUS

Paul lives his life with the example of Jesus in view. It was clear that Jesus had to go to Jerusalem to suffer. People didn’t want him to go, but he followed the Holy Spirit even though it was difficult. Paul was following the Holy Spirit’s leading to Jerusalem even though people didn’t want him to suffer.

• What does reflecting on Jesus’ example do for you in your own life? What does it do for you to know that He isn’t asking us to do something that he didn’t do himself?
• Pray together for strength to submit to Jesus in the face of suffering.

The Acts of the Apostles

A MESSAGE SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH (Summer 2016)
WWW.NEWCITYPHX.COM/SERMONS –  NATE BENNER

The following content is based on the message “Leading Like Jesus” spoken on 07/03/16 by Nate Benner at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ.  The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray that God teaches us and leads our discussion as we each get to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: ACTS 20:16-35

LEADERS ARE IMPORTANT

Paul traveled to different cities in the Roman Empire proclaiming the Gospel. As people began following Jesus, he encouraged leaders to rise up and lead the churches. Paul spent extra time with the Ephesian leaders, living with them for three years. Even though he was busy on his way to Jerusalem, he just had to stop to talk to these leaders.

• What experiences (positive or negative) have you had with church leaders?

FINAL WORDS

Paul’s address to the Ephesian leaders was his final time that he would share with them face-to-face. One of the major things that Paul wanted them to remember was the way that he lived like Jesus when he was with them. He went around house to house, and it says that he shed tears with people. He was in the difficult moments with people, but he kept the same message.

• How can we learn to “live, work, study, and play” from Paul’s example?
• Why is it so difficult to be with people in difficult moments?
• Think about a difficult moment in your life. What type of reaction would have helped you in that moment?

PROTECT THE FLOCK

Part of the leader’s responsibility is to watch out for opposition to the message of Jesus. We can face opposition from outside our community, inside our community, or within our own life personally. It is part of the leader’s responsibility to watch out for people trying to twist the message of Jesus. But here is what can happen within a leader’s own life. They start to think that they are the ones that are building the church. However, in Matthew 16:18, Jesus says “I will build my church”. As leaders, we need to help keep each other accountable to the message of Jesus.

• What type of opposition to the Gospel have you faced?
• How can we keep each other accountable to the message of Jesus?
• Why don’t we need a higher status over others?
• What can we do to protect ourselves from trying to gain a higher status over others?

GRACE

As humans, we will fail. We will fall. We will lose sight of Jesus. As Jesus says in Revelation, the Ephesian leaders lost sight of their first love. They lost sight of him. However, Jesus gives them the opportunity to repent, or to turn back to him. Repentance is such a gracious thing. But people don’t think “repentance” is gracious. It sounds so mean because it means that people have to be vulnerable. But when we are vulnerable It allows someone else to be gracious. And here’s the thing—Jesus will always be gracious to us.

When vulnerability meets grace, life is breathed into our souls.

• In what ways do you feel like the repentance offered by Jesus can actually be gracious?
• Why is it so vulnerable to repent?
• Who has shown you grace in your own life? What did that do to your relationship with that person? How did that change your view of yourself?
• How does grace allow people to move from where they are?
• How has God’s grace moved in your own life?

REFLECTING ON JESUS

Paul reflects on Jesus at the end of his speech to the Ephesian leaders. Jesus said that it is “more blessed to give than to receive”. What did Jesus give? His life. Jesus came to earth to live among us. He met us where we were at. He lived the perfect life, and took the punishment for us. He loved us that much.

• What does reflecting on Jesus’ love for you do in your own heart?
• How we can reflect Jesus to others?
• Pray together and ask God how you can better reflect Jesus.

The following content is based on the message “The Centrality of Jesus” spoken on 06/26/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ.  The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

PRAYER

Pray that God teaches us and leads our discussion as we each get to share.

THE SCRIPTURE: ACTS 19

ACTS 19:1-10: REPENTANCE AND CONFESSION

The disciples of John that were living in Ephesus hadn’t heard of Jesus’ death and resurrection. They had turned from their sins, but hadn’t confessed Jesus as Lord. Repenting means to turn from our old way. Confessing means grabbing on to something new. We are to repent from the old way, and to confess Christ—not confessing legalism or a license to do whatever we want.

Jesus is who we follow and who we worship

• Why are both repenting of our old way and confessing Christ important?
• How have you experienced someone who preaches repentance, but confesses a form of legalism?
• How can someone repent, but still confess a license to do whatever they want?

ACTS 19:11-20 RESPONSE OF THE MAGICIANS

In the next two sections, we are going to see two different responses from people who had their livelihood challenged by the message of Jesus. In this section, the power of Jesus is seen over magic and demonic forces.

The miracles done by the apostles are never presented as ends in themselves but always as opportunities to share Jesus.

• Describe an opportunity in your life where God seemed to do extraordinary things, and you were able to share Jesus because of it.

These people recognized the power of Jesus and praised his name. They gave up their businesses totaling 50,000 days wages. This could possibly equate to 5 million dollars.

• Talk about the level of commitment these people had to give up their livelihood.
• How can we show a similar level of commitment to the message of Jesus?

ACTS 19:21-41: RESPONSE OF ARTEMIS’S FOLLOWERS

In this section, we see a very different response to a similar situation above. Paul said that gods made from human idols aren’t Gods. If the people of the city took Paul’s message seriously, Demetrius’s sales would of plummeted. In turn, Demetrius started up a riot, and people began to respond because their idols were threatened. They were not willing to give up their idols for the true God.

• How would you define an idol?
• Why can money be such a dangerous idol?

IDOLS AND THE CHURCH

Then: They said that there was a god behind everything—agriculture, sex, money, etc. 

Now: We don’t say there is a god behind something, we just say or act like it is god! 

• Identify some idols/false gods in your own lives.

We have to be willing to put Jesus in front of everything—whether it be money, comfort, religion, or any of the false gods that we have in our own lives. Most powerful idols are good things turned into ultimate things. Idols (false gods) never give what they promise. Be careful because false gods, while empty, are extraordinarily powerful.

• How have your idols given you fulfillment? How have they failed in giving you fulfillment?
• What is a good thing that you have turned into an idol/false god in the past? Talk about how you came to realize that it was an idol/false god.
• At what point do you think the good thing was turned into an idol/false god?
• What are some things in your life currently that you feel like might be an idol/false god?
• How do you think you can help prevent good things from becoming idols/false gods?
• Reflect on what Jesus has done for us, and pray. Ask God to help us identify idols/false gods in our lives.

A MESSAGE SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH (Spring 2016)

WWW.NEWCITYPHX.COM/SERMONS –  CHRIS TOWNLEY

The following content is based on the message “The Unknown God” spoken on 06/12/16 by Chris Townley at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ.  The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

THE SCRIPTURE: ACTS 17:16-34

PAUL TOURS ATHENS

¹⁶While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was deeply troubled by all the idols he saw everywhere in the city. ¹⁷He went to the synagogue to reason with the Jews and the God-fearing Gentiles, and he spoke daily in the public square to all who happened to be there. ¹⁸He also had a debate with some of the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers. When he told them about Jesus and his resurrection, they said, “What’s this babbler trying to say with these strange ideas he’s picked up?” Others said, “He seems to be preaching about some foreign gods.” ¹⁹Then they took him to the high council of the city. “Come and tell us about this new teaching,” they said. 20 “You are saying some rather strange things, and we want to know what it’s all about.” ²¹(It should be explained that all the Athenians as well as the foreigners in Athens seemed to spend all their time discussing the latest ideas.)  (Acts 17:16-21)

Paul connects idols with immorality and this irritates him because immorality leads to  the destruction of people, relationships, futures, etc.

• Are you aware of idols in your life?

• How might your misdirected worship of such an idol hurt someone else?

PAUL SPEAKS IN ATHENS

²²So Paul, standing before the council, addressed them as follows: “Men of Athens, I notice that you are very religious in every way, ²³for as I was walking along I saw your many shrines. And one of your altars had this inscription on it: ‘To an Unknown God.’ This God, whom you worship without knowing, is the one I’m telling you about.  (Acts 17:22-23)

It is not just a “thing” we idolize, but why we idolize it that identifies the source of our misdirected worship.

• What are we willing to endure, compromise, sacrifice so that others will know Christ?

GOD IS NOT FAR FROM ANY ONE OF US

²⁴He is the God who made the world and everything in it. Since he is Lord of heaven and earth, he doesn’t live in man-made temples, ²⁵and human hands can’t serve his needs—for he has no needs. He himself gives life and breath to everything, and he satisfies every need. ²⁶From one man he created all the nations throughout the whole earth. He decided beforehand when they should rise and fall, and he determined their boundaries. ²⁷His purpose was for the nations to seek after God and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him—though he is not far from any one of us. ²⁸For in him we live and move and exist. As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’ (Acts 17:24-28)

If you are “the offspring” of this Unknown God it must mean that although you might not know God… God certainly knows you.

• How might we feel our way toward God?

• What does it mean for us and those we interact with that “God is not far from any  one of us”?

PEOPLE MAKE CRUMMY GODS

²⁹And since this is true, we shouldn’t think of God as an idol designed by craftsmen from gold or silver or stone. ³⁰God overlooked people’s ignorance about these things in earlier times, but now he commands everyone everywhere to repent of their sins and turn to him. ³¹For he has set a day for judging the world with justice by the man he has appointed, and he proved to everyone who this is by raising him from the dead.” (Acts 17:29-31)

We’re “refined” our idolatry but we still idolize. And it turns out people make crummy gods… our spouses, kids, friends, pastors, heroes all make crummy gods. God is the only One who can bear the weight of worship.

As Paul speaks the the linchpin is still “Jesus is the way and the way is repentance.” And the resurrection proves the point.

• Who or what have you placed the weight of worship on recently?

• How do we transfer our worship to the One True God who can sustain it (and deserves it)?

SOME LAUGH, SOME WANT MORE

³²When they heard Paul speak about the resurrection of the dead, some laughed in contempt, but others said, “We want to hear more about this later.” ³³That ended Paul’s discussion with them, ³⁴but some joined him and became believers. Among them were Dionysius, a member of the council, a woman named Damaris, and others with them.  (Acts 17:32-34)

Telling others about the Good News means we might get laughed at but it also means we might have the opportunity to form a relationship for more.

We want a good debate without having to change the way we live. So, like Paul, we must walk around our own lives and identify the idols… the false gods that lead us away from Jesus.

• Have you ever been laughed at when telling someone about Jesus?

• Why do you think we tend like a debate without any life change? Do you think can have a good debate that does lead to life change?

• What do you think God is saying to you through the account of Paul in Athens in Acts 17?

A MESSAGE SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH (Spring 2016)

WWW.NEWCITYPHX.COM/SERMONS –  CHRIS TOWNLEY

The following content is based on the message “It’s Not What You Think” spoken on 06/05/16 by Chris Townley at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ.  The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

THE SCRIPTURE: ACTS 15:36 – 16:40

EPISODE 1: Take Your Friend and Go Home

³⁶After some time Paul said to Barnabas, “Let’s go back and visit each city where we previously preached the word of the Lord, to see how the new believers are doing.” ³⁷Barnabas agreed and wanted to take along John Mark. ³⁸But Paul disagreed strongly, since John Mark had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in their work. ³⁹Their disagreement was so sharp that they separated. Barnabas took John Mark with him and sailed for Cyprus. ⁴⁰Paul chose Silas, and as he left, the believers entrusted him to the Lord’s gracious care. ⁴¹Then he traveled throughout Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches there. (Acts 15:36-41)

• How do we sharply disagree while still maintaining unity?

EPISODE 2: Let Me Schedule You a Circumcision

¹Paul went first to Derbe and then to Lystra, where there was a young disciple named Timothy. His mother was a Jewish believer, but his father was a Greek. ²Timothy was well thought of by the believers in Lystra and Iconium, ³so Paul wanted him to join them on their journey. In deference to the Jews of the area, he arranged for Timothy to be circumcised before they left, for everyone knew that his father was a Greek. ⁴Then they went from town to town, instructing the believers to follow the decisions made by the apostles and elders in Jerusalem. ⁵So the churches were strengthened in their faith and grew larger every day. (Acts 16:1-5)

Paul lived like a Jew to bring the Jews to Christ (1 Corinthians 9:20).

• What are we willing to endure, compromise, sacrifice so that others will know Christ?

EPISODE 3: Don’t Go There

⁶Next Paul and Silas traveled through the area of Phrygia and Galatia, because the Holy Spirit had prevented them from preaching the word in the province of Asia at that time. ⁷Then coming to the borders of Mysia, they headed north for the province of Bithynia, but again the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them to go there. ⁸So instead, they went on through Mysia to the seaport of Troas. ⁹That night Paul had a vision: A man from Macedonia in northern Greece was standing there, pleading with him, “Come over to Macedonia and help us!” ₁₀So we decided to leave for Macedonia at once, having concluded that God was calling us to preach the Good News there. (Acts 16:6-10)

The text does not say why they were prevented but only that they were prevented.

• What does this kind of obedience look like in your life?

• What does it mean to listen to the Holy Spirit? And how do we listen to the guiding of the Holy Spirit in our lives today?

EPISODE 4: Slumber Party @ Lydia’s!

¹¹We boarded a boat at Troas and sailed straight across to the island of Samothrace, and the next day we landed at Neapolis. ¹²From there we reached Philippi, a major city of that district of Macedonia and a Roman colony. And we stayed there several days. ¹³On the Sabbath we went a little way outside the city to a riverbank, where we thought people would be meeting for prayer, and we sat down to speak with some women who had gathered there. ¹⁴One of them was Lydia from Thyatira, a merchant of expensive purple cloth, who worshiped God. As she listened to us, the Lord opened her heart, and she accepted what Paul was saying. ¹⁵She and her household were baptized, and she asked us to be her guests. “If you agree that I am a true believer in the Lord,” she said, “come and stay at my home.” And she urged us until we agreed. (Acts 16:11-15)

Paul (and his crew) gives Lydia and these women credibility as people, not just objects. And then they affirm her conversion but staying with her and her household.

• How can we affirm and validate women, the marginalized, the oppressed?

EPISODE 5: A Demon Makes the Dough

¹⁶One day as we were going down to the place of prayer, we met a slave girl who had a spirit that enabled her to tell the future. She earned a lot of money for her masters by telling fortunes. ¹⁷She followed Paul and the rest of us, shouting, “These men are servants of the Most High God, and they have come to tell you how to be saved.” ¹⁸This went on day after day until Paul got so exasperated that he turned and said to the demon within her, “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.” And instantly it left her. ¹⁹Her masters’ hopes of wealth were now shattered, so they grabbed Paul and Silas and dragged them before the authorities at the marketplace. ²⁰“The whole city is in an uproar because of these Jews!” they shouted to the city officials. ²¹“They are teaching customs that are illegal for us Romans to practice.” ²²A mob quickly formed against Paul and Silas, and the city officials ordered them stripped and beaten with wooden rods. ²³They were severely beaten, and then they were thrown into prison. The jailer was ordered to make sure they didn’t escape.  (Acts 16:16-23)

We still live and operate in a society that exploits others for our own gain. We must also evaluate the demon of exploitation that lurks in and around us.

Sometimes we listen to the Holy Spirit and end up in prison. Sometimes we listen to the Holy Spirit and it’s not what we think.

• What are the “demons of exploitation” we need to call out in the name of Jesus?

• What are the “prisons” the Holy Spirit has led you into?

EPISODE 6 (Series Finale!): Hallelujah, I’m in Prison

²⁴So the jailer put them into the inner dungeon and clamped their feet in the stocks. ²⁵Around midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening. ²⁶Suddenly, there was a massive earthquake, and the prison was shaken to its foundations. All the doors immediately flew open, and the chains of every prisoner fell off!

²⁷The jailer woke up to see the prison doors wide open. He assumed the prisoners had escaped, so he drew his sword to kill himself. ²⁸But Paul shouted to him, “Stop! Don’t kill yourself! We are all here!”

²⁹The jailer called for lights and ran to the dungeon and fell down trembling before Paul and Silas. ³⁰Then he brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?”

³¹They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, along with everyone in your household.” ³²And they shared the word of the Lord with him and with all who lived in his household. ³³Even at that hour of the night, the jailer cared for them and washed their wounds. Then he and everyone in his household were immediately baptized. ³⁴He brought them into his house and set a meal before them, and he and his entire household rejoiced because they all believed in God.

³⁵The next morning the city officials sent the police to tell the jailer, “Let those men go!” ³⁶So the jailer told Paul, “The city officials have said you and Silas are free to leave. Go in peace.”

³⁷But Paul replied, “They have publicly beaten us without a trial and put us in prison—and we are Roman citizens. So now they want us to leave secretly? Certainly not! Let them come themselves to release us!” ³⁸When the police reported this, the city officials were alarmed to learn that Paul and Silas were Roman citizens. ³⁹So they came to the jail and apologized to them. Then they brought them out and begged them to leave the city. ⁴⁰When Paul and Silas left the prison, they returned to the home of Lydia. There they met with the believers and encouraged them once more. Then they left town. (Acts 16:24-40)

Paul and Silas pray and sing before the chains fall off. And the other prisoners were listening.

• How are you challenged/inspired by the priority they place on praying and singing to God even while they in chains?

• Who is “listening to your life”? And is your life worth imitating?

Paul defers his status and a Roman citizen, thus enduring a beating and imprisonment… only to be given the opportunity to share the word of the Lord with the jailer.

• What would it look like to defer your status for the sake of others?

• How did Jesus defer His status out of love for all people?

The following content is based on the message “The Coming of the Kingdom” spoken on 05/29/16 by Oye Waddell at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

THE SCRIPTURE

But Jews came from Antioch and Iconium, and having persuaded the crowds, they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing that he was dead. ²⁰But when the disciples gathered about him, he rose up and entered the city, and on the next day he went on with Barnabas to Derbe. ²¹When they had preached the gospel to that city and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch, ²²strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God. ²³And when they had appointed elders for them in every church, with prayer and fasting they committed them to the Lord in whom they had believed.
Acts 14:19-23

THE MOVEMENT OF ALTERNATE COMMUNITIES

The church began in Jerusalem following Jesus’ ascension in Acts 1:8. From there, Jesus promised that the church would grow throughout the earth. Just as he said, it began to move beyond geographic boundaries. Antioch became one of the centers of the church. These alternative communities in Jerusalem and Antioch were united because of the gospel.

Both communities:

– Experienced the grace of God at work (Acts 2:43-47 // Acts 11:23)

– Believed in the Lord (Acts 2:47 // Acts 11:23)

– Devoted themselves to the Word (Acts 2:42 // Acts 11:26)

– Shared resources with one another (Acts 2:42 // Acts 11:27-30)

• Why do you think it is so important to notice what Jerusalem and Antioch share in common?
• Which of these things do you see at New City Church?
• How does it feel to see us share in the same things as our brothers and sisters in the first century?

THE MISSION OF THE CHURCH

The mission of the church is seen in Matthew 28:18-20. These alternative communities in Acts lived out Jesus’ mission organically by living out the gospel where they lived, worked, studied, and played. The church also lived out Jesus’ mission by sending church planters to start new churches.

• Why is starting new churches such an important part of mission?

THE PERSECUTION OF THE CHURCH

Paul and Barnabas traveled around to different cities in the region proclaiming the gospel and encouraging the believers. In Acts 14, Paul healed a man by the power of the Holy Spirit. The people in the city believed Paul and Barnabas to be gods and worshiped them. The two of them tore their clothes and pointed to God instead of themselves. However, some people didn’t like their message. They attacked Paul with stones so badly that they thought he was dead and dragged him out of the city.

Nothing could stop the gospel. Paul got up and began to preach again.

• What did it take for Paul to get up and enter the city again and continue preaching?
• What are ways that you can speak the gospel even after persecution?

THE PLANTED CHURCHES

1) Made disciples through both proclamation and demonstration.

• Is there one of these two things that you focus on more than the other?
• How can you strengthen the one that you struggle with more?

2) Nurtured the disciples by emphasizing spiritual growth when they gathered together. From the gathering, they would scatter into the city. There is no way we can live this life outside of community.  We get nurtured as we speak the gospel to each other. Coming to church to just hear a message is not enough. We nurture the disciples through community.

• What growth have you seen in yourself by being apart of community?
• Why is it difficult to show up to church or to Community Group sometimes?

3) Organized the disciples by establishing leaders locally that cared for the church.. Elders were plural. One person can’t lead alone because one person doesn’t have all the gifts.

• What are some ways that you can use your gifts to lead within the church?

WHY DOES GOD CARE ABOUT THE LOCAL CHURCH?

• The local church has a holistic mandate to love God and to love neighbor as self.
• The local church continually equips its people.
• The local church represents a broad spectrum of society.
• The local church is representative of the local community
• The local church ministry is sustainable
• The local church ministry helps in crisis, helps prevent crisis, and helps promote wellness.
• The local church is designed for life-long ministry with its members.
• God has covenanted his love to the local church.

• Which one of these resonates with your heart most? Why?
• How do people respond if the church doesn’t fulfill one of these things?
• What do you think God feels when the church doesn’t fulfill one of these?
• How does it feel to know that God has still promised his love to us even when we fail?
• Take a moment to thank God for his promised love for the church.

The Acts of the Apostles

A MESSAGE SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH (Spring 2016)

WWW.NEWCITYPHX.COM/SERMONS – BRIAN KRUCKENBERG

The following content is based on the message “A Doctrine of Community” spoken on 05/22/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

THE SCRIPTURE

ACTS 15:1 But some men came down from Judea and were teaching the brothers, “Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.” ²And after Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and debate with them, Paul and Barnabas and some of the others were appointed to go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and the elders about this question. ³So, being sent on their way by the church, they passed through both Phoenicia and Samaria, describing in detail the conversion of the Gentiles, and brought great joy to all the brothers. ⁴When they came to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church and the apostles and the elders, and they declared all that God had done with them. ⁵But some believers who belonged to the party of the Pharisees rose up and said, “It is necessary to circumcise them and to order them to keep the law of Moses.”

 ⁶The apostles and the elders were gathered together to consider this matter. ⁷And after there had been much debate, Peter stood up and said to them, “Brothers, you know that in the early days God made a choice among you, that by my mouth the Gentiles should hear the word of the gospel and believe. ⁸And God, who knows the heart, bore witness to them, by giving them the Holy Spirit just as he did to us, ⁹and he made no distinction between us and them, having cleansed their hearts by faith. ¹⁰Now, therefore, why are you putting God to the test by placing a yoke on the neck of the disciples that neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear? ¹¹But we believe that we will be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, just as they will.”

¹²And all the assembly fell silent, and they listened to Barnabas and Paul fas they related what signs and wonders God had done through them among the Gentiles. ¹³After they finished speaking, James replied, “Brothers, listen to me. ¹⁴Simeon has related how God first visited the Gentiles, to take from them a people for his name. ¹⁵And with this the words of the prophets agree……¹⁹Therefore my judgment is that we should not trouble those of the Gentiles who turn to God, but should write to them.  ²²Then it seemed good to the apostles and the elders, with the whole church, to choose men from among them and send them to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas. They sent Judas called Barsabbas, and Silas, leading men among the brothers, ²³with the following letter: “The brothers, both the apostles and the elders, to the brothers who are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia, greetings. ²⁴Since we have heard that some persons have gone out from us and troubled you with words, unsettling your minds, although we gave them no instructions, ²⁵it has seemed good to us, having come to one accord, to choose men and send them to you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, ²⁶men who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. ²⁷We have therefore sent Judas and Silas, who themselves will tell you the same things by word of mouth. ²⁸For it has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay on you no greater burden than these requirements: ²⁹that you abstain from what has been sacrificed to idols, and from blood, and from what has been strangled, and from sexual immorality. If you keep yourselves from these, you will do well. Farewell.”

³⁰So when they were sent off, they went down to Antioch, and having gathered the congregation together, they delivered the letter. ³¹And when they had read it, they rejoiced because of its encouragement. ³²And Judas and Silas, who were themselves prophets, encouraged and strengthened the brothers with many words. ³³And after they had spent some time, they were sent off in peace by the brothers to those who had sent them. ³⁵But Paul and Barnabas remained in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, with many others also.

HOW THE DEBATE AROSE IN ANTIOCH THAT LED TO A CONFERENCE IN JERUSALEM

In this story we see deeply-held traditional convictions being confronted by the spread of the Gospel through the Holy Spirit. Some of the Jewish Christians insisted that circumcision, in strict obedience to the Jewish law, was necessary for salvation. However, the Holy Spirit already made it clear that the Gospel is for everyone, not just for people who convert to Judaism. Gentiles are able to be saved, and being saved isn’t about fitting into an old tradition.

• What do you think needs to happen in order for someone to be saved?
• In what kinds of ways do Christians think that people have to look like Christians before being welcomed into our community?

THE DEBATE IN JERUSALEM

In verses 6-10 Peter stands up and reminds them/us that the Gentiles can now be saved because it isn’t about the outside, ritualistic rules and law, but about the heart. Even the Jewish people had learned on occasion that God looks on the heart. (Deuteronomy 30:6) However, they tried to put an old yoke (laws) on the Gentiles that didn’t belong there. In verse 10, Peter even reminds the conference that they themselves couldn’t live up to the old yoke. (It is important to note that Peter did not urge the Jewish Christians to stop living by the law. It was a cherished heritage. however, the law and heritage could not save them or others.)

Christianity is a change of heart and belief with changed attitudes and actions that reflect the internal change.

We always forget what following Jesus is really about. We always stray from the core truths. When we forget this, we not only get off mission, but we also tend to fail.

It is the message, not the medium, mode, or methodology, that is sacred.

• What is the heart change God is asking from us?
• What do we begin to focus on when we stray from the Gospel?
• What yokes do we put on Christians today?
• Talk about some of your own experiences–yokes that were placed on you, or yokes that you placed on others.
• In Matthew 11:30 Jesus says that his yoke is easy and his burden is light. How do you believe that? Or how do you not believe that?
• Does our outward change matter at all? If so, then how?

RELATIONSHIP & COMMUNITY: THE FINAL SOLUTION, AN OFFICIAL LETTER SENT TO ANTIOCH

The decision on this matter was final. The apostles wrote a letter (verses 22-29) freeing everyone from outward requirements of salvation because salvation is through faith in Jesus.

The letter did urge the Gentile Christians to abstain from four things:

1) from food offered to idols;

2) from the meat of strangled animals;

3) from blood; and

4) from sexual immorality

These are all things which were prohibited in Leviticus. As we have seen, the first three things are declared clean in Acts 10. However, the Jewish people weren’t ready to abandon their tradition. In order for the church to move forward, people would have to share meals together and build community. This is why the Gentiles are told to abstain from these four things–in order to keep fellowship with their Jewish brothers and sisters.

Fellowship, not morality, was the issue at the Jerusalem Conference. 

Food and sex come naturally to everyone, so both of them bring people closer together. Godly sex brings two people together, and sharing a meal should bring people together.

• Why do you think sharing a meal brings us closer together?
• Both the Jews and the Gentiles sacrificed for each other. How can you go out of your way to build relationships with others?
• Who are you sharing table fellowship with? Or who do you think you should share table fellowship with?

The fourth prohibition that the Jerusalem Conference included in their letter was for the Gentiles to abstain from sexual immorality. Paul repeatedly brings this up in his letters that he sends to churches later in his ministry. Sex brings two people more intimately together. However, sexual immorality not only divides two people, but it

divides community.

• What does sex outside of marriage do to community, specifically pre-marital sex or adultery?
• How does any type of pornography or sexual fantasy divide community?

GOSPEL TURN

In the Genesis 3, Adam and Eve ate of the fruit in the Garden and we sinned. We were fractured with God, each other, and creation. However, Jesus came and offered his body as food and his blood as drink to get us back into community. When we place our faith in Jesus, he unites us not as Jews, not as Gentiles, but as Christians. We are not defined by the color of our skin or our ethnicity, but our belief in Jesus Christ!

• Take a moment to reflect on how God chose to extend table fellowship with you through Jesus.
• If we believe that life comes through the body and blood of Jesus, how should that shape our view of others?
• How can we, as a Community Group, build stronger community with each other
• How can we build strong community with our city?
• Pray with each other about how you can unite with others in communion with Jesus

The Acts of the Apostles

A MESSAGE SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH (Spring 2016)

WWW.NEWCITYPHX.COM/SERMONS – BRIAN KRUCKENBERG

The following content is based on the message “The Holy Spirit Makes Paths Straight” spoken on 05/15/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ.  The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

THE SCRIPTURE

Acts 13:1 Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a lifelong friend of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. ²While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” ³Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.  ⁴So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus. ⁵When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews. And they had John to assist them. ⁶When they had gone through the whole island as far as Paphos, they came upon a certain magician, a Jewish false prophet named Bar-Jesus.

⁷He was with the proconsul, Sergius Paulus, a man of intelligence, who summoned Barnabas and Saul and sought to hear the word of God. ⁸But Elymas the magician (for that is the meaning of his name) opposed them, seeking to turn the proconsul away from the faith.

⁹But Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked intently at him ¹⁰and said, “You son of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness, full of all deceit and villainy, will you not stop making crooked the straight paths of the Lord? ¹¹And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon you, and you will be blind and unable to see the sun for a time.” Immediately mist and darkness fell upon him, and he went about seeking people to lead him by the hand. ¹²Then the proconsul believed, when he saw what had occurred, for he was astonished at the teaching of the Lord.

THE INTRINSIC VALUE OF DIVERSITY

In this story we see the formation and work of the first “international missions board.” It is made up of Hebrew, Greek and African men. It is interested to see this diversity so early in the movement of God. It teaches us that diversity is a natural by-product of the work of the Holy Spirit. If God is overall, in all and works through all, then certainly His church will be multi-colored.

• Do you see the intrinsic value of being around people different than you? Talk about that. 
• Why do you think it is difficult for us to have relationships with people not like us?

• What problems or issues might be solved if we had relationships with those not like us?

GOD’S AT WORK WHERE HE SENDS YOU

Even a cursory reading of this passage clearly indicates who initiated and directed this first missionary journey.  As these men worshipped, prayed and fasted the Holy Spirit told them who to send out and where to go. This was the work of the Holy Spirit; it wasn’t men getting together to plan a strategy as much as it was them surrounding to the will of God.

When God sends you, you can know that He is already working there.

When Saul, now going by his Roman cognomen “Paul,” arrive on the island of Cyprus and travel to the city of Paphos, they find that the pro-council is asking to hear from them.  In fact God had been preparing the heart of this man to hear His Word.

• Have you ever sought God through prayeR, fasting and worship and “heard” Him direct your decisions?  Describe that time.

• If we don’t hear from God as much as we would like, what could be the cause of that?

THE OPPOSITION TO GOD’S WORK

Just because God sent these men to Paphos and was already at work there didn’t mean that there wasn’t going to be opposition to the work. To the contrary,

There is always opposition to the work of God because it is counter to the ways of the world.

When they arrive and begin to teach the procouncil, there is a false prophet and magician known as Bar-Jesus that is attempting to draw the pro council away from the faith. He is trying to deceive him and lead him away from the truth of the message of God.

The opposition will attempt to lure us away from the truth of Jesus by offering us a cheap imitation of the real thing. This is what the enemy does.

• Describe a time when you were trying to follow God but were “attacked” by the enemy?

CONFRONTING EVIL

When Paul sees this false prophet and detects his schemes, Paul wastes no time in calling him out. He looks directly at this man and calls him a “son of the devil,” which is ironic given that Bar-Jesus means “son of the Savior.” Today we might not have such a stark example as a false prophet trying to draw us away from the faith, but if we stop and think about it, there are all sorts of things that are doing this. 

An entire generation of people have grown up being taught that truth is relative and that many paths lead to God, but the Bible says that isn’t the case. Further, our entertainment culture, educational and political systems, and the like most often have a message that is counter to the message of God. This doesn’t mean we should fear these things or even isolate ourselves from these things, but it does mean we should be aware of it and not fall prey to its schemes.

• What is trying to draw you away from the faith?

• How does this happen?

• Are you doing everything you can to avoid the “trap” that is being set for you?

THE JOB OF THE CHURCH

What we see in Paul and Barnabas here is early church leaders doing what they are called to do to protect the church. As prophet-teachers, they understand the word of God and are inspired by the Holy Spirit to call out anything or anybody who teaches a message counter to the Scripture. When Paul writes his letter to the Ephesians, he underscores this truth:

Ephesians 4:11 God gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, ¹²to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up ¹³until we all reach unity in the faith and the knowledge of the Son of God, becoming mature, attaining to the whole measure of Christ. ¹⁴Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. ¹⁵Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ.

Paul knows that if church leadership doesn’t take their roles seriously then the church will be mislead and won’t grow up into Christ. That is what was at stake here. Either this pro council was going to hear the life-changing, resurrection message of Jesus or a fake alternative. This was a matter of life and death to Paul and that is why he takes it so seriously. Ultimately we see the false prophet blinded, which seems to be an effort to get him to wake up and come to faith in Jesus. After all, this is what happened to Paul in Acts 9. 

Finally, we see the pro council come to faith because of what he saw and because he was astonished by the teaching of the Lord! Shouldn’t we all be? The most astonishing thing that happens here isn’t that a man goes blind, but it is the message of the gospel of grace: that while we were still sinners, Jesus came and died for us and that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. 

• Read Ephesians 4:1-15 and talk about the principles you find in that passage.

• While God is one and we all serve under one God, we are all given different gifts. Why?

• What does the bible say about the church that might be different from what we experience in the United States?

• Do you see the importance of the church in today’s culture? 

A MESSAGE SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH (Spring 2016)

WWW.NEWCITYPHX.COM/SERMONS –  BRIAN KRUCKENBERG

The following content is based on the message “Prisoner of Peace” spoken on 05/08/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

THE SCRIPTURE

¹About that time Herod the king laid violent hands on some who belonged to the church. ²He killed James the brother of John with the sword, ³and when he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded to arrest Peter also. This was during the days of Unleavened Bread. ⁴And when he had seized him, he put him in prison, delivering him over to four squads of soldiers to guard him, intending after the Passover to bring him out to the people. ⁵So Peter was kept in prison, but earnest prayer for him was made to God by the church.

⁶Now when Herod was about to bring him out, on that very night, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries before the door were guarding the prison. ⁷And behold, an angel of the Lord stood next to him, and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him, saying, “Get up quickly.” And the chains fell off his hands. ⁸And the angel said to him, “Dress yourself and put on your sandals.” And he did so. And he said to him, “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me.”

⁹And he went out and followed him. He did not know that what was being done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision. ¹⁰When they had passed the first and the second guard, they came to the iron gate leading into the city. It opened for them of its own accord, and they went out and went along one street, and immediately the angel left him. ¹¹When Peter came to himself, he said, “Now I am sure that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from the hand of Herod and from all that the Jewish people were expecting.”¹²When he realized this, he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose other name was Mark, where many were gathered together and were praying. ¹³And when he knocked at the door of the gateway, a servant girl named Rhoda came to answer. ¹⁴Recognizing Peter’s voice, in her joy she did not open the gate but ran in and reported that Peter was standing at the gate. ¹⁵They said to her, “You are out of your mind.” But she kept insisting that it was so, and they kept saying, “It is his angel!” ¹⁶But Peter continued knocking, and when they opened, they saw him and were amazed. ¹⁷But motioning to them with his hand to be silent, he described to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, “Tell these things to James and to the brothers.”Then he departed and went to another place.  ACTS 12:1-17

ENEMIES OF GOD

This is the second time that we see Peter thrown in jail for preaching about Jesus. This time the authorities were taking no chances and were going to make sure that Peter did not escape from prison. They planned to kill Peter just as they had James, so they had 16 soldiers (4 squads of 4) watching him at all hours and had him bound with chains between two guards. 

In this passage it is easy to see that Peter had enemies. In our culture, sometimes we can be led to believe that we do not have “enemies.” But we do. There are people who do NOT want to see the message of Jesus taught and proclaimed.

Preston Sprinkle said that “A person who chooses to love his or her enemies can have no enemies. That person is left only with neighbors.” On the one hand, this might have some truth to it. We should not MAKE enemies and we should not hold hate in our hearts towards those who are against us. Further, we should pray for those who persecute us. But, even if we love people well and pray for them, they still might hate us. After all, Jesus loved perfectly and His enemies ultimately killed Him.

The enemy will go to great lengths to keep you in chains.

As we live the Christian life we will discover that we often face two types of “enemies.”

Internal Enemies:

• What do we struggle with internally that keeps us in chains?

• What keeps you in prison?  Temper? Material possessions? Greed? Insecurity? Addiction?

External Enemies: As you live as a Christian in this world, your life should show a stark contrast with the world around it. Christians treat relationships, marriage, power, success, sex, money and many other things very differently than the rest of the world.

• Do you see a stark contrast with your life and what the world promotes?  If not, maybe it is time to re-evaluate your life.

• Are you not aware of the collision of light and darkness around you?

PRISONER OF PEACE

If we learn anything from this passage it is that you can have peace in the midst of your enemies. Notice what Peter was doing the night he was going to be killed.  He was chained between two soldiers and he was sleeping?!? How was he sleeping?

Apparently Peter was at peace. It was a super-natural peace that comes from knowing that no man can take anything from us that really matters.

True peace comes through being grounded in the reality of the Kingdom of God and knowing your place in it.

True peace comes from knowing that nothing about our external circumstances can change what really matters about us.

If we understand that we are a citizen of the Kingdom of God and that our place in that Kingdom is secure, then nothing that happens around us should shatter us. Yes, we might mourn. Yes, we might be upset or angry. We are subject to all sorts of human emotions but if we are at our core children of God, then our ultimate value and  our peace can never be taken from us.   

This truth about peace is something that can’t really be taught: it has to be experienced and believed.

To tell Peter to have peace is one thing but there’s nothing peaceful about this situation. Peter had peace because he was in the hands of God and he had already experienced God working in the midst of chaotic circumstances. Peter could be grounded in peace because he knew God and knew God’s promises. Peter understood that ultimate victory wasn’t at stake here. That had already been secured.

• What does it take for you to have peace? Describe a time when you felt most at peace.

• What does it mean to have the peace the surpasses all understanding?
  
  
• Have you ever had peace in a time when all of your circumstances suggested that you shouldn’t have peace?

THE ROLE OF PRAYER IN BRINGING PEACE

If we look back at the story one more time, we would all have to agree that Peter is done. There is nothing he can do to get himself out of this. His only hope was that God do the impossible, and that is what God does. God sends an angel who tells Peter exactly what to do as the chains fall off of him and the gates open. Make no mistake:

This was not Peter’s escape; it was his deliverance.

Often when things are against us, we look to what WE have to try and solve the problem. That is not a bad thing to do. After all, God gave us wisdom, discernment and the ability to reason and create. We have a vast amount of human resources but where we go wrong is depending on our human resources more than God’s resources. 

Often, our problem isn’t our lack of human (material) resources it is our belief in what our material resources can bring.

• In what ways do you believe that your material resources bring peace?

• Talk about a time that you thought something would bring peace, but after getting it, peace quickly faded.

If we put our own human will above God’s we are missing out on what God might do!  In this situation, material resources and human capacity weren’t going to help Peter. He needed God to directly intervene. The great thing for Peter is that he had people praying to God that God would do just that. At the very time Peter is being delivered, people are praying earnestly for him (v. 5, 12).

We can pray just like the people were praying for Peter and God might give us similar results. He might do the impossible!  These people were not super-human people. They were normal just like us. We see that in their reaction to Peter’s deliverance. They all thought Peter was dead and that Rhonda had just seen his ghost. They told her she was crazy! It was a “crazy” event, but it did happen. 

If we look closer at this story, perhaps the people were different than us in one key respect. Maybe they were a little more desperate to see God move than we are.

They weren’t different than us but they were more “desperate” than us, and desperate people are more prayerful people.

The were offering up a “no way” prayer.  Have you ever done that? Prayed for something that there is “no way” it can happen but for God intervening. There was “no way” Peter could get out. But, he did.

• Do you believe that God can do miracles?  Have you ever experienced that?

• What is the “no way” prayer that you might want to offer?

• Are you ok if it doesn’t get answered like you want it to?

A MESSAGE SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH (Spring 2016)

WWW.NEWCITYPHX.COM/SERMONS –  CHRIS TOWNLEY

The following content is based on the message “The Privilege of Repenting” spoken on 05/01/16 by Chris Townley at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ.  The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

THE SCRIPTURE: ACTS 11:1-18

¹Soon the news reached the apostles and other believers in Judea that the Gentiles had received the word of God. ²But when Peter arrived back in Jerusalem, the Jewish believers criticized him. ³“You entered the home of Gentiles and even ate with them!” they said.

⁴Then Peter told them exactly what had happened. ⁵“I was in the town of Joppa,” he said, “and while I was praying, I went into a trance and saw a vision. Something like a large sheet was let down by its four corners from the sky. And it came right down to me. ⁶When I looked inside the sheet, I saw all sorts of tame and wild animals, reptiles, and birds. ⁷And I heard a voice say, ‘Get up, Peter; kill and eat them.’

⁸‘No, Lord,’ I replied. ‘I have never eaten anything that our Jewish laws have declared impure or unclean.’

⁹But the voice from heaven spoke again: ‘Do not call something unclean if God has made it clean.’ ¹⁰This happened three times before the sheet and all it contained was pulled back up to heaven.

¹¹Just then three men who had been sent from Caesarea arrived at the house where we were staying. ¹²The Holy Spirit told me to go with them and not to worry that they were Gentiles. These six brothers here accompanied me, and we soon entered the home of the man who had sent for us. ¹³He told us how an angel had appeared to him in his home and had told him, ‘Send messengers to Joppa, and summon a man named Simon Peter. ¹⁴He will tell you how you and everyone in your household can be saved!’

¹⁵“As I began to speak,” Peter continued, “the Holy Spirit fell on them, just as he fell on us at the beginning. ¹⁶Then I thought of the Lord’s words when he said, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ ¹⁷And since God gave these Gentiles the same gift he gave us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to stand in God’s way?” ¹⁸When the others heard this, they stopped objecting and began praising God. They said, “We can see that God has also given the Gentiles the privilege of repenting of their sins and receiving eternal life.” 

BREAKING BOUNDARIES, BREAKING BREAD

¹Soon the news reached the apostles and other believers in Judea that the Gentiles had received the word of God. ²But when Peter arrived back in Jerusalem, the Jewish believers criticized him. ³“You entered the home of Gentiles and even ate with them!” they said. (Acts 11:1-3)

Notice what the Jewish believers are up in arms about: Not that Peter preached to them (that’s how they “received the word of God”), but that he entered this unclean home and ate their unclean food. Let’s think for a moment…

Does this remind you of anyone? Who ate with sinners, the rejected, the marginalized, the oppressed, the outsiders?

Jesus!

The piece about entering the home of a Gentile is powerful because Peter is crossing a boundary. They criticize, first, because he “entered the home” and crossed that boundary, then crossed another when he ate with them. Gasp!

You see, to eat with another is to call them worthy of your time and intimacy, to instill value… this is what it means to be brothers and sisters. And Peter, following in the footsteps of Jesus, goes to those who are not like him. He is making a claim about the Gospel: it is a Gospel for all people.

When we take the good news of Jesus to those on the supposed “outside”, we will face criticism… like Jesus, and now like Peter.

• What does it mean for you to be criticized for breaking boundaries and bread?
  
• What does it look like to be known for breaking boundaries and bread?
  

WILL YOU TAKE THE GOSPEL THERE?

⁴Then Peter told them exactly what had happened. ⁵“I was in the town of Joppa,” he said, “and while I was praying, I went into a trance and saw a vision. Something like a large sheet was let down by its four corners from the sky. And it came right down to me. ⁶When I looked inside the sheet, I saw all sorts of tame and wild animals, reptiles, and birds. ⁷And I heard a voice say, ‘Get up, Peter; kill and eat them.’

⁸‘No, Lord,’ I replied. ‘I have never eaten anything that our Jewish laws have declared impure or unclean.’

⁹But the voice from heaven spoke again: ‘Do not call something unclean if God has made it clean.’ ¹⁰This happened three times before the sheet and all it contained was pulled back up to heaven. (Acts 11:4-10)

I’m assuming, we believe the Gospel is for everyone. I mean, to say it’s not for everyone is pretty anti-gospel. But here’s the thing that’s playing out with Peter, these criticizing Jewish believers, and the Gentile believers…

While they may believe it’s for everyone, they do not seem to believe it should be taken to everyone.

• How does this play out in our world today?

• Do you see the divisiveness of racism at play?

¹¹Just then three men who had been sent from Caesarea arrived at the house where we were staying. ¹²The Holy Spirit told me to go with them and not to worry that they were Gentiles. These six brothers here accompanied me, and we soon entered the home of the man who had sent for us. ¹³He told us how an angel had appeared to him in his home and had told him, ‘Send messengers to Joppa, and summon a man named Simon Peter. ¹⁴He will tell you how you and everyone in your household can be saved!’ ¹⁵“As I began to speak,” Peter continued, “the Holy Spirit fell on them, just as he fell on us at the beginning. ¹⁶Then I thought of the Lord’s words when he said, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’

• How well do you remember what the Lord said?

• What do you need to remember that you’ve been forgetting?

THE SAME GIFT + GETTING OUT OF THE WAY

¹⁷And since God gave these Gentiles the same gift he gave us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to stand in God’s way?” ¹⁸When the others heard this, they stopped objecting and began praising God. They said, “We can see that God has also given the Gentiles the privilege of repenting of their sins and receiving eternal life.” (Acts 11:17-18)

Same gift

• What is the “same gift” ?

• And what does Luke intend to communicate that the Jewish believers and the Gentile believers receive the same gift?

Getting out of the way

• Are you in God’s way? In your life? In the lives of others? How do you get out of the ways?

THE PRIVILEGE OF REPENTING

…the privilege of repenting of their sins and receiving eternal life.

We do not speak of repentance like this, do we? Do you find the opportunity for repentance as a privilege granted to you by God? To call forth our life that is in opposition to God, and let Him heal us? Imagine how viewing repentance as a privilege might change why and when and how we repent…

RACISM

If racism is an divisive sin issue that is intentionally being addressed in Acts 10 and 11, we must ask ourselves, what does this mean for us?

Now what? Reflect on these suggestions:

We listen.

We don’t micromanage or minimize the stories of others.

We give our power away.

We embrace the privilege of repenting.

• How does this play out in your life?

A MESSAGE SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH (Spring 2016)

WWW.NEWCITYPHX.COM/SERMONS –  BRIAN KRUCKENBERG

The following content is based on the message “What God has Made Clean” spoken on 04/24/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ.  The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

THE SCRIPTURE

At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion of what was known as the Italian Cohort, ²a devout man who feared God with all his household, gave alms generously to the people, and prayed continually to God. ³About the ninth hour of the day1 he saw clearly in a vision an angel of God come in and say to him, “Cornelius.” ⁴And he stared at him in terror and said, “What is it, Lord?” And he said to him, “Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God. ⁵And now send men to Joppa and bring one Simon who is called Peter. ⁶He is lodging with one Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea.” ⁷When the angel who spoke to him had departed, he called two of his servants and a devout soldier from among those who attended him, ⁸and having related everything to them, he sent them to Joppa.

⁹The next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the housetop about the sixth hour2 to pray. ¹⁰And he became hungry and wanted something to eat, but while they were preparing it, he fell into a trance ¹¹and saw the heavens opened and something like a great sheet descending, being let down by its four corners upon the earth. ¹²In it were all kinds of animals and reptiles and birds of the air. ¹³And there came a voice to him: “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.” ¹⁴But Peter said, “By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean.” ¹⁵And the voice came to him again a second time, “What God has made clean, do not call common.” ¹⁶This happened three times, and the thing was taken up at once to heaven. ¹⁷Now while Peter was inwardly perplexed as to what the vision that he had seen might mean, behold, the men who were sent by Cornelius, having made inquiry for Simon’s house, stood at the gate ¹⁸and called out to ask whether Simon who was called Peter was lodging there. ¹⁹And while Peter was pondering the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men are looking for you. ²⁰Rise and go down and accompany them without hesitation,3 for I have sent them.” ²¹And Peter went down to the men and said, “I am the one you are looking for. What is the reason for your coming?” ²²And they said, “Cornelius, a centurion, an upright and God-fearing man, who is well spoken of by the whole Jewish nation, was directed by a holy angel to send for you to come to his house and to hear what you have to say.” ²³So he invited them in to be his guests. The next day he rose and went away with them, and some of the brothers from Joppa accompanied him. ²⁴And on the following day they entered Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. ²⁵When Peter entered, Cornelius met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped him. ²⁶But Peter lifted him up, saying, “Stand up; I too am a man.” ²⁷And as he talked with him, he went in and found many persons gathered. ²⁸And he said to them, “You yourselves know how unlawful it is for a Jew to associate with or to visit anyone of another nation, but God has shown me that I should not call any person common or unclean. ²⁹So when I was sent for, I came without objection. I ask then why you sent for me.” ³⁰And Cornelius said, “Four days ago, about this hour, I was praying in my house at the ninth hour,4 and behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing ³¹and said, ‘Cornelius, your prayer has been heard and your alms have been remembered before God. ³²Send therefore to Joppa and ask for Simon who is called Peter. He is lodging in the house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea.’ ³³So I sent for you at once, and you have been kind enough to come. Now therefore we are all here in the presence of God to hear all that you have been commanded by the Lord.”

³⁴So Peter opened his mouth and said: “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, ³⁵but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. ³⁶ As for the word that he sent to Israel, preaching good news of peace through Jesus Christ (he is Lord of all), ³⁷you yourselves know what happened throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee after the baptism that John proclaimed: ³⁸how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. ³⁹And we are witnesses of all that he did both in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree, ⁴⁰but God raised him on the third day and made him to appear, ⁴¹not to all the people but to us who had been chosen by God as witnesses, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. ⁴²And he commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one appointed by God to be judge of the living and the dead. ⁴³To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”

⁴⁴While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word. ⁴⁵And the believers from among the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out even on the Gentiles. ⁴⁶For they were hearing them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter declared, ⁴⁷“Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” ⁴⁸And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to remain for some days.

Acts 10:1-48

BACKGROUND

One of the main characters in this story is named Cornelius. He was a centurion over the Italian Cohort. This meant he was in charge of one hundred soldiers. Much like in other areas of Acts, he was a prominent figure in his city. Luke makes particular mention that Cornelius lived in Caesarea, a coastal city on the Mediterranean Sea. 

Cities matter. By 2050 it is estimated that 7.6 billion people will live in cities, and as the city goes so goes culture.

• Why does it matter that New City Church is at the very center of our city?
  
• How can we as a Community Group engage in our part of the city?

CONVERSION COMES TO THE “GOOD” AND THE “BAD”

Throughout Luke’s account, he makes it clear that Cornelius was a good man. His piety is admired. Sometimes we think that being “born again” is a call to traditional moral values. However, Cornelius places his faith in Jesus and repents. Truly being “born again” is actually a challenge to religion and morality.

There are two ways to run from God. In doing so, we put ourselves in the place of God.

1. Doing all the right things. Someone might say, “I have done good so therefore God includes me”
   
2. Doing all the wrong things. Someone might say, “I can do what I want and I don’t need God.”

If the Gospel is true, then the ones who think they are “good” are in the most trouble.

• How can your own righteousness (religion) keep you you from God?
  
• How is placing faith in Jesus a challenge to religion?
  
• Why could someone like the prodigal son (someone who does all the wrong things) be closer to God?

CONVERSION COMES THROUGH THE SPIRIT

The Holy Spirit fell on them, and they began to speak in their own tongues and to praise God. These are two marks of those who are converted.

Praising God

In verse 25, Cornelius tries to worship Peter, but Peter quickly stops him. By verse 46, they began praising God. They changed their worship (subscribing ultimate value to something).

All changes in your life are superficial unless, and until, you change what you worship. – Tim Keller

We all worship something/someone because we are all controlled by what our heart most adores.

• What do you worship? Peoples approval? Power (status/money)?

People who “convert” to Christianity and are still judgmental or controlling of others should consider if they’ve really converted. For instance, maybe it was obvious that we tried to control others prior to placing their faith in Jesus but now we may just be attempting to control others in different ways that is less obvious.

• Think about some ways that you may be trying to control others or gain power.

Speaking in Tongues**

Peter received a vision from God that commanded him to eat food that he considered religiously unclean. In verse 17, Luke says that Peter was inwardly perplexed. He was confused and questioned God, because as a Jewish person, it was unlawful for Peter to associate with people of other nations (Gentiles).

God had a plan to reach the world, and people would have to interact with it, and become a part of it, in order to speak the Gospel to them. It wouldn’t be possible without table witness. We see that Peter stays with them, which means that he ATE AND DRANK with them!

• Who is is someone that you can share a meal with?
  
• How can you be ready to share your story of the Gospel in your own life?
  
• What might God be calling you to do that doesn’t make sense?

Peter recognized God’s plan and shared the gospel these Gentiles, and just like at pentecost, the Holy Spirit fell on these people. It was the Gentile pentecost. The people began to praise God in their own language.

God’s message is for everyone of all languages. This means racial superiority must end.

When the Gospel has its way in your life, you’ll understand there is no  place for racial and moral superiority.

• How does the gospel break racial superiority?
  
• In what ways have you felt morally superior to others?

**Speaking in tongues was an evidence of conversion, but just because someone has not spoken in tongues does not mean they have not been converted. There were several places where people were converted and they didn’t speak in tongues (Ethiopian eunuch, Paul, end of Acts 4)**

CONVERSION COMES THROUGH THE PREACHING OF THE WORD

Even though Peter had already been talking, Luke makes note that Peter opened his mouth and began speaking the gospel to those who were with Cornelius. People are converted when the Gospel is told, however both the evangelist and the one being converted are radically changed. When they speak the good news, evangelists know that they need to be converted in all parts of their lives.

• How has sharing the good news changed you?
  
• Who can we share the gospel with?

Maybe you feel unclean all the time. Verse 15 says, “What God has made clean, don’t call common.”

• How do you need to be reminded of the Gospel?
  
• What is the Gospel?
  
• Pray and thank God for the good news that he has given you, and ask him to show you who you can share that good news with this week.

The Acts of the Apostles

A MESSAGE SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH (Spring 2016)

WWW.NEWCITYPHX.COM/SERMONS –  BRIAN KRUCKENBERG

The following content is based on the message “Conversion of Anyone” spoken on 04/17/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ.  The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

THE SCRIPTURE: ACTS 9:9-19

⁹But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest ²and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. ³Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. ⁴And falling to the ground he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” ⁵And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. ⁶But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.” ⁷The men who were traveling with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one. ⁸Saul rose from the ground, and although his eyes were opened, he saw nothing. So they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. ⁹And for three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank.

¹⁰Now there was a disciple at Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.” ¹¹And the Lord said to him, “Rise and go to the street called Straight, and at the house of Judas look for a man of Tarsus named Saul, for behold, he is praying, ¹²and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight.” ¹³But Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints at Jerusalem. ¹⁴And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on your name.” ¹⁵But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel. ¹⁶For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.” ¹⁷So Ananias departed and entered the house. And laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” ¹⁸And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he rose and was baptized; ¹⁹and taking food, he was strengthened.

STILL BREATHING THREATS

As we open up this chapter we once again meet Saul. He was part of the Jewish Sanhedrin who wanted nothing more than to find and arrest Christians so that they might be tried and killed for their teaching that Jesus was the Messiah. This was so blasphemous to Saul that he sets off on a 6-day (or more) journey to Damascus. 

Notice here that Saul is still breathing threats and murder against the church. It makes one wonder if some of those persecuting the church had backed off and whether the resistance was being led by Saul. Certainly he was one of the ring leaders in the movement to stop Jesus from being preached and worshiped.

• What is it that you might STILL be doing that goes against what God wants for you? Or, what is it that you are still NOT doing that you should be doing? Prayer? Reading?
  
• How can you break out of that cycle?

WHEN JESUS IS LORD, IT CHANGES EVERYTHING

When the Lord appears to Saul, he has a much different response than Ananias.  When Saul is confronted by Jesus, Saul doesn’t know who Jesus is. He asks, “Who are you, Lord?” Compare this to Ananias and his response when he is summoned by Jesus: “Here I am Lord.” When someone is Lord, they are in control, and you are subject to their will. Saul would soon learn what it meant to make Jesus Lord. It would change the entire direction and trajectory of his life. It would change his priorities and revolutionize how he saw the world.

• Define “Lord” or “Lordship” in your own language.
  
• How has making Jesus Lord changed your life?
  
• Do you struggle with making other things or other people “lord?” Why do you think we do that?

PRAYING FOR OUR ENEMIES

Ananias didn’t have a lordship issue, but he was human. When he learns that he is being called to pray for Saul, he balks. It is the last thing he wants to do. Why would he pray for an enemy of God and someone who is coming to his city to arrest and kill people. In our modern day language, we might call Saul a terrorist: one who was misguided in his belief that his god was calling him to kill others opposed to his faith! Saul was a man to be feared and hated, not to be prayed for! Yet, God calls Ananias to not just pray for him, but to lay his hands on him. Put yourself in Ananias shoes and let what Jesus is asking him to do really sink in.

It is interesting to ask ourselves whether anyone was praying for Saul to meet Jesus. Was Peter praying for him? We know that Stephen prayed for him in a general sense because before he dies, Stephen asks that God forgive those persecuting him. Saul was one of those men.

While we might be shocked at Jesus’ call to Ananias, we shouldn’t be surprised. After all, while we were still enemies of Jesus, He died for us. We often forget that. We want justice for others, but mercy for ourselves. We want others to pay for what they’ve done but we’d like to be pardoned. Perhaps we need to change our hearts and the way we think about our own sin and the sin of others.

• Are you praying for anyone you know to meet Jesus?
  
• Why is it so hard to pray for an enemy?
  
• When you are challenged to pray for an enemy does someone immediately come to mind?
  
• Ask God to help you pray for those who you don’t want to pray for.

THE LIFE OF PAUL

God had “big” things in store for Saul but Saul, now Paul, would soon learn what that meant: a life of suffering for the sake of Jesus. Saul was a part of the Sanhedrin and that same group would later persecute Paul (see Acts 22). How ironic that Paul would suffer under the same system that he once help built.

• Consider that for yourself: what are you building now that might become your downfall later?
  
• Are you building your home life (think parenting or your relationship with your spouse) on things other than Jesus? If so, what might be the consequences of that be later?
  
• Are you seeking after the things of the world now in your job or at school? Are you trying to build your own name? How might that later impact you?

While Paul was certainly going to suffer for the cause of Jesus (he would later be martyred), God does use Paul to do some miraculous things. We know from Paul’s later writings that Paul has no regrets over living a life for Jesus. Paul comes to learn firsthand what Jesus taught:

Being the least in the Kingdom is greater than being the greatest in this world.

God would use all the zeal, education and experience of Paul as he traveled throughout the major cities of the known world spreading the Good News of Jesus.  When we accept Jesus as Lord, it does change everything, but God still uses all of our lives as we now walk with Him.  He uses our past (even things we might not like), our talents and our weaknesses to bring glory to His name and to show Jesus to others. 

• Why do you think we will “suffer” as Christians?
  
• When you suffer, is your first response to escape it or ask God how He wants to use it?
  
• Is there something in your past that you’d rather just forget?  How might God use that to reach others through you?
  
• Has anyone ever made you feel like a talent or gift you have cannot be used in the Kingdom of God?  Consider Saul/Paul’s story and discuss that. 

The Acts of the Apostles
A MESSAGE SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH (Spring 2016)

WWW.NEWCITYPHX.COM/SERMONS – BRIAN KRUCKENBERG

The following content is based on the message “Listening to the Spirit” spoken on 04/10/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ. The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas. To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

THE SCRIPTURE: ACTS 8:26-40

26Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Rise and go toward the south to the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” This is a desert place. 27And he rose and went. And there was an Ethiopian, a eunuch, a court official of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was in charge of all her treasure. He had come to Jerusalem to worship 28and was returning, seated in his chariot, and he was reading the prophet Isaiah. 29And the Spirit said to Philip, “Go over and join this chariot.” 30So Philip ran to him and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet and asked, “Do you understand what you are reading?” 31And he said, “How can I, unless someone guides me?” And he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. 32Now the passage of the Scripture that he was reading was this:

“Like a sheep he was led to the slaughter and like a lamb before its shearer is silent, so he opens not his mouth. 33In his humiliation justice was denied him. Who can describe his generation? For his life is taken away from the earth.”

34And the eunuch said to Philip, “About whom, I ask you, does the prophet say this, about himself or about someone else?” 35Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture he told him the good news about Jesus. 36And as they were going along the road they came to some water, and the eunuch said, “See, here is water! What prevents me from being baptized?” 38And he commanded the chariot to stop, and they both went down into the water, Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized him. 39And when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord carried Philip away, and the eunuch saw him no more, and went on his way rejoicing. 40But Philip found himself at Azotus, and as he passed through he preached the gospel to all the towns until he came to Caesarea.

GOD’S PEOPLE ARE GOD-MOVED

As Jesus promised in Acts 1, the Gospel would spread from Jerusalem, to Judea and Samaria and to the “end of the earth.” In the first part of Acts 8 we see Philip and others taking the Gospel to Judea and Samaria. In this passage, Philip shares the good news about Jesus with an Ethiopian Eunuch. At the time when this took place the Greeks and Romans referred to Ethiopia as (you guessed it!) the END OF THE EARTH! How amazing is our God that He is already accomplishing what He promised in only a few short months.

As we join this part of the story, Philip has a dream or vision and is told to go to the south. While this may seem strange to us, that God would supernaturally speak to Philip, it shouldn’t be. After all, it was promised:

But this is what was uttered through the prophet Joel: 17“ ‘And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams.” Acts 2:16-17

When Philip goes to where God tells him, God shows him why: to meet the Ethiopian and to share the Good News with him. God is always on the move and as His people we should be ready to move with Him! To move with Him, we have to hear from Him and to hear from Him we have to talk with Him, expect Him to answer and then listen to His voice.

• Talk about a time when God did speak to you. How did that make you feel?
  
• Maybe it has been awhile since you’ve heard God speak.  Ask yourself this: when is the last time you asked God to speak to you?
  
• Have you ever thought to ask God where you should go to lunch?  Maybe God has someone He wants you to meet.

GOD’S PEOPLE ARE GOD-INSPIRED

It is no coincidence that when Philip meets the Ethiopian that the Ethiopian was reading the scripture. God had prepared the Ethiopian’s heart to hear from Him and God was using Philip to reach this man. When God asks us to move and go, we can can go knowing that God is speaking to others we will encounter. Evangelism is primarily God’s work: He inspires it. He is working in others and when He speaks to us that should inspire us to listen and believe that God is making a way for His message to be heard.

The bible tells us that we don’t need to make our own opportunity to share the Good News but that we should make the most of every opportunity that we are given:
Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving; 3praying at the same time for us as well, that God will open up to us a door for the word, so that we may speak forth the mystery of Christ…5Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. 6Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person. Colossians 4:2-3, 5-6

This is good news for those who follow Jesus because we can move with God knowing that if we are doing so under His inspiration He is already at work. We just join Him in what He is already doing.

• Have you ever felt “pressure” to evangelize someone?
  
• Is evangelism primarily God’s work or man’s? 
  
• Is it up to you to convert someone to Christianity?
  
• Talk about a time where you were able to share the good news about Jesus with someone.

GOD’S PEOPLE ARE GOD-TAUGHT

When Philip meets the Ethiopian he encounters someone ready to be taught. The man admits that he needs help understanding the passage of scripture that he was reading. People who are humble and know they need help are ready to receive God’s gift of salvation.
Humility always accompanies salvation.

For you save a humble people, but the haughty eyes you bring down. 
Psalm 18:27

While the Ethiopian needed help understanding the Scripture, we also see that once Philip explained the scripture and after the Ethiopian man was baptized, Philip is taken away immediately. This fulfills the prophecy about God’s people. That they would receive words directly from God:

Prophecy
26And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. 27And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules. Ezekiel 36:26-27

Fulfillment
12Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God. 13And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual. … 16“For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ. 1 Corinthians 2:12-13, 16

As God’s people we can learn directly from the Holy Spirit because we have that Spirit within us. This is what Baptism signifies: That we die with Christ but are raised to life with the same Spirit that raised Him from the dead.

Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. 5For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his. Romans 6:3-5

• How are you preparing yourself to be taught by God, or how can you prepare yourself to be taught by God?
  
• How does it feel to know the Holy Spirit lives within you?
  
• Take a few minutes to pray individually and collectively asking God to teach you.

The Acts of the Apostles

A MESSAGE SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH (Spring 2016)

WWW.NEWCITYPHX.COM/SERMONS –  BRIAN KRUCKENBERG

The following content is based on the message “The Power of God” spoken on 04/03/16 by Brian Kruckenberg at New City Church in Phoenix, AZ.  The following is not meant to be a full synopsis of the message but rather a brief look at the main ideas.  To use this Study Guide effectively you must listen to the message found at  https://newcityphx.com/sermons/.

Leaders using these Study Notes for group study and reflection should read the Biblical text thoroughly before beginning, using this resource as assistance and not relying solely on this material for insight. We encourage all leaders to pray and ask the Spirit for revelation as they lead their respective communities.

THE SCRIPTURE

And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church in Jerusalem, and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. ²Devout men buried Stephen and made great lamentation over him. ³But Saul was ravaging the church, and entering house after house, he dragged off men and women and committed them to prison.

⁴Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word. ⁵Philip went down to the city of Samaria and proclaimed to them the Christ. ⁶And the crowds with one accord paid attention to what was being said by Philip when they heard him and saw the signs that he did. ⁷For unclean spirits, crying out with a loud voice, came out of many who had them, and many who were paralyzed or lame were healed. ⁸So there was much joy in that city.

⁹But there was a man named Simon, who had previously practiced magic in the city and amazed the people of Samaria, saying that he himself was somebody great. ¹⁰They all paid attention to him, from the least to the greatest, saying, “This man is the power of God that is called Great.” ¹¹And they paid attention to him because for a long time he had amazed them with his magic. ¹²But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. ¹³Even Simon himself believed, and after being baptized he continued with Philip. And seeing signs and great miracles performed, he was amazed. ¹⁴Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John, ¹⁵who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit, ¹⁶ or he had not yet fallen on any of them, but they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. ¹⁷Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit. ¹⁸Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money, ¹⁹ saying, “Give me this power also, so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” ²⁰But Peter said to him, “May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money!

POWER COMES THROUGH RESURRECTION

As Jesus promised in Acts 1, the Gospel would spread from Jerusalem, to Judea and Samaria and to the outer most parts of the earth. In this passage we see that coming to pass as Philip takes the message of Jesus to the region of Samaria.

This happens right after Stephen is killed for preaching the name of Jesus. The local power brokers thought they could snuff out the movement of Jesus by killing its leaders. They were wrong. They didn’t realize that the power of God comes through persecution.

(It is interesting that the “apostles” stay behind in Jerusalem and the others are scattered. There are likely many reasons for this but it does teach us that God will send whom He chooses to be on mission for Him. You don’t have to be an expert or even a full-time pastor. You just have to go and tell people about Jesus.)

From the beginning of the church until now, it has always faced persecution.  In the 1920’s the USSR formed the “League of the Militant Godless” in an effort to stamp out the Christian faith. Leader of the League, Yemelian Yaroslavsky, found the stubbornness of the Christian faith:

“Christianity is like a nail.  The harder you strike it, the deeper it goes.”

The scripture is consistent in its teaching that suffering and hardship are a part of the Christian walk. 

The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, ¹⁷and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him. Romans 8:16-17 

• Why do you think the church grows when it faces the most severe opposition?
  
• Do you have any examples in your life of being persecuted for your belief in Jesus?
  
• Might God call you someday to go and tell others about Him like He did Philip?  What might this look like?

POWER COMES TO PROVIDE FOR OTHERS

In this passage we meet a man named Simon.  He called himself great and others called him this as well.  Simon was about to learn that the power that God gives isn’t to make us great, but to make much of Jesus.  Simon desired the power of God so that he could manipulate the Spirit to do his will.  But,  you can’t manipulate the Spirit; The Holy Spirit is always God’s “gift” for the the good of others and for the church to be built up. If people are seeking power from God for their own fame and name, they might get a fleeting reward but not one that lasts in heaven.

POWER COMES THROUGH THE PERSON OF JESUS CHRIST

Not only was Simon seeking power for himself, he was also seeking it in the wrong things. He was using magic (demonic forces) to do miracles and impress others. He apparently earned a good living doing this because he offered to by the ability to wield the power of God. 

Today it is more common for us to seek power through ourselves. We might call this the power of the human spirit. While most of us love human interest stories and celebrate when we hear the story of someone overcoming long odds to succeed, we must understand that true power comes through the person of Jesus Christ. The power of the Spirit of God overcomes everything, and we need His Spirit to get us through everything we face in life. 

In this passage we see that the believed when Philip preached Jesus:

¹²But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.  Acts 8:12

The miracles that were done were no doubt amazing. Miracles can assist faith but never can be a substitute for it. When the miraculous assumes priority over the name of Jesus, it can get in the way of the faith. We see this in the story of Simon.

• Have you ever sought power or position for your own personal gain? Why do you think we might do this?
  
• Talk about a time where you or someone else perhaps relied too heavily on their own “human spirit” in an effort to overcome a challenging situation.

POWER CANNOT BE PURCHASED

It was quite natural for Simon, a new convert to the faith, to try and buy the Holy Spirt power. While we may not have the same amount of money that Simon did we all have a form of “currency” that we use to “buy” what we want. People typically seek power by using their own form of “currency.” In our culture, power is most definitely purchased, but in the economy of God, it isn’t. God can’t be bought off. God doesn’t need what you have. He loves you and desires you to be His child but He needs nothing from you. God doesn’t make deals. Unfortunately, we have a sin nature, our flesh, that constantly battles with the Power of the Holy Spirit and we fall back into trying to get power or influence in the wrong ways.

This can happen through:

1. Material means.  We try to purchase the power we need.
   
2. Through relationship manipulation.  We attempt to get power by flirting with a certain person. We might try to use sex, or the lack of sex, to control someone, even our own spouse.
   

• What is it that you have that you are using to get what you want?
  
• How are you seeking the power you desire?

We even do this in church. If we aren’t careful we can start going to church to try and earn favor with God. If this is our attitude we might start to feel like God owes us!

You may be seeking favor from God so that He will do things for you. I thought if I did this, then God would do that. If I come to church and do the right things then God will protect my family, save my marriage, give me a spouse, etc.   

But we already learned that God doesn’t need anything we have.  He loves us and He sent Jesus to die for us.  He doesn’t owe us more than that.  Yet He desires to give good things to His children.

• Why are you coming to church?

POWER COMES THROUGH THE PROCESS OF RE-PENTANCE

Even though Simon is saved and confesses Jesus as Lord, he still slips back into old ways of thinking. This is common for new believers and we should remember that while we are reborn in an instant, changing and becoming more like Christ is a life-long process. This does not excuse sin! To the contrary, Peter deals very directly with the sin and wickedness in Simon (see v. 20).  Simon is called to repent and ask for forgiveness because he was using his old ways in an attempt to secure a new power.

• Have you ever expected mature Christian behavior from a new Christian? Have you ever expected Christian behavior from a non-Christian?
  
• Have you ever seen someone who has been a Christian for a long time try to excuse their sin or the sin of another?
  
• How can you strike the balance between recognizing that holiness is a process while still treating sin very seriously?

To give you a little insight into the year of ministry that we had at New City in 2015, we’ve put together a simple annual report that gives you some highlights.

2015 – Annual Report

If you have any questions regarding this report, please fill out the contact form below and we will be in touch with you soon.

May your relationship with God and others flourish in the places you live, work, study and play.

Brian

The Acts of the Apostles

A MESSAGE SERIES AT NEW CITY CHURCH (Spring 2016)