Jesus: Son of God part four QUEST FOR THE HISTORICAL JESUS Small group devotion The purpose of this discussion is get your group grappling with what they find hard to believe in the gospels. Can we pick and choose what we want to believe? How do we read scripture? Opening discussion: Today we’re looking at a story involving demon exorcism.… Read more →
Preaching Series
Devotion: SEEING THEIR FAITH
Jesus: Son of God series part three SEEING THEIR FAITH Small group devotion The purpose of this discussion is to encourage your group to consider the power of vicarious faith, particularly in the hard times of our lives. Opening discussion: Share with one another a personal mentor in the faith. Maybe it’s your mum or dad, maybe it’s a… Read more →
Devotion: DISCIPLESHIP
Jesus: Son of God series part two DISCIPLESHIP Small group devotion The purpose of this discussion is to explore what discipleship involves and to challenge your group to “step out” of the boat and follow. Opening question: On a piece of newsprint, write two words: “Disciple” and “Discipline”. What positive/negative connotations do each of these words have? What are the… Read more →
Devotion: MIRACLES
Jesus: Son of God series part one MIRACLES Small group devotion The purpose of this small group devotion is to open a discussion on miracles. What are they? Should we expect miracles today? Opening question: Have you ever witnessed a miracle? If not, have you heard of someone else who has? Spend some time sharing stories. Watch the “Living vlog”… Read more →
Devotion: MEEKNESS
Fruit series part five MEEKNESS Small group devotion Each week we’ll be digesting a different aspect of the fruit of the Spirit. This week: MEEKNESS. We’ll explore times when we feel out of control, and what we do about it. Opening question: Share a time you’ve felt out on control. How did you feel? How did you get through it?… Read more →
Remembering the Future
One of my favourite theological discoveries this year has been John Zizioulas. He is best read with a glass of French red, a furrowed brow, and an air of pretension. Among many other gems, he talks about remembering the future. No, it’s not a new sci-fi time-travelling thriller. No, he’s not a new-age soothsayer. No, it’s not heresy. I think.… Read more →
Devotion: PATIENCE and SELF CONTROL
Fruit Series part four PATIENCE and SELF-CONTROL Small group devotion Each week we’ll be digesting a different aspect of the fruit of the Spirit. This week: PATIENCE and SELF-CONTROL. This is a chance for your group to share about the some of the trip-ups in their life. It could be a vulnerable time so it may be worth reminding the… Read more →
Devotion: PEACE
Fruit series part three PEACE Small group devotion Each week we’ll be digesting a different aspect of the fruit of the Spirit. This week: PEACE. How can we build peace in our personal lives and as a faith community? Opening activity: Jordan finished by talking about the origami crane as a symbol for peace. If you want, begin by constructing… Read more →
Don’t Worry…Be Happy
Does anyone remember this ad promoting driving safety a few years back? Bobby McFerrin’s tender tones sharply juxtapose the footage of traffic accidents that progressively worsen as the ad goes on. The message “don’t worry, be happy” sounds good, but pushing a little deeper it is fairly problematic and quite frankly unhelpful advice at the best of times! The crumpled… Read more →
Devotion: JOY
Fruit series part two JOY Small group devotion Each week we’ll be digesting one of the fruits of the Spirit. This week: JOY. What is joy? Is it different from happiness and if so, how? Opening activity: Get each member of the group to share a dream of something that would make them happy. OR ask them to share times… Read more →