Kingdom Come. Dr. Joel C. Hunter with Chad Turnbull. You are equipped by God for a bigger story.

Transcription

1 Kingdom Come Dr. Joel C. Hunter with Chad Turnbull You are equipped by God for a bigger story.

2 Contents Welcome from Dr. Joel C. Hunter...2 Using This Workbook (Read This First)...4 Outline of Each Session...5 Session One You are equipped with the Gospel. 7 Session Two You are equipped with the Holy Spirit. 20 Session Three You are equipped with the Scriptures. 33 Session Four You are equipped with the Church. 46 Session Five You are equipped with the Sacraments. 59 Session Six You are equipped with the Gifts. 72 Appendices Memory Verse Cards (Clip & Review) Prayer and Praise Report Group Contact Information... 89

3 Welcome I am so glad that you have this guide in your hands. Here s why: the six sessions you ll find in its pages are intended to encourage Kingdom conversations about what it means to be transformed by Jesus. They are focused on some of the tools that will help you discover a deeper understanding of what it means to have a new life in Christ. You will find that it is possible to look past outward appearances and to connect with others at a deeper spiritual level, a mark of Christian maturity. This Kingdom study is designed to give the greatest benefit of insights when you gather with others to go through it. You can invite neighbors you have never met to join you, but if that sounds a bit too challenging, then how about doing the study with co-workers, or family members, or friends with whom you don t normally have spiritual conversations? Transformation in Jesus always ties back to community. Transformation in Jesus always ties back to community. Dr. Joel C. Hunter Whenever you choose to do the study and with whomever you choose to do it, as you engage its content in light of the Scripture you will be better equipped to impact your world with a heavenly perspective. 2

4 Tips from Pastor Joel To get the most out of this series, I hope you will: Get to know the people in your group. Dive into the Scripture, think through the questions and join the discussion. Pray for and serve those in your sphere of influence. Our Key Scripture for this six-week small group study is 2 Corinthians 5:16-20 (NIV): So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ s behalf: Be reconciled to God. 3

5 Using This Workbook Tools to help you have a great experience: 1. Use this workbook as a guide, not a straitjacket. If your group responds to the lesson in an unexpected but honest way, go with that. If you think of a better question than the next one in the lesson, ask it. 2. Read the following Outline of Each Session so that you understand how the sessions will flow. 3. Pray before each session for the others in the conversation, for your time together, and for wisdom and insights. 4

6 Outline of Each Session A typical session for the Kingdom Come study will include the following sections. Read through this to get a clear idea of how each discussion will be structured: WEEKLY MEMORY VERSES Each session opens with a Memory Verse that emphasizes an important truth from the session. This is an optional exercise, but we believe that memorizing scripture can be a vital part of filling our minds with God s will for our lives. We encourage you to give this important habit a try. The verses for our six sessions are also listed in the appendices. INTRODUCTION Each lesson opens with a brief thought that will help you prepare for the session and get you thinking about the particular subject you will explore with your group. SHARE YOUR STORY The foundation for spiritual growth is an intimate connection with God and His family. You build that connection by sharing your story with a few people who really know you and who earn your trust. This section includes some simple questions to get you talking letting you share as much or as little of your story as you feel comfortable doing. Each session typically offers you two options. HEAR GOD S STORY In this section, you ll read the Bible and listen to teaching in order to hear God s story and begin to see how His story aligns with yours. When the study directs you to, you ll watch a short teaching segment. You ll then have an opportunity to read a passage of scripture, and discuss both the teaching and the text. The focus isn t on accumulating information, but on how you should live in light of the Word of God. We want to help you apply the insights from Scripture practically and creatively, from your heart as well as your head. At the end of the day, allowing the timeless truths from God s Word to transform your life in Christ should be your greatest aim. 5

7 CREATE A NEW STORY God wants you to be a part of His Kingdom to weave your story into His. That will mean change. It will require you to go His way rather than your own. This won t happen overnight, but it should happen steadily. By making small, simple choices, we can begin to change our direction. This is where the Bible s instructions to be doers of the Word, not just hearers (James 1:22) comes into play. Many people skip over this aspect of the Christian life because it s scary, relationally awkward or simply too much work for their busy schedules. But Jesus wanted all of His disciples to know Him personally, carry out His commands and help outsiders connect with Him. This doesn t necessarily mean preaching on street corners. It could mean welcoming newcomers, hosting a short-term group in your home or walking through this study with a friend. In this study you ll have an opportunity to go beyond Bible study to biblical living. This section will also have a question or two that will challenge you to live out your faith by serving others, sharing your faith, and worshiping God. DIGGING DEEPER If you have time and want to dig deeper into more Bible passages about the topic at hand, we ve provided additional passages and questions which you can use either during your time together or later for personal study. Your group may choose to read and prepare before each meeting in order to cover more biblical material. Or, you can use the Digging Deeper section during the week after the discussion. If you prefer not to do study homework, this section will provide you with plenty to discuss together. DAILY DEVOTIONALS Each week on the Daily Devotionals pages, we provide Scriptures to read and reflect on between sessions. This provides you with a chance to slow down, read just a small portion of scripture each day and reflect and pray through it. You ll then have a chance to journal your response to what you ve read. Use this section to seek God on your own throughout the week. This time at home should begin and end with prayer. Don t get in a hurry; take enough time to hear God s direction. 6

8 Session 1 You are equipped with the Gospel. He said to them, Go into all the world and preach the Gospel He said to to all them, creation. Go into all the world and preach the Mark gospel 16:15to all creation. Mark 16:15 7

9 You are equipped with the Gospel. MEMORY VERSE Mark 16:15 He said to them, Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Every task requires tools. Children go back to school each year with backpacks full of paper and pencils. Doctors sling stethoscopes around their necks for easy access. Every accountant has a calculator, every coach has a whistle, and every preacher has a Bible! The same is true for Christians. Jesus came to establish His Kingdom here on earth, and He has given us the tools we need to live as Kingdom people. In fact, God has gone to great lengths to equip us for this new life in a new reality. In this study, we ll look at six of the ways God has equipped us, exploring the foundations of our faith in a fresh way. As followers of Christ, we also have a job to do. We are the people who not only live in this new Kingdom but invite others into it. And, we ll consider how these gifts of God allow us to be ambassadors to others. We begin by exploring the gift of the Gospel and our place is God s story. 8

10 God has gone to great lengths to equip us for this new life in a new reality.

11 Share Your Story Each of us has a story. The events of our life good, bad, wonderful or challenging have shaped who we are. God knows your story, and He intends to redeem it to use every struggle and every joy to ultimately bring you to Himself. When we share our stories with others, we give them the opportunity to see God at work. When we share our stories, we also realize we are not alone that we have common experiences and thoughts, and that others can understand what we are going through. Your story can encourage someone else and telling it can lead to a path of freedom for you and for those you share it with. Use the following questions and activities to get people talking. What brought you here? What do you hope to get out of this experience? If you had to explain the gospel to someone who had never heard it, what would you say? Where would you begin? What would you include? 10

12 WATCH THE VIDEO NorthlandChurch.net/Kingdom Come Use the space provided to record key thoughts, questions and things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Hear God s Story section and start the conversation. 11

13 Hear God s Story READ 2 CORINTHIANS 5: So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 18 All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: 19 that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. 20 We are therefore Christ s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ s behalf: Be reconciled to God. 12

14 RESPOND What are some of the old things that pass away when we become a Christian? What are some of the new things that replace them? What does it mean to be reconciled to God? Why is it especially good news that God is reconciling the world to himself? Reflect on verse 20. What is the task God has given us as His church? 13

15 Create A New Story In this section talk about how you will apply the wisdom you ve learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you ve learned. RESPOND React to the idea of God s story in five acts. Does this framework give you new insights into the Gospel? What are we asking when we pray, Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven? How does that fit with our role as the church in the fifth act? Why is the Gospel bigger than just our own salvation? How does this change your view of everyday moments? What are some of the other kingdoms we encounter here on earth? How is Jesus the authority over every other power? How is His Kingdom superior? With this knowledge, where do you want to see His Kingdom come this week? 14

16 Circles of Life Take a look at the Circles of Life diagram below and consider whether there are others who might benefit from being part of this conversation. They might be a family member, friend, colleague or neighbor. Commit to praying for these people and inviting them to join you. FAMILY ( immediate or extended ) FAMILIAR ( neighbors, kids sports teams, school, and so forth ) FRIENDS FUN FIRM ( gym, hobbies, hangouts ) ( work ) Give each person an opportunity to share prayer requests. If you d like, you can write these on the Prayer & Praise Report on page 88 in the Appendices. Close your discussion with prayer. 15

17 Digging Deeper In this week s passage, we are given the privilege and responsibility of being an ambassador for Christ. Traditionally the job of an ambassador includes representing a government or a country to those outside of it. Ambassadors are stationed outside of their native land and advance the purposes of their country in a foreign place. In 2 Corinthians, Paul uses the word ambassador to communicate the huge role that we have as part of the Kingdom. In Christ s Kingdom, He is the king and we are His representatives in a foreign land the earthly, old creation. Although we belong to His Kingdom, we are stationed here on earth to share His Gospel and advance His purposes to those outside of it. We are each messengers of the Kingdom, speaking on Christ s authority. If you feel God nudging you to go deeper, take some time before the next discussion to dig into His Word. Explore the Bible passages related to this session s theme on your own and jot your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. A great way to gain insight on a passage is to read it in several different translations. You may want to use a Bible app or website to compare translations. 16

18 READ EPHESIANS 2:1-7 Who is the ruler of the kingdom of the air? How did we live when following the ways of this kingdom? (verse 1-3) Consider verse 5 in light of the passage from 2 Corinthians. How does this expand the concept of the old vs. the new in Christ? How has God demonstrated the riches of his grace to you? How has He shown His kindness to you? READ ROMANS 1:16-17 How does Paul define the Gospel in verse 16? How does the Gospel reveal God s righteousness? Why is faith so important to receiving the Gospel? How has this study changed your own sense of responsibility for this good news you have? 17

19 Daily Devotionals Day 1 READ 1 JOHN 4:9-10 This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Reflect: What does it mean to live through Jesus? Day 2 READ LUKE 17:20-21 Once, on being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, nor will people say, Here it is, or There it is, because the kingdom of God is in your midst. Reflect: Unlike earthly empires, the Kingdom of God isn t about displays of power that you can see. What does it mean that the Kingdom is in our midst? How do we represent it to others? Day 3 READ 1 CORINTHIANS 15:1 Now, brothers and sisters, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. Reflect: What does it mean to take a stand on the Gospel? 18

20 Day 4 READ DANIEL 2:44 In the time of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed, nor will it be left to another people. It will crush all those kingdoms and bring them to an end, but it will itself endure forever. Reflect: Today, take some time to meditate on the power and authority of God s Kingdom, and thank Him for welcoming you into His plan! Day 5 READ REVELATION 22:17 The Spirit and the bride say, Come! And let the one who hears say, Come! Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life. Reflect: Jesus wants everyone to come and experience new life in Him. Our job as ambassadors is to share this invitation with as many people as possible. Ask God to help you represent Him well to the people in your life! Day 6 Use the following space to reflect on what you learned this week and what God is saying to you. 19

21 Session 2 You are equipped with the Holy Spirit. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Galatians 5:25 20

22 You are equipped with the Holy Spirit. MEMORY VERSE Galatians 5:25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. The faithful Sunday school teacher loved her class of four-year-olds and was excited to teach the lesson, until she glanced over the curriculum and realized that week s lesson was on the Holy Spirit a topic that s hard enough for many adults to understand, much less a room full of preschoolers! In fact, the whole idea of the Trinity can be confusing. How can God be a Father, a Son, and a Spirit at the same time? How are they different, and why has God chosen to reveal Himself in each of these ways? What does the Holy Spirit do, and how do we know when the Spirit is working? Theologians have wrestled with these questions for centuries, and it s okay if we have questions, too. However, while we may not understand everything about the Holy Spirit, the Bible is very clear that the Spirit is real and is part of our lives as Christians. Today we ll learn more about why Jesus sent the Spirit and how He can help us live in the Kingdom. 21

23 Theologians have wrestled with understanding the Holy Spirit for centuries, and it s okay if we have questions, too.

24 Share Your Story As we said last week, when we share our stories with others, we give them the opportunity to see God at work. Your story is being shaped, even in this moment, by being part of this group. In fact, few things can shape us more than community. When we share our stories, we can encourage someone else, and learn. We experience the presence of God as He helps us be brave enough to reveal our thoughts and feelings. Begin by praying together. This should be a brief, simple prayer in which you invite God to be with you as you meet. You can pray for specific requests at the end of your time together, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. Then continue your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking: Share something you learned from your Daily Devotionals time this past week. What do you understand about the Holy Spirit as we begin this study? 23

25 In the last session we invited you to write some names in the Circles of Life diagram. Who did you identify as the people in your life who need to meet Jesus? Go back to the Circles of Life diagram on page 15 to help you think of various people you come in contact with on a regular basis who need to know Jesus more deeply. Consider ideas for action and make a plan to follow through on one of them this week. WATCH THE VIDEO NorthlandChurch.net/Kingdom Come Use the space provided to record key thoughts, questions and things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video have someone read the discussion questions in the Hear God s Story section and start the conversation. 24

26 Hear God s Story READ JOHN 16: but now I am going to him who sent me. None of you asks me, Where are you going? 6 Rather, you are filled with grief because I have said these things. 7 But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. 8 When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment: 9 about sin, because people do not believe in me; 10 about righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where you can see me no longer; 11 and about judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned. 12 I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. 13 But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. 14 He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you. 15 All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the Spirit will receive from me what he will make known to you. 25

27 RESPOND Why does Jesus say it s good for Him to go away? What does it mean for the Holy Spirit to be our advocate? What does it mean for Him to be the spirit of truth? According to verses 8-11, what did the Spirit come to do? Where does the Spirit receive His words and His knowledge? 26

28 Create A New Story In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you ve learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you ve learned. RESPOND What are some of the reasons God has given us the Spirit? Having read John 16:5-15 on the previous page, how have you experienced the Holy Spirit as a Judge? As an Encourager? As a Guide? What happens if we try to live the Kingdom life without the Spirit? What is one area of life where you need to submit to Christ and allow His Spirit to transform you? What is one step you can take this week? 27

29 Here are some simple ways to connect with God. Share which ones you plan to try this week, and talk about your progress and challenges when you meet next time. Prayer. Commit to personal prayer and daily connection with God. You may find it helpful to write your prayers in a journal. Daily Devotionals. The Daily Devotionals provided in each session offer an opportunity to read a short Bible passage five days a week during the course of our study. In our hurryup world, we often move too quickly through everything even reading God s Word! Slow down. Don t just skim, but take time to read carefully and reflect on the passage. Write down your insights on what you read each day. Copy a portion of Scripture on a card and tape it somewhere in your line of sight, such as your car s dashboard or the bathroom mirror. Or text it to yourself! Think about it when you sit at red lights or while you re eating a meal. Reflect on what God is saying to you through these words. On the sixth day summarize what God has shown you throughout the week. Give each person an opportunity to share prayer requests. If you d like, you can write these on the Prayer & Praise Report on page 88 in the Appendices. Close your discussion with prayer. 28

30 Digging Deeper Some of Jesus most significant teaching on the Holy Spirit is found in the book of John. Chad taught from one passage in this week s video and a second passage in John is here for further study. But if you want to go deeper, take a few minutes to read all of John in one sitting. What do these chapters say about who the Holy Spirit is, what the Spirit does and why? If you feel God is nudging you to go deeper take some time between now and our next discussion to dig into His Word. Explore the Bible passages related to this session s theme on your own, jotting your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. Want to go deeper? Select a few verses and try paraphrasing them write them in your own words. If you like, share your paraphrase with the group the next time you meet. 29

31 READ JOHN 14:15-18 How does the Spirit advocate for us? Why does the world resist the Holy Spirit? What does it mean for the Spirit to be in us? READ GALATIANS 5:13-26 What does it mean to walk by the Spirit? What does the Spirit desire? What is one fruit that the Spirit is developing in your life? Where do you need to walk in the Spirit this week? 30

32 Daily Devotionals Day 1 READ EPHESIANS 1:13-14 And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are in God s possession to the praise of his glory. Reflect: In ancient times, people marked things with a seal to show ownership. The Holy Spirit in our lives marks us as God s people, and is promise that we are His children. Take a few moments to thank God for being included in Christ and in His Kingdom. Day 2 READ ACTS 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Reflect: The Holy Spirit not only encourages us, He also pushes us to take action and share the good news about Jesus. How is the Holy Spirit helping you share your faith? Day 3 READ ROMANS 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Reflect: How do we tap into the hope that God wants to give us through the Spirit? 31

33 Day 4 READ ROMANS 5:5 And hope does not put us to shame, because God s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. Reflect: The Holy Spirit is a way for us to experience God s great love. Spend some time today simply resting in the knowledge of God s love for you. Day 5 READ LUKE 11:13 If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him! Reflect: The Holy Spirit is a gift and a blessing for all who follow Christ. Thank God for giving you this great gift! Day 6 Use the following space to reflect on what you learned this week and what God is saying to you. 32

34 Session 3 You are equipped with the Scriptures. Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. Psalm 119:105 33

35 You are equipped with the Scriptures. MEMORY VERSE Psalm 119:105 Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. There s the Outdoorsman Bible complete with a camouflage cover. There s the Spiritual Warfare Bible. There s the Grandmother s Bible (with room for photos of the little ones), the Police Officer s Bible, even a waterproof Bible with synthetic pages. No matter what your hobby or your life stage, Christian publishers have created a customized version of the Bible just for you. It s fine if you want a picture of your grandkid on the cover (or you need a version to read in the bathtub), but reading Scripture is not about reinforcing our own personalities and preferences. Instead, Scripture is one more way God has equipped us to bear witness to Him and to His Kingdom. Today we ll discover how the Bible is a guide for our life of faith and a compass for our community no matter which version you read. 34

36 Reading Scripture is not about reinforcing our own personalities and preferences.

37 Share Your Story Begin by praying together. This should be a brief, simple prayer in which you invite God to be with you as you meet. You can pray for specific requests at the end of your time together, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. Then use the following questions and activities to get people talking. Share something you learned from your Daily Devotionals time this past week. What s your favorite book of the Bible or your favorite verse? 36

38 WATCH THE VIDEO NorthlandChurch.net/Kingdom Come Use the space provided to record key thoughts, questions and things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Hear God s Story section and start the conversation. 37

39 Hear God s Story READ 2 TIMOTHY 3: But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, 15 and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 38

40 RESPOND What is one reason we can trust the Scriptures? (verse 14-15) How does Scripture make us wise for salvation? What does it mean for Scripture to be God-breathed? How do teaching, training, and correcting equip us for good works? How does rebuking equip us? 39

41 Create A New Story In this section talk about how you will apply the wisdom you ve learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then, think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you ve learned. RESPOND Have you previously thought of the Bible as a rule book or a reference book? Why is that inadequate when we consider Scripture as a resource for Kingdom living? How does Scripture guide us as a faith community? Why is it so important to read and apply Scripture in community with others? Pastor Joel teaches us that righteousness is meeting the demands of a relationship. When has the Bible led you toward righteousness? What would it look like for you to pursue righteousness in your relationships right now? How have you experienced Scripture teaching you about who God is, and showing you how to live in His Kingdom? 40

42 What steps will you take this week to grow in your relationship with God? If you ve focused on prayer in past weeks, maybe you ll want to direct your attention to scripture this week. If you ve been reading God s Word consistently, perhaps you ll want to take it deeper and try memorizing a verse. Tell the group which one you plan to try this week, and talk about your progress and challenges when you meet next time. Give each person an opportunity to share prayer requests. If you d like, you can write these on the Prayer & Praise Report on page 88 in the Appendices. Close your discussion with prayer. 41

43 Digging Deeper This week we talked about looking to the Bible for wisdom, and Pastor Joel noted in this week s video that the Bible is the source of the story the source for how we know who God is and what He has done. However, if you haven t read the Bible much before, it can seem overwhelming to get started. A great way to get an overview of the Biblical story is to read the Essential chapters from Genesis to Revelation that can give you the big picture perspective of scripture. Visit NorthlandChurch.net/KingdomCome/ Essential100 to learn more. If you feel God is nudging you to go deeper, take some time between now and our next discussion to dig into His Word. Explore the Bible passages related to this session s theme on your own, jotting your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. Want to go deeper? Select a few verses and try paraphrasing them write them in your own words. If you like, share your paraphrase with the group the next time you meet. 42

44 READ PROVERBS 2:1-9 How can we store up God s word? It s not enough to passively listen to God s commands; what else should we do? (Verses 2-4) What is the connection between fearing God and growing in knowledge of him? What blessings are promised to those who diligently seek after God? (Verses 6-9) READ PSALM 19:7-14 What are the four benefits the Psalmist promises to those who learn from scripture? How does scripture warn us? How does it refresh and reward us? What additional value does verse 12 say we receive from scripture? Where do you need these benefits today? 43

45 Daily Devotionals Day 1 READ ROMANS 15:4 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. Reflect: How is reading the Bible teaching you endurance or encouraging you? Thank God for the gift of His Word and the hope it gives us. Day 2 READ ISAIAH 55:11 (NLT) It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it. Reflect: Scripture is powerful; it can change us, convict us, and comfort us. What fruit is the Bible is producing in your life? Day 3 READ MATTHEW 4:4 Jesus answered, It is written: Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God. Reflect: What does it mean to find life in God s Word? How does scripture feed the people of God and equip them to live in the Kingdom? 44

46 Day 4 READ PSALM 1:1-3 Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. Reflect: We avoid sin and discover wisdom by thinking about Scripture. Ask God to help you avoid the ways of the wicked by delighting in His Word. Day 5 READ MATTHEW 24:35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. Reflect: God s Kingdom has no end, and neither does His Word. As we close this week, take some time to praise God for the power of His Kingdom and the scripture He s given us. Day 6 Use the following space to reflect on what you learned this week and what God is saying to you. 45

47 Session 4 You are equipped with the Church. Christ is faithful as the Son over God s house. And we are his house, if indeed we hold firmly to our confidence and the hope in which we glory. Hebrews 3:6 46

48 You are equipped with the Church. MEMORY VERSE Hebrews 3:6 Christ is faithful as the Son over God s house. And we are His house, if indeed we hold firmly to our confidence and the hope in which we glory. Some churches are small, with a few rows of chairs in rented space. Some churches are huge, with thousands of seats in massive auditoriums. Some churches are old, with high ceilings and stained glass windows, while other churches are brand new, with beautiful cafés and the latest technology. There are a lot of different kinds of church buildings, but in reality, no building is actually the church. Instead, the church is people all of the people who follow Jesus as their Savior and Lord. That s why we say, Thank you for bringing the church into this room. Today we re looking at what it means to be the church and how we as a spiritual community embody the Kingdom, display its values, and proclaim the Gospel together. We are God s family, and He is building us into His church. 47

49 No building is the church. The church is people all of the people who follow Jesus as their Savior and Lord. 48

50 Share Your Story Begin by praying together. This should be a brief, simple prayer, in which you invite God to give you insight as you study. You can pray for specific requests at the end of your time together, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. Then use the following questions and activities to get people talking. Share something you learned from your Daily Devotionals time this past week. What does it mean to repent? How have you heard this word used in the past? Take some time for each person to share about how they re doing on the challenge of inviting the people in the Circles of Life diagram, on page 19, to church or your group. What future conversations are you praying about? 49

51 WATCH THE VIDEO NorthlandChurch.net/Kingdom Come Use the space provided to record key thoughts, questions and things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Hear God s Story section and start the conversation. 50

52 Hear God s Story READ ACTS 2: They devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. 51

53 RESPOND The community life described here is very different from what we experience today. Why do you think this is? Are there things this early church did that we should be more intentional about doing? Later on the church will be heavily persecuted, but here it says they had the favor of everyone in the city. Why does real community attract others? 52

54 Create A New Story In this section talk about how you will apply the wisdom you ve learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then, think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you ve learned. RESPOND Is it a shift for you to think of the church as a community instead of a building or a service? How does church as community equip us to live in the Kingdom? What are some ways the church proclaims the Gospel? How is the church a spiritual family? How are you experiencing this in your group? 53

55 What are some ways your group can display the Gospel to those who don t yet believe? Who could you be a family to this week? Spend some time praying about those you know who might respond to a simple invitation: to come to a church service, to be part of these discussions, or even to just have coffee and talk about spiritual matters. Ask the Holy Spirit to bring to mind people you can pray for. Give each person an opportunity to share prayer requests. If you d like, you can write these on the Prayer & Praise Report on page 88 in the Appendices. Close your discussion with prayer. 54

56 Digging Deeper One of the passages for further study this week is from Ephesians 2. It s easy for us to quickly read these verses and miss the revolution inside them. When Jesus came, the Jewish people believed they were the only chosen people of God. After all, God had created the Israelites as a nation, formed covenants with them, delivered them into the Promised Land and promised His presence and protection. They didn t make this up God told them they were chosen to be his treasured people from all the nations that are on the face of the earth (Deuteronomy 14:2). However, Jesus made it clear to the disciples that they were to go into ALL the world and make disciples for him, and that He came to save both Jews and Gentiles (non- Jewish people). For centuries the Jews believed God s salvation was only for them; now they had to adjust their entire perspective to accept that everyone could be part of the church. This is part of the transition from the third act of God s story Israel to the fourth and fifth act Jesus and the Church. While we may not struggle with the Jewish/Gentile issue, there might be other ways we struggle to fully accept others into the Kingdom. Reflect on this week s teaching about the purpose of the church and its embodiment of Kingdom values as you study this week s passages. If you feel God nudging you to go deeper, take some time before the next discussion to dig into His Word. Explore the Bible passages related to this session s theme on your own and jot your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. A great way to gain insight on a passage is to read it in several different translations. You may want to use a Bible app or website to compare translations. 55

57 READ EPHESIANS 2:19-22 What does it mean for the church to be God s household? How are the apostles and the prophets the foundation of the church? How is Jesus the cornerstone? How does this passage reinforce the idea of church as community? READ MATTHEW 28:18-20 Why does Jesus begin by reminding the disciples of his authority? What does Jesus tell them to do as they start to build the church around the world? Why does He end this Commission with a reminder of His presence? Where do you need His presence this week to be especially close? 56

58 Daily Devotionals Day 1 READ HEBREWS 10:24-25 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Reflect: This passage reminds us how important it is to worship, pray, study and grow together. Take a few minutes to pray for the others in your group. How can you encourage them in their faith? Day 2 READ ROMANS 12:4-5 For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. Reflect: We are all different, but together we form Christ s body, the church. What does it mean that we belong to each other? Day 3 READ JOHN 10:16 I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd. Reflect: The flock, like family and body, is another metaphor for what it means to be the church in the Kingdom. Spend some time reflecting on these rich images and thanking Jesus for being your shepherd. 57

59 Day 4 READ PSALM 111:1 (NLT) Praise the Lord! I will thank the Lord with all my heart as I meet with his godly people. Reflect: One way the church equips us for Kingdom living is teaching us how to worship, pray and study God s Word. Have you made a commitment to regularly worship with God s people? Day 5 READ MATTHEW 18:20 For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them. Reflect: Because the church is the people who follow Jesus not a building He is actively working among us whenever we are together. How is your time with the others in this gathering functioning as the church in your life? Day 6 Use the following space to reflect on what you learned this week and what God is saying to you. 58

60 Session 5 You are equipped with the Sacraments. In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Romans 6:11 59

61 You are equipped with the Sacraments. MEMORY VERSE Romans 6:11 In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Some churches celebrate communion each week or even more often as they gather together; others take communion once a month or a few times a year. Some churches baptize by sprinkling or pouring, while others dunk people underneath the water. Although the methods may vary, Christians across the centuries and around the world are united in their observance of the sacraments of communion and baptism. These practices affirm our identity as Christians, remind us of the foundational truths of the faith and proclaim the Gospel to a watching world. This week we ll explore these two sacraments and how they equip us to live as God s people in God s Kingdom. 60

62 Christians across the centuries and around the world are united in their observance of the sacraments of communion and baptism.

63 Share Your Story Begin by praying together. This should be a brief, simple prayer in which you invite God to give you insight as you study. You can pray for specific requests at the end of your time together, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. Use the following questions and activities to get people talking. Share something you learned from your Daily Devotionals time this past week. Tell the group about someone who has influenced your spiritual journey or helped you grow closer to God. 62

64 WATCH THE VIDEO NorthlandChurch.net/Kingdom Come Use the space provided to record key thoughts, questions and things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Hear God s Story section and start the conversation. 63

65 Hear God s Story READ ROMANS 6:3-9 3 Or don t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. 5 For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his. 6 For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with,[a] that we should no longer be slaves to sin 7 because anyone who has died has been set free from sin. 8 Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. 9 For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. 64

66 RESPOND How is our baptism a form of death? What are we dying to? How are we united with Christ in His resurrection? What happens to our sin when we our first self dies? What kind of freedom do we experience in our new life with Christ? 65

67 Create A New Story In this section talk about how you will apply the wisdom you ve learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then, think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you ve learned. RESPOND How do the sacraments affirm our identity in Christ? How do they equip us for Kingdom living? Baptism is a symbol of how we die to ourselves and are then raised like Christ to receive new life in him. What part of this metaphor is most significant to you? Are there areas in your life where you need to continue to die to yourself and live with His new life? In the video, Pastor Joel said that at communion, We are the body of Christ gathered, around the body of Christ symbolic, in remembrance of the body of Christ risen. What part of this metaphor is most significant to you? How does it affect the way you live? 66

68 What steps will you take this week to grow in your relationship with God? If you ve focused on prayer in past weeks, maybe you ll want to direct your attention to scripture this week. If you ve been reading God s Word consistently, perhaps you ll want to take it deeper and try memorizing a verse. Share which one you plan to try this week, and talk about your progress and challenges when you meet next time. Give each person an opportunity to share prayer requests. If you d like, you can write these on the Prayer & Praise Report on page 88 in the Appendices. Close your discussion with prayer. 67

69 Digging Deeper In ancient Rome, soldiers took an oath of allegiance to the Roman government. This rite of initiation was called a mysterion in the Greek. When the Bible was translated to Latin, this word was translated as sacramentum and was used to describe the sacred rites of the church, including communion and baptism. In a very real sense, then, the sacraments we practice as the people of God are also oaths of allegiance to His Kingdom. We are not only made holy through participating in these meaningful rituals, we are proclaiming our commitment to Christ. If you feel God nudging you to go deeper, take some time before the next discussion to dig into His Word. Explore the Bible passages related to this session s theme on your own and jot your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. A great way to gain insight on a passage is to read it in several different translations. You may want to use a Bible app or website to compare translations. 68

70 READ JOHN 6:53-59 This teaching must have sounded very radical to the first followers of Jesus. What did Jesus mean when He told them to eat His flesh and drink His blood? Back up a few verses and read John 6:35. How does this enhance your understanding of the meaning of communion? How have you experienced Christ as real food and real drink? READ COLOSSIANS 2:9-15 How is our baptism a spiritual circumcision? What is our role in baptism in verse 12? What is God s role in verse 13? What promises for our new life in Christ do we receive in verses 13-15? Where do you need to experience His freedom and new life? 69

71 Daily Devotionals Day 1 READ 1 CORINTHIANS 12:13 For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Reflect: We are all uniquely created by God, and those differences are to be celebrated. But in baptism, we become part of the body of Christ and this identity is more important than any earthly distinctions. Day 2 READ 1 CORINTHIANS 10:17 Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf. Reflect: Just as yesterday s verse reminds us of our unity in Christ through baptism, today s verse teaches we are united in communion. Take a few minutes to thank God for the gift of His body and for the sacraments that unite His church. Day 3 READ ACTS 22:16 And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name. Reflect: Have you been baptized? If not, what are you waiting for? 70

72 Day 4 READ GALATIANS 3:26-27 So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. Reflect: What does it mean to clothe ourselves with Christ? Day 5 READ HEBREWS 10:22 (NLT) For our guilty consciences have been sprinkled with Christ s blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water. Reflect: In baptism, our sinful life dies and a new life begins. In communion, we reaffirm our commitment to this new life and remember the gift of God s sacrifice. Reflect on what you have learned about the sacraments this week. How have they expanded your understanding of the Kingdom? Day 6 Use the following space to reflect on what you learned this week and what God is saying to you. 71

73 Session 6 You are equipped with the Gifts. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. 1 Corinthians 12:7 72

74 You are equipped with the Gifts. MEMORY VERSE 1 Corinthians 12:7 Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. When we think of gifts we often think of piles of presents under a Christmas tree, or a wedding registry, or maybe a beautifully-wrapped box for our birthday. In the Bible we read about a different kind of gift. These come from the Spirit, not from a store, and they won t fit in a bag or under a tree. Instead, they become part of who we are as God entrusts each one of us with unique talents and abilities. These gifts are also different because they re not ours to keep. God doesn t give us talents or skills so we can use them for ourselves, but so that we can live as Kingdom people and do the good works He s called us to. As we close this study, let s consider how we are gifted and how we can use those gifts to bear witness to the Kingdom. 73

75 God doesn t give us talents or skills so we can use them for ourselves, but so that we can live as Kingdom people.

76 Share Your Story Begin by praying together. This should be a brief, simple prayer in which you invite God to give you insight as you study. You can pray for specific requests at the end of your time together, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion. Sharing our personal stories builds deeper connections. Your story may be exactly what another person needs to hear, and when you listen you can help others grow spiritually. Begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking. What has surprised you most about this experience? Where did God meet you over the last six weeks? Share something you learned from your Daily Devotions time this past week. Take some time for each person to share how they ve done with inviting the people on the Circles of Life diagram, on page 19, to church or to your group. What specific conversations are you praying about for the weeks to come? 75

77 WATCH THE VIDEO NorthlandChurch.net/Kingdom Come Use the space provided to record key thoughts, questions and things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Hear God s Story section and start the conversation. 76

78 Hear God s Story READ 1 CORINTHIANS 12: There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. 5 There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. 6 There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. 7 Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. 8 To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, 10 to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. 11 All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines. 12 Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. 13 For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. 14 Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many. 77

79 RESPOND Are some gifts more valuable than others? Why or why not? Why does the Spirit give us gifts? What unites us in a common body? Who is the head of the body? 78

80 Create A New Story How has God changed your story during this six-week experience? What new things is He asking you to do? What truth has transformed your heart? Think about specific steps you want to take to live a new story, to walk more closely with God, and to be engaged in His Kingdom. RESPOND What does it mean for the church to be the body of Christ? React to the idea that God has specific Kingdom assignments for you. Can you look back at your life and identify any of these assignments? What do you think God is calling you to do right now? 79

81 What do you think your gifts are? Are you using them for God in some way? If you are uncertain, pray and ask God for insight. Who do you know that could help you discern this? Close by praying for your prayer requests and take a couple of minutes to review the praises you have recorded over the past five weeks on the Prayer & Praise Report on page 88 in the Appendices. Spend some time thanking God for all He s done in your group during this study. 80

82 Digging Deeper It s easy to think that if we can t teach a class or carry a tune that we can t be used by God. But the Bible teaches over and over that God can use any gift to make a difference in His Kingdom. Maybe you have the gift of administration and can keep a project organized. Maybe you re a great cook or carpenter or counselor or cleaner. Or maybe you have a gift of encouraging others or praying for them or giving generously to their ministry. There are no limits to how God can use you, but you have to take the responsibility for identifying your gifts and putting them into practice. What is one step you could take this week? If you feel God nudging you to go deeper, take some time before the next discussion to dig into His Word. Explore the Bible passages related to this session s theme on your own and jot your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. A great way to gain insight on a passage is to read it in several different translations. You may want to use a Bible app or website to compare translations. 81

83 READ EPHESIANS 4:11-16 Why are some people gifted to teach and lead others? These gifts are not about what we do. They are about who we are in Christ. Why is maturity in our faith so important for that? According to verses 15 and 16, how do we grow as the body of Christ? How does it change your perspective on gifts to know that gifts are the way God provided the body of Christ to see His nature revealed? READ 1 CORINTHIANS 1:4-9 How do our gifts confirm the work of Christ? Strong s Concordance defines the Greek word for gift, charisma, as the divine influence on the heart and its expression in the life. Where do you see His influence in your life? Note that this passage is written to a group of believers, not just one. How does that influence your understanding of verse 7? What does it mean that God will keep us firm to the end? What is the connection between God s faithfulness and the way He has equipped us to serve? 82

84 Daily Devotionals Day 1 READ 2 TIMOTHY 1:6-7 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. Reflect: God equips us with spiritual gifts so we can act! Do you need love, self-discipline, or a spirit of power in using your gift? Ask God to help you grow in that area. Day 2 READ EXODUS 31:1-5 Then the Lord said to Moses, See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of crafts. Reflect: Even at the beginning of God s story with His people, He is equipping them with talents. Note that here, as in the other passages we ve studied, these skills are given to serve Him and bring Him glory. Do you have professional or artistic abilities that could be used to honor God? 83

85 Day 3 READ 1 PETER 4:10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God s grace in its various forms. Reflect: How can you be a steward of God s grace by using your gift? Day 4 READ 1 PETER 4:11-12 If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. Reflect: Our gifts are to bring honor to God, not ourselves. How can you use your gift to bring Him praise? Day 5 READ 1 CORINTHIANS 13:2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. Reflect: Our gifts are a gift from God, but they are never more important than growing in love for others. Ask God to help you grow in His love as you live in His Kingdom. Day 6 Use the following space to reflect on what you learned this week and what God is saying to you. 84

86 Appendices 85

87 Memory Verses SESSION ONE MARK 16:15 He said to them, Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. SESSION FOUR HEBREWS 3:6 Christ is faithful as the Son over God s house. And we are his house, if indeed we hold firmly to our confidence and the hope in which we glory. SESSION TWO GALATIANS 5:25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. SESSION FIVE ROMANS 6:11 In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. SESSION THREE PSALM 119:105 Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. SESSION SIX 1 CORINTHIANS 12:7 Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. 86

88 87

89 Prayer & Praise Report 88

90 Group Contact Information Name Phone # 89

91 Copyright 2017 by Northland, A Church Distributed ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Published by Distributed Church Press 530 Dog Track Road, Longwood, Florida Contributors Creative Direction Cover Design Page Layout Photography Northland Church Design Team Clark Orr Northland Church Design Team Brian Carlson Copyright and use of the curriculum template is retained by Brett Eastman. Unless otherwise noted, all scripture quotes are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 and 2011 by Biblica, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ISBN Printed in the United States of America

92 We are quick to settle for a ticket to heaven and a few life teachings from Jesus, but there is so much more. God has given us everything we need to live in His kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. But do we understand the tools He has provided? Why did Jesus leave earth and send the Holy Spirit? What does a 2,000 year old book have to do with our lives today? The sacraments, the church, spiritual gifts... what are all these things really about? And do they change our impact in the world? This six-week series will help you explore the foundations of your faith from a bigger perspective. Through Biblical teaching, group discussion questions, and short daily devotionals, you ll have the opportunity reexamine the following elements of your faith to discover the whole story God has for your life: The Gospel The Holy Spirit The Scriptures The Church The Sacraments The Gifts NorthlandChurch.net/KingdomCome