Getting Started
Introduction
As we walk in the way of Jesus, we grow through mutual encouragement, accountability, shared joy, and hope. Simply put, we need others to point us to the Word, help us see Jesus, celebrate victories and pray with us when we fall.
Discipleship Groups consist of 2-4 people (same gender) meeting to read the Bible together, pray with one another and hold each other accountable in their faith. This is all part of what it looks like to set our hearts and minds on Jesus.
Starting
The place to start is prayer. Express your desire for community to God. Ask Him to lead you by His Spirit and connect you with other believers who would become an integral part of your spiritual development. God hears our prayers and He will guide you into the right discipleship group.
Here are several ways that you can find a discipleship group:
Community Group - Typically, a Discipleship Group forms in the context of a Community Group. If you have not checked out a C-Group yet, you can find more information here.
Join an existing group - A discipleship group of 2 or 3 can welcome you to join them. You can often find an existing group at one of our Mission Men/Mission Women gatherings that happen monthly. You can find out when the next Mission Men or Women’s gathering is on our website.
Start a new group - Find 1-3 people of your gender who agree to meet together intentionally. This guide is designed to walk you through starting a discipleship group from scratch.
Focus
In discipleship groups, we purposefully come together, discuss the Word and bow to its authority. We seek to keep the time Christ-centered, Gospel-driven, and Scripture-focused (NOT sin-centered). We look at the ancient disciplines or practices of our faith to help us walk in the way of Jesus.
The goal is to fight for faith and against sin, the flesh, and the devil and do so believing the promises of God found in Scripture. Make a text your initial focus, devotionally reading the same chapter from a book of the Bible. Then come together, read it out loud, and talk about it. We encourage you to start in a gospel.
How does this work
In discipleship groups, we encourage you to alternate between text-theology-life and the disciplines. You will find guides for how to do this in the following pages. Once you finish walking through the disciplines, begin writing a rule-of-life and start over at the beginning. Our life as disciples is one of a long obedience in the same direction. We will never become experts in the way of Jesus until we dwell with him in glory. Ask the Lord to sharpen you over the long haul, refining you through the practice of disciplines.
Rule-Of-Life
A rule-of-life is an ancient Christian practice, it is a structured approach or set of practices that guide an individual's way of living in alignment with their values, beliefs, and aspirations. The aim is to create a balanced and meaningful life that reflects our deepest values and helps us grow in the way of Jesus.
Meeting Together
Text-Theology-Life
1.Story (approx. 15 mins)
Spend some time catching up on life.
If we don’t do this, we fight in the dark, isolated from what God is doing in the larger picture of our lives.
Get to know each other’s histories and backgrounds. Take turns sharing your story every other meeting
Pray and ask the Spirit to lead you to Christ in your discussion.
2.Text-Theology-Life (approx. 30-45 mins)
Text
Each person in the Discipleship Group commits to come together and read the same chapter from the Bible.
As you read, make a point of asking the Holy Spirit to draw your attention to whatever He wants you to know. The Spirit may be prompting you and/or a member of your Discipleship Group to repent of a sin, rejoice in a promise, or meditate on an insight. When you meet together try to make the Bible passages you’ve read your initial focus.
Remember that it is the Word of God that pierces our hearts and helps us to see sin and rejoice in Jesus more clearly (Hebrews 4:12).
Theology
Work through the text/chapter in your Discipleship Group, trying to follow the flow of the original author’s argument.
Ask the Spirit for wisdom and understanding.
Try to understand the central theological message of the chapter.
Strive to be Christ-centered. The goal is first and foremost to know Jesus.
Press one another for honest responses to the chapter (particularly in light of the knowledge you have about each other’s backgrounds and histories).
Challenge each other and encourage one another with the promises of God. In order to remain gospel-centered, be sure to glance twice at Jesus for every glance at your sin.
Life
While discussing the chapter, bring your personal struggles and successes into the conversation. Be sure to allow plenty of time for this.
Share your lives; promote grace-driven fighting and faithful prayer.
Defer to one another in love. Fight the fight of faith with and not against one another.
Finally, be sure to pray for opportunities to share the Gospel. Get specific.
3.Pray (approx. 15 mins)
Pray promises, hopes, fears, confessions
Pray for People in your life who don’t know Jesus.
Meeting Together
The Disciplines
1.Story (approx. 15 mins)
Spend some time catching up on life.
If we don’t do this, we fight in the dark, isolated from what God is doing in the larger picture of our lives.
Get to know each other’s histories and backgrounds. Take turns sharing your story every other meeting
Pray and ask the Spirit to lead you to Christ in your discussion.
2.The Disciplines (approx. 30-45 mins)
Discuss
Reference a discipline and discussion questions with your group
Encourage one another in practicing the disciplines. Remember like trading for a marathon, we start at building the habit slowly.
In order to remain gospel-centered, be sure to glance twice at Jesus for every glance at your ability to keep these practices.
Rule-of-Life
How could this become a regular habit?
What does this look like in a day, week, month, year?
3.Pray (approx. 15 mins)
Pray promises, hopes, fears, confessions
Pray for People in your life who don’t know Jesus.
Rule-of-Life
(Ref Jeremy Linneman)
Why create a rule-of-life
Every Christian has a well-established pattern of living, whether it’s an intentionally developed set of commitments or an unstated set of values and practices, like praying before meals and going to church twice a month. But many of us aren’t as deliberate with our spiritual development as we are with our time and priority management at work, and our lives and relationships suffer as a result. Amid our busy schedules, we’re constantly juggling relationships and responsibilities and often feel like we’re dropping more balls than we’re keeping in the air. When we lack a consistent and thoughtful way of doing life well, we will end up distracted and overwhelmed by life, and our spiritual and emotional growth will plateau. Few of us want to take this approach to life, but it just seems to happen. We wind up:
Scattered: Our schedule is full but doesn’t reflect our purpose and priorities.
Hurried: We’re busier than we want to be, but don’t know what to change.
Reactive: It seems we’re never in charge, always responding to demands.
Exhausted: We end each day weary and discouraged, unsure if we’ve spent it well.
Experience shows that many aren’t undone by poor theology or a lack of biblical information. Instead, we often fail to grow spiritually because we haven’t planned and made space for a deep, abiding fellowship with God.The lack of spiritual planning may be rooted in a lukewarm heart toward Christ, but at other times, we genuinely want to go deeper with God but don’t know how to make time and space to simply be with him and gain spiritual strength for each day’s challenges.
What is a Rule-of-life?
A Rule of Life is “an intentional, conscious plan to keep God at the center of everything we do. . . . The starting point and foundation of any Rule is a desire to be with God and to love him” (Scazzero, 196).
The Rule is a way to “begin with the end in mind”—to envision a sustainable, thriving walk with the Lord, in his Word, in prayer, in community, in our family, and in our work, then work backward to a set of commitments. It’s not about detailed to-do lists that must be maintained. A Rule of Life instead gives you the opportunity to prayerfully discern what roles and responsibilities the Lord has given you, and to organize your life in the manner most conducive to spiritual growth and depth in him.
The Rule of Life has a rich history in Christian tradition. The Rule has been traced back to the early monastic movement in the fourth century, and the most well-known Rule was written by Benedict in the sixth century. The Rule of Saint Benedict has influenced Eastern and Western Christians for roughly 1,500 years, and many Reformers and evangelical patriarchs have practiced similar spiritual routines without the title. Lately, many Christian traditions have returned to the Rule as an antidote to our Western culture’s lonely and fragmented lives. (Yes, Christians were doing 12 Rules for Life way before it was cool.)
Five Basic Elements of a Rule
When helping others create a Rule of Life, we suggest five basic elements: Relationship with God, Personal Life/Health, Relationships, Church, and Work.
The goal of life is to dwell in deep communion with Christ and to be firmly anchored in our union with him. But how and when and where we practice these blessed realities will depend greatly on many factors, including our life stage, work, and physical capacity. If you have multiple jobs or small children, your Rule should reflect those responsibilities. In the words of Clint Eastwood in Dirty Harry, “A man’s got to know his limitations.” Here are a few subcategories, and you’ll certainly want to prayerfully think of your own components.
Relationship with God
Scripture reading
Prayer
Silence and solitude
Study and reflection
Personal Life/Health
Sleep
Rest and Sabbath
Physical health and fitness
Recreation and hobbies
Money and possessions
Relationships
Friendships
Neighbors and coworkers
Marriage
Children and Parenting
Extended family
Church
Participation and worship
Friendships and community
Service and mission
Generosity
Work
Calling/vocation
Current position and responsibilities
Workplace relationships
Education, personal development, and coaching
In each of these five areas of life, write out one key verse, a vision statement, and four to eight commitments. For example, under Personal Life/Health, you might write:
Verse: “Only take heed, and keep your soul diligently, lest you forget the things which your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life” (Deut. 4:9).
Vision: I am a human being, created in the image of God, with limits and needs; I am a steward of the health and life God has given me, and I honor him by refreshing myself spiritually, physically, and emotionally.
Commitments:
I sleep an average of eight hours every night (9:30 p.m. to 5:30 a.m.).
I work no more than 50 hours weekly, including only two evenings each week.
I exercise five days each week (Mon—Fri from 4 to 5 p.m.).
I review our expenses each Friday and discuss our finances with my spouse at the end of each month.
I reflect on my past week and plan the week ahead each Sunday (1 to 3 p.m.).
How to Create Your Rule-of-Life
When writing a rule we encourage you to prayerfully discuss your goals for walking in the way of Jesus with your Discipleship Group. From their we recommend the following steps:
Plan Ahead
Ideally, set aside an entire day. It may be good to plan a retreat with your discipleship group or family. The best thing you can do right now, if you’re interested in writing a Rule, is to get out your calendar and pick an entire day away for this. If you’re married, coordinate with your spouse to trade off days away.
Get Away
Step out of your routine. Go to a cabin or head out to a beautiful space. You could also spend the day at a public library or park, or even at home if it’s not too distracting. Go somewhere life-giving!
Be Prepared
We suggest taking with you only a Bible and a blank notebook. Don’t bring your laptop or smartphone. We will discuss using a rule-of-life builder later, but for now spend time with Jesus. Resist filling the space with music and noise.
Start with God’s Word
Consider spending the first few hours of your day simply reading through passages of Scripture that help quiet and center your heart.
Read a few dozen Psalms and pick another book of the Bible to read in its entirety.
Also, take some time to pick a key verse for each of your five main categories. You’re not in a hurry!
Pray through Your Five Areas
Prayerfully reflect on the five main areas of your life, and you may get a good sense of which area to focus your attention. It can be easy to ignore the area of you life that needs the most attention.
Write Out Your Commitments
There is a big difference between goals and commitments. A goal is something you want to achieve, such as running a marathon. A commitment is a rhythm of life that puts you in a place to get there, such as running four miles five days a week.
Goals are overrated; commitments are underrated.
When your retreat day is complete, and you are back in the world of technology, translate each of your commitments into your calendar.
Utilize the Rule-of-Life Builder
Once you return take your notes and utilize The Rule-of-Life Builder (https://www.practicingtheway.org/ruleoflifebuilder) to help you come up with a clear plan for walking in the way of Jesus.
Share your Rule-of-life
Share your rule-of-life with your discipleship group. Keep in mind this is a tool that aids you in your journey with Jesus. This is something you should revisit often and consider revising annually.
What are the disciplines? The disciplines or as they have been called: sacred rhythms, rhythms of grace, or what the reformers called the means of grace are essentially habits that are based on the life of Jesus.
The disciplines do not define our right standing with God, our faith in Christ does. We do not practice the disciplines to merit grace and approval but rather out of the merit and approval given us in Jesus.
As we grow in our faith we are conformed into the image of Christ (Rom 8:29). Practicing the disciplines is a way for us to grow in godliness and Christ-likeness.
The disciplines are activities of mind and body purposefully undertaken, to bring our personality and total being into effective cooperation with the divine order. They enable us more and more to live in a power that is, strictly speaking, beyond us, deriving from the spiritual realm itself, as we “yield ourselves to God, as those that are alive from the dead, and our members as instruments of righteousness unto God.”_Dallas Willard
There’s no official list of the disciplines of Jesus, because any habit you see in Jesus’ life would count—walking in nature, climbing a mountain, washing feet.
None of these show up on a classical list of the spiritual disciplines, yet each one could be utilized by an apprentice of Jesus for discipleship.
Below you will see nine disciplines briefly defined, followed by discussion questions and resources for further study.
The Disciplines
Practicing The Way of Jesus
“The life of the Christian faith is the practice of many practices.”
Rest
The spiritual discipline of Rest is foundational to our journey with God, rooted in the very rhythm of creation as depicted in Scripture, where each day begins with rest at sundown and the week inaugurates with the Sabbath.
This discipline emphasizes the critical need for sleep, margin, and time away from work as a starting point for spiritual growth and health. In a world where exhaustion, sleep deprivation, and overbusyness are commonplace, Rest stands out as essential for fostering love, peace, and joy in our lives.
It is not merely about physical cessation of activity but is deeply intertwined with our apprenticeship under Jesus, recognizing that chronic tiredness can severely hinder our ability to sense God’s presence and hear His voice.
Sabbath-keeping, the practice of dedicating one entire day each week to rest, delight, and worship, is a vital aspect of this discipline. It represents one-seventh of our lives set apart to not only pause from our labors but also to find joy and worship in the presence of God, amidst a world often marked by sadness and turmoil.
The Sabbath serves as a day to cultivate joy, reminding us of the beauty of God and life with Him. In practicing the discipline of Rest, we acknowledge our human limitations and our need for divine renewal, allowing us to keep our hearts alive to the beauty of God and His creation.
Scripture:
Exodus 20:8-11 - Rest is a gift from God
Mark 2:23-28 - Rest was made for us
Luke 6:6-11 - Rest is for healing
Matthew 11:28-30 - Jesus gives rest
Psalms of Rest: Psalm 23, Psalm 46, Psalm 91, Psalm 92, Psalm 145
Discuss
Reflect on Current Rhythms: How do current work and life rhythms support or hinder your practice of rest? Share examples of how busyness impacts your spiritual and emotional well-being.
Understanding Sabbath: What does the concept of Sabbath mean to you personally? How does it differ from simply taking a day off
Challenges to Rest: What are the most significant challenges you face in implementing a regular practice of rest and Sabbath-keeping? How do societal pressures and expectations influence your ability to rest?
Rest as Worship: How can we transform our understanding of rest from being a passive activity to an act of worship and delight in God? Discuss ways to intentionally cultivate joy and worship on days of rest.
Physical and Spiritual Rest: Discuss the relationship between physical rest and spiritual renewal. How does one influence the other in your experience?
Barriers to Sensing God’s Presence: How does tiredness or busyness affect your ability to sense God's presence and hear His voice? Share personal experiences where rest led to a deeper spiritual encounter.
Practical Steps Towards Sabbath-Keeping: What are some practical steps you can take to more faithfully observe the Sabbath in a way that is refreshing and life-giving? Consider changes in schedule, activities, and mindset.
Community and Rest: How can our community support each other in practicing the discipline of rest? Discuss ways to hold each other accountable and share in Sabbath-keeping practices.
Joy in the Midst of Sadness: In what ways can practicing the discipline of rest help us maintain joy and hope in the midst of a world often filled with sadness and despair?
Personal Commitments: What is one commitment you can make this week to move towards a more intentional practice of rest? How will you implement this, and how can the group pray for and support you in this commitment?
Resources for further study:
The Sabbath as Rest and Hope for the People of God - Guy Pretiss Waters
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life - Donald S. Whitney
The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction - Justin Whitmel Earley
Silence & Solitude
The disciplines of Silence and Solitude are foundational to the spiritual journey, serving as the bedrock upon which the practices of Jesus and the great spiritual leaders are built. It’s been said, “Without solitude it is virtually impossible to live a spiritual life.” We must create a space where we can commune with God away from the distractions and noise of everyday existence.
In the practice of Silence and Solitude, we retreat to the erēmos, or "the quiet place," as described by the Gospel writers. This is not merely a physical location but a sacred space within, where the tumult of the world's noise is replaced by the peace and presence of God. It is in this stillness that the inner chaos, distractions, and falsehoods dissipate, allowing us to connect deeply with the Lord.
This discipline has been called the practical way of experiencing the already and not yet by contrasting our talking, as the organ of the present world, with silence, as the mystery of the world to come. Through silence, we step into this mystery and draw closer to God, transcending the temporal to touch the eternal.
Engaging in Silence and Solitude is, therefore, not an escape but a deliberate journey towards the heart of God, where we find clarity, peace, and a profound sense of God's nearness. It's in the quiet that we truly find God, as these practices strip away the barriers to His presence and invite us into a deeper, more intimate relationship with Him.
Scripture:
Psalm 37:7
Psalm 62
Mark 6:31
1 Kings 19:4-21
Luke 5:16
Habakkuk 2:20
Luke 6:12-13
Discuss
Personal Experience with Silence and Solitude: Share a time when you intentionally practiced silence and solitude. What was the experience like for you, and how did it impact your relationship with God?
Challenges in Practicing Silence and Solitude: What are the main obstacles you face in incorporating silence and solitude into your spiritual routine? How do the demands of modern life contribute to these challenges?
Perceived Value of Silence and Solitude: In a culture that often values busyness and constant connectivity, how do you personally perceive the value of silence and solitude? Has your view changed over time?
Discovering God in the Quiet: Reflect on the statement, "Find the quiet to find God." How does this resonate with your spiritual experiences? Share how silence or solitude has facilitated a deeper awareness of God's presence.
Practical Steps to Incorporate Silence and Solitude: What are some practical steps you can take to create more space for silence and solitude in your daily or weekly routines? Discuss how you might overcome potential barriers to these practices
The Role of Silence and Solitude in Discernment: How can silence and solitude aid in making important life decisions or discerning God's will? Share any experiences where these practices have provided clarity or guidance.
Impact on Community: How can the practices of silence and solitude not only benefit you personally but also your relationships and community life? Discuss the communal aspect of these individual disciplines.
Insights Gained: What insights or revelations have you gained during times of silence and solitude? How have these moments shaped your understanding of God, yourself, or the world?
Creating a Regular Practice: Consider your current spiritual disciplines. How can you integrate silence and solitude more regularly? Discuss creating a plan to seek out "the quiet place" intentionally.
Encouragement and Accountability: How can this group support and hold each other accountable in practicing silence and solitude? Share ideas for encouraging one another in these disciplines.
Resources for further study:
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life - Donald S. Whitney
The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction Justin Whitmel Earley
Prayer
Prayer, as practiced in the life of Jesus is not merely an escape for solitude or a ritualistic duty; it is the essential medium through which we communicate and commune with God. It extends far beyond the common perception of prayer as merely asking God for things, encompassing a broader, deeper engagement with the Lord. One way we can think of prayer is via four fundamental levels or dimensions of prayer, each vital for nurturing a loving relationship with God:
Talking to God: This involves engaging in premade prayers, such as those found in the Psalms or liturgical texts, and includes singing prayers in a communal setting like church. It represents the foundational acts of expressing devotion and reverence to God.
Talking with God: A more intimate level of prayer where one converses with God about the intricacies of life. This dimension includes lifting up the details of our lives in gratitude for the good, lamenting the presence of evil, and making petitions and intercessions, calling on God to act and fulfill His promises.
Listening to God: Moving beyond speaking, this level emphasizes the importance of quiet listening to hear God's voice. Practices such as Lectio Divina (divine reading) and paying attention to the prophetic are ways to cultivate an attuned ear to God’s communications.
Being with God: The most contemplative aspect of prayer, sometimes referred to as contemplative prayer, focuses on simply being in God’s presence in mutual love. It's a nonverbal communion, where the soul sits in silent adoration and fellowship with the Creator.
These dimensions underscore that prayer is not a linear process but a rich, multifaceted journey that deepens over a lifetime. It's about staying engaged in an ongoing conversation with God, moving beyond basic requests to a profound relationship where talking with, listening to, and simply being with God becomes a transformative experience. This holistic view of prayer emphasizes its role as a dynamic and continuous pathway to divine communion, essential for cultivating a deep, loving relationship with God.
Scripture:
Matt 6:5-8
Hebrews 4:16
1 Thess 5:16-18
Philippians 4:6-7
1 John 5:14-15
Matthew 6:9-13
Mark 11:24
Ephesians 6:17-18
1 Timothy 2:1
James 5:16
Discuss
Exploring Dimensions of Prayer: Reflect on the four levels of prayer (talking to God, talking with God, listening to God, and being with God). Which of these do you practice most frequently? Which do you find most challenging, and why?
Personal Prayer Practices: Share a personal experience where your prayer life felt particularly meaningful or transformative. What practices were you engaging in, and what made it significant?
Listening to God: Discuss the last time you intentionally set aside time to listen to God. What did this look like for you, and how did you discern God's voice?
Barriers to Prayer: Identify and share some of the main obstacles that prevent you from engaging in prayer more deeply or consistently. How can you address these barriers?
The Role of Scripture in Prayer: How does Scripture inform or enhance your prayer life, especially in the context of Lectio Divina or using the Psalms for prayer? Share any specific verses or passages that have deepened your prayer experience.
Prayer and Community: How can prayer within a community, like a church or small group, differ from individual prayer? Discuss the benefits and challenges of communal prayer.
Being with God: Contemplative prayer or simply "being with God" is often overlooked. Share thoughts or experiences on practicing this form of prayer. How can you incorporate more of this silent adoration into your daily life?
Gratitude and Lament: Discuss the importance of bringing both gratitude and lament into your prayer life. How do these expressions of prayer help in forming a more authentic relationship with God?
Prayer as a Journey: Reflect on your prayer life as a long and winding road. How has your understanding and practice of prayer evolved over time? What new directions do you feel called to explore?
Action Steps for Growth: Based on this discussion, identify one practical step you can take to deepen your practice of prayer this week. How can the group support you in this commitment?
Resources for further study:
A Praying Church - Paul Miller
Enjoy Your Prayer Life - Michael Reeves
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life - Donald S. Whitney
The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction Justin Whitmel Earley
Fasting
Fasting stands as a profoundly essential and potent discipline within the practices of Jesus, yet it remains remarkably overlooked in the modern Western church. This discipline goes beyond a mere going without food; it is an act of praying with your body, a full embodiment of worship where every aspect of you is offered to God. Through fasting, we engage in a deliberate surrender of bodily desires to break the dominance of the flesh and welcome the transformative power of the Spirit.
This practice teaches joyfulness independent of circumstance, nurturing a contentment that does not hinge on immediate gratification. Fasting is a form of practiced suffering that paradoxically increases our capacity for joy, enabling a deeper appreciation for life's fullness in all its variations. It amplifies our connection with the divine, enhancing our ability to listen to and communicate with God more profoundly.
The initial challenge of fasting, marked by the discomfort and "hangry" feelings that arise from skipping meals, serves as a mirror reflecting the parts of our soul most in need of Gods grace. This vulnerability opens us to experiencing God in unexpected ways, leading us to discover the sustenance that Jesus spoke of—spiritual nourishment unknown to those who have not embraced this discipline.
Fasting, therefore, is not just an exercise in self-denial but a transformative journey towards spiritual freedom and deeper communion with God. It reclaims a powerful tool for spiritual growth and intimacy with God, inviting disciples to experience a lost discipline whose resurgence is both timely and needed.
Scripture:
Luke 2:36-38
Matt 6:16-18
Luke 4:1-3,14
Exodus 34:28-30
Acts 13:2-4
Joel 2:12
Nehemiah 1:4
Matt 17:20-21
Discuss
Understanding Fasting: How do you currently understand and perceive the discipline of fasting? Have you practiced fasting before, and if so, what was your experience?
Spiritual vs. Physical Benefits: Discuss the spiritual benefits of fasting you hope to experience or have experienced. How do they compare to the physical challenges associated with fasting?
Fasting as Worship: Fasting is described as praying with your body and offering all that you are to God in worship. How does this perspective change your view of fasting?
Joy in Suffering: Fasting teaches joyfulness even when we don't get what we want. Share a time when fasting, or a similar discipline, helped you find joy in suffering or discomfort.
Listening to God: How might fasting increase your capacity to hear God? Discuss ways fasting could enhance your prayer life and spiritual sensitivity.
Challenges and Growth: The initial challenge of fasting can reveal areas of our lives in need of grace. What challenges do you anticipate facing during fasting, and how do you hope to grow through these challenges?
Fasting Practices: What practical steps can you take to incorporate fasting into your spiritual routine? Consider the type of fast and the frequency that might be sustainable for you.
Community Support: How can our group support each other in practicing fasting? Discuss creating a communal fasting plan or sharing fasting experiences for encouragement and accountability.
Feeding on Spiritual Food: Jesus talked about a "food to eat that you know nothing about." How do you interpret this in the context of fasting, and how can fasting lead us to discover this spiritual nourishment?
Commitment to Practice: Reflecting on our discussion, what is one commitment you can make to explore or deepen your practice of fasting? How can we pray for and support each other in this commitment?
Resources for further study:
Why Should I Fast - Daniel R. Hyde
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life - Donald S. Whitney
The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction Justin Whitmel Earley
Scripture
The Spiritual Discipline of Scripture is central to the transformation and renewal of our mind. This discipline involves engaging deeply with the Bible, allowing the divine word to shape our thoughts, perceptions, and emotions to align with those of Christ. Through the practice of immersing ourselves in Scripture, we begin to adopt the "mind of Christ," seeing the world through His eyes, understanding His teachings, feeling His compassion, and embracing His wisdom. This intentional alignment with Christ's consciousness fosters a life filled with joy, peace, and love.
Scripture can be approached in various ways, each method contributing uniquely to our spiritual formation. Lectio Divina invites us into a slow, prayerful reading that encourages personal encounters with God through His Word. Reading Scripture out loud with others reflects the communal aspect of faith, as many texts were intended for collective experience. Deep, academic study offers a structured exploration of biblical context and theology. Listening to teachings or preaching within a church setting provides guidance and insight, while memorization embeds God's Word in our hearts, making it a constant source of wisdom and comfort.
Each of these practices—whether undertaken individually or within a community—serves to fill, form, and free our minds. By dedicating ourselves to the Discipline of Scripture, we open ourselves to the transformative power of God's Word, enabling it to direct our thoughts and actions in a way that reflects the character and purpose of Jesus Christ.
Scripture:
2 Tim 3:16-17
Romans 15:4
Matt 24:35
Isaiah 55:11
Heb 4:12-13
2 Peter 1:19-21
Gal 3:21-22
2 Peter 3:15-16
Luke 24:27
Matt 4:4
Discuss
Personal Experience with Scripture: Share how engaging with Scripture has transformed your thinking or behavior. Can you identify a specific instance where the Word of God significantly impacted your life?
Practices of Engaging Scripture: Which methods of engaging with Scripture (e.g., Lectio Divina, communal reading, deep study, memorization) do you currently practice? Which method do you find most enriching, and why?
Challenges in Consistency: What challenges do you face in maintaining a consistent practice of engaging with Scripture? How do you overcome these challenges?
The Mind of Christ: Discuss what it means to you to have the "mind of Christ" and how Scripture has facilitated or can facilitate this transformation in you.
Joy, Peace, and Love through Scripture: Reflect on how the discipline of Scripture has contributed to experiencing joy, peace, and love in your life. Share examples of how these virtues have been manifested.
Scripture in Community: How does reading and discussing Scripture in a community setting (like your group) differ from personal study? What benefits have you observed from communal engagement with Scripture?
Scripture Memorization: Discuss the role of Scripture memorization in your spiritual life. Share any verses you have memorized and how they have been a source of strength or guidance.
Integrating Scripture into Daily Life: What practical steps can you take to more fully integrate Scripture into your daily routine? Consider times, places, and methods that could enhance your engagement with God’s Word.
Overcoming Misinterpretations: Have you ever experienced a change in understanding of a particular passage over time? Share how studying or discussing Scripture helped clarify or deepen your understanding.
Commitment to Growth: Based on this discussion, what is one action step you can commit to that will help you engage more deeply with Scripture? How can this group support you in that commitment?
Resources for further study:
How to Read The Bible For All Its Worth -Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart
How to Read the Bible Book by Book - Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart
Habits of Grace - David Mathis
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life - Donald S. Whitney
The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction Justin Whitmel Earley
Community
The Spiritual Discipline of Community is foundational to the Christian journey., emphasizing the crucial role of collective faith and healing in the process of spiritual formation. John Ortberg has observed, “We generally sin alone, but we heal together.” Or as they say in AA: “I get drunk, we stay sober.” The church serves as the spiritual family where believers are "re-parented" into the family of God, despite the risks and challenges inherent in any relational endeavor.
Community is essential, not optional, for following Jesus. The prevalent culture of radical individualism in the West poses a significant threat to mental health and spiritual growth, acting as a barrier to forming Christlike love. It is within the fabric of relationships that we are shaped and strengthened, through practices such as communal worship, sharing meals, confession, spiritual direction, counseling, and mentorship.
This discipline confronts the modern crisis of isolation by affirming that spiritual growth and healing are communal processes. It calls disciples to find their "traveling companions" and engage deeply with the church as the body of Christ. Through this engagement, disciples experience the transformative power of being part of a community, learning to live out the love, forgiveness, and accountability that are hallmarks of a life following Jesus. The Discipline of Community is thus a journey of mutual support and growth, where the deepest wounds are healed and the fullest potential of Christlike love is realized in the shared journey of faith.
Scripture:
Gal 6:1-2
Heb 10:24-25
Acts 2:42-47
Eccles 4:9-12
Col 3:11-17
1 Peter 4:8-11
1 Cor 12:12-20
Psalm 133:1
John 13:34-55
Romans 12:9-18
Discuss
Value of Community: Reflect on your own experience with community within the church. How has being part of a Christian community contributed to your spiritual growth and healing?
Challenges in Community: Community can be challenging and sometimes lead to hurt. Share a time when community was difficult for you. How did you navigate this challenge, and what did you learn about forgiveness and reconciliation?
Radical Individualism: In what ways have you observed the impact of radical individualism on your spiritual life or the lives of those around you? How does the discipline of community counteract this influence?
Practices of Community: Discuss the various practices within your community that foster spiritual growth (e.g., worship, meals, confession, mentorship). Which practice do you find most meaningful, and why?
Role of Accountability: How does accountability function within your community? Share experiences where accountability has led to growth or healing.
Building Community: What steps can you take to deepen your engagement with your community? Are there practices or activities you believe could enhance the sense of belonging and growth for everyone?
Healing through Relationships: Share a story of how relationships within the community have contributed to your healing. How does this experience reflect the idea that "we heal together"?
Community as Family: The concept of being "re-parented" into the family of God suggests a deep, transformative relationship. How have you experienced or observed this process within your community?
Finding Traveling Companions: Do you have "traveling companions" in your spiritual journey? Discuss the importance of these relationships and how they have supported you.
Commitment to Community Growth: Based on this discussion, identify one action step you can take to contribute to the growth and deepening of your community. How can the group support you in this commitment?
Resources for further study:
Made For People - Justin Whitmel Earley
Habits of Grace - David Mathis
Uncomfortable - Brett McCracken
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life - Donald S. Whitney
Generosity
The Spiritual Discipline of Generosity emerges naturally from a life centered in Jesus and marked by simplicity. This discipline is the joyful practice of redirecting our excess resources towards God's purposes and aiding those in need. By adopting a lifestyle that lives within, rather than beyond, our means, we unlock new possibilities for generosity, freeing ourselves from the constraints of chronic overextension and overconsumption.
Generosity is deeply woven into the fabric of the divine nature itself, reflecting the self-giving, forgiving love at the heart of the Trinitarian community of God. This outpouring of love is vividly demonstrated in the gospel through God's gift of His Son and the Son's subsequent gift of the Spirit. When we engage in the act of giving—whether it be money, resources, time, or love—we actively participate in this divine flow of generosity, stepping into a way of being that mirrors the character of God.
Acting in Godlike generosity allows us to experience a Godlike joy, echoing the timeless truth voiced by Jesus: "It is happier to give than to receive." This discipline challenges us to evaluate what we have to offer and invites us into a deeper exploration of joy through selfless giving. In practicing generosity, we not only contribute to the well-being of others but also cultivate a sense of fulfillment and happiness in our own lives, discovering that in giving, we receive far more than we might have imagined.
Scripture:
2 Cor 9:7
Matt 6:2-4
Duet 15:11
James 2:15-16
Prov 3:9-10
Luke 6:30
Malachi 3:10
1 Cor 13:3
Prov 11:24
Mark 12:42-44
Discuss
Personal Reflection on Generosity: Reflect on your current practices of generosity. How does your giving of resources, time, and love reflect your relationship with Jesus?
Impact of Simplicity on Generosity: Discuss how adopting a simpler lifestyle can impact your ability to be generous. Have you experienced a connection between living within your means and increased generosity?
Generosity as Participation in the Divine: How does the concept of participating in the trinitarian flow of love through generosity change your perspective on giving?
Joy in Giving: Share a time when you experienced joy through giving. How did this experience align with the idea that "it is happier to give than to receive"?
Challenges to Generosity: Identify and discuss any challenges or barriers you face in practicing generosity. How can you overcome these obstacles?
Generosity Beyond Financial Giving: Generosity involves more than just financial resources. What are some ways you can be generous with your time, talents, and love?
The Role of Generosity in Community: How can practicing generosity impact your church community and the broader community around you? Discuss examples or ideas for communal generosity.
Evaluating What You Have to Give: Take a moment to consider what you have to give. How can recognizing your resources, beyond just financial, expand your practice of generosity?
Acting Like God, Feeling Like God: Reflect on the statement, "When you act like God, you get to feel like God." How does this idea motivate you to be more generous?
Commitment to Generosity: What is one step you can take to grow in the discipline of generosity? How can this group support each other in these commitments?
Resources for further study:
The Treasure Principle - Randy Alcorn
Habits of Grace - David Mathis
Money, Possessions, and Eternity - Randy Alcorn
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life - Donald S. Whitney
Service
The Spiritual Discipline of Service is rooted in the example of Jesus Christ, who declared, "The Son of man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." This discipline challenges the natural human inclination to seek service from others, calling instead for a life dedicated to serving those around us. Service is a radical reorientation of our lives towards the needs and well-being of others, encompassing both grand acts of charity and the simple, everyday acts of care and kindness.
Service is envisioned as a potent remedy to the world's deep-seated issues of injustice, division, and inequality. It proposes that by adopting a posture of service—whether through engaging with the marginalized, volunteering with local organizations, or through acts of care within our families and communities—we can begin to heal the fractures of our society.
This discipline reveals a profound truth: in serving, we find our own transformation. The act of service liberates us from ego, entitlement, and self-obsession. It blurs the lines between the servant and the served, the giver and the receiver, creating a mutual exchange where dignity and freedom are restored and won.
Jesus' act of washing his disciples' feet stands as a powerful testament to the essence of service, illustrating the reversal of social roles and the blessing found in humble service. Through service, we follow Jesus' example, discovering that the path to true blessing lies not in being served, but in serving others, in accordance with His teaching: "I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you...Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them." Service, therefore, is not just an act of charity, but a means of spiritual growth and personal freedom, embodying the call to live as Christ lived and to love as He loved.
Scripture:
Philip 2:3-8
Col 3:23-24
1 Pet 4:10-11
Gal 5:13-14
Mark 10:42-45
John 13:12-15
Matt 5:14-16
Matt 25:35-40
Rom 12:6-13
Mark 9:34-35
Discuss
Reflection on Jesus’ Example: How does Jesus’ statement, “The Son of man did not come to be served, but to serve,” challenge your current approach to life and service?
Personal Attitudes Toward Service: Reflect on your default settings in relation to service. Do you naturally lean towards wanting to be served or to serve? How does this impact your daily interactions?
Service as a Remedy for Division: Considering the divisions within society today, how can practicing the discipline of service contribute to healing these fractures? Share examples or ideas.
Opportunities to Serve: Identify opportunities for service in your everyday life, from your family and local community to your workplace. How can you incorporate service into these areas more intentionally?
Impact of Service on the Server: Discuss a time when serving others impacted you personally. How did this experience change your perspective or help you grow?
Challenges in Practicing Service: What challenges do you face in practicing service? How can you overcome these obstacles to serve more effectively and joyfully?
Service without Recognition: How can you practice serving quietly, without seeking recognition or repayment? Why is this important in the discipline of service?
The Role of Dignity and Freedom in Service: Reflect on the statement, “Both give, and both receive. Dignity is restored in one; freedom won in the other.” How does this dual benefit of service manifest in your experiences?
Learning from Jesus’ Foot Washing: How does Jesus’ act of washing his disciples' feet inspire you to serve in ways that may challenge social norms or personal comfort zones?
Commitment to Service: What is one practical step you can take to deepen your practice of service? How can this group support each other in living out this discipline?
Resources for further study:
Serving Without Sinking - John Hindley
The Law of Kindness: Serving with Heart and Hands - Mary Beeke
Habits of Grace - David Mathis
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life - Donald S. Whitney
Witness
The Spiritual Discipline of Witness is grounded in Jesus’ commission to "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation." This discipline extends beyond the aim of conversion, focusing on the act of proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ through our lives and words. Evangelism or witnessing involves becoming a beacon of hospitality in a world often marked by hostility, embodying the love, welcome, warmth, and generosity that reflect the inner life of God.
To practice witness effectively, we are called to open our homes, our tables, and our lives, especially to "the last, the least, and the lost." It's about making tangible the kingdom of God in everyday interactions—turning ordinary moments into opportunities for divine encounter. Whether it’s through sharing a meal or simply living out the gospel in our daily interactions, the discipline of witness is about showing others the transformative power of Jesus' love and invitation into a life with Him.
Even simple acts, like sharing a meal or a cup of coffee, can pave the way for deeper conversations and connections. The discipline of witness, therefore, is not just about verbal proclamation (though it certainly is that) but also about the demonstration of the gospel through acts of kindness, generosity, and open-hearted hospitality. In doing so, we offer a glimpse of God’s kingdom and invite others to experience the love and grace of Jesus Christ firsthand.
Scripture:
Matt 28:19-20
1 Peter 3:15
1 Cor 2:1-5
Romans 10:14-15
Matt 9:36-58
1 Cor 9:19-23
Rom 1:16-17
Prov 11:30
2 Tim 4:1-5
2 Cor 5:20
Discuss
Understanding of Witness: How do you currently understand and practice the discipline of witness? How does this align with Jesus' command to "preach the gospel to all creation"?
Hospitality as Witness: Discuss ways in which hospitality can be a form of witness. Share personal experiences where hospitality opened doors for gospel conversations.
Challenges in Witnessing: What are some challenges you face in witnessing to others about Jesus? How can you overcome these obstacles?
The Role of Personal Testimony: How does your personal story of encountering Jesus equip you for the discipline of witness? Consider the impact of sharing your testimony with others.
Hospitality in a Hostile Culture: Reflect on the concept of being "a people of hospitality in a culture of hostility." How can you embody this call in your current cultural context?
The Least, the Last, and the Lost: Jesus emphasizes reaching out to "the last, the least, and the lost." Who are these individuals in your community, and how can you extend hospitality and the message of the gospel to them?
Simple Acts of Kindness: How can simple acts of kindness, like cooking a meal for someone, serve as a powerful witness to the gospel? Share ideas for acts of kindness that could open up opportunities for witnessing.
Integrating Witness into Everyday Life: How can you more intentionally integrate the discipline of witness into your daily routines and interactions?
Support in Witnessing: How can your Discipleship Group support each other in practicing the discipline of witness? Discuss ways to encourage and hold each other accountable.
Commitment to Practice: What is one practical step you can commit to this week to practice the discipline of witness? How does this step reflect an act of hospitality and openness to sharing the gospel?
Resources for further study:
The Unbelievable Gospel - Jonathan Dodson
Stay Salt - Rebecca Manley Pippert
The Gospel Comes with a House Key - Rosaria Butterfield
Habits of Grace - David Mathis
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life - Donald S. Whitney
Resources
Lectio Divina: Praying Scripture
Lectio Divina
Lectio Divina is an ancient spiritual practice from the Christian monastic tradition. It is the practice of “divine reading” or praying Scripture. It involves a balance of silence and God’s word, seeking to encounter God as he speaks directly and personally through his word. It involves listening to a short passage, setting aside understanding and analysis, to open oneself to receive God’s word “expectantly and passively” (Benner).
Process
Read the passage four times, paying attention to different aspects of the passage as it is read.
First and Second Reading
Read the passage aloud, twice, attentively listening for words or phrases that stick out. The purpose of this reading is to hear the text and listen for a word or phrase or idea that captures your attention.
Third Reading
Focus your attention on that word, phrase or idea, repeating it to yourself silently as the passage is read aloud a third time. After the third reading and a time of silent reflection, share what you have heard with the group(or journal individually).
Fourth Reading
Listen during the fourth reading on what God is inviting you to do or become. After the reading and a time of silent reflection, share what God is calling to you with the group(or journal individually).
One Anothers
LOVE - “Love one another” (Romans 13v8, 1 Peter 1v22 & 4v8)
DEVOTE - “Be devoted to one another in love” (Romans 12v10)
HONOR - “Honor one another above yourselves” (Romans 10v12)
HARMONIZE - “Live in harmony with one another” (Romans 12v16, 1 Thess. 5v13)
NO JUDGING - “Stop passing judgment on one another” (Romans 14v13)
ACCEPT - “Accept one another” (Romans 15v7)
INSTRUCT - “Instruct one another” (Romans 15v14)
AFFECTIONATELY GREET - “Greet with a holy kiss” (Romans 16v16, 1 Corinthians 16v20)
AGREE - “Agree with one another in what you say” (1 Corinthians 1v10)
HAVE EQUAL CONCERN - “Have equal concern for each other” (1 Corinthians 12v25)
BE OF ONE MIND - “Be of one mind” (2 Corinthians 13v11)
ENCOURAGE - “Encourage one another” (2 Corinthians 13v11, 1 Thessalonians 5v11)
CARRY BURDENS - “Carry each other’s burdens” (Galatians 6v2)
SERVE - “Serve one another humbly in love” (Galatians 5v13, 1 Peter 4v10)
SHOW KINDNESS - “Be kind to one another” (Ephesians 4v32)
SHOW COMPASSION - “Be compassionate to one another” (Ephesians 4v32)
RECITE - “Speak to one another in psalms, hymns and songs from the spirit” (Ephesians 5v19)
SING - “Speak to one another in psalms, hymns and songs from the spirit” (Ephesians 5v19)
SUBMIT - “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ” (Ephesians 5v21)
BEAR WITH - “Bear with one another in love” (Ephesians 4v2, Colossians 3v3)
FORGIVE - “Forgive one another” (Ephesians 4v32, Colossians 3v13)
LOOK TO INTERESTS - “Looking to the interests of others” (Philippians 4v2)
TEACH - “Teach one another” (Colossians 3v16)
ADMONISH - “Admonish one another with all wisdom” (Colossians 3v16)
DO WHAT IS GOOD - “Strive to do what is good for each other” (1 Thessalonians 5v5)
MOTIVATE - “Spur one another on toward love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10v24)
CONFESS SINS - “Confess your sins to each other” (James 5v16)
PRAY FOR HEALING - “Pray for each other so that you may be healed” (James 5v16)
OFFER HOSPITALITY - “Offer hospitality to one another” (1 Peter 4v9)
Gospel-Centered Questions
What do you desire more than anything else?
What do you find yourself daydreaming or fantasizing about?
What lies do you subtly believe that undermine the truth of the gospel?
Are you astonished with the gospel?
Where have you made much of yourself and little of God?
Is technology interrupting your communion with God?
Is work a source of significance? How?
Where do your thoughts drift when you enter a social setting?
What fears keep you from resting in Christ?
What consumes your thoughts when you have alone time?
When people see how you spend money, do they conclude that God is a priceless treasure, exceedingly valuable above all worldly goods?
When people observe your relationship with others, are they alerted to the power of Christ’s forgiveness of you that alone accounts for your forgiveness of them?
If you are complimented for some accomplishment, does the way you receive it drive onlookers to give thanks to the Lord?
Is your use of leisure time or devotion to a hobby or how you speak of your spouse the sort that persuades others that your heart is content with what God is for you in Christ?
Does your reaction to bad news produce in you doubt or fear, or does it inspire confidence to trust in God’s providence
What do you love? Is there something you love more than God or your neighbor?
What do you want? What do you desire? What do you crave, long for, wish? Whose desires do you obey?
What do you seek? What are your personal expectations and goals? What are your intentions? What are you working for?
Where do you bank your hopes? What hope are you working toward or building your life around?
What do you fear? Fear is the flip side of desire. For example, if I desire your acceptance, then I fear your rejection.
What do you feel like doing? This is a synonym for desire. Sometimes we feel like eating a gallon of ice cream, or staying in bed, or refusing to talk, etc.
What do you think you need? In most cases a person's felt needs picture his or her idol cravings. Often what we have called necessities are actually deceptive masters that rule our hearts. They control us because they seem plausible. They don't seem so bad on the surface and it isn't sin to want them. However, I must not be ruled by the "need" to feel good about myself, to feel loved and accepted, to feel some sense of accomplishment, to have financial security, to experience good health, to live a life that is organized, pain-free, and happy.
What are your plans, agendas, strategies, and intentions designed to accomplish? What are you really going after in the situations and relationships of life? What are you really working to get?
What makes you tick? What sun does your planet revolve around? Where do you find your garden of delight? What lights up your world? What food sustains your life? What really matters to you? What are you living for?
Where do you find refuge, safety, comfort, and escape? When you are fearful, discouraged, and upset, where do you run? Do you run to God for comfort and safety or to something else? (To food, to others, to work, to solitude?)What do you trust? Do you functionally rest in the Lord? Do you find your sense of well-being in His presence and promises? Or do you rest in something or someone else?
Whose performance matters to you? This question digs out self-reliance or self- righteousness. It digs out living through another.
Do you get depressed when you are wrong or when you fail? Have you pinned your hopes on another person? Are you too dependent on the performance of your husband, wife, children or friends?
Whom must you please? Whose opinion counts? From whom do you desire approval or fear rejection? Whose value system do you measure yourself against? In whose eyes are you living?
Who are your role models? Who are the people you respect? Who do you want to be like? Who is your "idol"? (In our culture, this word is used for role model.)
What do you desperately hope will last in your life? What do you feel must always be there? What can't you live without
How do you define success or failure in any particular situation? Are your standards God’s standards? Do you define success as the ability to reach your goals? The respect and approval of others? Is it defined by a certain position or the ability to maintain a certain lifestyle? By affluence? By appearance? By acceptance? By location? By accomplishment?
What makes you feel rich, secure, and prosperous? The possession, experience, and enjoyment of what would make you happy? The Bible uses the metaphor of treasure here.
What would bring you the greatest pleasure? The greatest misery?
Whose political power would make everything better for you? Don't just think in a national sense. Think about the workplace and the church. Whose agenda would you like to see succeed and why?
Whose victory and success would make your life happy? How do you define victory and success?
What do you see as your rights? What do you feel entitled to? What do you feel is your right to expect, seek, require, or demand?
In what situations do you feel pressured or tense? When do you feel confident and relaxed? When you are pressured, where do you turn? What do you think about? What do you fear? What do you seek to escape from? What do you escape to?
What do you really want out of life? What payoff are you seeking from the things you do? What is the return you are working for?
What do you pray for? The fact that we pray does not necessarily mean we are where we should be spiritually. On the contrary, prayer can be a key revealer of the idols of our hearts. Prayer can reveal patterns of self-centeredness, self-righteousness, materialism, fear of man, etc.
What do you think about most often? In the morning, to what does your mind drift instinctively? When you are doing a menial task or driving alone in your car, what captures your mind? What is your mindset?
What do you talk about? What occupies your conversations with others? What subjects do you tend to discuss over and over with your friends? The Bible says it is out of the heart that our mouths speak.
How do you spend your time? What are your daily priorities? What things do you invest time in every day?
What are your fantasies? What are your dreams at night? What do you daydream about?
What is your belief system? What beliefs do you hold about life, God, yourself, others? What is your worldview? What is the personal "mythology" that structures the way you interpret things? What are your specific beliefs about your present situation? What do you value?
What are your idols or false gods? In what do you place your trust or set your hopes? What do you consistently turn to or regularly seek? Where do you take refuge? Who is the savior, judge, controller of your world? Whom do you serve? What voice controls you?
In what ways do you live for yourself?
In what ways do you live as a slave to the Enemy? Where are you susceptible to his lies? Where do you give in to deceit?
When do you say, "If only..."? Our "if onlys" actually define our vision of paradise. They picture our biggest fears and greatest disappointments. They can reveal where we tend to envy others. They picture where we wish we could rewrite our life story. They picture where we are dissatisfied and what we crave.
What instinctively feels right to you? What are your opinions -- those things that you feel are true?
(Ref. David Powlison, Jonathan Dodson)
Further Resources
How to Read the Bible Book by Book by Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart – a wonderful guide providing helpful tips and concise summaries of each book of the Bible.
One to One Bible Reading by David Helm
The Walk by Stephen Smallman
Your most important resource: The Bible
Use a translation you understand. The CSB or ESV versions are both accurate and accessible. As a group decide what book of the Bible you will read together. The goal is to keep the groups focused on a chapter or text of the Bible.
FAQs
What is a disciple?
A disciple is someone who follows Jesus by being with him, becoming like him and doing as He did as they bring others to Jesus.
How do Community Groups (CGroups) and Discipleship Groups work together?
CGroups are groups of 10-20 people that meet weekly in people’s homes. Meetings last around 90 minutes. They include prayer and singing and a study of the Bible helping us to apply the previous Sunday’s sermon to our lives. Men and women of every age and background in the church are encouraged to mix and enjoy fellowship together.
Discipleship Groups are more flexible and focused, intimate gatherings of 3-4 people (same gender) of your choosing. They are intended to provide an environment in which we’re at ease sharing and challenging each other about personal and sensitive issues. Discipleship Groups are about intimacy and affinity; CGroups are about interacting with men and women of every age and background, using our gifts to bless and minister to each other and corporately engage in mission together.
Who leads?
Our desire is to encourage every person to take ownership of the call to make disciples by taking responsibility for helping others to become more like Christ. In this case we ask for each member of the discipleship group to take collective ownership.
Why groups of 3s and 4s?
We recommend Discipleship Groups be groups of three or four to help develop closer and more intimate relationships and to facilitate greater flexibility.
How frequent?
Discipleship Groups require us to get comfortable getting into each other’s lives and sharing our hearts. We recommend weekly or every other week.
I don’t feel equipped to address difficult issues – what should I do?
If issues are raised in your Discipleship Groups that you feel too inexperienced to address, please confidentially refer the matter first to your Community Group Leader(s), or where appropriate, to your Pastor.