November 16, 2008 Message

Sorry, there is no manuscript for today's message which was given "off the cuff" as we concluded our special study of the Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations. Special thanks to Bob, Don, April, and Sally who each gave a personal witness to the fruits of the Spirit.

Bulletin Handout Today

THE FIVE PRACTICES OF FRUITFUL CONGREGATIONS

“Welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” –Romans 1:7

WHAT IS RADICAL HOSPITALITY?
It is the hospitality of Christ - to invite, welcome, receive, and care for those who are strangers so that they might find a spiritual home and discover for themselves the unending richness of life in Christ. We are called to pray, plan, prepare, and work toward the purpose of helping others receive what we have received in Christ.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. Did you practice Christ-centered hospitality in church today?
2. Is hospitality your responsibility or someone else’s?
3. What might you do in the way of hospitality next Sunday?

Because Your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise You. I will lift up my hands and call on Your name. —Psalm 63:1,4

WHAT IS PASSIONATE WORSHIP?
It is a means of grace through which we can grow spiritually by connecting with God. It includes prayer, praise, song, the reading and interpretation of scripture and most essentially, our response. Passionate worship is essential to the life of the Church, and is necessary to Christian fellowship and spiritual growth.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. Did you feel connected with God in today’s worship?
2. What were your expectations concerning worship?
3. How will you contribute to the worship experience of others?

“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.”–Acts 2:42

WHAT IS INTENTIONAL FAITH DEVELOPMENT?
It describes the practice of congregations that view the ministries of Christian education and formation, small group work, and Bible study as absolutely critical to their mission. Christian disciples work to develop their faith and grow in Christ-likeness through study and learning together.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. Has your faith grown this past week because of something intention you have done?
2. Did you participate in a study/small group this week?
3. What might you do to intentionally grow you faith?

“Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these
who are members of my family, you did it to me.”–Matthew 25:40

WHAT IS RISK-TAKING MISSION AND SERVICE?
It includes the projects, the efforts, and work people do to make a positive difference in the lives of others for the purposes of Christ. It is work that stretches people, causing them to do something for the good of others that they would never have considered doing if it were not for their relationship with Christ and a desire to serve him.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. Does our church provide opportunities for mission/service?
2. Did you serve others for Christ this past week?
3. How might you serve others through this church?

“You will be enriched in every way for your great generosity, which will produce thanksgiving to God through us.” –2 Corinthians 9:11

WHAT IS EXTRAVAGANT GENEROSITY?
It emphasizes mission, purpose, and life-changing results. Giving generously reprioritizes lives and strengthens faith. Instead of giving God the leftovers at the end of the month tithing puts God first by saying, “God really is Lord of our lives, and we do not give into society’s expectations, our possessions, or our appetites.”

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. Does our church encourage proportional giving and tithing as a means to strengthen faith?
2. Do you tithe (give 10% of income) or give proportionally?
3. How might your giving reflect God’s gifts to you?