website: discipleship ministries website: facebook ... · episode 6 – discipleship system ....

Pilot Episode

Episode 1 – Hospitality

Episode 2 – Reflecting the Community

Episode 3 – Our Purpose

Episode 4 – Evangelism

Episode 5 – Understanding the Who (Letting The Who Guide Us)

Episode 6 – Discipleship System

Episode 7 – Innovation

Episode 8 – Small Groups

Episode 9 – Children in Church (Children & Families)

Episode 10 – Stewardship

Episode 11 – Committees That Work

Episode 12 – Embracing a Legacy

Episode 13 – Younger Leaders

Episode 14 – The Vote

Episode 15 – Resurrection

1

This group study is designed for a 45-60 minute discussion after viewing the film.

The “Pilot”, as well as all Chuck Knows Church videos, can be viewed at www.ChuckKnowsChurch.com.

Introduction:

The Committee is a humorous and poignant online series that examines the struggles congregation’s face as they look toward a preferred future. Using real world topics, The Committee is sure to open discussion in your congregation.

The series follows Park Grove Community Church, a make-believe urban U.S. congregation, which has lost its pastor and is closing its doors, unless it reinvents itself. Park Grove is faced with a difficult decision. They seemingly have tried everything humanly possible. Should it close? Things are so bad that a retired pastor didn’t show up to help them decide the congregation’s future – so it’s up to the last remaining members to discover it for themselves.

Although some of the characters and situations are simplified to accommodate the format, they may feel familiar. Your congregation may not be facing closure, may have a wonderful pastor, and be a vital and growing church. However, all congregations face the issues addressed in The Committee at some point.

Have an open conversation about the issues covered in the series.

Chuck Knows Church Resources

Website: www.ChuckKnowsChurch.comDiscipleship Ministries Website: www.UMCdiscipleship.orgFacebook: www.facebook.com/ChuckKnowsChurchTwitter: @ChuckKnowsInstagram: ChuckKnowsChurch

Suggest ways on Twitter to save Park Grove. Use this Hashtag #SaveParkGrove

CHUCK KNOWS CHURCH The Committee: Pilot

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Pilot

2

> Watch The Committee: Pilot (15 minutes)

> Starters (15 minutes)

The Characters: Match the each quote with the character who spoke it.(give participants 5 minutes to answer silently, then work together to get the right answers)

Mrs. Beasley A. “Should we start with a prayer?”

Mr. Riley B. “Let’s keep the doors wide open.”

Chuck C. “What haven’t we tried already?”

Daniel Sanchez D. “Why are you guys meeting in the basement?”

Hannah E. “No one ever talks about moving forward.”

Glenda F. “Humanly possible?”

Discuss with one or two people, and then share with the whole group:• What do these quotes reveal about each character?• How do these quotes speak to your church’s current situation?• With which character do you most closely identify?

> Deep Change or Slow Death (10 minutes)

Robert E. Quinn, in Deep Change: Discovering the Leader Within, reveals a vital key to understanding life. Either we are undergoing deep change or slow death. He says:

“Each of us has to potential to change the world. Because the price of change is so high, we seldom take on the challenge. Our fears blind us to the possibilities of excellence – and yet another formidable insight. That insight concerns the price of not making deep change. That price is the choice of slow death, a meaningless and frustrating experience enmeshed in fear, anger, and helplessness, while moving surely toward what is most feared.”

Quinn, Deep Change, p. 11

Quinn reminds us that no matter how well we are doing as individuals or as a congregation we must constantly ask if we are willing to embrace change or accept slow death.

Discuss with three or four people, and then share with the whole group:• Why do you think Park Grove found itself facing a decision to close or stay open?• In what ways does Park Grove reflect your congregation’s current situation? • If your church is doing well, what lessons do you learn from The Committee?

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Pilot

3

Permission is granted to duplicate this study guide. Unless otherwise indicated, scripture quotations are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. © 2015 Discipleship Ministries of The United Methodist Church. Prepared by Craig Kennet Miller – [email protected]. www.ChuckKnowsChurch.com

> Reflection on the Bible (20 minutes)

Ask a member to read aloud the following passage from Ezekiel 37:1-6.Ask another person to read the Background.

The hand of the Lord came upon me, and he brought me out by the spirit of the Lord and set me down in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones. He led me all round them; there were very many lying in the valley, and they were very dry. He said to me, ‘Mortal, can these bones live?’ I answered, ‘O Lord God, you know.’ Then he said to me, ‘Prophesy to these bones, and say to them: O dry bones, hear the word of the Lord. Thus says the Lord God to these bones: I will cause breath to enter you, and you shall live. I will lay sinews on you, and will cause flesh to come upon you, and cover you with skin, and put breath in you, and you shall live; and you shall know that I am the Lord.’

Background:Ezekiel’s vision is one of restoration. The dry bones represent an existence without hope or a future. God’s desire is for the dry bones to come back to life. But it’s not enough for the physical body to be put back together with muscles, organs, and skin. The body is not truly alive until its filled with the breath of life.

Questions for Discussion: If your group has more than seven members, divide into groups of four to discuss the Scripture passage.

• What do you think the dry bones represent?• What does it mean to be filled with the breath of life?• What are you doing to connect to the source of life?

Making it Personal:The Committee challenges us to ask hard questions about the current state of our souls and to take a fresh look at the spiritual life of our congregation. We can see ourselves in each of the characters. In Mrs. Beasley we find a desire for healing. In Daniel we see a willingness to move forward. In Mr. Riley we capture our tiredness when we wonder if it is still worth it. In Hannah we discover a connection to “my” church. In Miss Glenda we find a desire to serve. And in Chuck we see a desire to put our knowledge into action.

• What does this say about your connection to your church? • In what ways is God speaking to you this day?

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Pilot

1


The “Pilot”, as well as all Chuck Knows Church videos, can be viewed at www.ChuckKnowsChurch.com.

Introduction:








CHUCK KNOWS CHURCH The Committee: Hospitality

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 1

2

> Watch The Committee: Hospitality (15 minutes)


In The Committee, Chuck uses the analogy of a restaurant. Using the questions below, talk about going to your favorite restaurant. (give participants 5 minutes to answer silently, then break up into groups of two or three)

What do the signs say in the parking lot?

Who greets you?

What is the decor and atmosphere?

Who else eats there?

What’s on the menu?

Do you know the owner?

Discuss with one or two people, and then share with the whole group:• What role does hospitality play in this experience? Why do you go back?• What does this say about hospitality in your church?

> Hospitality Defined (10 minutes)

Hospitality is not the work of a committee, but a lifestyle. Because the church is the body of Christ, we are called by God to welcome all people, especially those living around us and those that others have forgotten. The ministry of welcoming is the responsibility of the entire church family and a way of ministering to people. This happens seven days a week wherever we are.

Discuss with three or four people, and then share with the whole group about your church:• Have you ever been embarrassed to invite a

friend?• When was the first time you felt welcomed?

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 1

3


Ask a member to read aloud the following passage from 1 John 4:7-11, 18-21Ask another person to read the Background.

Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love. God’s love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Beloved, since God loved us so much, we also ought to love one another. - I John 4:7-11

There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear; for fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not reached perfection in love. We love because he first loved us. Those who say, ‘I love God’, and hate their brothers or sisters, are liars; for those who do not love a brother or sister whom they have seen, cannot love God whom they have not seen. The commandment we have from him is this: those who love God must love their brothers and sisters also. - I John 4:18-21

Background:Hospitality is tied to our experience of God’s love. More than an emotion, love is seen in God’s radical action of sending Jesus into the world so we could find true life. What stops love? Fear and hatred. Three phrases in the passage speak of why we need to conquer our suspicions and love our neighbors.

1. “Perfect love cast out fear.” 2. “We love because he first loved us.” 3. “Those who love God must love their brothers and sisters also.”


• What keeps you from welcoming those who are different from you?• How does God’s love enable you to conquer fear, suspicion, and anxiety about your

neighbor? • When can “welcoming” become manipulation of a church guest?

Making it Personal:The Committee: Hospitality draws us into a discussion of how we live out our faith in our daily living. Chuck’s phrase “From soup to nuts” drives home the point that hospitality is not the job of a committee, but is seen in the personal and congregational lifestyles of those who are part of the community of faith.

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 1

4


The concluding prayer says it all, “God, please send us the people that nobody else wants and let us demonstrate your hospitality to all. And help us to see the people that live around our church so that our invitation will be with an open heart. Create a place of acceptance so that all feel welcomed just as Christ welcomed us. Amen.”

• What does this say about how God’s grace informs the way we welcome others? • In what way is God speaking to you this day?

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 1

1


All Chuck Knows Church videos can be viewed at:www.ChuckKnowsChurch.com

Introduction:








CHUCK KNOWS CHURCH The Committee: Reflecting the Community

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 2

2

> Watch The Committee: Reflecting the Community

(15 minutes)


As Chuck is outside the church he encounters a man who invites him to think about Park Grove and its place in the community. With your group make a list about your community using these two categories.

WHAT USED TO BE WHAT IT IS TODAY

Discuss with one or two people, and then share with the whole group:• What do the answers to “What Used to Be” reveal about the history of your

community?• What do the answers to “What it is Today” say about what has changed?

On the arrow, mark where you think your church is today. Is it living in “what used to be?” Does it reflect where you community is today? Or is it somewhere in-between?

WHAT USED WHAT IT IS

TO BE TODAY

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 2

3

> Island or a Pond? (10 minutes)

There is a remarkable difference between an island and a pond. An island has its own ecosystem, is rarely affected by the ocean that surrounds it (hurricane or tsunami), and is independent.

A pond is in the center of an ecosystem that is connected to the land that surrounds it. It is the source of water for animals and vegetation. It is very vulnerable to its surroundings.

Churches often operate as islands or as ponds. “Island Churches” have little connection to the surrounding community — church is viewed by its members simply as a building where ministry happens, and a majority of the members do not live in the immediate community. “Pond Churches,” on the other hand, are deeply connected to the surrounding communities, are a source of life to the people who live around them, and ministry occurs both inside and outside the church building.

Discuss with three or four people, and then share with the whole group:• What are some examples of ways Park Grove was acting like an island.• What are examples of the ways they were thinking like a pond.• Do the members of your church see it as a pond or an island?


Ask a member to read aloud the following passages from Jeremiah 29:7 and Matthew 5:14-16. Ask another person to read the Background section.

“Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” - Jeremiah 29:7

‘You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hidden. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven. - Matthew 5:14-16

AN ISLAND

• Independent

• Isolated

• Insulated

A POND

• Source of life

• Connected

• Vulnerable

Is your church...

or

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 2

4


Background:The word of God was given to the Hebrews held captive in Babylon. These were words of survival and wisdom. If the Hebrews sought what was good for the city, they too would prosper. Just as bridges and cities go together, churches and communities are linked. God’s people are to be connected to the city, the community, and the world.

During the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus challenged his followers to be the light of the world. Light reveals the truth, spreads warmth, and offers hope to those who are in darkness.


• What do the words from Jeremiah say to you about your connection to your city?• What does it mean for your church to be the light of the world?

Making it Personal:Who is Tony? Or is it Toni? When we see the skeleton at the end of this episode we don’t know who this person was. Race, gender, and age are not readily apparent. Chuck says, “God loves Tony(i), period. So we should too.” In this statement we find a powerful message of love and grace. After all...

God

loves

each

of

us.

Period.

And it’s that love that compels us to “love our neighbors as we love ourselves.”

• What does this say about the ministry of your church? • In what ways is God speaking to you this day?

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 2

1



Introduction:








CHUCK KNOWS CHURCH The Committee: Our Purpose

sdowney

Typewritten Text

sdowney

Typewritten Text

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 3

2

> Watch The Committee: Our Purpose (15 minutes)


Sometimes we mistake activity or busy-ness for purpose. Sometimes we focus so much time and energy on What we do and not enough time on Why we do it. Sometimes we are mindlessly going through the motions – doing what we do, staying busy, but we have lost our purpose – we have lost a clear understanding of Why we do what we do.

In the church – the why is the most important thing behind all that we do. If we are not clear about the why, we cannot authentically do ministry.

WRITE DOWN THE “WHY” OF CHURCH FOR YOU:

Why did you become a part of this church?

Why did you stay?

Discuss with one or two people, and then share with the whole group:• Share you answers to the Why of church.• How does what others share help you think about the purpose of your church?

Park Grove listed their most important aspects of church:• Children & Youth • Empowering Laity• Small Groups • Pastoral Leadership• Service in Community/Missions

Using newsprint, a black board, or a whiteboard, list 4-5 aspects that you all agree are the most important ministries of your church.

Discuss with three or four people, and then share with the whole group:• Do we believe all of these Why’s?• If so, how will it improve What we do?

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 3

3



Ask members of your group to read aloud the following passages from Genesis and Matthew. Ask another person to read the Background.

Now the Lord said to Abram, ‘Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you, and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and the one who curses you I will curse; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.’ - Genesis 12: 1-3

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. - Matthew 28: 19–20

Background:The promise made by God to Abram in Genesis that “in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed” is now fulfilled in the resurrection of Jesus. As disciples of Jesus we now have the opportunity to invite others to live as one of the baptized who are guided by the Holy Spirit, are taught to live as doers of the word of God, and to obey God’s commands.

John Wesley, the co-founder of the Methodist movement in England wrote this in his Journal on June 11, 1739. “I look upon all the world as my parish; thus far I mean, that in whatever part of it I am, I judge it meet, right, and my bounden duty to declare unto all that are willing to hear, the glad tidings of salvation.” Wesley reminds us that wherever we are in the world we are to share the love and grace of Jesus Christ.


• What does this say about the ultimate “Why”?• What does it mean for your church to “Go”?

Making it Personal:During this episode Hannah makes this confessional:

“Why are we here? . . . For me it is because Jesus has become real. The more I learn, the more different I feel on the inside. This Jesus works. I really wish the church worked too.”

• What does this say about your connection to your church? • In what ways is God speaking to you this day?

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 3

1



Introduction:








CHUCK KNOWS CHURCH The Committee: Evangelism

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 4

2

> Watch The Committee: Evangelism (15 minutes)


What are your stereotypes of evangelism?

1.

2.

3.

Discuss with one or two people, and then share with the whole group:• What do these stereotypes have in common?• How do they hinder you from sharing your faith story with other people?

> Evangelistic Lens (10 minutes)

In this episode Chuck says, “What if we looked at everything in church through this lens?” He asks these questions:

• Are we sharing God’s love? • Are we providing ways for people to connect with God?• Are we focusing on ourselves or do we care about others?• Didn’t God create the church to be a witness?

Using newsprint, a black board, or a whiteboard, list four or five other statements that capture the idea that evangelism is an opportunity shared by everyone connected to your church.

Discuss with three or four people, and then share with the whole group:• In what ways are you a witness to those who know you? (family, friends, co-workers)• How does your church support or hinder your ability to share your faith?


Ask members of your group to read aloud the following passages from Luke and Matthew. Ask another person to read the Background.

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 4

3


He said therefore, ‘What is the kingdom of God like? And to what should I compare it? It is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in the garden; it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches.’ – Luke 13: 18-19

Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and curing every disease and every sickness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest.’ – Matthew 9:35-38

Background:The point of the story of the mustard seed is a powerful one - from the smallest effort great things can happen. When the planter sows the seed great potential is unleashed. When we share our faith, we are in effect, sowing seeds that can lead to lives transformed through the love and grace of Jesus Christ.

Jesus was motivated by his compassion. He saw that without God people were without focus and direction, easily manipulated by the powerful and persuasive. His call for labourers to go into the harvest is one founded on giving people new hope and life.


• What do these two passages say about the motivation for evangelism?• What do these say about the goal of sharing ones faith?

Making it Personal:In the end of the video, Daniel, Mrs. Beasley, and Chuck share these thoughts:

There’s a joy and passion in all of us here. We’re sharing that with each other because we are learning to trust:

• Sharing genuine experiences, coming from that place of caring for each other.• Inviting others to experience the love of God in Jesus Christ for themselves.• Because evangelism isn’t something we HAVE to do, it’s something we GET to do.

1. What does this say about the way your church shares faith? 2. In what way is God speaking to you this day?

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 4

1



Introduction:








CHUCK KNOWS CHURCH The Committee: Letting The Who Guide Us

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 5

2

> Watch The Committee: Letting the Who Guide Us

(15 minutes)


Who’s Living in Whoville?In this episode, Chuck takes on the character of a Who, from the popular book Horton Hears a Who by Dr. Seuss. In the book (and the movie), the Who people are so small nobody knows they are there. Use this chart to ask who is active in your church and who is living in your community. Use U.S. Census data (see below) to record the percentages for your community.

CATEGORIES YOUR CHURCH YOUR COMMUNITYPersons under 5Persons under 18Persons 65 years and overFemale personsBlack aloneAmerican Indian/Alaskan NativeAsian aloneNative Hawaiian/Pacific IslanderTwo or More RacesHispanic or LatinoWhite alone, not Hispanic(do not use “white alone,” which is listed first)

Foreign BornLanguage other than EnglishBelow Poverty RateGo to www.census.gov and type in the zip code of your church in the search box (top right) and it will take you to Quick Facts. There you will find info about your community.

Discuss with one or two people, and then share with the whole group:• What does this information tell you about who is living in your community?• What other differences do you see that is not reflected in these numbers?• What changes have you seen since you lived in your community?• How well does your church reflect your community?

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 5

3

> The Dress Code (15 minutes)

Churches have cultural norms that guide the way people live and work together. One of the easiest ways to see this is the dress code for what is acceptable in worship. More than likely no one has written down the rules, but everyone figures it out the minute they walk into your worship space. So work together to answer these questions:

1. What is the dress code for people who attend worship? (if you have more than one worship service take a look at the dress code for each one)

2. How has the dress code changed over the last 20 years?3. How do people who are leading worship (preacher, liturgist, musicians, ushers, etc.)

reflect what is acceptable?4. What Biblical values underlie your dress code?5. What do the answers to these say about who is welcome to worship with you?


Ask a member to read aloud the following passage from Mark 8:22-26.Ask another person to read the Background.

“They came to Bethsaida. Some people brought a blind man to him and begged him to touch him. He took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village; and when he had put saliva on his eyes and laid his hands on him, he asked him, “Can you see anything?” And the man looked up and said, “I can see people, but they look like trees, walking.” Then Jesus laid his hands on his eyes again; and he looked intently and his sight was restored, and he now saw everything clearly.” - Mark 8:22-26

Background:In many ways we are like the man who sees people, but they look like trees. We see them in the grocery store, in restaurants, and walking on the street, but we really don’t know who they are or what are their hopes and dreams. In fact, many of us don’t even know the names of our neighbors. We are more connected to people online than we are to people who live just down the street. To truly see we need a second touch from Jesus, one that wakes us up to really see the people whom we encounter every day.


• What does this story say to you about how you are seeing the people around you?• In what ways do you or your church need a second touch?

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 5

4


Making it Personal:In this episode Chuck says, “The WHO becomes our mission, which leads us to the HOW, how we do church.”


sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 5

1



Introduction:








CHUCK KNOWS CHURCH The Committee: Discipleship System

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 6

2

> Watch The Committee: Discipleship System

(15 minutes)


What does it mean to be a “real” disciple of Jesus Christ?

1.

2.

3.

Discuss with one or two people, and then share with the whole group:• How did the first disciples in the Bible live out their faith?• How do you show others that you are a follower of Jesus?

> Discipleship Defined (15 minutes)

In this episode Mrs. Beasley says, “A disciple of Jesus is a grace filled follower of Christ who puts faith into action.”

Two other quotes from this episode stand out:

“It’s a process not a destination.”

“It’s a lifelong journey”

Discuss with one or two people, and then share with the whole group:• How does your church define discipleship?• What ministries, opportunities, and experiences do you offer to encourage people in

their spiritual journeys? • How do these ministries work together to guide people in a discipleship system:

Worship, small groups, Sunday School, children’s and youth ministries, Wednesday night learning, missional outreach. What ministries in your church work together to create a discipleship system?

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 6

3



Ask a member to read aloud the following passage from Matthew 28:17-20.Ask another person to read the Background.

When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teach them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” - Matthew 28:17-20

Background:In the concluding passage from the Gospel of Matthew, we have these words from Jesus given to the disciples after his resurrection. Notice the words of action – “go”, “make”, “baptizing”, “teach”, and “obey.” The passage ends with the promise that the resurrected Jesus would be with them “to the end of the age.”


• How does this passage further define the word “discipleship”?• Which of the action words speak most strongly to you?

Making it Personal:As Park Grove Community Church worked together, Chuck said, “Every organization or business or team has a system in place to help them reach their goals”. As they discussed this idea they defined their discipleship system as follows:

Hospitality: Inviting and gathering people into the body of Christ.Opportunity: Deepening people’s beliefs and commitment to Christ.Purpose: Bearing fruit through the ministry of the church.Engagement: Going out into the world to offer God’s love.

1. How do these all work together?

2. How does this help you think about the discipleship system of your church?

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 6

1


All Chuck Knows Church videos can be viewed and downloaded at:www.ChuckKnowsChurch.com

Introduction:








CHUCK KNOWS CHURCH

The Committee: Innovation

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 7

2

> Watch The Committee: Innovation (15 minutes)


Use the chart below to ask, “What is the difference between connecting vs. coming to church?” (use newsprint, blackboard, or whiteboard to record your thoughts)

CONNECTING COMING TO CHURCH1. 1.

2. 2.

3. 3.

4. 4.

5. 5.

Discuss with one or two people, and then share with the whole group:• What is the difference between these two lists?• How does connecting to people encourage us to connect to God?• What values develop long-term relationships and commitments?

> What is Innovation? (15 minutes)

In this episode Chuck says, “Based on our values we look at what’s working and have the courage to change what isn’t.”

Innovation is more than making a change or getting rid of the old. Innovation is a way of looking at our ministries honestly and evaluating what we can improve and planning new ideas.

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 7

3

Discuss with one or two people, and then share with the whole group:• What primary value underlies everything you do? (Park Grove says, “Connecting

people to God” is their primary value)• How do you evaluate every ministry you do in a way that does not blame the church

leaders but objectively looks at how each ministry reflects your primary value?• How does your church take risks and then evaluate what you do so you know what

worked and what needs improvement?


Ask a member to read aloud the following passage from John 21:4-8.Ask another person to read the Background.

Just after daybreak, Jesus stood on the beach; but the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to them, ‘Children, you have no fish, have you?’ They answered him, ‘No.’ He said to them, ‘Cast the net to the right side of the boat, and you will find some.’ So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in because there were so many fish. That disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, ‘It is the Lord!’ When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on some clothes, for he was naked, and jumped into the lake. But the other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, only about a hundred yards off. – John 21:4-8

Background:The disciples had just been through a traumatic series of events that led to the crucifixion of Jesus. They fled Jerusalem and went back to what was most familiar and comfortable to them – they went fishing. As they returned to shore without catching a thing, a man called out to them and told them to do something quite unusual, “Cast the net to the right side of the boat.” Galilean fisherman always cast their nets on the left side of the boat, so this person asked them to do something quite radical by asking them to cast on the other side. Two things happened as a result. First, their nets were filled with fish. Second, they recognized the resurrected Jesus.


• Why is it easier to do what is comfortable?• What is on the right side of your congregation’s boat?• How do you recognize Jesus in the midst of doing something new?

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 7

4


Making it Personal:RILEY: “Change. It’s like trying some new-fangled, innovative whatchamagigit to explain why the church is failing. And I’m not sure if that’s the intention of church in the first place.”

HANNAH: “Of course it is. Jesus, the original ‘new-fangled, innovative change-agent.’”

• What does this say about the ministry of your church?• In what ways is God speaking to you this day?

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 7

1



Introduction:








CHUCK KNOWS CHURCH

The Committee: Small Groups

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 8

2

> Watch The Committee: Small Groups (15 minutes)


In this Episode, Glenda points out that Jesus started a small group that he called his disciples. What do you think was the purpose of this first small group?

Discuss with one or two people, and then share with the whole group:• How does being in a small group help a person grow in his or her faith?• Share an example of how a small group helped you grow in your spiritual life.

> Small Groups (15 minutes)

The Wesleyan movement was based on small groups that lovingly held its members accountable for spiritual growth and Christian living. The Class Meeting system was the central place where Christians talked about their faith and were given opportunities to share their lives in community. Today, churches start small groups to increase Christian learning, and hold each other accountable to live the Christian life.

There are a number of types of small groups in churches. Each type has an important part to play in church life.

ACCOUNTABLEMembers hold each other accountable for spiritual growth through practicing the means of grace.

ADMINISTRATIVECommittees, Boards, and Teams work together to support the ongoing ministry of the church.

JESUSCHRIST

LEARNINGMembers primarily gather to learn about the Bible or how to live the Christian faith. Sunday School Classes typically are in this category.

SERVICEMembers focus on outreach and missions to the community. These types of small groups tend to be short term task groups.

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 8

3

Discuss these ideas of how to use small groups in your church:• Is prayer and scripture reading (at least 15 minutes) part of every small group in your

church? (Accountable, Service, Learning, Administrative)• Do you gather the leaders of your small groups together at least four times a year for

teaching, encouragement, and spiritual formation?• Do you see your Administrative committees, boards, and teams as Small Groups where

spiritual formation is key component of what you do together?• Are children and youth given opportunities to lead and have small group experiences? • Do you regularly create new small groups for newcomers so they can find a connection

to others? Do your current small groups have an empty chair to remember to welcome others?


Ask a member to read aloud the following passage from Acts 2:46-47Ask another person to read the Background.

Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.

Background:The narrative in Acts 2 gives us our best picture of how the first Christians lived out their faith. Two gatherings were central to their faith. First, they worshiped together. As they gathered in the temple their focus was on God, remembering the history of their faith, and celebrating their faith traditions. Second, they met in each other’s homes where they broke bread together. This original version of what we call small groups enabled them to focus on each other. In the small group they learned each other’s history and developed long-term relationships based on their shared experience of prayer, support, and encouragement.


• In what ways does this pattern of worship and small groups help a person’s faith journey?

• How does your church create opportunities for people to gather in small groups?

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 8

4


Making it Personal:When the quilt that Glenda made with her small group is turned over, Chuck says, “You know it may be difficult, messy, even downright ugly to connect people in the church. But when its done right, it’s beautiful, isn’t it? A strong fabric within the church. And we as a church are better for it.”

Daniel replies, “I can see that now. Small groups are not about making a church bigger but about its members deepening their faith in God.”

• What does this say about the importance of small groups? • In what way is God speaking to you this day?

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 8

1



Introduction:








CHUCK KNOWS CHURCH

The Committee: Children & Families

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 9

2

> Watch The Committee: Children & Families (15 minutes)


List five ways you believe a church fruitfully engages with children and families.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Discuss with one or two people, and then share with the whole group:• Of the five ways you listed, which do you think is the most important for faith

formation? Why?• Which is the way that your congregation is most gifted to engage with children and

families? • What does a church offer children and families that is different from what community

organizations offer?

> Welcoming Children (15 minutes)

We live in a world that offers children and families more choices of activities and experiences than at any point in history, and congregations are often competing with those opportunities. Today’s parents feel the pressure for their children to do more at earlier ages so that their children have greater chances of success. Faith formation is one more thing for those parents to check off their to-do lists, or even leave off the schedule entirely. Some parents even see the church as irrelevant in a time when community can be found in a variety of places.

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 9

3

Then we have some congregations that are saying, “We don’t have any children here,” but surrounding them are schools and neighborhoods filled with children and families who have physical, emotional, and spiritual needs that are not being met. Even within our own congregations, it is easy to forget that the primary place for faith formation is in the family. But parents often feel ill-equipped to guide their children in the faith. Congregations may assume that parents and guardians are churched and that they had a positive experience in church during their formational years. However, this may not be the reality for many adults who have responsibility for the growth and development of children.

Congregations wanting to attract children often make think they need to plan high-entertainment activities, but just entertaining children deprives them of the opportunity to engage with others in a way that is transformational. Congregations that reach out and discover the needs of children in the community can offer the love of Christ that is transformational for communities and the children who live within them. Questions for Discussion:If your group has more than seven members, divide into groups of four to discuss the Scripture passage below.

• How are you helping adult members of families understand their role in the spiritual development of their children?

• In what ways can you connect with the children in the surrounding community? • What is the best way for you to gauge the needs of families in the surrounding

community?


Ask a member to read aloud the following passage from Mark 10:13-16Ask another person to read the Background.

People were bringing little children to him in order that he might touch them; and the disciples spoke sternly to them. But when Jesus saw this, he was indignant and said to them, ‘Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.’ And he took them up in his arms, laid his hands on them, and blessed them.

Background:“And he took them up in his arms, laid his hands on them, and blessed them.” We read this text and immediately see the value Jesus placed on children and those new to faith. We also see how important it was for families to give their children the best there was to

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 9

4


offer. The disciples reacted in a way that is similar to how people experience the church today. They created a barrier that only certain people could cross, and this did not include children. However, there is a movement here that Jesus repeated throughout his ministry. He breaks down barriers. He takes children into his arms. Jesus reaches out to them and offers them love, protection, nurture, and God.


• Who in your congregation and community wants to see Jesus lift up their children and bless them?

• Can you identify your church in this text? Are you the disciples? Are you Jesus? Are you the people? How do you know?

• How might your congregation reach out to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of children and families in the surrounding community?

> Making it Personal (5 minutes)

At one point in this episode, Chuck says, “But look first at our congregation, our gifts. What can we do? What are the needs of the community? We can’t out-entertain Disney, but we can out-relationship them.”

• How are you building deep relationships with families in your community?• What is the most important idea you learned from this episode?

Taking it Further:Be sure to check out these websites for more information about ministry with children and families:

Ministry with Children: http://www.umcdiscipleship.org/leadership-resources/childrenMinistry with Families: http://www.umcdiscipleship.org/leadership-resources/intergenerational-family-ministries Passing it On (book) by Kara Oliver: http://bookstore.upperroom.org/Products/1497/passing-it-on.aspx

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 9

1



Introduction:








CHUCK KNOWS CHURCH

The Committee: Stewardship

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 10

2

> Watch The Committee: Stewardship (15 minutes)


The tagline for the stewardship banner for Park Grove Church is “God Knows What You Can Afford.” Few people would say that motivating people through guilt or a sense of duty is effective, so why is this a strategy that is used widely? Create three campaign slogans in each of the categories below:

Guilt, Duty, Obligation

1.

2.

3.

Hope, Joy, Compassion

1.

2.

3.

Discuss with one or two people:• Share your slogans with the group. Put a “happy face” next to the one that is, for you,

the best motivator; put a “sad face” next to the one that motivates you the least.• Which category do you think you’re most likely to hear in your local church when it

comes time to talk about stewardship?

> Stewardship Defined (15 minutes)

In some congregations, the word stewardship is all about how the church gets money to pay the bills, and that is a shame. Stewardship is about so much more. Funding the mission and ministry of a local church is important, especially if lives are being touched and transformed by the things your church is doing.

Stewardship is about helping people live faithfully and generously with all God has given. It is about shaping generous disciples. (Hey, that’s tweetable!)

Stewardship is about being faithful with more than money.

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 10

3

Discuss with one or two people, and then share with the whole group:• What are we called to be good stewards of, besides our money?• In your church, do people ever talk about money when they are not asking people to

give it to the church? In the context of tithing (or percentage giving), do they ever talk about how to be faithful with the part we keep for our own needs and wants?

• When Chuck asks, “So at its heart, what is stewardship really all about?” Daniel answers, “It’s about relationships.” What does that mean?


Ask a member to read aloud the following passage from Mark 10:17-22 (NRSV).Ask another person to read the Background.

17 As he was setting out on a journey, a man ran up and knelt before him, and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 18 Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. 19 You know the commandments: ‘You shall not murder; You shall not commit adultery; You shall not steal; You shall not bear false witness; You shall not defraud; Honor your father and mother.’” 20 He said to him, “Teacher, I have kept all these since my youth.” 21 Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said, “You lack one thing; go, sell what you own, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” 22 When he heard this, he was shocked and went away grieving, for he had many possessions.

Background:In the Hebrew culture in which Jesus lived, keeping the law and commandments was a big deal. Sometimes it is easy for Christians to think that Jesus didn’t have much regard for the laws we find in the Old Testament, but the Scripture doesn’t bear that out. Jesus did challenge the Pharisees and the Scribes, who used the law to beat people down and raise themselves over others. What was probably most radical in Jesus’ teaching was lifting commandments to love others – especially the least, the lowest, and the lost – above other laws and commandments.

So we shouldn’t be surprised when Jesus’ response to this man’s question about inheriting eternal life is to cite the commandments. It would seem this rich man has that area covered…or does he? The commandment that is not mentioned is the one about having “no other Gods” and Jesus senses that there may be another god in this man’s life – his possessions. It appears that letting go of possessions and wealth is a price too high, one this man is not willing to pay. The cost of discipleship is high.

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 10

4



• What do you think this man is really seeking when he asks Jesus, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?”

• Reread Mark 10:21. Why is that verse so important? Why should it be important to all of us?

• Do you believe that to “inherit eternal life” you just need to keep the commandments, to follow rules, to be good? Is there something in your life that is keeping you from giving more of yourself to following Jesus?

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 10

1



Introduction:








CHUCK KNOWS CHURCH The Committee: Committees that Work

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 11

2

> Watch The Committee: Committees that Work

(15 minutes)


In this episode Chuck is in crisis over his involvement in the committee. He is ready to give it all up. Using Patrick Lencioni’s list below from his book, Five Dysfunctions of a Team, discuss moments in this episode where these dysfunctional attitudes were seen.

Dysfunctional Attitudes Where in this episode did you see these?1. Absence of trust2. Fear of conflict3. Lack of commitment4. Avoidance of accountability5. Inattention to results

Discuss with one or two people:• Share your own experience of wanting to quit the church or helping lead a committee.• Which of these dysfunctional attitudes have you experienced in your church meetings?• What gives meaning to what you are doing?

> Overcoming the Dysfunctions (15 minutes)

In this episode Chuck says, “I think Churches really have to evaluate all of their committees. All of them. Ask the tough questions. Would this committee serve better, let’s say, as a task force, or short-term team that only exists for a particular moment in time – a particular purpose. Don’t we all want to ensure that what we work on is effective?”

Lencioni turns the dysfunctions into positive attributes with the following ideas:

1. TRUSTAdmit weakness and mistakes.

2. HEALTHY CONFLICTWelcome and listen to new ideas.

3. COMMITMENTHave clear priorities and goals.

4. ACCOUNTABILITYHold each other to high standards.

5. RESULTSFocus on team goals, not individual pursuits.

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 11

3

Discuss with one or two people, and then share with the whole group:• How can your turn dysfunctions into positive ways of working together?• What committees are essential to the ongoing support of your ministries?• What yearly events (VBS, Advent, Lent) are better served by short-term teams?• What projects lend themselves to a task force?• How do you turn your committees into teams?


Ask a member to read aloud the following passage from Ephesians 4:11-16.Ask another person to read the Background.

The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of Christ. We must no longer be children, tossed to and fro and blown about by every wind of doctrine, by people’s trickery, by their craftiness in deceitful scheming. But speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and knitted together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the body’s growth in building itself up in love.

Background:In this passage the idea of giftedness is highlighted. Each Christian is gifted for ministry and has specific ways he or she can contribute to the overall life of the faith community. Our working together should result in the growth of the whole body of Christ. Sometimes we can become distracted by unhealthy conflict that diverts us from the overall goal of ministry – following Christ who calls us to build one another up with love.


• How do you help people live out of their giftedness?• What are the distractions that are keeping your committees and teams from working to

their fullest capacities?• In what ways do you affirm the contributions of people to the ministry of your church?

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 11

4


> Making it Personal

At the end of this episode Chuck shares what is really troubling him. Is his investment of time and energy making a difference?

CHUCK: Do you think things are changing? Are they changing fast enough? Is this church still going to close after all our efforts?

RILEY: Look! I was reluctant to allow you to be a member of this committee. But, you’re here. Things ARE starting to change for the better. There is life in the church again.

GLENDA: (to Chuck) You’ve been so helpful to us.

CHUCK: No, you’ve been helpful to me. Look at you all. You are all excellent leaders in this church. This isn’t about me.

RILEY: No, it isn’t. It’s about God. So sit down (let’s get to work).


sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 11

1



Introduction:

The Committee is a humorous and poignant online series that examines the struggles congregations face as they look toward a preferred future. Using real-world topics, The Committee is sure to open discussion in your congregation.

The series follows Park Grove Community Church, a make-believe urban U.S. congregation, that has lost its pastor and is closing its doors unless it reinvents itself. Park Grove is faced with a difficult decision. It seemingly has tried everything humanly possible. Should it close? Things are so bad that a retired pastor didn’t show up to help decide the congregation’s future – so it’s up to the last remaining members to discover it for themselves.






CHUCK KNOWS CHURCH The Committee: Embracing a Legacy

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 12

2

> Watch The Committee: Embracing a Legacy (15 min.)


Like many churches, Park Grove struggles with connecting with young people. There are many terms that are used for those who are not showing up at church. Look at these terms and talk about what they are saying about those who are not active in a local church.

Terms What do they say about these people?1. Unbelievers2. Seekers3. Nones4. Unaffiliated5. Irreligious

Discuss with one or two people:• What do these terms say about those who are active in a church?• Why do you think people do not attend church?• Do you think people who are outside the church desire a relationship with God?

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 12

3

> The Wesleyan Path of Discipleship (15 minutes)

Rather than putting people into distinct categories like “unbelievers” or “believers”, the Wesleyan understanding of faith centers on the idea that life is an ongoing process of conversion that is highlighted by responding to four calls to follow.

• Prevenient Grace: God’s call to be in a relationship• Justification: Jesus’ call to follow leads to new life• Sanctification: The Holy Spirit calls us to righteousness and service• Love: We are called to love others in the name of Jesus

While those who are active in a church may be living out of the call to righteousness and service, a person who is not active may be living out of the call to love others in the name of Jesus. Rather than assuming people are not in a relationship with God, the church’s role is to help people discover God’s call in their lives and to help them live up to the potential of that call.

Discuss with one or two people, and then share with the whole group:• Where are you on the Wesleyan Path of Discipleship?• In what ways is your church open to those who are just starting out on the journey?• What part does mentoring young people play in helping people grow in faith?• What legacy can a person who is mature in his or her faith leave to those who follow?


Ask a member of your group to read aloud the following passages from Hebrews 12:1–2 and Romans 15:13. Ask another person to read the Background.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2, NRSV

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13, NRSV

Background:Hebrews 11 details the inspiring examples of people like Abraham, Moses, and David who followed God’s call. Romans 12 serves as the finale to this line of thinking as the author says, “Therefore…” Today we are living in the therefore, in the result of what Jesus did for

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 12

4


us on the cross, that we could live a new life in relationship with God. We are called to share this faith, to create our own legacy, to be a cloud of witnesses, as we pass on the faith to the next generation. Romans 15:13 reminds us that believing produces joy and peace.


• Who is in your cloud of witnesses?• What is the legacy of faith you want to leave to the next generation?• How does believing produce joy and peace?


In this episode, Mr. Riley says the following in his confessional:

“Embrace” our legacy. That would be nice, wouldn’t it?

Not sure how that would work, though. Unless we’re in partnership with those coming after us. A shared understanding. I guess it goes both ways. If we want to be a part of the future of the church, even after we’re gone, we need to embrace–develop relationships across all generations.


sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 12

1



Introduction:








CHUCK KNOWS CHURCH The Committee: Younger Leaders

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 13

2

> Watch The Committee: Young Leaders (15 minutes)


New people can easily pick up the atmosphere of a restaurant, coffee shop, or worship space. They can sense whether things are going well, if the staff is happy, and if they are welcome. In this episode Hannah makes the comment that she doesn’t want to be part of a church that survives, she wants to be part of one that thrives. In the section below list characteristics of what it is like to be surviving or thriving.

Surviving Thriving

Discuss with one or two people:• How easy is it for you to think of the future when you are in a survival mode?• What is it like when you are thriving? • Where do you see your church? It is surviving, thriving, or somewhere in-between?

> Cornerstone (15 minutes)

The challenge for leaders who have invested years in the life of a church is to know when to invest in the lives of new people by turning over the mantle of leadership. Ephesians 2:19-22 talks about Jesus as the cornerstone. “So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone. In him the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord; in whom you also are built together spiritually into a dwelling-place for God.”

Notice how the household of God and the cornerstone is built on a foundation – the apostles and the prophets. A congregation that thrives recognizes its foundation – those who have left a legacy – and builds upon what has come before.

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 13

3

Discuss with three or four people, and then share with the whole group:• How does your church transition its leadership from one person to the next?• What is the role of the person who just left the position?• What is the role of the person who is now learning a new position?• What does this scripture tell us about the importance of the foundation?


Ask a member of your group to read aloud the following passages from 1 Corinthians 3:5-9. Ask another person to read the Background.

What then is Apollos? What is Paul? Servants through whom you came to believe, as the Lord assigned to each. I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth. The one who plants and the one who waters have a common purpose, and each will receive wages according to the labour of each. For we are God’s servants, working together; you are God’s field, God’s building.

Background:When Paul wrote this letter to the church in Corinth he was responding to the issue of who was the leading the congregation. The church had fallen into two factions, with one group supporting Paul, who founded the church, and others supporting Apollos, a young dynamic preacher. Paul reminds the congregation that growth comes from God and if they want this growth to continue they must have a common purpose and work together.


• What is the common purpose that draws your church together?• Do long-term members have a different view of the church’s purpose than people who

have started participating in the last two years?• If so, is there an underlying value that brings everyone together?• What does it mean when it says, “You are God’s field, God’s building?”

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 13

4



In this episode Mrs. Beasley says the following:

Isn’t the gospel about loving God so much that we are committed to our future in God, rather than our own personal futures? Sure, older adults, we want to leave a legacy, but it seems to me, best way to do that is make room for younger people, include them in every way. Make room for their leadership now. New ideas. We have to give up that power to ensure our own future, don’t we?


sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 13

1



Introduction:








CHUCK KNOWS CHURCH The Committee: The Vote

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 14

2

> Watch The Committee: The Vote (15 minutes)


In this episode, Park Grove has reached a critical time of decision, what are they going to do about their future? In one scene Mr. Riley prays in the sanctuary. Some of the phrases he uses are:

“Give up.” “Surrender.” “I give up.”

“What are we supposed to do?” “I’m listening.”

Discuss with one or two people:• In what ways does Mr. Riley’s prayer speak to you?• What is the difference between “I” and “We”?• What does this say about your church’s ministry?

> Lifecycle of the Church (15 minutes)

Churches go through lifecycles. In the Introductory stage, Birth happens when a new vision for a church connects with the people who are in the community. There is high energy because they are attracted to the big idea – the reason the church is being started. Next is the Growth state, where new ministries are added like small groups, worship experiences, and outreach ministries. As each ministry is added new people participate. They are energized because the ministries are closely tied to the big idea.

At Maturity churches Plateau. There are still a lot of activities, but people don’t remember why the church exists. They have forgotten the big idea. Or they need a new big idea that connects to community that has probably changed since the church was started. At Decline, people in the church have little energy and have lost

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 14

3

their connection to the community, especially to new people who have moved into the neighborhoods since the church was founded. The goods news is Rebirth can happen at any stage of the process, when a church discovers its reason for being in this place and time and lives out a new big idea (go to Lifecycle of the Church for a full description).

Discuss with three or four people, and then share with the whole group:• Where is your church in the Lifecycle?• Which ministries and activities bring the most excitement? • In which ones are people just going through the motions?• Where do you see signs of rebirth? What is your big idea?


Ask a member of your group to read aloud the following passages from 2 Kings 2:11-13 and Matthew 9:16-17. Ask another person to read the Background.

As they continued walking and talking, a chariot of fire and horses of fire separated the two of them, and Elijah ascended in a whirlwind into heaven. Elisha kept watching and crying out, ‘Father, father! The chariots of Israel and its horsemen!’ But when he could no longer see him, he grasped his own clothes and tore them in two pieces. He picked up the mantle of Elijah that had fallen from him, and went back and stood on the bank of the Jordan. He took the mantle of Elijah that had fallen from him, and struck the water, saying, ‘Where is the Lord, the God of Elijah?’ When he had struck the water, the water was parted to the one side and to the other, and Elisha went over. 2 Kings 2:11-13

No one sews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old cloak, for the patch pulls away from the cloak, and a worse tear is made. Neither is new wine put into old wineskins; otherwise, the skins burst, and the wine is spilled, and the skins are destroyed; but new wine is put into fresh wineskins, and so both are preserved.’ Matthew 9:16-17

Background:Elijah, one of the great prophets of Israel, was accompanied by Elisha, one of his most trusted followers on Elijah’s last day on earth. As they left Bethel they came to the Jordon River. Elisha took his mantle that symbolized his prophetic leadership and struck the water. Echoing Moses’ action of crossing the Red Sea, the water parted and went across to the other side. Later as Elijah is taken to heaven, Elisha is blessed to witness Elijah’s transformation. But what was he to do? As he looks around him he sees Elijah’s mantle has been left to him. With great respect and hopefulness he strikes the river Jordon with the mantle and it parts giving him safe passage. As he goes back towards Bethel and the land of Israel, he takes up the mantle of leadership given to him by God.

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 14

4


Jesus makes a very practical comment that everyone in 1st Century Israel would know. If you put new wine in an old wineskin as it fermented it would burst the skin and the wine would pour out on the ground. You always put new wine in a new wineskin.


• What does it mean to carry the mantle of leadership?• How do people know its time to pass on leadership to a new group of people?• In the sacrament of communion, we drink the wine of the new covenant as we are

reminded of Jesus’ sacrifice and love for us. How are we made new through our faith in Christ?


As the Compass Committee prepared for its fateful decision, they reflected on the work they had done together. They learned about hospitality, focused on reflecting the community, identified purpose, looked at evangelism, talked about the who, designed a discipleship system, concentrated on innovation, started small groups, opened themselves up to children and families, recommitted to stewardship, reflected on being a more effective committee, shared about legacy, and wrestled with how to pass on leadership to a younger generation. The decision about whether to stay open or close was based on the nature of their relationships which had grown over time and a renewed understanding of what it meant to be part of a faith community that welcomed people in the name of Jesus Christ. The words of Mr. Riley sums it all up for us:

“Well, it’s time, isn’t it? Make way for younger leadership. Some of that right here in our committee. Daniel, Hannah? What do you guys think? Or from your Bible study. A foundation to build on. I’m happy to help answer questions; I’m still on the team, but more on the sidelines. I promise I won’t be in your way…For everything there is a season. A time to be born, and a time to die. I think we’re ready. I’m ready. A new pastor to shepherd us, point us in the right direction, vision with us.”

• What does this say about the ministry of your church? • In what way is God speaking to you this day?

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 14

1



Introduction:








CHUCK KNOWS CHURCH The Committee: Resurrection

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 15

2

> Watch The Committee: Resurrection (15 minutes)


Throughout The Committee series, Park Grove has been wrestling with concerns about its future. Now after praying, dreaming, and learning together, the church is they are ready for a new start. In Rev. Heath’s opening statement, she says, “Its time for us as a church to no longer survive; its time for us to thrive.” What do you think is the difference between surviving and thriving?

Surviving Thriving

Discuss with one or two people, and then share with the whole group:• How long can a person live in a survival mode? A congregation?• What is the difference in attitude between surviving and thriving?• What signs of thriving do you see in your congregation?

> Iron Sharpens Iron (15 minutes)

As Mr. Riley and Chuck are talking, Mr. Riley says, “As iron sharpens iron…” Chuck completes it by saying, “So one person sharpens another.” Beyond the buildings, the finances, the worship, community service, and fellowship, the vitality of a church is based on the nature of its relationships - the relationships people have with one another and their relationship to God through their faith in Jesus Christ. As you reflect on the series, think about how each character has changed.

Mrs. Beasley:

Mr. Riley:

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 15

3

Chuck:

Daniel Sanchez:

Hanna:

Glenda:

Discuss with three or four people, and then share with the whole group:• Which character represents who you are?• How are you developing your relationships in your congregation?• How has “The Committee” helped you see positive ways your faith community can

move forward?


Ask a member of your group to read aloud the following passage from Romans 12:4-18 (NRSV). Ask another person to read the “Background.”

For as in one body we have many members, and not all the members have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another. We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us: prophecy, in proportion to faith; ministry, in ministering; the teacher, in teaching; the exhorter, in exhortation; the giver, in generosity; the leader, in diligence; the compassionate, in cheerfulness.

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 15

4


Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers.

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are. Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.

Background:This passage lifts up a primary principle of church life - to be successful, we need one another. Each of us has spiritual gifts, talents, and abilities that make us unique. But we need others for these gifts to bear fruit. We are encouraged to “let love be genuine” to “love one another with mutual affection” and to “outdo one another in showing honor.” In perhaps one of the most profound passages of Scripture, we are given a powerful sense of what it means to be truly connected to a faith community, “rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.”


• How do you help people recognize and live out God’s call for their lives?• How do you show appreciation toward people who give in ways both large and small in

your ministry?• What does it mean to “rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.”

> Making It Personal

Just before worship, Hannah and Daniel reflected on all the work they had done to get ready for the reboot of Park Grove. Daniel says, “This community was ready for a change. All you and I did was to embrace it.” Later when they are sitting on a couch in the newly designed “Thrive Fellowship Room,” Daniel says, “It isn’t up to us though.” Hannah replies, “Its God’s church.”

• What does this say about the ministry of your church? • In what way is God speaking to you this day?

sdowney

Typewritten Text

Episode 15

website: discipleship ministries website: facebook ... · episode 6 – discipleship system ....

Documents