Main Theme: Waiting for the Lord in uncertain times.

Opening
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and be open to what He wants to do & say in our gathering.

Suggested Practice:
Read Psalm 40:1-5 aloud and join the Psalmist in giving praise and thanks to God for “the wonders [He has] done”.

Worship
Goal: Make Jesus central in our gathering. This could be done through songs, prayerful scripture reading, communion, etc.

Suggested Practice:
Choose 2 songs to sing together (or listen to) that will help you increase your faith in God during seasons of uncertainty.

Possible Options:
○ Yes I Will (YouTube)
○ Good, Good Father (YouTube)
○ King of Kings (YouTube)

__________[Dismiss the Kids/Youth]__________

Sharing
Goal: To know each other's stories.

Suggested Practice A:
Select one person to answer the following question:
● When was a time where you had to wait for the Lord to change a situation when life seemed uncertain? How did it feel to have to for wait for the Lord? How has this experience changed you?

Suggested Practice B:
Select one person to answer the following questions:
● When was a time where you witnessed a friend or family member having to wait for the Lord to change a situation when life seemed uncertain? How did they feel having to wait for the Lord? How has this experience changed them?

Suggested Practice C:
Break into groups of 3 people. Answer the following questions:
● What are you thankful for this week?
● What has stressed you out this week?
Give the groups 10 minutes to answer the question. Encourage everyone to share.

Discussion
Goal: Learn how to follow Jesus in everyday life.

Learning Objectives:
●Understand that experiencing seasons of waiting for the Lord is part of what it means to follow Jesus.
●Describe how David responded in Psalm 27 as he waited for the Lord.
●Explain how we can avoid wasting the opportunity for growth when in a season of waiting for the Lord.

Suggested Practice A:
Possible Questions:
1. Often, in seasons of waiting for the Lord, our response can be to just passively endure and survive (to just get through it with as little damage as possible). How do we thrive, instead of survive, in seasons of waiting for the lord?
2. Psalm 27 shows us the desperation of David’s situation. Despite this, David’s initial response (27:1) is to focus his mind on what he knows to be true about God. Why is this so important in seasons of waiting for the Lord?
3. In 27:6, David worships his way through his season of waiting for the Lord. What significance does worshipping God have during seasons of waiting for the Lord? What would it look like for you to worship your way through your season of waiting for the Lord?
4. In 27:11, David isn’t praying for comfort but progress. During seasons of waiting for the Lord, we can so easily try to make progress by taking control of our circumstances. When we try to take control of circumstances that are out of our control, we can become angry, anxious or apathetic. When we demonstrate these responses, how can we follow “[God’s] way” and return to “a level path”?
5. In 27:13, David makes a bold and confident declaration of faith that he will experience God’s goodness in this present life. He trusted God because of who He is and what He has done. Practically, what can you do that will help you trust God more?


Suggested Practice B:
Read Psalm 27 together. What do you notice? What questions do these words provoke? What does it mean to follow Jesus?

__________[Kids/Youth Rejoin Adults]__________

Prayer
Goal: Respond appropriately to what Jesus is doing & saying in our gathering.

Suggested Practice A:
Ask your Small Church if there is anyone who is in a season of waiting for the Lord. If so and if the individual is willing, take a moment to surround this person and pray that God would give them His strength, courage and patience during these uncertain times. If not, ask your Small Church if they have a family member or friend who is in a season of waiting for the Lord. If so, take a moment to pray that God would give them His strength, courage and patience during these uncertain times.

Suggested Practice B:
Pray the Lord’s Prayer as a Small Church. Ask different people to read one line at a time. Go slow and meditate on each line as you pray.

Our Father in heaven, holy is your name,
Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.
For yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.

Communion
Goal: Remember Jesus’ death and resurrection. Receive strength & joy that He is with us. Renew our hope for Jesus’ return and the restoration of creation.

Suggested Practice:
● Distribute bread and juice.
● Read the following statement…“the body of Christ has been given, broken for us and the entire world. This bread reminds us that He paid a debt that He did not owe so that we wouldn’t have to pay a debt that we did owe”.
● Eat the bread.
● Read the following statement…“The blood of Christ has been poured out, shed for us and the entire world. This juice reminds us that we have a permanent and unbreakable relationship with Him and that death has no power over us and no power over creation”.
● Drink the juice.


Blessing
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and consider what He wants to do & say this coming week.

Suggested Practice:
Read Psalm 27:14 aloud as if God were speaking the same words to your Small Church. Then, pray that God would give them His strength, courage and patience.

Main Theme: Journeying with Jesus.

Opening
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and be open to what He wants to do & say in our gathering.

Suggested Practice:
Take a few minutes to pray to confess your sins and acknowledge your need for God’s grace and forgiveness.

“Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your name. Amen”.

Worship
Goal: Make Jesus central in our gathering. This could be done through songs, prayerful scripture reading, communion, etc.

Suggested Practice:
Choose 2 songs to sing together (or listen to) that will help you focus on staying close to Jesus during challenging circumstances.

Possible Options:
○ King of Kings (YouTube)
○ In Christ Alone (YouTube)
○ O Come to the Altar (YouTube)

__________[Dismiss the Kids/Youth]__________

Sharing
Goal: To know each other's stories.

Suggested Practice A:
Select one person to answer the following question:
● When was a time in your life where you stayed close to Jesus during challenging circumstances? What difference did it make? How has it changed you?

Suggested Practice B:
Select one person to answer the following questions:
● Who has been an example to you of staying close to Jesus during challenging circumstances? How have they inspired you? How has their example changed you?

Suggested Practice C:
Break into groups of 3 people. Answer the following questions:
● What are you thankful for this week?
● What has stressed you out this week?
Give the groups 10 minutes to answer the question. Encourage everyone to share.

Discussion
Goal: Learn how to follow Jesus in everyday life.

Learning Objectives:
● Understand that we’ll face challenges as we journey with Jesus.
● Explain how we can cultivate a resilient faith.
● Describe how the message, Jesus is Lord, affects our everyday lives.

Suggested Practice A:
Possible Questions:
1. Why is it important to understand that God’s goodness is greater than human foolishness and sin?
2. When you reflect on Paul and Barnabas’ sharp disagreement and subsequent separate journeys (Acts 15:36-41), how does it impact your own journey with Jesus?  
3. The Apostle Paul believed it was necessary to circumcise Timothy before he joined him and Silas on their missionary journey (Acts 16:3). Timothy didn’t need to be circumcised to be saved but it would enable them to move freely among the Jewish community and therefore further advance the Kingdom work. Are there any sacrifices, on your journey with Jesus, that you don’t need to make but if you did it would further advance the Kingdom?
4. God kept preventing Paul and his companions from traveling in their desired direction (Acts 16:6-7). Why does following God often feel like we are heading down a path that is taking us in the wrong direction?
5. Throughout the book of Acts, the followers of Jesus carried the message that Jesus is Lord. It’s a message that challenges the powers of this world and changes both our present and future reality. How does the message, “Jesus is Lord”, affect your everyday life or current circumstances?

Suggested Practice B:
Read Acts 16:16-34 together. What do you notice? What questions do these words provoke? What does it mean to follow Jesus?

__________[Kids/Youth Rejoin Adults]__________

Prayer
Goal: Respond appropriately to what Jesus is doing & saying in our gathering.

Suggested Practice A:
Pray the Lord’s Prayer as a Small Church. Ask different people to read one line at a time. Go slow and meditate on each line as you pray.

Our Father in heaven, holy is your name,
Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.
For yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.

Suggested Practice B:
Create a Small Church prayer board. Ask everyone in your Small Church to identify one person in their life who is disconnected from God or church.

Break into groups of 3 and ask everyone to pray for one name on the list. Over the next few months, pray that every person on the list would have a positive encounter with God and/or the church.

Communion
Goal: Remember Jesus’ death and resurrection. Receive strength & joy that He is with us. Renew our hope for Jesus’ return and the restoration of creation.

Suggested Practice:
● Distribute bread and juice.
● Read the following statement…“the body of Christ has been given, broken for us and the entire world. This bread reminds us that He paid a debt that He did not owe so that we wouldn’t have to pay a debt that we did owe”.
● Eat the bread.
● Read the following statement…“The blood of Christ has been poured out, shed for us and the entire world. This juice reminds us that we have a permanent and unbreakable relationship with Him and that death has no power over us and no power over creation”.
● Drink the juice.

Blessing
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and consider what He wants to do & say this coming week.

Suggested Practice:
Read Acts 18:9-10 aloud as if Jesus was speaking the same words to your Small Church. Then, pray a blessing over your Small Church.

Main Theme:  Trusting & Following Jesus During Change. Click HERE for Liturgy in PDF.

Main Theme:  Draw near to God and he will draw near to you

Opening
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and be open to what He wants to do & say in our gathering.

Suggested Practice:
Read Hebrews 10:19-25 aloud and take a moment to thank God that we can draw close to Him because of the life and work of Jesus Christ.

Worship
Goal: Make Jesus central in our gathering. This could be done through songs, prayerful scripture reading, communion, etc.

Suggested Practice:
Choose 2 songs to sing together (or listen to) that celebrate Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem.

Possible Options:

• The Heart of Worship (YouTube)
• Lord, I Need You (YouTube)
• Nothing Else (YouTube)

____[Dismiss the Kids/Youth]____

Sharing
Goal: To know each other's stories.

Suggested Practice A:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time where you intentionally drew close to God and experienced His presence? What impact did it have on you? How has it changed you?

Suggested Practice B:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time where you witnessed a friend or family member intentionally draw close to God and experience His presence? What impact did it have on them? How has it changed them?

Suggested Practice C:
Break into groups of 3 people. Answer the following questions:

• What are you thankful for this week?
• What has stressed you out this week?

Give the groups 10 minutes to answer the question. Encourage everyone to share.

Discussion
Goal: Learn how to follow Jesus in everyday life.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand that God promises to draw close to us if we draw close to him.
• Explain why is it so important for Christians to draw close and remain close to God.
• Describe how to cultivate a life that draws close and remains close to God.

Suggested Practice A:
Possible Questions:

1. Steve identified 5 factors that determine the closeness of our relationship with God (our calendar, our check-book, our character, our contacts, our conversations). How does each factor reveal the closeness of our relationship with God?
2. What factors would you consider a strength of yours? What factors are a growth area for you?
3. In 4:4, James highlights that we cannot be both a friend of the world and a friend of God? What does it mean to be a friend of the world? Why does James believe that being a friend of God is incompatible with being a friend of the world?
4. How do we cultivate a life that draws close and remains close to God?

Suggested Practice B:
Read James 4:1-12 together. What do you notice? What questions do these words provoke? What does this passage reveal about being a follower of Jesus?

____[Kids/Youth Rejoin Adults]____

Prayer
Goal: Respond appropriately to what Jesus is doing & saying in our gathering.

Suggested Practice A:
Break into groups of 3 people and ask everyone to identify one person in their life that needs to draw close to God. Spend 5 minutes or so praying that these individuals would have a desire to draw close to God.

Suggested Practice B:
Choose one person in your Small Church to sit on a chair in the middle of the group. Ask the person if they have any specific prayer requests for their own life, the lives of their family/friends or an area of concern. Take 5 minutes or so to surround this person and pray into the areas identified.

Communion
Goal: Remember Jesus' death and resurrection. Receive strength & joy that He is with us. Renew our hope for Jesus' return and the restoration of creation.

Suggested Practice:

• Distribute bread and juice.
• Read Luke 22:19-20.
• Read the following statement…“the body of Christ has been given, broken for us and the entire world. This bread reminds us that He paid a debt that He did not owe so that we wouldn’t have to pay a debt that we did owe”.
• Eat the bread.
• Read the following statement…“The blood of Christ has been poured out, shed for us and the entire world. This juice reminds us that we have a permanent and unbreakable relationship with Him and that death has no power over us and no power over creation”.
• Drink the juice.

Blessing
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and consider what He wants to do & say this coming week.

Suggested Practice:
Read Matthew 11:28-30 aloud and pray that, this week, all those in your Small Church would draw close to Jesus and find rest, peace and healing from their heavy burdens.

Main Theme:  Cultivating our lives to align with the resurrection reality.

Opening
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and be open to what He wants to do & say in our gathering.

Suggested Practice:
Read Psalm 136:1-9 aloud and take a moment to thank God for His enduring love.

Worship
Goal: Make Jesus central in our gathering. This could be done through songs, prayerful scripture reading, communion, etc.

Suggested Practice:
Choose 2 songs to sing together (or listen to) that celebrate Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem.

Possible Options:

• Crown Him with many Crowns (YouTube)
• Worthy is the Lamb (YouTube)
• How Deep the Father’s Love for Us (YouTube)

____[Dismiss the Kids/Youth]____

Sharing
Goal: To know each other's stories.

Suggested Practice A:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time where your previous experiences and expectations didn’t match your new reality? (For example: a health issue, a financial issue, a relationship, a job opportunity etc.) How did you process such an occurrence? How did you learn to live in your new reality?

Suggested Practice B:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time where your friend or family member’s previous experiences and expectations didn’t match their new reality? (For example: a health issue, a financial issue, a relationship, a job opportunity etc.) How did they process such an occurrence? How did they learn to live in their new reality?

Suggested Practice C:
Break into groups of 3 people. Answer the following questions:

• What are you thankful for this week?
• What has stressed you out this week?

Give the groups 10 minutes to answer the question. Encourage everyone to share.

Discussion
Goal: Learn how to follow Jesus in everyday life.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand that the resurrection changes the course of history and ushers in a new order/reality.
• Explain this new order/reality of the resurrection.
• Describe how to align our lives with the reality of the resurrection.

Suggested Practice A:
Possible Questions:

1. What is happening in our world, country and lives that is causing us to resonate more with the “occupied tomb” than the “empty tomb’?
2. What is the impact of these events on our current experience and expectations for our world, country and lives?
3. As you reflect on your life, have you ever experienced the removal of a seemingly impossible barrier?
4. What is the new order/reality of the resurrection? How does the resurrection change our expectations, focus and role as followers of Jesus?
5. How do we align our lives with the reality of the resurrection?

Suggested Practice B:
Read Luke 24:1-12 together. What do you notice? What questions do these words provoke? What does this passage reveal about being a follower of Jesus?

____[Kids/Youth Rejoin Adults]____

Prayer
Goal: Respond appropriately to what Jesus is doing & saying in our gathering.

Suggested Practice A:
Break into groups of 3 people and ask everyone to identify someone in their life that is resonating more with the “occupied tomb” than the “empty tomb”. Spend 5 minutes or so praying for God to transform their expectations and current experience.

Suggested Practice B:
Choose one person in your Small Church to sit on a chair in the middle of the group. Ask the person if they have any specific prayer requests for their own life, the lives of their family/friends or an area of concern. Take 5 minutes or so to surround this person and pray into the areas identified.

Communion
Goal: Remember Jesus' death and resurrection. Receive strength & joy that He is with us. Renew our hope for Jesus' return and the restoration of creation.

Suggested Practice:

• Distribute bread and juice.
• Read Luke 22:19-20.
• Read the following statement…“the body of Christ has been given, broken for us and the entire world. This bread reminds us that He paid a debt that He did not owe so that we wouldn’t have to pay a debt that we did owe”.
• Eat the bread.
• Read the following statement…“The blood of Christ has been poured out, shed for us and the entire world. This juice reminds us that we have a permanent and unbreakable relationship with Him and that death has no power over us and no power over creation”.
• Drink the juice.

Blessing
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and consider what He wants to do & say this coming week.

Suggested Practice:
Read 1 Corinthians 15:19-26 aloud and thank God that we have a present and future hope. Pray that all those in your Small Church would bring a sense of hope to everyone they meet this week.

Main Theme:  Heavenly wisdom demonstrates humility.

Opening
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and be open to what He wants to do & say in our gathering.

Suggested Practice:
Explain to your Small Church that today is Palm Sunday, a celebration of Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. The events that will take place in Jerusalem will change the course of history! Read John 12:12-16 aloud and take a moment to thank God for the life and work of Jesus Christ.

Worship
Goal: Make Jesus central in our gathering. This could be done through songs, prayerful scripture reading, communion, etc.

Suggested Practice:
Choose 2 songs to sing together (or listen to) that celebrate Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem.

Possible Options:

• Holy Forever (YouTube)
• Hosanna (YouTube)
• Here for you (YouTube)

____[Dismiss the Kids/Youth]____

Sharing
Goal: To know each other's stories.

Suggested Practice A:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time where you demonstrated humility and a lack of pride in a challenging situation? What impact did it have on you? How has it changed you?

Suggested Practice B:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time where you witnessed a friend or family member demonstrate humility and a lack of pride in a challenging situation? What impact did it have on them? How has it changed them?

Suggested Practice C:
Break into groups of 3 people. Answer the following questions:

• What are you thankful for this week?
• What has stressed you out this week?

Give the groups 10 minutes to answer the question. Encourage everyone to share.

Discussion
Goal: Learn how to follow Jesus in everyday life.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the difference between a heavenly wisdom and a worldly wisdom.
• Explain why Christians should avoid worldly wisdom and embrace heavenly wisdom.
• Describe how to cultivate a heavenly wisdom.

Suggested Practice A:
Possible Questions:

1. Who in your life do you consider to be wise? Why?
2. Our access to information and knowledge is greater than ever. Do you think we are wiser than ever before? Why/why not?
3. What is the biggest difference between heavenly wisdom and worldly wisdom?
4. Humility (meekness) was not a desirable virtue in the 1st century. It was seen as a lack of courage or strength, even a weakness. Is humility a desirable virtue in the 21st century? Why/why not?
5. In 3:14-16, James describes worldly wisdom. Why should Christians avoid this kind of wisdom?
6. In 3:17-18, James describes heavenly wisdom. Why should Christians embrace this kind of wisdom?
7. How do we cultivate heavenly wisdom?

Suggested Practice B:
Read James 3:13-18 together. What do you notice? What questions do these words provoke? What does this passage reveal about being a follower of Jesus?

____[Kids/Youth Rejoin Adults]____

Prayer
Goal: Respond appropriately to what Jesus is doing & saying in our gathering.

Suggested Practice A:
Break into groups of 3 people and identify an issue or specific situation that needs a wisdom from heaven. Spend 5 minutes or so praying for God to humble all those involved and give them His wisdom.

Suggested Practice B:
Choose one person in your Small Church to sit on a chair in the middle of the group. Ask the person if they have any specific prayer requests for their own life, the lives of their family/friends or an area of concern. Take 5 minutes or so to surround this person and pray into the areas identified.

Communion
Goal: Remember Jesus' death and resurrection. Receive strength & joy that He is with us. Renew our hope for Jesus' return and the restoration of creation.

Suggested Practice:

• Distribute bread and juice.
• Read Luke 22:19-20.
• Read the following statement…“the body of Christ has been given, broken for us and the entire world. This bread reminds us that He paid a debt that He did not owe so that we wouldn’t have to pay a debt that we did owe”.
• Eat the bread.
• Read the following statement…“The blood of Christ has been poured out, shed for us and the entire world. This juice reminds us that we have a permanent and unbreakable relationship with Him and that death has no power over us and no power over creation”.
• Drink the juice.

Blessing
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and consider what He wants to do & say this coming week.

Suggested Practice:
Read James 1:5 aloud and pray that God would give His wisdom to all those in your Small Church this week.

Main Theme:  The tongue has the power of life and death.

Opening
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and be open to what He wants to do & say in our gathering.

Suggested Practice:
Read Zephaniah 3:17 aloud and thank God that He takes great delight in us and rejoices over us.

Worship
Goal: Make Jesus central in our gathering. This could be done through songs, prayerful scripture reading, communion, etc.

Suggested Practice:
Choose 2 songs to sing together (or listen to) that proclaim words of truth that bring life.

Possible Options:

• King of Kings (YouTube)
• Amazing Grace (YouTube)

____[Dismiss the Kids/Youth]____

Sharing
Goal: To know each other's stories.

Suggested Practice A:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time that you received an encouraging word? What impact did it have on you?

Suggested Practice B:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time where you witnessed a friend or family member receive an encouraging word? What impact did it have on them?

Suggested Practice C:
Break into groups of 3 people. Answer the following questions:

• What are you thankful for this week?
• What has stressed you out this week?

Give the groups 10 minutes to answer the question. Encourage everyone to share.

Discussion
Goal: Learn how to follow Jesus in everyday life.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand that speech has positive and negative potential and is often used inconsistently.
• Identify where speech has a significant impact in the biblical story.
• Describe how to cultivate positive speech.

Suggested Practice A:
Possible Questions:

1. Why does speech have the power of life and death (Proverbs 18:21)?
2. In the biblical story, where do we see positive, negative and inconsistent words spoken? What is the impact of these words?
3. James understands that “we all stumble in many ways” (3:2) and that “no human being can tame the tongue” (3:8). How does this change our approach to our relationships?
4. James seems to suggest that “right speech” is a measure of our spiritual maturity (3:2). Why does James believe this to be so?
5. In 3:9, James draws on a foundational theological concept that humanity is made in the image of God. All humanity, despite its imperfection, has inherent dignity and value. Why is this understanding critical when discussing our speech?
6. In 3:10, James gives us hope that change is possible. How do we cultivate positive and consistent speech?

Suggested Practice B:
Read James 3:1-12 together. What do you notice? What questions do these words provoke? What does this passage reveal about being a follower of Jesus?

____[Kids/Youth Rejoin Adults]____

Prayer
Goal: Respond appropriately to what Jesus is doing & saying in our gathering.

Suggested Practice A:
Break into groups of 3 people and ask everyone to identify one of their relationships that needs more positive and consistent speech. Pray for these relationships and ask God to transform them in a way that honors Him.

Suggested Practice B:
Lead your Small Church through the following prayer practice:

• Ask God to bring someone to mind who needs to hear a positive word from you.
• Identify the kind of word that they need to receive from you (e.g. an encouragement, “I’m sorry”. “I forgive you”).
• Send a text to that person.

Communion
Goal: Remember Jesus' death and resurrection. Receive strength & joy that He is with us. Renew our hope for Jesus' return and the restoration of creation.

Suggested Practice:

• Distribute bread and juice.
• Read Luke 22:19-20.
• Read the following statement…“the body of Christ has been given, broken for us and the entire world. This bread reminds us that He paid a debt that He did not owe so that we wouldn’t have to pay a debt that we did owe”.
• Eat the bread.
• Read the following statement…“The blood of Christ has been poured out, shed for us and the entire world. This juice reminds us that we have a permanent and unbreakable relationship with Him and that death has no power over us and no power over creation”.
• Drink the juice.

Blessing
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and consider what He wants to do & say this coming week.

Suggested Practice:
Read Proverbs 16:24 aloud and pray that your Small Church would be quick to speak gracious words this week.

Main Theme:  Faith Produces Works

Opening
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and be open to what He wants to do & say in our gathering.

Suggested Practice:
Read Psalm 40:1-5 aloud and thank God for saving us and declare your trust in Him.

Worship
Goal: Make Jesus central in our gathering. This could be done through songs, prayerful scripture reading, communion, etc.

Suggested Practice:
Choose 2 songs to sing together (or listen to) that focus on God’s love for us and our response to love God and neighbor.

Possible Options:

• So Will I (YouTube)
• Christ Be Magnified (YouTube)
• Build My Life (YouTube)

____[Dismiss the Kids/Youth]____

Sharing
Goal: To know each other's stories.

Suggested Practice A:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• How did your life change when you made the decision to follow Jesus?

Suggested Practice B:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time where you witnessed a friend or family member obey God despite the consequences? How has this inspired you? How has this changed you?

Suggested Practice C:
Break into groups of 3 people. Answer the following questions:

• What are you thankful for this week?
• What has stressed you out this week?

Give the groups 10 minutes to answer the question. Encourage everyone to share.

Discussion
Goal: Learn how to follow Jesus in everyday life.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the difference between Paul’s notion of “justification by faith alone” and James’ notion that a “workless faith” cannot save someone.
• Explain why faith must produce works.
• Describe how to cultivate a faith that produces works.

Suggested Practice A:
Possible Questions:

1. Paul’s notion of “justification by faith alone” (Romans 3:28) and James’ notion that a “workless faith” cannot save someone (James 2:14) seem to contradict each other. Do they stand in conflict to one another? What is the difference?
2. James is writing to those from a Jewish background that are very familiar with works (dietary laws, sabbath observance, set liturgical prayers etc.). So, what does James mean when he challenges them not to demonstrate a “workless faith” (2:17, 20, 26)?
3. Why does James believe faith and works are inseparable?
4. What do the examples of Abraham and Rahab (James 2:21-25) teach us about faith being demonstrated through works?
5. How do we cultivate a genuine faith that produces works?

Suggested Practice B:
Read James 2:14-26 together. What do you notice? What questions do these words provoke? What does this passage reveal about being a follower of Jesus?

____[Kids/Youth Rejoin Adults]____

Prayer
Goal: Respond appropriately to what Jesus is doing & saying in our gathering.

Suggested Practice A:
Break into groups of 3 people and ask if anyone needs faith to obey God despite the consequences or difficult circumstances. If so, pray for these people and ask God to provide the faith and courage required. If not, ask if anyone has a family member or friend that needs faith to obey God despite the consequences or difficult circumstances. If so, pray for these people and ask God to provide the faith and courage required.

Suggested Practice B:
Lead your Small Church through the following prayer practice:

• Ask God to help you see, hear, understand and respond to His presence.
• Thank God for the good that has come to you this week through His generosity.
• Reflect on the following questions:

• This week, when did you feel you were cooperating most fully with God?
• This week, when were you resisting God?

• Talk to God and let Him know your thoughts and feelings.

• Seek forgiveness
• Ask for direction
• Express gratitude
• Resolve to make a change

• Ask God to be present in your thoughts, actions and relationships this week.

Communion
Goal: Remember Jesus' death and resurrection. Receive strength & joy that He is with us. Renew our hope for Jesus' return and the restoration of creation.

Suggested Practice:

• Distribute bread and juice.
• Read Luke 22:19-20.
• Read the following statement…“the body of Christ has been given, broken for us and the entire world. This bread reminds us that He paid a debt that He did not owe so that we wouldn’t have to pay a debt that we did owe”.
• Eat the bread.
• Read the following statement…“The blood of Christ has been poured out, shed for us and the entire world. This juice reminds us that we have a permanent and unbreakable relationship with Him and that death has no power over us and no power over creation”.
• Drink the juice.

Blessing
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and consider what He wants to do & say this coming week.

Suggested Practice:
Read John 15:1-4 aloud and pray that your Small Church would draw close to God and bear fruit that is pleasing to Him.

Main Theme:  Love is the Antidote to Discrimination.

Opening
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and be open to what He wants to do & say in our gathering.

Suggested Practice:
Read 1 John 4:9-10 aloud and thank God for the gift of Jesus Christ.

Worship
Goal: Make Jesus central in our gathering. This could be done through songs, prayerful scripture reading, communion, etc.

Suggested Practice:
Choose 2 songs to sing together (or listen to) that focus on God’s love for us and our response to love God and neighbor.

Possible Options:

• How Great Is Your Love (YouTube)
• Lord, I Need You (YouTube)
• Open The Eyes Of My Heart (YouTube)

____[Dismiss the Kids/Youth]____

Sharing
Goal: To know each other's stories.

Suggested Practice A:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time where you experienced God’s love? What difference did it make? How has it changed you?

Suggested Practice B:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time where you witnessed a friend or family member experience God’s love? How has this inspired you? How has this changed you?

Suggested Practice C:
Break into groups of 3 people. Answer the following questions:

• What are you thankful for this week?
• What has stressed you out this week?

Give the groups 10 minutes to answer the question. Encourage everyone to share.

Discussion
Goal: Learn how to follow Jesus in everyday life.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand that Christians must not discriminate against others.
• Explain why discrimination is wrong.
• Describe what it means to “love your neighbor as yourself”.

Suggested Practice A:
Possible Questions:

1. Why does James believe that faith in Jesus Christ and discrimination against others are incompatible (2:1)?
2. What impact does discriminating behavior have on the individual, the Church and society?
3. In 2:6-7, James highlights that his readers are giving honor and special attention to the very people who are oppressing and exploiting them. Can you think of some modern-day examples where we fall into the same trap? How do we avoid falling into the same trap?
4. Who is our “neighbor” (Luke 10:29-37)?
5. What does it mean to “love your neighbor as yourself” (2:8)?
6. James 2:13 & Matthew 6:14-15 highlight the significance of extending mercy to those who have sinned against us. How do we hold the tension of the need to forgive, the hope of reconciliation and the wisdom of boundaries?

Suggested Practice B:
Read James 2:1-13 together. What do you notice? What questions do these words provoke? What does this passage reveal about being a follower of Jesus?

____[Kids/Youth Rejoin Adults]____

Prayer
Goal: Respond appropriately to what Jesus is doing & saying in our gathering.

Suggested Practice A:
Read the prayer below aloud to your Small Church. Ask everyone to take a few minutes to pray to confess their sins and acknowledge their need for God’s grace and forgiveness.

“Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your name. Amen”.

Suggested Practice B:
Pray the Lord’s Prayer as a Small Church. Either one person can read the entire prayer or ask different people to read one line at a time. Either way, go slow and briefly pause after each line to allow people to reflect on what they are saying:

Our Father in heaven, holy is your name.
Your Kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.
For yours is the Kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.

Communion
Goal: Remember Jesus' death and resurrection. Receive strength & joy that He is with us. Renew our hope for Jesus' return and the restoration of creation.

Suggested Practice:

• Distribute bread and juice.
• Read Luke 22:19-20.
• Read the following statement…“the body of Christ has been given, broken for us and the entire world. This bread reminds us that He paid a debt that He did not owe so that we wouldn’t have to pay a debt that we did owe”.
• Eat the bread.
• Read the following statement…“The blood of Christ has been poured out, shed for us and the entire world. This juice reminds us that we have a permanent and unbreakable relationship with Him and that death has no power over us and no power over creation”.
• Drink the juice.

Blessing
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and consider what He wants to do & say this coming week.

Suggested Practice:
Read 1 John 4:11-12 aloud and pray that your Small Church would follow God’s example and love like Him.

Main Theme:  A Christian Response to Trials.

Opening
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and be open to what He wants to do & say in our gathering.

Suggested Practice:
Pray the Lord’s Prayer as a Small Church. Either one person can read the entire prayer or ask different people to read one line at a time. Either way, go slow and briefly pause after each line to allow people to reflect on what they are saying:

Our Father in heaven,
Holy is your name,
Your Kingdom come,
Your will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins
As we forgive those
Who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For yours is the Kingdom, the power,
And the glory, forever. Amen.

Worship
Goal: Make Jesus central in our gathering. This could be done through songs, prayerful scripture reading, communion, etc.

Suggested Practice:
Choose 2 songs to sing together (or listen to) that focus on trusting in the goodness, provision and wisdom of God.

Possible Options:

• Goodness of God (YouTube)
• I Surrender All (YouTube)
• Great Is Thy Faithfulness (YouTube)

____[Dismiss the Kids/Youth]____

Sharing
Goal: To know each other's stories.

Suggested Practice A:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time where you experienced God’s goodness, provision or wisdom during one of life’s trials? What difference did it make? How has it changed you?

Suggested Practice B:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• Who has been an example to you of experiencing God’s goodness, provision or wisdom during one of life’s trials? How have they inspired you? How has their example changed you?

Suggested Practice C:
Break into groups of 3 people. Answer the following questions:

• What are you thankful for this week?
• What has stressed you out this week?

Give the groups 10 minutes to answer the question. Encourage everyone to share.

Discussion
Goal: Learn how to follow Jesus in everyday life.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand that trials are a reality of life.
• Explain how a Christian should and shouldn’t respond to trials.
• Describe how one lets God activate the word of truth in their lives.

Suggested Practice A:
Possible Questions:

1. Why can we expect to “face trials of many kinds” (1:2)?
2. In 1:2, James is not commanding how one should feel, but rather how one should think about one’s circumstances. What does James mean when he urges believers to “consider [trials] pure joy”?
3. The Holy Spirit prioritizes our “wholeness” over our “happiness”. Discuss.
4. In 1:13, James is commanding believers to take personal responsibility to resist temptation. Practically, what does it look like to take personal responsibility in resisting temptation?
5. If the word of truth is implanted in believers at salvation, then they don’t need to receive it during trials but need to let God activate it within them (1:21).
   • Why is this distinction important?
   • How does one let God activate the implanted word of truth?
   • What difference does it make to activate the word of truth in our lives?

Suggested Practice B:
Read James 1:2-11 together. What do you notice? What questions do these words provoke? What does this passage reveal about being a follower of Jesus?

____[Kids/Youth Rejoin Adults]____

Prayer
Goal: Respond appropriately to what Jesus is doing & saying in our gathering.

Suggested Practice A:
Read the prayer below aloud to your Small Church. Ask everyone to take a few minutes to pray to confess their sins and acknowledge their need for God’s grace and forgiveness.

“Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son
Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your name. Amen”.

Suggested Practice B:
Break into groups of 3 people and ask everyone to identify a family member or friend that is currently facing one of life’s trials. Pray for these people. Ask the Holy Spirit to do a work in their life that only He can do. Pray that they would experience God’s goodness, provision and wisdom during the trial.

Communion
Goal: Remember Jesus' death and resurrection. Receive strength & joy that He is with us. Renew our hope for Jesus' return and the restoration of creation.

Suggested Practice:

• Distribute bread and juice.
• Read Luke 22:19-20.
• Read the following statement…“the body of Christ has been given, broken for us and the entire world. This bread reminds us that He paid a debt that He did not owe so that we wouldn’t have to pay a debt that we did owe”.
• Eat the bread.
• Read the following statement…“The blood of Christ has been poured out, shed for us and the entire world. This juice reminds us that we have a permanent and unbreakable relationship with Him and that death has no power over us and no power over creation”.
• Drink the juice.

Blessing
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and consider what He wants to do & say this coming week.

Suggested Practice:
Read James 1:17 aloud and on behalf of your Small Church, thank God that He does not change and that we can put our hope and trust in Him.

Main Theme:  The inward activity of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

Opening
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and be open to what He wants to do & say in our gathering.

Suggested Practice:
Read James 1:5 aloud and on behalf of your Small Church, ask God to give everyone the wisdom required to faithfully follow Him.

Worship
Goal: Make Jesus central in our gathering. This could be done through songs, prayerful scripture reading, communion, etc.

Suggested Practice:
Choose 2 songs to sing together (or listen to) that will focus our attention on the transformational power of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

Possible Options:

• Way Maker (YouTube)
• I Surrender All (YouTube)
• Heal Our Land (YouTube)

____[Dismiss the Kids/Youth]____

Sharing
Goal: To know each other's stories.

Suggested Practice A:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time where God transformed an area of your life? What difference did it make? How has it changed you?

Suggested Practice B:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time where you witnessed God transform a friend or family members’ life? How has this inspired you? How has this changed you?

Suggested Practice C:
Break into groups of 3 people. Answer the following questions:

• What are you thankful for this week?
• What has stressed you out this week?

Give the groups 10 minutes to answer the question. Encourage everyone to share.

Discussion
Goal: Learn how to follow Jesus in everyday life.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand that our heavenly Father is good and perfect and extends grace toward us.
• Explain why it is important that we live the way of Jesus in our everyday lives.
• Describe the difference between someone who “merely listens to the word” and someone who does “what is says” (James 1:22).

Suggested Practice A:
Possible Questions:

1. How do we know that God is good and full of grace?
2. What difference does it make knowing God is good and full of grace?
3. Why is it so important for James to challenge his readers to put their faith into practice (James 1:22)?
4. How do we reconcile the fact that we are being called to be “doers” of the word and yet we continually fail to live up to this standard?
5. Practically, how can we help ourselves and each other be “doers” of the word?

Suggested Practice B:
Read James 1:22-25 together. What do you notice? What questions do these words provoke? What does this passage reveal about being a follower of Jesus?

____[Kids/Youth Rejoin Adults]____

Prayer
Goal: Respond appropriately to what Jesus is doing & saying in our gathering.

Suggested Practice A:
Break into groups of 3 people and ask everyone to identify a family member or friend that needs God to transform an area of their life. Pray for these people. Ask the Holy Spirit to do a work in their life that only He can do.

Suggested Practice B:
Break into groups of 3 people and pray for one another. Ask God to transform the broken areas of your lives. Some people may want to share the area of their life that they are asking God to transform. While others may be uncomfortable sharing such personal information. Either response is fine, we want people to share at their own pace.

Communion
Goal: Remember Jesus' death and resurrection. Receive strength & joy that He is with us. Renew our hope for Jesus' return and the restoration of creation.

Suggested Practice:

• Distribute bread and juice.
• Read Luke 22:19-20.
• Read the following statement…“the body of Christ has been given, broken for us and the entire world. This bread reminds us that He paid a debt that He did not owe so that we wouldn’t have to pay a debt that we did owe”.
• Eat the bread.
• Read the following statement…“The blood of Christ has been poured out, shed for us and the entire world. This juice reminds us that we have a permanent and unbreakable relationship with Him and that death has no power over us and no power over creation”.
• Drink the juice.

Blessing
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and consider what He wants to do & say this coming week.

Suggested Practice:
Read James 1:17 aloud and on behalf of your Small Church, thank God that He does not change and that we can put our hope and trust in Him.

Main Theme: Resting in God

Opening
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and be open to what He wants to do & say in our gathering.

Suggested Practice:
Read Romans 8:5:

• "Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.”

Read the following prayer aloud to your Small Church:

• “Lord, help us to surrender our lives into your loving hands. We trust you completely with our lives. You have good plans for us. Help us to not rely on our fleshly desires and strive to make a way in our own strength. Instead, help us trust your will for our lives and seek you every day for the good plans your Spirit has for each one of us.”

Worship
Goal: Make Jesus central in our gathering. This could be done through songs, prayerful scripture reading, communion, etc.

Suggested Practice:
Choose 2 songs to sing together (or listen to) that are focused on who God is and our ability to trust Him.

Possible Options:

• Promises (YouTube)
• Blessed Assurance (YouTube)

Ask a few individuals to pray out loud, thanking God for helping them and giving them an assurance that they can trust Him.

____[Dismiss the Kids/Youth]____

Discussion
Goal: Learn how to follow Jesus in everyday life.

Discussion Topic Intro:

• “For the LORD has chosen Zion, he has desired it for his dwelling, saying, “This is my resting place for ever and ever; here I will sit enthroned, for I have desired it.” (Psalm 132:13-14).
• When God rested on the seventh day of creation (Genesis 2:2), He was sitting down on his throne. God sits on the throne after the world has achieved complete harmonious order. Rest means that everything is set up just right and running well.
• When God is at rest, people can be at rest too. It’s all under his reign. We can rest because He reigns. The more we trust the one in charge, the more we can rest.
• “Rest” is more than slowing down and physically restoring our energy levels. We are not “resting in God” when we take a nap yet still proceed to fret about our kids/work/relationships/money.
• The gift of resting is when we reorientate ourselves toward God, rededicate our trust in Him, and meditate on His trustworthiness.
• We can take our problems directly to God and ask Him to help us live according to the Spirit and not the flesh.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the connection between God reigning and God resting.
• Explain the significance of worshipping and following a God who rests while reigning over all creation.
• Describe how we can put our trust in God and operate from a place of rest in our everyday lives.

Suggested Practice:
Possible Questions:

1. How do you know God is trustworthy?
2. What impact does God reigning on His throne have on our everyday lives?
3. What practical difference does it make when you have rested in God?
4. How can you include God in your rest and weekly preparations?
5. In what ways can you or have you trusted God through a posture of rest?

Sharing
Goal: To know each other's stories.

Suggested Practice A:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time in your life where you found rest in God during difficult circumstances? What difference did it make? How has it changed you?

Suggested Practice B:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• Who has been an example to you of resting in God during difficult circumstances? How have they inspired you? How has their example changed you?

Suggested Practice C:
Break into groups of 3 people. Answer the following questions:

• What are you thankful for this week?
• What has stressed you out this week?

Give the groups 10 minutes to answer the question. Encourage everyone to share.

____[Kids/Youth Rejoin Adults]____

Prayer
Goal: Respond appropriately to what Jesus is doing & saying in our gathering.

Suggested Practice A:
Break into groups of 3 people and ask everyone to identify a family member or friend that is struggling to trust in God/find rest in God. Pray for these people. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal Himself to these people in a new way.

Suggested Practice B:
Break into groups of 3 people and ask everyone where they are struggling to trust in God/find rest in God. Pray for one another. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal Himself in these situations.

Communion
Goal: Remember Jesus' death and resurrection. Receive strength & joy that He is with us. Renew our hope for Jesus' return and the restoration of creation.

Suggested Practice:

• Distribute bread and juice.
• Read the following statement…“the body of Christ has been given, broken for us and the entire world. This bread reminds us that He paid a debt that He did not owe so that we wouldn’t have to pay a debt that we did owe”.
• Eat the bread.
• Read the following statement…“The blood of Christ has been poured out, shed for us and the entire world. This juice reminds us that we have a permanent and unbreakable relationship with Him and that death has no power over us and no power over creation”.
• Drink the juice.

Blessing
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and consider what He wants to do & say this coming week.

Suggested Practice:
Ask everyone to find a comfortable position and explain that we’re going to wait on God for the next 5 minutes. Pray that God would reveal more of himself to your Small Church. If there are loud or distracting children, encourage them to play in a different area of the house/building. Play this song: Mercy + When I Think About The Lord | Common Gathering

(Alternatively, you could do this practice during communion)

Main Theme:  Our hope & peace is grounded in a person not circumstances.

Opening
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and be open to what He wants to do & say in our gathering.

Suggested Practice:
Observe the 2nd theme of advent (peace):

• Light a candle.
• Read Isaiah 9:6.
• Thank God that, because of Jesus, peace (wholeness/completeness) is possible in the present and certain in the future.

Worship
Goal: Make Jesus central in our gathering. This could be done through songs, prayerful scripture reading, communion, etc.

Suggested Practice:
Choose 2 songs to sing together (or listen to) that will focus our attention on the gift of Jesus Christ during this advent season.

Possible Options:

• O Come, All Ye Faithful (YouTube)
• O Holy Night (YouTube)
• Hark! The Herald Angels Sing (YouTube)

____[Dismiss the Kids/Youth]____

Sharing
Goal: To know each other's stories.

Suggested Practice A:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time in your life where you experienced hope or peace in difficult circumstances? What difference did it make? How has it changed you?

Suggested Practice B:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• Who has been an example to you of experiencing hope or peace in difficult circumstances? How have they inspired you? How has their example changed you?

Suggested Practice C:
Break into groups of 3 people. Answer the following questions:

• What are you thankful for this week?
• What has stressed you out this week?

Give the groups 10 minutes to answer the question. Encourage everyone to share.

Discussion
Goal: Learn how to follow Jesus in everyday life.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand that hope and peace are essential for the flourishing of humanity.
• Explain why we can ground our hope and peace in the person of Jesus Christ.
• Describe how we can keep our hope and peace in difficult circumstances.

Suggested Practice A:
Possible Questions:

1. What is the difference between hope and a wish?
2. Why is hope and peace essential for the flourishing of humanity?
3. How does Jesus bring hope and peace to the whole world?
4. What impact does hope and peace have on our everyday lives?
5. How do we keep our hope and peace in difficult circumstances?

Suggested Practice B:
Read Luke 2:25-32 together. What do you notice? What questions do these words provoke? What does this passage reveal about Jesus?

____[Kids/Youth Rejoin Adults]____

Prayer
Goal: Respond appropriately to what Jesus is doing & saying in our gathering.

Suggested Practice A:
Break into groups of 3 people and ask everyone to identify a family member or friend that needs hope or peace right now. Pray for these people. Ask the Holy Spirit to bring hope and peace to these people.

Suggested Practice B:
Break into groups of 3 people and ask everyone where they need hope or peace right now. Pray for one another. Ask the Holy Spirit to bring hope and peace into these situations.

Communion
Goal: Remember Jesus' death and resurrection. Receive strength & joy that He is with us. Renew our hope for Jesus' return and the restoration of creation.

Suggested Practice:

• Distribute bread and juice.
• Read the following statement…“the body of Christ has been given, broken for us and the entire world. This bread reminds us that He paid a debt that He did not owe so that we wouldn’t have to pay a debt that we did owe”.
• Eat the bread.
• Read the following statement…“The blood of Christ has been poured out, shed for us and the entire world. This juice reminds us that we have a permanent and unbreakable relationship with Him and that death has no power over us and no power over creation”.
• Drink the juice.

Blessing
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and consider what He wants to do & say this coming week.

Suggested Practice:
Lead your Small Church in the following prayer of St. Patrick (387-493) that declares the presence of Jesus Christ in all areas of our lives:
“Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ on my right, Christ on my left, Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit, Christ when I stand, Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me, Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me, Christ in every eye that sees me, Christ in every ear that hears me. Amen”.

Main Theme:  As followers of Jesus, we are called to be peacemakers.

Opening
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and be open to what He wants to do & say in our gathering.

Suggested Practice:
Read Psalm 25:1-11 aloud as a prayer on behalf of your Small Church.

Worship
Goal: Make Jesus central in our gathering. This could be done through songs, prayerful scripture reading, communion, etc.

Suggested Practice:
Choose 2 songs to sing together (or listen to) that will remind us of our call to follow Jesus. Possible Options:

Possible Options:

• Great Are You Lord (YouTube)
• Amazing Grace (YouTube)
• Goodness of God (YouTube)

____[Dismiss the Kids/Youth]____

Sharing
Goal: To know each other's stories.

Suggested Practice A:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time in your life where you successfully played the role of a peacemaker? What was the fruit of this intervention? How has it impacted your life?

Suggested Practice B:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• Who has been an example to you of successfully playing the role of a peacemaker? How have they inspired you? How has their example changed you?

Suggested Practice C:
Break into groups of 3 people. Answer the following questions:

• What are you thankful for this week?
• What has stressed you out this week?

Give the groups 10 minutes to answer the question. Encourage everyone to share.

Discussion
Goal: Learn how to follow Jesus in everyday life.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand that followers of Jesus are called to be peacemakers.
• Describe the difference between a peacemaker and a peacekeeper.
• Explain the importance of the Church modeling peace and reconciliation to the world.

Suggested Practice A:
Possible Questions:

1. What is the difference between peacekeeping and peacemaking?
2. When was a time in your life where you had to play the role of a peacekeeper and/or a peacemaker? How did each role differ?
3. Why has God called His followers to become peacemakers?
4. In what ways is Matthew 5:9 (and the entire Beatitudes) a counterculture value system?
5. What is the significance between Jesus’ death & resurrection and our role as peacemakers (Colossians 1:19-20)?

Suggested Practice B:
Read Matthew 5:1-12 together. What do you notice? What questions do these words provoke? What does it mean to follow Jesus?

____[Kids/Youth Rejoin Adults]____

Prayer
Goal: Respond appropriately to what Jesus is doing & saying in our gathering.

Suggested Practice A:
Pray the Lord’s Prayer as a Small Church. Ask different people to read one line at a time. Go slow and meditate on each line as you pray.

Our Father in heaven,
Holy is your name,
Your Kingdom come,
Your will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins
As we forgive those
Who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For yours is the Kingdom, the power,
And the glory, forever. Amen.

Suggested Practice B:
Break into groups of 3 people and ask everyone to identify a situation they are currently experiencing that needs a peacemaker. Pray for one another. Ask the Holy Spirit to send peacemakers into these situations.

Communion
Goal: Remember Jesus' death and resurrection. Receive strength & joy that He is with us. Renew our hope for Jesus' return and the restoration of creation.

Suggested Practice:

• Distribute bread and juice.
• Read the following statement…“the body of Christ has been given, broken for us and the entire world. This bread reminds us that He paid a debt that He did not owe so that we wouldn’t have to pay a debt that we did owe”.
• Eat the bread.
• Read the following statement…“The blood of Christ has been poured out, shed for us and the entire world. This juice reminds us that we have a permanent and unbreakable relationship with Him and that death has no power over us and no power over creation”.
• Drink the juice.

Blessing
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and consider what He wants to do & say this coming week.

Suggested Practice:
Read 2 Corinthians 5:18-20 aloud and pray that your Small Church would faithfully be Christ’s ambassadors and carry the message of reconciliation.

Main Theme:  Obedience to God’s call as we journey with Jesus.

Opening
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and be open to what He wants to do & say in our gathering.

Suggested Practice:
Take a few minutes to pray to confess your sins and acknowledge your need for God’s grace and forgiveness.

“Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your name. Amen”.

Worship
Goal: Make Jesus central in our gathering. This could be done through songs, prayerful scripture reading, communion, etc.

Suggested Practice:
Choose 2 songs to sing together (or listen to) that will increase your faith for God to work in and through you. Possible Options:

Possible Options:

• Oceans (YouTube)
• So Will I (YouTube)
• Goodness of God (YouTube)

____[Dismiss the Kids/Youth]____

Sharing
Goal: To know each other's stories.

Suggested Practice A:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time in your life where you recognized and obeyed the call of God? What was the fruit of that decision? How has that decision impacted your life?

Suggested Practice B:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• Who has been an example to you of recognizing and obeying the call of God? How have they inspired you? How has their example changed you?

Suggested Practice C:
Break into groups of 3 people. Answer the following questions:

• What are you thankful for this week?
• What has stressed you out this week?

Give the groups 10 minutes to answer the question. Encourage everyone to share.

Discussion
Goal: Learn how to follow Jesus in everyday life.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand that choosing to follow Jesus, in any and every circumstance, is an obedience to God’s call.
• Describe how the Apostle Paul continually chose to obey God’s call despite his circumstances.
• Explain how following Jesus often challenges our personal ambitions, expectations and desires as well as our capacity to love and extend grace to others.

Suggested Practice A:
Possible Questions:

1. In Acts 21:4,10-12, the believers “urged” and “pleaded” with the Apostle Paul not to go to Jerusalem. Why didn’t they want Paul to go to Jerusalem? Why did Paul choose to go Jerusalem despite their warnings?
2. The Holy Spirit gave Paul enough information to know what is likely to await him in Jerusalem. But left him with the responsibility of deciding whether to go anyway. Have you ever been in a similar situation? How did you come to a decision?
3. Discernment can be a complicated process. How can we discern the call of God in our lives?
4. Paul’s friends in Caesarea eventually accepted his decision to go to Jerusalem and said “May the Lord’s will be done” (21:14). What are some situations right now for which you may need to say “May the Lord’s will be done”?
5. When was a time in your life that following Jesus challenged your personal ambitions/expectations/desires/capacity to love/ability to extend grace to others?

Suggested Practice B:
Read Acts 21:7-14 together. What do you notice? What questions do these words provoke? What does it mean to follow Jesus?

____[Kids/Youth Rejoin Adults]____

Prayer
Goal: Respond appropriately to what Jesus is doing & saying in our gathering.

Suggested Practice A:
Pray the Lord’s Prayer as a Small Church. Ask different people to read one line at a time. Go slow and meditate on each line as you pray.

Our Father in heaven,
Holy is your name,
Your Kingdom come,
Your will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins
As we forgive those
Who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For yours is the Kingdom, the power,
And the glory, forever. Amen.

Suggested Practice B:
Break into groups of 3 people and pray for one another. Ask the Holy Spirit to give each one of us discernment and courage to obey the call of God in our lives.

Communion
Goal: Remember Jesus' death and resurrection. Receive strength & joy that He is with us. Renew our hope for Jesus' return and the restoration of creation.

Suggested Practice:

• Distribute bread and juice.
• Read the following statement…“the body of Christ has been given, broken for us and the entire world. This bread reminds us that He paid a debt that He did not owe so that we wouldn’t have to pay a debt that we did owe”.
• Eat the bread.
• Read the following statement…“The blood of Christ has been poured out, shed for us and the entire world. This juice reminds us that we have a permanent and unbreakable relationship with Him and that death has no power over us and no power over creation”.
• Drink the juice.

Blessing
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and consider what He wants to do & say this coming week.

Suggested Practice:
Read Acts 28:31 aloud and pray that this would be the testimony of your Small Church.

Main Theme:  Increasing our kingdom influence as we journey with Jesus.

Opening
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and be open to what He wants to do & say in our gathering.

Suggested Practice:
Take a few minutes to pray to confess your sins and acknowledge your need for God’s grace and forgiveness.

“Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your name. Amen”.

Worship
Goal: Make Jesus central in our gathering. This could be done through songs, prayerful scripture reading, communion, etc.

Suggested Practice:
Choose 2 songs to sing together (or listen to) that will increase your faith for God to work in and through you. Possible Options:

Possible Options:

• Same God (YouTube)
• What A Beautiful Name (YouTube)
• Promises (YouTube)

____[Dismiss the Kids/Youth]____

Sharing
Goal: To know each other's stories.

Suggested Practice A:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time in your life where your faith in God to work in and through you increased? What difference did it make? How has it changed you?

Suggested Practice B:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• Who has been an example to you of living a life of increasing faith? How have they inspired you? How has their example changed you?

Suggested Practice C:
Break into groups of 3 people. Answer the following questions:

• What are you thankful for this week?
• What has stressed you out this week?

Give the groups 10 minutes to answer the question. Encourage everyone to share.

Discussion
Goal: Learn how to follow Jesus in everyday life.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand that salvation is not the end of our faith journey.
• Describe how the Apostle Paul relied on the power of the Holy Spirit while on his missionary journeys.
• Explain why God wants us to have increasing kingdom influence in every area of our lives.

Suggested Practice A:
Possible Questions:

1. Priscilla & Aquila encouraged and “explained to [Apollos] the way of God more accurately” (Acts 18:26). Who has been/currently is a “Priscilla & Aquila” in your life? To whom are you a “Priscilla & Aquila”?
2. Why is it important to rely on and operate in the power of the Holy Spirit when participating on Jesus’ mission?
3. In Acts 19:6, “the Holy Spirit came on” a group of disciples. What does it mean to be filled with the Holy Spirit? How do we know that someone has been filled with the Holy Spirit?
4. What is the relationship between our faith and our kingdom influence?
5. In his sermon, Steve mentioned that it’s difficult to reach out for a new thing when you’re holding on to something from your past. Has this rang true in your life or the life of a loved one?

Suggested Practice B:
Read Acts 19:1-7 together. What do you notice? What questions do these words provoke? What does it mean to follow Jesus?

____[Kids/Youth Rejoin Adults]____

Prayer
Goal: Respond appropriately to what Jesus is doing & saying in our gathering.

Suggested Practice A:
Pray the Lord’s Prayer as a Small Church. Ask different people to read one line at a time. Go slow and meditate on each line as you pray.

Our Father in heaven,
Holy is your name,
Your Kingdom come,
Your will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins
As we forgive those
Who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For yours is the Kingdom, the power,
And the glory, forever. Amen.

Suggested Practice B:
Ask your Small Church if anyone would like the group to pray for them to have increased faith for God to work in and through them. If so, gather around those people and ask God to give them the gift of faith in increasing measure.

Communion
Goal: Remember Jesus' death and resurrection. Receive strength & joy that He is with us. Renew our hope for Jesus' return and the restoration of creation.

Suggested Practice:

• Distribute bread and juice.
• Read the following statement…“the body of Christ has been given, broken for us and the entire world. This bread reminds us that He paid a debt that He did not owe so that we wouldn’t have to pay a debt that we did owe”.
• Eat the bread.
• Read the following statement…“The blood of Christ has been poured out, shed for us and the entire world. This juice reminds us that we have a permanent and unbreakable relationship with Him and that death has no power over us and no power over creation”.
• Drink the juice.

Blessing
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and consider what He wants to do & say this coming week.

Suggested Practice:
Read 1 Chronicles 4:10 aloud as a prayer over your Small Church.

Main Theme:  Journeying with Jesus.

Opening
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and be open to what He wants to do & say in our gathering.

Suggested Practice:
Take a few minutes to pray to confess your sins and acknowledge your need for God’s grace and forgiveness.

“Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your name. Amen”.

Worship
Goal: Make Jesus central in our gathering. This could be done through songs, prayerful scripture reading, communion, etc.

Suggested Practice:
Choose 2 songs to sing together (or listen to) that will help you focus on God’s invitation for relationship.

Possible Options:

• King of Kings (YouTube)
• In Christ Alone (YouTube)
• O Come to the Altar (YouTube)

____[Dismiss the Kids/Youth]____

Sharing
Goal: To know each other's stories.

Suggested Practice A:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time in your life where you stayed close to Jesus during challenging circumstances? What difference did it make? How has it changed you?

Suggested Practice B:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• Who has been an example to you of staying close to Jesus during challenging circumstances? How have they inspired you? How has their example changed you?

Suggested Practice C:
Break into groups of 3 people. Answer the following questions:

• What are you thankful for this week?
• What has stressed you out this week?

Give the groups 10 minutes to answer the question. Encourage everyone to share.

Discussion
Goal: Learn how to follow Jesus in everyday life.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand that we’ll face challenges as we journey with Jesus.
• Explain how we can cultivate a resilient faith.
• Describe how the message, Jesus is Lord, affects our everyday lives.

Suggested Practice A:
Possible Questions:

1. Why is it important to understand that God’s goodness is greater than human foolishness and sin?
2. When you reflect on Paul and Barnabas’ sharp disagreement and subsequent separate journeys (Acts 15:36-41), how does it impact your own journey with Jesus?
3. The Apostle Paul believed it was necessary to circumcise Timothy before he joined him and Silas on their missionary journey (Acts 16:3). Timothy didn’t need to be circumcised to be saved but it would enable them to move freely among the Jewish community and therefore further advance the Kingdom work. Are there any sacrifices, on your journey with Jesus, that you don’t need to make but if you did it would further advance the Kingdom?
4. God kept preventing Paul and his companions from traveling in their desired direction (Acts
   16:6-7). Why does following God often feel like we are heading down a path that is taking us in the wrong direction?
5. Throughout the book of Acts, the followers of Jesus carried the message that Jesus is Lord. It’s a message that challenges the powers of this world and changes both our present and future reality. How does the message, “Jesus is Lord”, affect your everyday life or current circumstances?

Suggested Practice B:
Read Acts 16:16-34 together. What do you notice? What questions do these words provoke? What does it mean to follow Jesus?

____[Kids/Youth Rejoin Adults]____

Prayer
Goal: Respond appropriately to what Jesus is doing & saying in our gathering.

Suggested Practice A:
Pray the Lord’s Prayer as a Small Church. Ask different people to read one line at a time. Go slow and meditate on each line as you pray.

Our Father in heaven,
Holy is your name,
Your Kingdom come,
Your will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins
As we forgive those
Who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For yours is the Kingdom, the power,
And the glory, forever. Amen.

Suggested Practice B:
Create a Small Church prayer board. Ask everyone in your Small Church to identify one person in their life who is disconnected from God or church.

Break into groups of 3 and ask everyone to pray for one name on the list. Over the next few months, pray that every person on the list would have a positive encounter with God and/or the church.

Communion
Goal: Remember Jesus' death and resurrection. Receive strength & joy that He is with us. Renew our hope for Jesus' return and the restoration of creation.

Suggested Practice:

• Distribute bread and juice.
• Read the following statement…“the body of Christ has been given, broken for us and the entire world. This bread reminds us that He paid a debt that He did not owe so that we wouldn’t have to pay a debt that we did owe”.
• Eat the bread.
• Read the following statement…“The blood of Christ has been poured out, shed for us and the entire world. This juice reminds us that we have a permanent and unbreakable relationship with Him and that death has no power over us and no power over creation”.
• Drink the juice.

Blessing
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and consider what He wants to do & say this coming week.

Suggested Practice:
Read Acts 18:9-10 aloud as if Jesus was speaking the same words to your Small Church. Then, pray a blessing over your Small Church.

Main Theme: The Church is Global

Opening
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and be open to what He wants to do & say in our gathering.

Suggested Practice:
Read Revelation 7:9-12 and take a couple of minutes to join with all creation in praising Jesus Christ.

Worship
Goal: Make Jesus central in our gathering. This could be done through songs, prayerful scripture reading, communion, etc.

Suggested Practice:
Choose 2 songs to sing together (or listen to) that will help you focus on the greatness of our God.

Possible Options:

• Revelation Song (YouTube)
• What A Beautiful Name (YouTube)
• How Great Is Our God (YouTube)

____[Dismiss the Kids/Youth]____

Sharing
Goal: To know each other's stories.

Suggested Practice A:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time in your life that you travelled internationally and were out of your comfort zone? How did it change you?

Suggested Practice B:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• Who has been an example to you of embracing a global perspective of the Church? How have they inspired you? How has their example changed you?

Suggested Practice C:
Break into groups of 3 people. Answer the following questions:

• What are you thankful for this week?
• What has stressed you out this week?

Give the groups 10 minutes to answer the question. Encourage everyone to share.

Discussion
Goal: Learn how to follow Jesus in everyday life.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand that the Church is global.
• Explain the importance of the Church being global.
• Describe how we can cultivate a global perspective of the Church.

Suggested Practice A:

1. What difference does it make in our lives when we know we are part of a global church?
2. When you think and talk about “church”, do you tend to think local or global? Why?
3. How can we give equal importance to both the “local church” and the “global church”?
4. What international connections and/or relationships do you have in your Small Church?
5. How can your Small Church cultivate a global perspective of the Church?
6. How can your Small Church serve the global church?

Suggested Practice B:
Read Acts 1:7-8 together. What does it mean for us to be witnesses of the resurrected Jesus “in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth”? How do we fulfill this command?

____[Kids/Youth Rejoin Adults]____

Prayer
Goal: Respond appropriately to what Jesus is doing & saying in our gathering.

Suggested Practice A:
Identify a country outside of the United States of America to pray for as a Small Church. Pray that the church in this country would spread the gospel and cultivate Kingdom lives.

Suggested Practice B:
Create a Small Church prayer board. Ask everyone in your Small Church to identify one person in their life who is disconnected from God or church.

Break into groups of 3 and ask everyone to pray for one name on the list. Over the next few months, pray that every person on the list would have a positive encounter with God and/or the church.

Communion
Goal: Remember Jesus' death and resurrection. Receive strength & joy that He is with us. Renew our hope for Jesus' return and the restoration of creation.

Suggested Practice:

• Distribute bread and juice.
• Read the following statement…“the body of Christ has been given, broken for us and the entire world. This bread reminds us that He paid a debt that He did not owe so that we wouldn’t have to pay a debt that we did owe”.
• Eat the bread.
• Read the following statement…“The blood of Christ has been poured out, shed for us and the entire world. This juice reminds us that we have a permanent and unbreakable relationship with Him and that death has no power over us and no power over creation”.
• Drink the juice.

Blessing
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and consider what He wants to do & say this coming week.

Suggested Practice:
Read Ephesians 4:1-6 and pray a blessing over your Small Church.

Main Theme:  Cultivating a life of fervent prayer.

Opening
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and be open to what He wants to do & say in our gathering.

Suggested Practice:
Read Psalm 84 and thank God for desiring, making a way, and inviting us into relationship with Him.

Worship
Goal: Make Jesus central in our gathering. This could be done through songs, prayerful scripture reading, communion, etc.

Suggested Practice:
Choose 2 songs to sing together (or listen to) that will help you focus on God’s invitation for relationship.

Possible Options:

• Better Is One Day (YouTube)
• Goodness of God (YouTube)
• Reckless Love (YouTube)

____[Dismiss the Kids/Youth]____

Sharing
Goal: To know each other's stories.

Suggested Practice A:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• When was a time in your life that God answered your prayers in a miraculous way?

Suggested Practice B:
Select one person to answer the following question:

• Who has been an example to you of cultivating a life of fervent prayer? How have they inspired you? How has their example changed you?

Suggested Practice C:
Break into groups of 3 people. Answer the following questions:

• What are you thankful for this week?
• What has stressed you out this week?

Give the groups 10 minutes to answer the question. Encourage everyone to share.

Discussion
Goal: Learn how to follow Jesus in everyday life.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the importance of a healthy prayer life. 
• Explain why we should cultivate a life of prayer when God already knows the outcome.
• Describe how we can cultivate a life of fervent prayer.

Suggested Practice A:

1. Why should we bother to pray if God already knows the outcome?
2. In Acts 12:15, why do the gathered believers have trouble believing that their prayers have been answered?
3. When have you prayed fervently and then had trouble believing that God was answering or had answered?
4. How do we cultivate a life of fervent prayer?
5. What one change can you make to better cultivate a life of fervent prayer?

Suggested Practice B:
Read Acts 12:1-19 together. What do you notice? What questions do these words provoke? What does it mean to follow Jesus?

____[Kids/Youth Rejoin Adults]____

Prayer
Goal: Respond appropriately to what Jesus is doing & saying in our gathering.

Suggested Practice A:
Break into groups of 3 and ask everyone to identify 1 person in their life that they are feeling led to fervently pray for. Pray for each person that was identified.

Suggested Practice B:
Break into groups of 3 and ask the following question, “what difficult situations are you facing-whether physical, emotional, spiritual, financial, professional or in any other way- for which you need to offer prayer and expect God’s answers?” Pray about the different situations and resolve to look for and expect the Lord’s answers.

Communion
Goal: Remember Jesus' death and resurrection. Receive strength & joy that He is with us. Renew our hope for Jesus' return and the restoration of creation.

Suggested Practice:

• Distribute bread and juice.
• Read the following statement…“the body of Christ has been given, broken for us and the entire world. This bread reminds us that He paid a debt that He did not owe so that we wouldn’t have to pay a debt that we did owe”.
• Eat the bread.
• Read the following statement…“The blood of Christ has been poured out, shed for us and the entire world. This juice reminds us that we have a permanent and unbreakable relationship with Him and that death has no power over us and no power over creation”.
• Drink the juice.

Blessing
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and consider what He wants to do & say this coming week.

Suggested Practice:
Read 1 Peter 1:13-16 and pray a blessing over your Small Church.

Main Theme:  How does God want us to join Him?

Opening
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and be open to what He wants to do & say in our gathering.

• Read Psalm 95:1-7
  
  ¹ Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord;
      let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.
  ² Let us come before him with thanksgiving
      and extol him with music and song.
  ³ For the Lord is the great God,
      the great King above all gods.
  ⁴ In his hand are the depths of the earth,
      and the mountain peaks belong to him.
  ⁵ The sea is his, for he made it,
      and his hands formed the dry land.
  ⁶ Come, let us bow down in worship,
      let us kneel before the Lord our Maker;
  ⁷ for he is our God
      and we are the people of his pasture,
      the flock under his care.

Worship
Goal: Make Jesus central in our gathering. This could be done through songs, prayerful scripture reading, communion, etc.

Suggested Practice:
Choose 2 songs to sing together (or listen to) that will help your Small Church focus on being the hands and feet of Jesus to those around them.

Possible Options:

• King Of My Heart (YouTube)
• So Will I (YouTube)
• I Will Follow (YouTube)

____[Dismiss the Kids/Youth]____

Small Group Exercise
Goal: Identify how we can participate with Jesus in bringing renewed hope to the disconnected.

• Items Needed:
  • 1 Pen or Pencil per person
  • 10 index cards of one color per person
  • 10 index cards of a different color per person
• Step 1:
  • Ask you Small Church to choose one color and on each card of that color write down specific things in your possession that bless you and/or your family (e.g. cooking skills, large home, big backyard, lawn mower etc.).
• Step 2:
  • Taking the other color, write down on each card things you see as broken with the world (e.g. spiraling credit card debt, mental health issues, unaffordable childcare for single moms, cycles of poverty etc.).
• Step 3:
  • Divide your Small Church into pairs. Allow each pair some time to brainstorm how they can use their possessions to love their neighbor as themselves and/or address an area of brokenness around them.

Large Group Exercise
Goal: Provide accountability and an opportunity to hear how the Holy Spirit is leading those in your Small Church.

• Ask everyone to share how they are going to participate with Jesus in bringing renewed hope to the disconnected.  

Reflective Practice
Goal: Provide accountability and an opportunity to hear how the Holy Spirit is leading those in your Small Church.

Suggested Practice #1:

• Encourage people to find a comfortable spot and grab a pen and piece of paper (or use their phone to make notes).  
• Play some soft worship music in the background that won’t be a distraction to people.
• Ask everyone to tell the biblical story in 4-6 words/symbols/icons (it’s ok if you need a few more).

Suggested Practice #2:

• Encourage people to find a comfortable spot and grab a pen and piece of paper (or use their phone to make notes).  
• Play some soft worship music in the background that won’t be a distraction to people.
• Ask everyone to prepare a 2 minute personal testimony of when their hope was renewed by Jesus.

____[Kids/Youth Rejoin Adults]____

Communion
Goal: Remember Jesus’ death and resurrection. Receive strength & joy that He is with us. Renew our hope for Jesus’ return and the restoration of creation.

Suggested Practice:

• Distribute bread and juice.
• Read the following statement…“the body of Christ has been given, broken for us and the entire world. This bread reminds us that He paid a debt that He did not owe so that we wouldn’t have to pay a debt that we did owe”.
• Eat the bread.
• Read the following statement…“The blood of Christ has been poured out, shed for us and the entire world. This juice reminds us that we have a permanent and unbreakable relationship with Him and that death has no power over us and no power over creation”.
• Drink the juice.

Homework
Goal: Activate the missional activity of your Small Church.

Below is a practice designed to activate our missional calling as followers of Jesus. It is a rhythm of life with the acronym BLESS.

• Bless others, including nonbelievers, those different from us, and the poor, at least three times a week.
• Listen to God in his Word and Spirit and to others to understand their stories and our culture’s story.
• Eat with others, including unbelievers, believers, and the poor.
• Speak to God (prayer) and speak to unbelievers the story and message of Jesus (witness).
• Sabbath in rest, play, praise and celebration.  

Select at least one “letter” to practice between today and the next Small Church gathering.

Main Theme:  Where does God want us to join him?

Opening
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and be open to what He wants to do & say in our gathering.

• Read Psalm 86:8-13

⁸Among the gods there is none like you, Lord;
no deeds can compare with yours.
⁹All the nations you have made
will come and worship before you, Lord;
they will bring glory to your name.
¹⁰For you are great and do marvelous deeds;
you alone are God.
¹¹Teach me your way, Lord,
that I may rely on your faithfulness;
give me an undivided heart,
that I may fear your name.
¹²I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart;
I will glorify your name forever.
¹³For great is your love toward me;
you have delivered me from the depths,
from the realm of the dead.

Worship
Goal: Make Jesus central in our gathering. This could be done through songs, prayerful scripture reading, communion, etc.

Suggested Practice:
Choose 2 songs to sing together (or listen to) that will help you focus on our identity in
Christ.
Possible Options:

• Spirit Lead Me (YouTube)
• Oceans (YouTube)

____[Dismiss the Kids/Youth]____

Small Group Exercise
Goal: Better understand how the 1st century church stayed connected to Christ & His Spirit.

• Break into 3 small groups. Give one of the following scriptures to each group:  
  • Group 1 = Acts 1:4-5 & 4:13.
  • Group 2 = Acts 1:14 & 6:2-4.
  • Group 3 = Acts 6:7, 12:24 & 19:20.
• Give each group 10 minutes to read their assigned scripture and answer the following question:  
  • What can we learn from how the 1st century church stay connected to Christ and His Spirit?
• Ask each small group to briefly share their answers with the rest of the Small Church.

Prayer
Goal: Discern where and to whom the Holy Spirit is leading us.

• Encourage people to find a comfortable spot and grab a pen and paper (or use their phone to make notes).
• Play some soft worship music in the background that won’t be a distraction to people.
• Lead your Small Church through the following reflective practice:
  • Prayer
    • Make a list of your unique spheres of influence (e.g. extended family, neighbors, co-workers, hobbies etc.).
    • In each unique sphere of influence, make a list of people who are hurting/disconnected from God or church.
    • Write a prayer asking God to give you the name of 1 person that needs hope.
    • Pause for a moment. Then, write down the name of that person.
  • Proximity
    • What life rhythm could you establish that would keep you close and connected to the person that needs hope?
  • Partners
    • Who could join you in bringing hope to this person?

Large Group Exercise
Goal: Provide accountability and an opportunity to hear how the Holy Spirit is leading those in your Small Church.

• Ask your Small Church whether anyone would be willing to share what God revealed to them during the prayer exercise.
  • Allow everyone the opportunity to share. But, don’t force everyone to share. God may be speaking very personally to some people.
  • Make note of any similarities between what people share (called to the same person or group of people, desire to establish the same life rhythm etc.).

____[Kids/Youth Rejoin Adults]____

Communion
Goal: Remember Jesus’ death and resurrection. Receive strength & joy that He is with us. Renew our hope for Jesus’ return and the restoration of creation.

Suggested Practice:

• Distribute bread and juice.
• Read the following statement…“the body of Christ has been given, broken for us and the entire world. This bread reminds us that He paid a debt that He did not owe so that we wouldn’t have to pay a debt that we did owe”.
• Eat the bread.
• Read the following statement…“The blood of Christ has been poured out, shed for us and the entire world. This juice reminds us that we have a permanent and unbreakable relationship with Him and that death has no power over us and no power over creation”.
• Drink the juice.

Homework
Goal: Activate the missional activity of your Small Church.

Below is a practice designed to activate our missional calling as followers of Jesus. It is a rhythm of life with the acronym BLESS.

• Bless others, including nonbelievers, those different from us, and the poor, at least three times a week.
• Listen to God in his Word and Spirit and to others to understand their stories and our culture’s story.
• Eat with others, including unbelievers, believers, and the poor.
• Speak to God (prayer) and speak to unbelievers the story and message of Jesus (witness).
• Sabbath in rest, play, praise and celebration.  

Select at least one “letter” to practice between today and the next Small Church gathering.

Main Theme:  How does God want to lead us?

Opening
Goal: Focus our attention on Jesus and be open to what He wants to do & say in our gathering.

• Read 1 Peter 2:9-12

Worship
Goal: Make Jesus central in our gathering. This could be done through songs, prayerful scripture reading, communion, etc.

Suggested Practice:
Choose 2 songs to sing together (or listen to) that will help you focus on our identity in
Christ.
Possible Options:

• Build Your Kingdom Here (YouTube)
• Hosanna (YouTube)

Sharing
Goal: Provide accountability and an opportunity to hear of the missional activity in your Small Church.

• Ask your Small Church if anyone would like to share about their experience of practicing a “letter” from the BLESS rhythm.
   
  • If a low number of people or no-one practiced a “letter” from the BLESS rhythm, use this opportunity to clarify what it is, encourage greater participation and pray for your Small Church.
  • Our desire is not to make people feel guilty or ashamed, we want God’s love and grace be our motivation.

____[Dismiss the Kids/Youth]____

Small Group Exercise
Goal: Better understand how & where the Holy Spirit led the 1st century church.

• Break into 3 small groups. Give one of the following scriptures to each group:  
  • Acts 8:4-8
  • Acts 8:26-38
  • Acts 5:38-42
• Give each group 10 minutes to read their assigned scripture and answer the following question:  
  • What can we learn from how the Holy Spirit led the 1st century church?  
• Ask each small group to briefly share their answers with the rest of the Small Church.

Large Group Exercise
Goal: Discern how & where the Holy Spirit is leading us.

• Ask your Small Church the following question: What are your unique spheres of influence? Responses will most likely fall under a few categories such as, “home”, “work” and “play”. Ask follow-up questions to get more specific details. We want to know the names of organizations, geographical locations, people’s names etc.
  • Allow everyone the opportunity to share. Write the responses on a large piece of paper that everyone can see.  

Prayer
Goal: Respond appropriately to what Jesus is doing & saying in our gathering.

• Ask your Small Church the following question: who is one person that you long to know Jesus?  
  • Give people a few minutes to reflect and then ask God to bring a name or face to people’s mind.
• Ask your Small Church a follow-up question: what do you sense is God’s heart for that person?
  • Give people a few minutes to reflect and then ask God to reveal His heart for the person identified.
• Ask your Small Church to pick up their cell phones and send a message of encouragement to the person that God brought to their mind.  

___[Kids/Youth Rejoin Adults]___

Communion
Goal: Remember Jesus’ death and resurrection. Receive strength & joy that He is with us. Renew our hope for Jesus’ return and the restoration of creation.

Suggested Practice:

• Distribute bread and juice.
• Read the following statement…“the body of Christ has been given, broken for us and the entire world. This bread reminds us that He paid a debt that He did not owe so that we wouldn’t have to pay a debt that we did owe”.
• Eat the bread.
• Read the following statement…“The blood of Christ has been poured out, shed for us and the entire world. This juice reminds us that we have a permanent and unbreakable relationship with Him and that death has no power over us and no power over creation”.
• Drink the juice.

Homework
Goal: Activate the missional activity of your Small Church.

Below is a practice designed to activate our missional calling as followers of Jesus. It is a rhythm of life with the acronym BLESS.

• Bless others, including nonbelievers, those different from us, and the poor, at least three times a week.
• Listen to God in his Word and Spirit and to others to understand their stories and our culture’s story.
• Eat with others, including unbelievers, believers, and the poor.
• Speak to God (prayer) and speak to unbelievers the story and message of Jesus (witness).
• Sabbath in rest, play, praise and celebration.  

Select at least one “letter” to practice between today and the next Small Church gathering. Come prepared to share about your experience at the next Small Church gathering.