Encounter - Sundays

Go Deeper1. The Body and God's Design • Genesis 1:27, 31 • Psalm 139:13–14 • Romans 12:1 2. The Danger and Power of Sexual Sin • Proverbs 5:1–23• 1 Thessalonians 4:3–8• Matthew 5:27–30 3. Union With Christ• John 15:4–5• Ephesians 5:25–32• Galatians 2:20  Choose one day this week to “fast” from something that feeds your flesh (e.g., social media, Netflix, certain music, a relationship that fuels temptation) — and replace it with prayer, Scripture, or journaling about your body's purpose.  

TOGETHER GROUP QUESTIONS***GODLY CHARACTERISTICS EDITION Read 2 Peter 1:3-9. Share one thing that stands out in this passage that shapes your view of how a Godly person grows in their discipleship. What does “walking with God” practically look like in your daily life? How do we cultivate a close relationship with Jesus? Read John 13:34-35. Jesus told us that people would know His disciples be their love. How can you go out of your way this week, and intentionally show genuine love and care for people in our lives... especially those who are difficult to love? Two of the hardest fruits of the Spirit for us to implement in our relationships these days are patience and kindness. Where in life do you specifically struggle with these 2 things, and what steps can you take to grow in these areas? Read Prov. 10:9. What does it mean to walk in integrity? What areas of your life are you tempted to compromise on truth and integrity? How can you safeguard your actions and words with better honesty and transparency? A Godly person is also characterized by self-control. In what areas of your life do you need to exercise more self-control? (i.e. Time management, spending habits, phone usage, idleness, purity, eating habits, anger, complaining, attitude, thought life, etc) Pray for these things for each other!

TOGETHER GROUP QUESTIONS Read Luke 24:1-7. What is God's Word saying to you in this passage? What is God's heart for His people? In the passage above, the 2 women find an empty tomb and are met by angels proclaiming that Jesus is risen from the dead. What do you think their reactions were? What would you imagine their responses and actions might be after this encounter with the empty tomb and the angels? In verses 6-7, the angels remind the women of Jesus' prophecy regarding the resurrection. Why is it important for us to remember and focus on the promises of God when we go through life's uncertainties or hard times? Over Easter weekend, we talked about the dawn of eternal life and how God's light broke through all the darkness and evil of this world. What is one way you can let your light shine in the darkness? How does the resurrection of Jesus impact your personal faith? And how do you personally experience Jesus' transformative resurrecting power in your everyday life? We know that the resurrection signifies life after death and eternal life, but it also shows us the possibilities of new life, beginnings, and transformation in our lives right now! What is a specific area of your life that you are seeking resurrection power for, and how can your Together Group support you in this journey?

TOGETHER GROUP QUESTIONS Read Luke 24:1-7. What is God's Word saying to you in this passage? What is God's heart for His people? In the passage above, the 2 women find an empty tomb and are met by angels proclaiming that Jesus is risen from the dead. What do you think their reactions were? What would you imagine their responses and actions might be after this encounter with the empty tomb and the angels? In verses 6-7, the angels remind the women of Jesus' prophecy regarding the resurrection. Why is it important for us to remember and focus on the promises of God when we go through life's uncertainties or hard times? Over Easter weekend, we talked about the dawn of eternal life and how God's light broke through all the darkness and evil of this world. What is one way you can let your light shine in the darkness? How does the resurrection of Jesus impact your personal faith? And how do you personally experience Jesus' transformative resurrecting power in your everyday life? We know that the resurrection signifies life after death and eternal life, but it also shows us the possibilities of new life, beginnings, and transformation in our lives right now! What is a specific area of your life that you are seeking resurrection power for, and how can your Together Group support you in this journey?

GO DEEPERDay 1 – The Foundation: Christ Alone - Read 1 Cor 3:11Reflect: There is no other foundation strong enough to carry the weight of your soul, your purpose, or your future. Everything else—success, relationships, performance—can shift and shake. But Christ is unchanging.Apply: Spend 5 minutes today asking: “Am I really building my life on Jesus, or just including Him in the blueprint?” Surrender anything you've built on another foundation.Day 2 – The Materials: Truth That Lasts - Read: 2 Tim 3:16–17Reflect: Gold, silver, and costly stones represent the lasting truths of Scripture. Cheap materials like wood and straw may be convenient, but they won't survive testing. God's Word builds lives that endure.Apply: Choose one Scripture to memorize this week. Let it shape how you speak, decide, and respond to life's challenges.Day 3 – The Plans: God's Wisdom Over the World's – Read: James 1:5 & Proverbs 3:5–6Reflect: God invites us to build by His wisdom, not the world's. The world says “be first.” God says “serve.” The world says “protect yourself.” God says “lay down your life.” His plans always lead to lasting fruit.Apply: Before making a decision today—big or small—pause and ask, “God, what's Your wisdom here?”Day 4 – The Motive: For God's Glory - Read: Col 3:23–24Reflect: It's not just what we build—it's why. Even good deeds, if done for applause or control, will not stand. But God sees what's done in love and humility, and He rewards it.Apply: Ask yourself: “Am I doing this to be seen, or to serve?” Let today's work be worship.Day 5 – The Test: What Will Remain? - Read: 1 Cor 3:13-14Reflect: One day, our work will be tested—not for success, but for sincerity and eternal value. This isn't a threat—it's an invitation. God wants us to build something beautiful, something that lasts.Apply: Reflect and journal: What am I building that will matter 100 years from now? Ask God to help you invest your time, energy, and heart into what matters most.

GO DEEPERDay 1 – The Foundation: Christ Alone - Read 1 Cor 3:11Reflect: There is no other foundation strong enough to carry the weight of your soul, your purpose, or your future. Everything else—success, relationships, performance—can shift and shake. But Christ is unchanging.Apply: Spend 5 minutes today asking: “Am I really building my life on Jesus, or just including Him in the blueprint?” Surrender anything you've built on another foundation.Day 2 – The Materials: Truth That Lasts - Read: 2 Tim 3:16–17Reflect: Gold, silver, and costly stones represent the lasting truths of Scripture. Cheap materials like wood and straw may be convenient, but they won't survive testing. God's Word builds lives that endure.Apply: Choose one Scripture to memorize this week. Let it shape how you speak, decide, and respond to life's challenges.Day 3 – The Plans: God's Wisdom Over the World's – Read: James 1:5 & Proverbs 3:5–6Reflect: God invites us to build by His wisdom, not the world's. The world says “be first.” God says “serve.” The world says “protect yourself.” God says “lay down your life.” His plans always lead to lasting fruit.Apply: Before making a decision today—big or small—pause and ask, “God, what's Your wisdom here?”Day 4 – The Motive: For God's Glory - Read: Col 3:23–24Reflect: It's not just what we build—it's why. Even good deeds, if done for applause or control, will not stand. But God sees what's done in love and humility, and He rewards it.Apply: Ask yourself: “Am I doing this to be seen, or to serve?” Let today's work be worship.Day 5 – The Test: What Will Remain? - Read: 1 Cor 3:13-14Reflect: One day, our work will be tested—not for success, but for sincerity and eternal value. This isn't a threat—it's an invitation. God wants us to build something beautiful, something that lasts.Apply: Reflect and journal: What am I building that will matter 100 years from now? Ask God to help you invest your time, energy, and heart into what matters most.

TOGETHER GROUP QUESTIONS Read 1 Cor. 3:1-9. What is God's Word saying to you? What stands out to you in this passage? Paul was concerned that these believers in Corinth were staying on a diet of spiritual milk instead of meat (v. 1-3). What are some specific examples of Christians today, that seem to stay (or get stuck) in the “milk” stage of their spiritual development? On that same note, what are some specific things we can/ should be doing to move onto the “meat” stage (or “solid food”) of our discipleship? Or in other words, what are the deepest, most mature things we are called to in our pursuit of Jesus? Another thing Paul was trying to teach and correct the Corinthian church about was how much they were comparing and competing with each other. What is one area of your life that you struggle with comparison? What is one area you feel you are competing with someone? How do you feel God would want you to act in these situations? One of the big traps we can fall into when we are spreading God's love, is becoming prideful or taking credit. How can we resist the urge to make spiritual things about ourselves? How can we discipline ourselves to point and focus all the glory to God! Close by having each person in the group give ALL the glory to God for something specific that He has done, or is doing, in their life.

TOGETHER GROUP QUESTIONS Read 1 Cor. 3:1-9. What is God's Word saying to you? What stands out to you in this passage? Paul was concerned that these believers in Corinth were staying on a diet of spiritual milk instead of meat (v. 1-3). What are some specific examples of Christians today, that seem to stay (or get stuck) in the “milk” stage of their spiritual development? On that same note, what are some specific things we can/ should be doing to move onto the “meat” stage (or “solid food”) of our discipleship? Or in other words, what are the deepest, most mature things we are called to in our pursuit of Jesus? Another thing Paul was trying to teach and correct the Corinthian church about was how much they were comparing and competing with each other. What is one area of your life that you struggle with comparison? What is one area you feel you are competing with someone? How do you feel God would want you to act in these situations? One of the big traps we can fall into when we are spreading God's love, is becoming prideful or taking credit. How can we resist the urge to make spiritual things about ourselves? How can we discipline ourselves to point and focus all the glory to God! Close by having each person in the group give ALL the glory to God for something specific that He has done, or is doing, in their life.

TOGETHER GROUP QUESTIONS Read Colossians 1:15-22. What is God's Word saying to you in this passage? What is God's heart for His people?How would you describe Jesus?... Who was He? Why did He come? What did He do? What did He teach? What was the toughest claim He made?What are some practical ways that we can make Jesus the focus of our lives? To make Him central, our top priority, and truly the Lord of our lives?Celebrating 10 years of God's faithfulness at Encounter... What do you love most about our church? What areas are we strongest in? Weakest in?What would you love to see God do with us as a church in the next 10 years?Who is one person that you'd love to see come to Encounter?Close in prayer- asking God to open up doors to bring those specific people to church... and praising God for His faithfulness for the first decade of Encounter.

TOGETHER GROUP QUESTIONS Read Colossians 1:15-22. What is God's Word saying to you in this passage? What is God's heart for His people?How would you describe Jesus?... Who was He? Why did He come? What did He do? What did He teach? What was the toughest claim He made?What are some practical ways that we can make Jesus the focus of our lives? To make Him central, our top priority, and truly the Lord of our lives?Celebrating 10 years of God's faithfulness at Encounter... What do you love most about our church? What areas are we strongest in? Weakest in?What would you love to see God do with us as a church in the next 10 years?Who is one person that you'd love to see come to Encounter?Close in prayer- asking God to open up doors to bring those specific people to church... and praising God for His faithfulness for the first decade of Encounter.

Go Deeper//Find Your Identity in Christ, Not the WorldThe world measures worth by success, wealth, and influence, but God chooses the weak and lowly. This week, take time to reflect on where you find your sense of worth. Meditate on 1 Corinthians 1:26-31 and Jeremiah 9:23-24, and ask God to help you boast only in Him. //Trust in God's Wisdom Over Human WisdomThe cross seems foolish to the world, but it is the power of salvation. When facing decisions, struggles, or cultural pressures, lean on God's wisdom through Scripture and prayer instead of relying solely on popular opinion or personal reasoning (Proverbs 3:5-6). //Rely on the Holy Spirit, Not Personal StrengthPaul didn't depend on polished speeches but on the Spirit's power. This week, as you share your faith, serve in ministry, or face challenges, pray for the Holy Spirit to guide and empower you rather than trusting in your own abilities (1 Corinthians 2:4-5).

Go Deeper//Find Your Identity in Christ, Not the WorldThe world measures worth by success, wealth, and influence, but God chooses the weak and lowly. This week, take time to reflect on where you find your sense of worth. Meditate on 1 Corinthians 1:26-31 and Jeremiah 9:23-24, and ask God to help you boast only in Him. //Trust in God's Wisdom Over Human WisdomThe cross seems foolish to the world, but it is the power of salvation. When facing decisions, struggles, or cultural pressures, lean on God's wisdom through Scripture and prayer instead of relying solely on popular opinion or personal reasoning (Proverbs 3:5-6). //Rely on the Holy Spirit, Not Personal StrengthPaul didn't depend on polished speeches but on the Spirit's power. This week, as you share your faith, serve in ministry, or face challenges, pray for the Holy Spirit to guide and empower you rather than trusting in your own abilities (1 Corinthians 2:4-5).

TOGETHER GROUP QUESTIONS Read 1 Cor. 1:10-17. What is God's Word saying to you? What stands out to you in this passage? From the passage above, what was the issue that they were fighting over? Have you seen that same issue in the church over the last few decades? Or anything close to it? Explain. Read Eph. 4:1-6. “You're on the same team,” was a big point in the sermon. Why is it so difficult to remember this in moments of conflict? Who is your real enemy? Is it your friends and family? Is it fellow believers? If not, how can you transfer your anger and indifference away from them, and onto your real enemy? What is your common identity and purpose with other disciples of Jesus? Read James 4:1. What would you specifically say makes you quarrel the most? (What triggers you or makes you most mad so that you fight?) In John 17, when Jesus was praying in the garden just before he went to the cross, his #1 prayer for His followers was that they would be one. That they would be unified. Clearly... this is VERY important to Jesus. What are a few practical ways you can pursue unity with other believers? Close in prayer asking that God would unify your Together group, our church, our marriages, our families, and our friends. And that God would use each of us in doing this!  

TOGETHER GROUP QUESTIONS Read 1 Cor. 1:10-17. What is God's Word saying to you? What stands out to you in this passage? From the passage above, what was the issue that they were fighting over? Have you seen that same issue in the church over the last few decades? Or anything close to it? Explain. Read Eph. 4:1-6. “You're on the same team,” was a big point in the sermon. Why is it so difficult to remember this in moments of conflict? Who is your real enemy? Is it your friends and family? Is it fellow believers? If not, how can you transfer your anger and indifference away from them, and onto your real enemy? What is your common identity and purpose with other disciples of Jesus? Read James 4:1. What would you specifically say makes you quarrel the most? (What triggers you or makes you most mad so that you fight?) In John 17, when Jesus was praying in the garden just before he went to the cross, his #1 prayer for His followers was that they would be one. That they would be unified. Clearly... this is VERY important to Jesus. What are a few practical ways you can pursue unity with other believers? Close in prayer asking that God would unify your Together group, our church, our marriages, our families, and our friends. And that God would use each of us in doing this!  

TOGETHER GROUP QUESTIONS How have you seen God work over the last few months in your life?Of the various kinds of grace which one spoke to you and impacted you most?In your story when or where did the grace of God see you?Share a time when you recognize it had to be God's grace that worked in your life or your situation.Personally, how did God's grace change your heart? Of the action steps to grow in grace which one can you commit to and how?DIG DEEPER Common Grace is given indiscriminately to all people.Psa 145:9; Mat 5:45Prevenient Grace - the grace that goes before salvationJoh 6:45Saving Grace - the grace that saves usEph 2:8Justifying Grace - “Just as if I never sinned.”Rom 3:23-24Sanctifying Grace - the grace that transforms us/makes us holy.Tit 2:11-12Sufficient Grace - the grace that meets all our needs.1 Cor 9:8; Heb 4:16Sustaining Grace - the grace to keep on going.1 Pet 5:10

TOGETHER GROUP QUESTIONS How have you seen God work over the last few months in your life?Of the various kinds of grace which one spoke to you and impacted you most?In your story when or where did the grace of God see you?Share a time when you recognize it had to be God's grace that worked in your life or your situation.Personally, how did God's grace change your heart? Of the action steps to grow in grace which one can you commit to and how?DIG DEEPER Common Grace is given indiscriminately to all people.Psa 145:9; Mat 5:45Prevenient Grace - the grace that goes before salvationJoh 6:45Saving Grace - the grace that saves usEph 2:8Justifying Grace - “Just as if I never sinned.”Rom 3:23-24Sanctifying Grace - the grace that transforms us/makes us holy.Tit 2:11-12Sufficient Grace - the grace that meets all our needs.1 Cor 9:8; Heb 4:16Sustaining Grace - the grace to keep on going.1 Pet 5:10

Go DeeperPlaces to serve at Encounter (pretty immediately): Encounter Crew (Sunday Setup/Teardown)Contact: Oliver Delacruzdelacruz.mailbox@gmail.comEncounter KidsContact: Jenni Quituguajenni@encountermv.comEncounter Production (Audio/Visual)Contact: Matt Sonnenbergmatt@encountermv.comEncounter HospitalityContact: Dayna Pattisondayna@caofb.comEncounter WorshipContact: Steven Starkstarkbound@hotmail.comEncounter Youth Group (EYG)Contact: Billy Archiebilly@encountermv.com

Go DeeperPlaces to serve at Encounter (pretty immediately): Encounter Crew (Sunday Setup/Teardown)Contact: Oliver Delacruzdelacruz.mailbox@gmail.comEncounter KidsContact: Jenni Quituguajenni@encountermv.comEncounter Production (Audio/Visual)Contact: Matt Sonnenbergmatt@encountermv.comEncounter HospitalityContact: Dayna Pattisondayna@caofb.comEncounter WorshipContact: Steven Starkstarkbound@hotmail.comEncounter Youth Group (EYG)Contact: Billy Archiebilly@encountermv.com

A THEOLOGY OF THE HOLY SPIRITThe Holy Spirit is God's Spirit, a member of the Trinity, who works alongside the Father and the Son to make disciples' lives pleasing to God. He works by pointing us to Christ and empowering our lives. The Spirit of Truth draws and leads you to righteousness, and dwells within you to produce the fullness of Christ in our lives. 2 Cor. 3:17 The Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.Ez. 36:27 I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules.Rom. 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.1 Cor. 6:19 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? Rom. 5:5 and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.Luke 11:13 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon youPs. 143:10 Teach me to do your will, for you are my God! Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground!Acts 2:38 Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.John 3:5-6 Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.”John 4:23-24 But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.Eph. 5:18 Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit1 Cor. 12:3 I want you to understand that no one speaking in the Spirit of God ever says “Jesus is accursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except in the Holy Spirit.Rom. 8:11 The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.

A THEOLOGY OF THE HOLY SPIRITThe Holy Spirit is God's Spirit, a member of the Trinity, who works alongside the Father and the Son to make disciples' lives pleasing to God. He works by pointing us to Christ and empowering our lives. The Spirit of Truth draws and leads you to righteousness, and dwells within you to produce the fullness of Christ in our lives. 2 Cor. 3:17 The Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.Ez. 36:27 I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules.Rom. 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.1 Cor. 6:19 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? Rom. 5:5 and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.Luke 11:13 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon youPs. 143:10 Teach me to do your will, for you are my God! Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground!Acts 2:38 Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.John 3:5-6 Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.”John 4:23-24 But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.Eph. 5:18 Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit1 Cor. 12:3 I want you to understand that no one speaking in the Spirit of God ever says “Jesus is accursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except in the Holy Spirit.Rom. 8:11 The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.

EPIC BIBLE VERSES FOR 2025Joshua 1:8-9Ps. 46:1-3Ps. 141:3Prov. 3:5-6Prov. 18:10Is. 26:3Is. 40:31Is. 41:10Is. 43:1-2Jer. 17:7-8Matt. 6:33Luke 9:23John 3:16-18John 16:33Acts 1:8Acts 4:12Rom. 5:8Rom. 8- All of it!Rom. 12- All of it!1 Cor. 13:4-72 Cor. 1:3-42 Cor. 5:17Eph. 2:8-9Eph. 2:19-22Eph. 4:20-24Eph. 5:15-16Eph. 6:10-18Phil. 4:6-7Phil. 4:11-13Col. 2:6-7Col. 3:1-3Col. 3:15-17Col. 4:21 Thes. 5:112 Tim. 1:71 Pet. 5:7

EPIC BIBLE VERSES FOR 2025Joshua 1:8-9Ps. 46:1-3Ps. 141:3Prov. 3:5-6Prov. 18:10Is. 26:3Is. 40:31Is. 41:10Is. 43:1-2Jer. 17:7-8Matt. 6:33Luke 9:23John 3:16-18John 16:33Acts 1:8Acts 4:12Rom. 5:8Rom. 8- All of it!Rom. 12- All of it!1 Cor. 13:4-72 Cor. 1:3-42 Cor. 5:17Eph. 2:8-9Eph. 2:19-22Eph. 4:20-24Eph. 5:15-16Eph. 6:10-18Phil. 4:6-7Phil. 4:11-13Col. 2:6-7Col. 3:1-3Col. 3:15-17Col. 4:21 Thes. 5:112 Tim. 1:71 Pet. 5:7

Verse 1Hark! the herald angels sing:"Glory to the newborn King!Peace on earth and mercy mildGod and sinners reconciled"Joyful, all ye nations riseJoin the triumph of the skiesWith angelic hosts proclaim:"Christ is born in Bethlehem"Hark! the herald angels sing:"Glory to the newborn King!"Verse 2Christ by highest Heav'n adoredChrist the everlasting Lord!Late in time behold Him comeOffspring of a Virgin's wombVeiled in flesh the Godhead see;Hail the incarnate DeityPleased as man with man to dwellJesus, our EmmanuelHark! the herald angels sing:"Glory to the newborn King!"Verse 3Hail the Heav'n-born Prince of Peace!Hail the Son of Righteousness!Light and life to all He bringsRis'n with healing in His wingsMild He lays His glory byBorn that man no more may dieBorn to raise the sons of earthBorn to give them second birthHark! the herald angels sing:"Glory to the newborn King!"

Verse 1Hark! the herald angels sing:"Glory to the newborn King!Peace on earth and mercy mildGod and sinners reconciled"Joyful, all ye nations riseJoin the triumph of the skiesWith angelic hosts proclaim:"Christ is born in Bethlehem"Hark! the herald angels sing:"Glory to the newborn King!"Verse 2Christ by highest Heav'n adoredChrist the everlasting Lord!Late in time behold Him comeOffspring of a Virgin's wombVeiled in flesh the Godhead see;Hail the incarnate DeityPleased as man with man to dwellJesus, our EmmanuelHark! the herald angels sing:"Glory to the newborn King!"Verse 3Hail the Heav'n-born Prince of Peace!Hail the Son of Righteousness!Light and life to all He bringsRis'n with healing in His wingsMild He lays His glory byBorn that man no more may dieBorn to raise the sons of earthBorn to give them second birthHark! the herald angels sing:"Glory to the newborn King!"

Go DeeperWhile we often take note of Isaiah's prophecy around this time of year (think Isa 7:14 & 9:6-7) we most likely do so apart from Isaiah's “Easter Time” Prophecy. This week, as you reflect on living in the anticipation of Christ's present and coming reign, enjoying the pageants of angels and shepherds, take time to explore Isa 53 as well as 7:14 & 9:6-7. What does reading the Christmas story (Mat 1:18-2:12; Luk 1:26-38, 2:1-20) in light of Isa 53 reveal to you about who God is and how He works? And how does that influence your worship this Christmas season?

Go DeeperWhile we often take note of Isaiah's prophecy around this time of year (think Isa 7:14 & 9:6-7) we most likely do so apart from Isaiah's “Easter Time” Prophecy. This week, as you reflect on living in the anticipation of Christ's present and coming reign, enjoying the pageants of angels and shepherds, take time to explore Isa 53 as well as 7:14 & 9:6-7. What does reading the Christmas story (Mat 1:18-2:12; Luk 1:26-38, 2:1-20) in light of Isa 53 reveal to you about who God is and how He works? And how does that influence your worship this Christmas season?

O COME, O COME, EMMANUELVerse 1O come, O come, Emmanuel,And ransom captive Israel,That mourns in lonely exile hereUntil the Son of God appear Verse 3O come, Thou Rod of Jesse, freeThine own from satan's tyrannyFrom depths of hell Thy people saveAnd give them victory o'er the grave Verse 4O come, Thou Dayspring, come and cheerOur spirits by Thine advent hereDisperse the gloomy clouds of nightAnd deaths dark shadows put to flight (Rejoice! Rejoice! EmmanuelShall come to you, O Israel)

O COME, O COME, EMMANUELVerse 1O come, O come, Emmanuel,And ransom captive Israel,That mourns in lonely exile hereUntil the Son of God appear Verse 3O come, Thou Rod of Jesse, freeThine own from satan's tyrannyFrom depths of hell Thy people saveAnd give them victory o'er the grave Verse 4O come, Thou Dayspring, come and cheerOur spirits by Thine advent hereDisperse the gloomy clouds of nightAnd deaths dark shadows put to flight (Rejoice! Rejoice! EmmanuelShall come to you, O Israel)

TOGETHER GROUP QUESTIONSSPECIAL THANKSGIVING EDITION... Going Deeper: How does God's Word affect your outlook on life this week? Pick one or two verses to memorize or carry around with you this week on an index card.Ps. 69:30 “I will magnify (God) with thanksgiving.”Phil. 4:6 “Don't worry about anything; instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all He has done.”1 Cor. 15:57 “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”2 Cor. 9:15 “Thanks be to Christ for His indescribable gift."1 Thes. 5:18 “No matter what happens be thankful for everything for this is God's will for who belong to Christ Jesus.”Ps. 50:14 “What I want…is your true thanks to God.”Col. 3:17 “Whatever you do or say…do it all while giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”Ps. 35:18 “I will give you thanks in the great assembly among many people.”Ps. 106:1 “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.” Make a list of 20 things you are thankful for and praise God for them. Why does God want us to have a constant spirit of thankfulness?Why would satan want us to stay away from thankfulness?What is one area in your life of ingratitude, that is holding you back from entering into praise? Why do you enjoy being thanked for something you did for someone?How do you think it makes people feel to be noticed and appreciated for things they've done for you? Who are 3 people you can reach out to in life and thank them for something specific? Practice thanking God for everything, all day long. Spend time in prayer right now and THANK Him for what He's done, and PRAISE Him for who He is!

TOGETHER GROUP QUESTIONSSPECIAL THANKSGIVING EDITION... Going Deeper: How does God's Word affect your outlook on life this week? Pick one or two verses to memorize or carry around with you this week on an index card.Ps. 69:30 “I will magnify (God) with thanksgiving.”Phil. 4:6 “Don't worry about anything; instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all He has done.”1 Cor. 15:57 “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”2 Cor. 9:15 “Thanks be to Christ for His indescribable gift."1 Thes. 5:18 “No matter what happens be thankful for everything for this is God's will for who belong to Christ Jesus.”Ps. 50:14 “What I want…is your true thanks to God.”Col. 3:17 “Whatever you do or say…do it all while giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”Ps. 35:18 “I will give you thanks in the great assembly among many people.”Ps. 106:1 “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.” Make a list of 20 things you are thankful for and praise God for them. Why does God want us to have a constant spirit of thankfulness?Why would satan want us to stay away from thankfulness?What is one area in your life of ingratitude, that is holding you back from entering into praise? Why do you enjoy being thanked for something you did for someone?How do you think it makes people feel to be noticed and appreciated for things they've done for you? Who are 3 people you can reach out to in life and thank them for something specific? Practice thanking God for everything, all day long. Spend time in prayer right now and THANK Him for what He's done, and PRAISE Him for who He is!

TOGETHER GROUP QUESTIONS Going Deeper: Read the following Scriptures. How does God's Word affect your outlook on life this week? Pick one or two verses to memorize or carry around with you this week on an index card.Ps. 69:30 “I will magnify (God) with thanksgiving.” Phil. 4:6 “Don't worry about anything; instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all He has done.”1 Cor. 15:57 “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”2 Cor. 9:15 “Thanks be to Christ for His indescribable gift."Thes. 5:18 “No matter what happens be thankful for everything for this is God's will for who belong to Christ Jesus.”Ps. 50:14 “What I want...is your true thanks to God.”Col. 3:17 “Whatever you do or say...do it all while giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”Ps. 35:18 “I will give you thanks in the great assembly among many people.”Ps. 106:1 “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.” Make a list of 20 things you are thankful for and praise God for them. Why does God want us to have a constant spirit of thankfulness? Why would satan want us to stay away from thankfulness? What is one area in your life of ingratitude, that is holding you back from entering into praise? Why do you enjoy being thanked for something you did for someone? How do you think it makes people feel to be noticed and appreciated for things they've done for you? Who are 3 people you can reach out to in life and thank them for something specific? Practice thanking God for everything, all day long. Spend time in prayer right now and THANK Him for what He's done, and PRAISE Him for who He is! 

TOGETHER GROUP QUESTIONS Going Deeper: Read the following Scriptures. How does God's Word affect your outlook on life this week? Pick one or two verses to memorize or carry around with you this week on an index card.Ps. 69:30 “I will magnify (God) with thanksgiving.” Phil. 4:6 “Don't worry about anything; instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all He has done.”1 Cor. 15:57 “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”2 Cor. 9:15 “Thanks be to Christ for His indescribable gift."Thes. 5:18 “No matter what happens be thankful for everything for this is God's will for who belong to Christ Jesus.”Ps. 50:14 “What I want...is your true thanks to God.”Col. 3:17 “Whatever you do or say...do it all while giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”Ps. 35:18 “I will give you thanks in the great assembly among many people.”Ps. 106:1 “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.” Make a list of 20 things you are thankful for and praise God for them. Why does God want us to have a constant spirit of thankfulness? Why would satan want us to stay away from thankfulness? What is one area in your life of ingratitude, that is holding you back from entering into praise? Why do you enjoy being thanked for something you did for someone? How do you think it makes people feel to be noticed and appreciated for things they've done for you? Who are 3 people you can reach out to in life and thank them for something specific? Practice thanking God for everything, all day long. Spend time in prayer right now and THANK Him for what He's done, and PRAISE Him for who He is! 

Together Group Questions The word honor occurs 142X's in the ESV. What are some of the groups of people God's Word says to honor? (see 1 Tim 5:3, 1 Pet 3:7, Rom 12:10, 1 Tim 6:1, 1 Tim 5:17, Lev 19:32, Exo 20:12 for examples) What areas of your life do you find it the most difficult to show honor (God, Others, Self)? What are some practical steps you can take toward improving showing honor in these areas this week? Isaiah 29:13 says that some people honor God with their lips but their hearts are far from him. What is the difference between honoring with our lips and honoring with our actions? We just came out of a tumultuous political season. What are practical ways you can honor those with whom you disagree politically? Think of two or three people who are in a position of authority in your life. How are you honoring those people? How could you honor those people in a way that would be meaningful to them? As your group closes, spend some time reflecting on this: Is there a situation or relationship which you need to restore your expression of honor in? Pray and ask God to give you the strength, courage, and opportunity to begin that restoration.