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Do you need more power to live the life God has called you to? We all do! The good news is that the Holy Spirit offers us a gift to embolden and strengthen us to face any obstacle. God offers us a power for a purpose and this week, Pastor Jeff Little will unpack what the Bible says about the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Join us as we continue The Spirit-Filled Life at Milestone Church!Welcome to Milestone Church! For over 20 years, we’ve helped people like you grow in their faith, connect with a life-giving and spirit-filled church, and embody the mission of reaching people and building lives. From weekend services to resources for every age and stage of life, there’s a place for you here! Whether you're joining us from right here in Keller, McKinney, Haslet, Argyle—or anywhere around the world—we’re honored to have you as part of our spiritual family. Each week, you’ll find encouraging messages, full services, and stories that help you take practical steps in your faith journey. We believe when you encounter Jesus, everything changes—and you don’t have to walk that journey alone. Join Pastor Jeff Little each weekend for encouraging, Bible centered messages. Take a Next Step with Us. Everything you need is here:• https://mschur.ch/Discover• Share a prayer request• Join a Small Group• Stay connected with upcoming events Said “Yes” to Jesus?Head to https://mschur.ch/Discover and fill out a connection card so we can celebrate with you and help you take your next step. Join Us Each WeekendService times and more: https://milestonechurch.com We’re praying for you and believing God has more for your life than you can imagine. Let’s keep growing together! #MilestoneChurch #OnlineChurch #Faith #Jesus #KellerTX #McKinneyTX #HasletTX #ArgyleTX #LiveChurchService #JeffLittle #BibleTeaching #ChristianEncouragement #ChurchOnline
Join us as we continue in our series "Camp Paul"Join us every Sunday online or in-person at 9:00am & 11:00am. 4005 Lee Vance Vw, Colorado Springs, CO 80918 Website: rockfamilychurch.com Connect Card: https://rfc.churchcenter.com/people/forms/528074 Prayer Requests: https://www.rockfamilychurch.com/prayer-request Start Serving: https://rfc.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/category/92573 Join a Small Group: https://rfc.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/3287086 Facebook: facebook.com/rockfamilychurch Instagram: instagram.com/rockfamilychurch Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@rockfamilychurch Youtube: youtube.com/@RockFamilyOnline#ColoradoSpringsChurch #Faith #Jesus #Worship #ChurchOnline #SundayMessage
The Word of God doesn't exist to affirm us—it exists to transform us. In a digital culture that thrives on scrolling and passive consumption, it's dangerously easy to treat Scripture the same way: looking at the truth, seeing what needs to change, and immediately forgetting it.In this talk. Lux Digital Church welcomes special guest Pastor Stevie Flockhart from 901 Church. Diving into James 1:19–27, Pastor Stevie challenges the trap of passive faith. Using James' famous mirror metaphor and a highly relatable story about an expensive airport baggage disaster, he breaks down what it practically looks like to move from being a mere "hearer" of the Word to an active "doer" .**********
Are you tired of getting lost in the crowd of massive webinars? In this episode of Public Health Entrepreneurs, Dr. Charlotte H. Huntley breaks down exactly why small group masterminds consistently deliver the best results for business owners focused on population health. Discover how intimate, tailored mastermind experiences offer the personalized feedback, deep peer learning, and lasting accountability that large, rigid programs simply cannot match. If you want to transform your business and build meaningful connections, this episode will show you why finding the right small group is the key to generating real momentum. Resources ▶️ Website https://PublicHealthEntrepreneurs.com ▶️ Stay connected. Subscribe to our email list
Talk 2 The Right Use of Speaking in Tongues Welcome to Talk2 in our series on NT Guidelines for Small Group Meetings. We started last time by suggesting that 1 Corinthians 14:26 should be taken as a serious indication of the sort of thing God wants to happen when we meet. Let me remind you what it says: What then shall we say, brothers? When you come together, everyone has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation. All of these must be done for the strengthening of the church. We then did a quick survey of chapters 12 and 13 to see how they might influence our understanding of this verse. Today we're going to talk about speaking in tongues which was very important in the life of the early church and is still a very valuable gift today. So we'll be talking about why it's so important both in our personal prayers at home and in our gatherings. And we'll finish by looking at 1 Corinthians 14 and seeing what Paul has to say about exactly how it should be used when we meet together. A. The importance of tongues 1. Its importance in the early church a. As we all know, speaking in tongues was the first spiritual gift that the disciples were given when they were filled the Spirit on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4). empowering them for service (Acts 1:8). [For more on this, please see A New Dimension – how to be filled with the Holy Spirit (details on my website – www.davidpetts.org]. b. After Pentecost, when others received the Spirit, it was the first manifestation recorded after the Spirit came upon them (Acts 10:44-46, Acts 19:1-6). c. This was almost certainly because speaking in tongues was to become an important part of a Christian's prayer life, enabling them to pray with their spirit (1 Corinthians 14:14), but more of that in a moment. 2. The value of the gift today Speaking in tongues was a valuable gift in New Testament times and it's just as valuable today: a. It can be used as a powerful sign to unbelievers as happened in Acts 2 and led to some 3000 people becoming Christians. b. It is an important aspect in our private prayer times c. It can be a blessing in church when it is accompanied by the gift of interpretation, which will be the subject of out next talk. So let's now turn to 1 Corinthians 14 and see what Paul has to say about the use of tongues in our private prayer times, before we turn to its use in our meetings. B. The use of tongues in private Consider the following: 2 For anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God. Indeed, no one understands him; he utters mysteries with his spirit. 4 He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church. 14 For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful. 15 So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my mind; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my mind. 16 If you are praising God with your spirit, how can one who finds himself among those who do not understand say "Amen" to your thanksgiving, since he does not know what you are saying? 17 You may be giving thanks well enough, but the other man is not edified. So when we speak in tongues: · we don't know what we're saying (14), · but we're speaking to God (2) · which may be prayer (14-15), or praise (16), or giving thanks (16-17) to God, · and in doing so we're edifying ourselves (building ourselves up spiritually) (4). This is probably why in 2 Timothy 1:6-7 Paul says: 6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline Every time we speak in tongues in our prayer time we are fanning into flame the gift of God that we received when God gave us the Holy Spirit. So speaking in tongues is a great thing to do in private, but what about in our meetings? C. The right use of tongues in our meetings 1. Edification – the underlying principle It's clear that Paul valued very highly his ability to speak in tongues. In verse 18 he says: I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. This was because it enabled him to pray with his spirit rather than just praying with his mind. But please note what he says in verse 19: But in the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue. So, although he spoke in tongues a great deal when he was not in church – that is, when he was in private – he did not do so in public. He is much more guarded about the use of tongues in church. Look at verses 3-5 again: 3 But everyone who prophesies speaks to men for their strengthening, encouragement and comfort. 4 He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church. 5 I would like every one of you to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. He who prophesies is greater than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets, so that the church may be edified. He wants everyone to be able to speak in tongues, but it has no value in church if it's not interpreted (v5). Tongues are unintelligible unless they are interpreted and without interpretation the speaker is just speaking into the air (9). But when interpreted they can fulfil a similar function to prophecy, which also edifies the church (4) bringing strengthening, encouragement and comfort (3). We'll come back to that in our next talk when we consider Paul's teaching on the gift of interpretation of tongues, but for now it's enough to note that what's important is: whatever we do in our meetings should be for the edification, strengthening, encouragement and comfort of those present. For example, Paul is concerned about what happens if unbelievers come into our meetings.. He deals with this in verses 21-25 where it's clear that, despite the miracle that happened at Pentecost where speaking in tongues led to the conversion of some 3000 people, far from expecting unbelievers to come to faith when hearing speaking in tongues, Paul thinks it more likely that they will conclude that the Corinthians are out of their mind! Why did he think this? Perhaps because situations like the day of Pentecost are very rare. On the vast majority of occasions, it's not likely that any foreigner will recognise their language when we are speaking in tongues. So Paul advises caution. On the basis of all this, it's better, in my view, to consider the use of tongues as a sign to unbelievers as something exceptional. Having said that, verses 21-25 are extremely difficult because they contain an apparent contradiction and have long been a source of debate among scholars. We don't have time to go into them in now, but if you want to see a possible solution, please read WYCT pp. 66-68. The main point is this: Whatever we do in our meetings we should always be sensitive to the needs of others, especially if there are newcomers present. You may be worshipping well, but if others are not helped by it, you are not acting in love! (My paraphrase of verse 17). In the context Paul is talking about tongues, but the principle surely applies to everything we do in our meetings! 2. Paul's teaching on how to apply this principle Despite Paul's clear teaching that prophecy is preferable to tongues (1-5), he by no means discourages the use of tongues in church. He expects speaking in tongues to be a regular part of the worship of the church (26) and it is certainly not to be forbidden (39). However, the key to its use in church is that it needs to be interpreted so that everyone may be edified. In fact, in verse 28 he tells us that If there is no interpreter, the speaker should keep quiet in the church and speak to himself and God. This suggests that the personal use of tongues in church is not prohibited, but it must be done quietly as it will edify no one except the speaker (cf. 4). Speaking out loud in tongues, therefore, is to be strongly discouraged unless it is intended that it be interpreted, and that of course will require someone with the gift of interpretation to be present. This may, of course, be the person who has spoken in tongues, as in verses 12-13 Paul encourages those who speak in tongues to pray for the gift of interpretation: So it is with you. Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, try to excel in gifts that build up the church. 13 For this reason anyone who speaks in a tongue should pray that he may interpret what he says. So, if you want to speak out loud in tongues and don't have the gift of interpretation, you must first make sure that someone is present who does, and, if you're not sure, you must speak quietly to yourself and to God (28). There's just as much blessing in speaking in tongues quietly as in speaking loudly! However, if an interpreter is present, you may speak out loud in tongues with a view to its being interpreted for the edification of the church. But this is subject to the following conditions: If anyone speaks in a tongue, two, or at the most three, should speak, one at a time, and someone must interpret (27). So please, if someone speaks out loud in tongues in a meeting, wait until it's interpreted before you say anything. D. Summary Speaking in tongues is the ability to speak a language we have never learned. It may be expressed in a variety of ways, including, prayer, praise, thanksgiving etc. When we speak in tongues it's our spirit that is praying, not our mind. God gives us this gift to help us edify ourselves – to build ourselves up spiritually. It is also given so that when it's interpreted it will edify the church. It can also be used as a sign to unbelievers when, as at Pentecost, they understand the language that is being spoken. We should expect this gift to be in operation in our meetings, but it should be used quietly if it is not for interpretation. It must only be spoken aloud if an interpreter is present, and it must be used only two, or at the most three, times in a meeting. We will consider this further in the next talk when we examine Paul's teaching on the gift of interpretation. For more on this, please see WYCT Ch. 5. But there's much more that could be said, and, if you have a copy, you might like to read Chapter Eight of my book Body Builders – Gifts to make God's people grow. E. Questions for discussion 1. If you do not yet speak in tongues, bearing in mind its value in prayer, do you feel you would like to? Have you ever prayed for this gift? 2. If you do speak in tongues, how much use do you make of it in your personal prayer life? 3. In church or in your small group, do you always consider the edification of others before you take part? 4. How best could we make use of this wonderful gift (tongues) in our small group meetings?
Sermon Series: What's Next | Treavor Pound Join us for Renew Church Online!PLEASE SHARE! // Sunday at 9am & 10:30am & 12pm!To Give to Renew: Click hereJoin a Small Group by Clicking Here Connect with us! Renew Connect Card To learn more about the Hope Center, please Click here.
Tune in to this week's Small Group Leaders Podcast, as Pastor Billy and Naomi Lile share insights on leading your groups as we kick off our new series, “Less Than Perfect: Flawed People, Faithful God."
If you’ve ever struggled to understand the Holy Spirit or feel a personal connection to God, you aren’t alone. In this message, Pastor Jeff Little shares five key truths about the Holy Spirit that can deepen your understanding of God and transform your relationship with Him. Join us as we kick off The Spirit-Filled Life at Milestone Church!Welcome to Milestone Church! For over 20 years, we’ve helped people like you grow in their faith, connect with a life-giving and spirit-filled church, and embody the mission of reaching people and building lives. From weekend services to resources for every age and stage of life, there’s a place for you here! Whether you're joining us from right here in Keller, McKinney, Haslet, Argyle—or anywhere around the world—we’re honored to have you as part of our spiritual family. Each week, you’ll find encouraging messages, full services, and stories that help you take practical steps in your faith journey. We believe when you encounter Jesus, everything changes—and you don’t have to walk that journey alone. Join Pastor Jeff Little each weekend for encouraging, Bible centered messages. Take a Next Step with Us. Everything you need is here:• https://mschur.ch/Discover• Share a prayer request• Join a Small Group• Stay connected with upcoming events Said “Yes” to Jesus?Head to https://mschur.ch/Discover and fill out a connection card so we can celebrate with you and help you take your next step. Join Us Each WeekendService times and more: https://milestonechurch.com We’re praying for you and believing God has more for your life than you can imagine. Let’s keep growing together! #MilestoneChurch #OnlineChurch #Faith #Jesus #KellerTX #McKinneyTX #HasletTX #ArgyleTX #LiveChurchService #JeffLittle #BibleTeaching #ChristianEncouragement #ChurchOnline
In Part 4 of our new series ADVANCE, Pastor Mark Bonilla challenges the modern church to stop living in defensive mode and start advancing the Kingdom of God, by protecting the family.Jesus said that the gates of hell would not prevail against His church. Gates are defensive structures. That means the Church was designed to ADVANCE.Main Scripture: Matthew 16:18Topic: Bible Teaching, Bible Study, Christian Leadership, Kingdom Builders, Living on a Mission, Use Your Gifts, Serve God, Pray Give Serve, Faith ForwardSupport the show ------------------------------------------WANT MORE?Say You Love Me 1: Building Healthy RelationshipsToxic 1: What are Toxic Thoughts? Things Jesus Never Said 1: Is Loving Money Bad?Bondage Breaker 1: Tormented by your past? ------------------------------------------ JOIN US!Visit us at www.FusionChurchNY.com for the most up-to-date in-person service times and events.Join a Small Group.------------------------------------------FOLLOW US!Make sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, and Tiktok.
Join us as we continue in our series "Camp Paul"Join us every Sunday online or in-person at 9:00am & 11:00am. 4005 Lee Vance Vw, Colorado Springs, CO 80918 Website: rockfamilychurch.com Connect Card: https://rfc.churchcenter.com/people/forms/528074 Prayer Requests: https://www.rockfamilychurch.com/prayer-request Start Serving: https://rfc.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/category/92573 Join a Small Group: https://rfc.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/3287086 Facebook: facebook.com/rockfamilychurch Instagram: instagram.com/rockfamilychurch Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@rockfamilychurch Youtube: youtube.com/@RockFamilyOnline#ColoradoSpringsChurch #Faith #Jesus #Worship #ChurchOnline #SundayMessage
Many people have some turning point in their lives. For followers of Jesus, one of those moments is simply: ‘And then I met Jesus.' In this series, we'll hear testimonies from people in our church about how their encounter with Jesus has changed their lives. Together, we'll look at how Jesus calls ordinary people to participate in His mission. It's not about pressure or perfect answers but compassion, presence, prayer, and simple invitations. Whether you've followed Jesus for years or are still exploring faith yourself, this series is an invitation to consider how God might work through your story too. The Prayer Team would love to pray for you, let them know how by using this link: https://chathamchurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/914476 Announcements Hello Card: https://chathamchurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/976297 Online Giving: https://www.chathamchurch.org/give Looking for a Small Group?: https://www.chathamchurch.org/small-groups Interested in volunteering for a serving team? Contact Jessica: jessica.waldstein@chathamchurch.org Highlighted Events Upcoming events: https://www.chathamchurch.org/events Learn more about our Worship Multiplied here: https://www.chathamchurch.org/worship-multiplied New Service Times this Summer: Services at 9 and 10:30am (livestream will also be at 9am) until August 30th. Connect Website: https://www.chathamchurch.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chathamchurch Take-WITH's from Luke 15 -Jesus comes to rescue us out of soul-sucking isolation and vicious tribalism by rescuing us for himself, his virtues, and his mission to seek after the lost. -This parable invites us to enter into his story: -Heart work: to share in the LONGING Prayer: "Lord, break my heart for what breaks yours." -Search work: to share in the LOOKING Prayer. Relationship. Spiritual Conversations. Invitation. Repeat. - Rejoicing work: to share in CELEBRATING with him over those who are found Prayer: "Lord, may my heart rejoice over what you rejoice over." Discussion/Reflection Questions 1. Think about the name you wrote on the card. What is one step you can take this week to regularly pray for them? 2. What's a step you could take to invest in that relationship? 3. Is there a step you could take to engage them with spiritual conversation? 4. Is there an invitation you could extend to come to church? 5. Which of the three “works” (heart, search, or rejoicing) feels most challenging for you right now? What is one practical way to grow in that area?
Ever feel like you're doing "Bible study" wrong? You open the pages, read a few verses, get confused or bored, and close it feeling more guilty than before. In a digital culture drowning in information, we've been given plenty of access to Scripture, but very little training on how to actually read it. We treat it like a textbook to master or a checklist to complete, rather than a space to be transformed.In this episode, we're changing the approach.Welcome to the Season 2 premiere of the Year of the Forge: Mind of the Maker. In this session, Pastor Andy (Chinomage) kicks off our summer series, The Tempering, by tackling biblical illiteracy head-on. We aren't just talking about the Bible; we are walking through a repeatable, lifelong blueprint called Inductive Bible Study.**********
From corporate polluters to political bosses, power elites try to create a myth of inevitability, trying to make workaday people feel helpless, too small to change the injustices of the system. Don't bother is their message.But the feisty residents of Boxtown, Tennessee, definitely did bother when they learned that a couple of profiteering fossil fuel giants were targeting them. Boxtown, a historic Black neighborhood of Memphis settled by former slaves 160 years ago, was considered by Valero Energy and Plains All-American Pipeline to be politically powerless, so when these multibillion-dollar petro powers decided to ram a dirty and dangerous pipeline through the Memphis area, Boxtown was their chosen route. The rich Texas oil barons even sneeringly called the lower-income community, “The point of least resistance.”Boy did they get that wrong! Those “small” people of Boxtown resisted fiercely and smartly. Most flat-out refused to sell their family land at the thieving price offered by the oil slicks. They forged a unified grassroots coalition (Memphis Community Against the Pipeline), reached out to other neighborhoods, and educated locals about the terrible safety records of the two corporate plunderers. They also enlisted environmental groups to help beat back the strong-arm attempt by Valero and Plains All-American to seize the people's property through eminent-domain. It's a long story, with many ups and downs, but the inspiring essence of it is that local “nobodies” defeated the big money and raw racist arrogance of a powerhouse duo of absentee corporate elites that disrespected – and misjudged – them.It gets little national media attention, but regular grassroots communities and coalitions are mounting – and winning – such gutsy fights against corporate exploiters all across America. We're not helpless or too small – remember this: Even the smallest dog can lift its leg on the tallest building! To learn more, contact MemphisCAP.org.Jim Hightower's Lowdown is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit jimhightower.substack.com/subscribe
If you're planning a trip to Switzerland and want to make the most of your limited time in Zurich without feeling overwhelmed with logistics, a small group tour could be your answer.In this episode, I'm joined by Catharina De Sa from Swiss Epic Tours to learn more about their guided small group day tours from Zurich. We chat through the full range of Zurich day trips they offer, including memorable journeys to Mt Titlis (with a private lakeside fondue experience!), the spectacular Rhine Falls and a visit to the Lindt Home of Chocolate. You'll hear all about the charming villages of Appenzell, scenic day trips to Liechtenstein from Zurich, historic Bern and postcard-perfect Gruyeres, as well as adventures into the Black Forest, just over the German border.For lovers of nature and classic Swiss landscapes, we cover tours through the Bernese Oberland region, as well as panoramic rides up Mt. Rigi, one of the most beloved peaks for locals and visitors alike.If you're looking for guided day tours from Zurich that are intimate, hassle-free and fun, this episode is for you. Plus, don't miss our exclusive listener discount code for Swiss Epic Tours.Happy travels,Carolyn
In this episode, I explore how a simple 360 feedback protocol can increase accountability and reflection during collaborative learning experiences. Inspired by feedback systems used in corporate settings, this strategy gives students structured opportunities to assess their own contributions and provide thoughtful peer feedback after small group discussions, reciprocal teaching, project-based learning, and other cooperative tasks. I share how asset-based rubrics and peer reflection can help teachers gather meaningful formative data without adding more grading to their workload. I also discuss why collaboration, communication, empathy, and self-regulation are increasingly important human skills in an AI-driven world. If you want to make group work more equitable, reflective, and student-centered, this episode offers practical strategies you can implement right away. Episode Resources [Resource] 360 Feedback Routine
NT GUIDELINES FOR SMALL GROUP MEETINGS – INTRODUCTION Welcome back to Great Bible Truths with Dr David Petts. If you've been a regular listener to my podcasts, you may have been wondering what's been happening since January, when I finished my series where I was reflecting on God's goodness to me throughout my life. Well, for first few months of the year I was working on turning the contents of those podcasts into a new book and preparing it for publication. The good news is that it's now available from my website and I've given it the title: All the Days of My Life – a Story of God's Unfailing Love. I'm already receiving many encouraging reports from those who have read it, and if you'd like a copy, full details are on my website. Since then, I've been working on six podcasts for use in our church home-groups and have now decided to make them more widely available as a new series. You may remember a series I did in 2023 under the heading When You Come Together. I later turned that into a book with the same title. The podcasts I have now produced are based on some of the teaching in that book, which is itself based on Paul's teaching in 1 Corinthians 14 – especially verse 26. This new series of talks is specially designed for use in small groups such as home groups. It contains six talks of less than 20 minutes each. We look particularly at 1 Corinthians 14 to see what God had to say about how Christians back then should 'do church', and seeing how this might affect what we do today, particularly in small groups. As usual, the full text of each talk will appear on my website along with the recording. This should be helpful particularly to group leaders, who would also benefit from my book When you Come Together – God's Plans for when His People Meet (WYCT), which could be useful background reading, as also could Body Builders – gifts to make God's people grow (on the subject of spiritual gifts). The first talk in the series will be posted at the same time as this, and the rest will follow shortly. To help you prepare for that, I'm making a few suggestions. But first let me say that it's not my intention that the notes and podcasts should be slavishly followed. They're just there to help you and your group to discuss and pray about what God's word might be saying about what should be happening in your meetings. Things to do ahead of the group meeting – seven suggestions 1. Make space in your diary to prepare for the meeting. 2. Read the relevant scripture passages. See the list below. 3. Listen to the podcast and study the notes. 4. Encourage group members to listen ahead of time too. 5. Plan the format of your meeting and ensure that the podcast is played towards the beginning of the meeting to leave time for discussion and prayer afterwards. 6. Think about the discussion questions I have included at the end of the talk. (N.B. You'll find these in the notes. They're NOT in the recording). Consider if you will have time to discuss all of them. If not, which are the most relevant to your group? 7. Pray for the leading of the Spirit when the group gathers. Finally, here's a list of relevant background reading for each talk. You might like to keep a copy of this for future reference. Obviously, the Bible passages are the most important. For your guidance, WYCT contains a bit more than the notes, and Body Builders even more. But how much background reading you do is up to you. RELEVANT EXTRA READING 1 CORINTHIANS WYCT BODY BUILDERS Talk 1 12-13 Chs. 1, 3, 4 Talk 2 14 Ch. 5 Pages 131-140 Talk 3 14 Ch. 6 Pages 141-151 Talk 4 14 Ch. 7 Chapters 3 and 9 Talk 5 12-14 Ch. 8 Talk 6 14 Ch. 9 God bless you and grant you much blessing in your group meetings.
NT Guidelines for Small Group Meetings Talk 1 An Overview of 1 Corinthians 12-13 Welcome to our new series. I'm calling it New Testament Guidelines for Small Group Meetings. We'll be looking at what the New Testament has to say about what we should expect and how we should behave in our meetings. This includes what we do on Sunday mornings and in our home groups. Our thoughts will centre on what Paul says in 1 Corinthians 14:26 where he makes the following recommendation: What then shall we say brothers and sisters? When you come together, everyone has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation. All of these must be done for the strengthening of the church. The churches in the New Testament would often have gathered in homes and that was almost certainly the case in Corinth. So, Paul's instructions are particularly relevant to smaller churches or home groups. Small group meetings can take many different forms. Some meetings can be a real blessing and a source of edification to all, but sadly this is not always the case. The apostle Paul had to tell the Corinthians that their meetings were not for the better, but for the worse (1 Corinthians 11:17) because of their inconsiderate behaviour towards one another. And that was when they were celebrating the Lord's Supper! Some were getting drunk while others were going hungry! And this selfish behaviour was not limited to food and drink. Some of them were 'hogging it' when it came to how they expressed themselves in worship – and that, as we will see, was perhaps their major problem. Paul's teaching in the rest of chapter 11 and in those that follow was an attempt to put things right and to show what Christian gatherings should be like. And that will be the basis for our consideration of how we may make our small group meetings as beneficial as possible. We'll begin in this talk by giving a brief overview of Paul's teaching in chapters 12 and 13. This will help us to understand our key verse in the wider context. As many of you will know, I have already written a short book on this subject entitled, When you come together – God's plans for when his people meet (WYCT). This contains much more than I have time to include in these notes, so please see me if you'd like a copy. Before the meeting it would be really helpful if you read 1 Corinthians, chapters 12-14. And if you have a copy you might like to read WYCT chapters 1-3 if you have time. So, as I was saying, our key verse is 1 Corinthians 14:26 and we need to begin by looking at the context in which it's set. Setting the context – an overview of 1 Corinthians 12 to 14 There were plenty of problems with the church in Corinth. Chapters 1-10 make it clear that there were divisions, they were immature, they tolerated immorality, they were taking each other to court, and some of them lacked a basic understanding of the basic truths of the Christian faith. And on top of all that, their behaviour when they met together was at times appalling! They were thoughtless and inconsiderate. No wonder Paul said that their meetings did more harm than good. We need to remember this as we look at what he says in chapters 12-14. The main problem he is addressing throughout is their thoughtless behaviour and attitude towards each other. It's clear from chapter 12 that some of them thought that they were superior to the others because of the spiritual gifts they possessed. And this was particularly true of speaking in tongues which was being used excessively in their meetings. So in chapter 12 he begins by giving some basic teaching on spiritual gifts. Teaching on spiritual gifts (12:1-11) I'm hoping you've read these verses before coming to the meeting. What's clear is that the supernatural gifts of the Holy Spirit were a regular part of their meetings, but the Corinthians were exercising them in ignorance. Paul had to teach them that: 1. The supernatural gifts of the Holy Spirit must be distinguished from demonic manifestations by the acknowledgment that Jesus is Lord (vv1-3) 2. Though the gifts are different they are all given by the same Spirit (vv4-10) 3. They are given as the Holy Spirit determines (v11) What can we learn from this? 1. If you acknowledge Jesus as you Lord and Saviour, you need not fear that you will receive a demonic gift. Our heavenly Father doesn't give 'snakes' to his children (Luke 11:11-13). 2. In Spiritualism, where counterfeit gifts are given by demons, different gifts are given by different spirits. 3. Though they're different, all the gifts are important because it's the Holy Spirit who gives all of them. 4. As the Holy Spirit is the giver, He decides who gets what. NOTE: Paul will say much more about spiritual gifts in the next two chapters. Every member of the body is needed (12:12-30) In this passage we learn that: 1. The church is one body which has many different members (v14) 2. Every member of the body is important and needed because God has put it there (vv14-27) 3. There should be no division in the body, but all the members should have equal concern for each part of it (v25) These are all important principles to bear in mind in our group meetings. There isn't time to go into them now, but we'll pick up on some of them when we come to chapter 14. 1 Corinthians 13 We're Nothing without Love Paul's teaching on love in this chapter is valuable in every situation, but in its context Paul is still talking about what should go on in our meetings. Chapter 14 is a practical application of what he's teaching about love here in 13. Let's divide the chapter into three sections: 1. It's all meaningless without love (1-3) 2. The nature of love (4-7) 3. Recognising our limitations (8-12) It's all meaningless without love (1-3) If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. What can we learn from these verses? 1. Nothing is more important than love. Whatever gifts we may have and whatever we may do, if our motive is not love, it counts for nothing. Without love I am nothing (2) and I gain nothing (3). 2. This principle applies to every function of the body of Christ, not just to the things mentioned in these verses, which are just illustrations of it. 3. What he's taught about the body in chapter 12 will only be possible when we love one another. So the things he refers to in verses 1-3 are just illustrations of the great principle of the paramount importance of love. But why does he choose these particular illustrations to make his point? Because these were the particular problems facing the church in Corinth at the time. It's evident from chapter 14 that there were problems in Corinth with their use of gifts like speaking in tongues and prophecy which are the two gifts he mentions first here. So as we later consider Paul's encouragement in 14:26 for all to participate by bringing a contribution to our meetings, we need to remember that whatever we may bring must be brought in love. The nature of love (4-8) 4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. These verses have a far wider application than our understanding of chapter 14. But in the context, chapter 13 is set right in the middle of Paul's teaching in chapters 12 and 14. Notice the development of thought in these chapters: 12: The importance of the role of every Christian within the church as the body of Christ 13: The importance of LOVE 14: Specific direction on how this should work in our meetings. Maybe we could summarise verses 4-7 as putting other people first. As we will see when we come to look at chapter 14 in more detail, this is the underlying principle of all he says which is surely the main way in which we express our love for them. Prophecy, for example, is to be desired more than tongues because it edifies others, not just ourselves (14:1-5). Think about how we can apply putting other people first to what we say and do in our meetings. Recognising our limitations (8-12) 8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10 but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. 11 When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. 12 Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. 13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. What can we learn from this? 1. Although there will ultimately be no need for supernatural gifts, love will remain for ever. It never fails (8). It remains (13). 2. Wonderful though gifts like tongues and prophecy are, their operation is not infallible. We know in part and we prophesy in part. What Paul is encouraging in 14:26 must be understood in this light. God's gifts are perfect, but we are not. We do not yet see face to face. The gifts come from God, but they come through us, and we are fallible. This must affect our understanding of all that Paul says in chapter 14, not just verse 26. As we eagerly desire spiritual gifts we are to try to excel in our use of them (12). This clearly implies that it's possible to exercise them without excelling in them. That's why words of prophecy need to be weighed carefully (29) and why Paul found it necessary to give instruction as to how the gifts should be used. Had the operation of the gifts been infallible, such instruction would have been unnecessary. But that's something we will consider in more detail later in the series. Next time we'll start on Chapter 14 and will be looking at The Right Use of Speaking in Tongues. So, that's it from me for today. Thanks for listening. Now, some questions for discussion. Group leaders, over to you. Questions for discussion 1. How important are the supernatural gifts of the Holy Spirit in the context of our small group? Do we make room for them? Have we all received the baptism in the Spirit? 2. What practical application does Paul's teaching that every part of the body is needed and to be valued equally make to what happens in our group and in church? 3. How might Paul's teaching on love (especially 13:4-7) affect our attitude as individuals in our group meetings and in church? Hint: Key phrases could be: Love is patient…Love is kind… it is not rude…Love does not boast…It is not proud… It does not envy …Love is not self-seeking… Love rejoices with the truth… It always protects.
Paul the apostle tells two stories in parallel: the children with no future and the children of the promise. Contrasting tales of children of a servant with no future security and children of a covenant promise whose future is secure unfold in the history of Israel. Paul maps these on to the lives of the Galatians to remind them of their inheritance in Christ, something they have quickly forgotten. And something we are quick to forget as well. Discussion Questions for Small Groups: 1. Where do you see yourself returning to futile and temporary things because it is easier than remembering the promise in Christ? 2. What does Paul's appeal to history reveal about God's character? 3. How does this passage show that we are saved by grace alone?
Why are so many 20-30 year-olds leaving Churches of Christ for other churches? In this episode of The Church Things Podcast, Kerry and Becky, offer one reason: college, careers, and increasingly busy schedules cause people to gradually drift away. They share a word of encouragement both for those who may have drifted away and for church leaders who care for them.
Sermon Series: What's Next | Treavor Pound Join us for Renew Church Online!PLEASE SHARE! // Sunday at 9am & 10:30am & 12pm!To Give to Renew: Click hereJoin a Small Group by Clicking Here Connect with us! Renew Connect Card To learn more about the Hope Center, please Click here.
This week on the Small Group Leaders Podcast, Pastor Billy Lile and Pastor Alfredo Canencia Jr. share insights on guiding your groups through the final part of our series, “Closer: Removing Relational Barriers.”
Why do some people get a vision for their lives and keep moving forward while others struggle? How do you sustain a God-given vision and experience all that God has for you? We all want to be part of something bigger than ourselves. This weekend, we'll discover how to keep growing in our vision for our lives, families, and Kingdom impact. Join Pastor Jeff Little for a special Vision Weekend at Milestone Church! Welcome to Milestone Church! For over 20 years, we’ve helped people like you grow in their faith, connect with a life-giving and spirit-filled church, and embody the mission of reaching people and building lives. From weekend services to resources for every age and stage of life, there’s a place for you here! Whether you're joining us from right here in Keller, McKinney, Haslet, Argyle—or anywhere around the world—we’re honored to have you as part of our spiritual family. Each week, you’ll find encouraging messages, full services, and stories that help you take practical steps in your faith journey. We believe when you encounter Jesus, everything changes—and you don’t have to walk that journey alone. Join Pastor Jeff Little each weekend for encouraging, Bible centered messages. Take a Next Step with Us. Everything you need is here:• https://mschur.ch/Discover• Share a prayer request• Join a Small Group• Stay connected with upcoming events Said “Yes” to Jesus?Head to https://mschur.ch/Discover and fill out a connection card so we can celebrate with you and help you take your next step. Join Us Each WeekendService times and more: https://milestonechurch.com We’re praying for you and believing God has more for your life than you can imagine. Let’s keep growing together! #MilestoneChurch #OnlineChurch #Faith #Jesus #KellerTX #McKinneyTX #HasletTX #ArgyleTX #LiveChurchService #JeffLittle #BibleTeaching #ChristianEncouragement #ChurchOnline
In Part 3 of our Advance series, Pastor Armando Palazzo explores a powerful and often overlooked dimension of spiritual warfare—not merely fighting against the enemy, but overcoming the limiting beliefs, fears, and false identities that keep us from stepping into God's purpose.Through the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000, we discover how Philip, Andrew, a young boy, and a simple lunch reveal one of the greatest spiritual battles Christians face: believing that what God has given us is not enough.Main Scripture: John 6Topic: Bible Teaching, Bible Study, Christian Leadership, Kingdom Builders, Living on a Mission, Use Your Gifts, Serve God, Pray Give Serve, Faith ForwardSupport the show ------------------------------------------WANT MORE?Say You Love Me 1: Building Healthy RelationshipsToxic 1: What are Toxic Thoughts? Things Jesus Never Said 1: Is Loving Money Bad?Bondage Breaker 1: Tormented by your past? ------------------------------------------ JOIN US!Visit us at www.FusionChurchNY.com for the most up-to-date in-person service times and events.Join a Small Group.------------------------------------------FOLLOW US!Make sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, and Tiktok.
What if you are more spiritually gifted than you realize? Scripture tells us that every believer is uniquely empowered by the Holy Spirit — not for personal status, but for the good of others and the building up of the Church. In this series, we'll explore how God distributes diverse gifts, calls us to humble service, shapes us into a unified body, and sends us out on mission for His Kingdom— equipping ordinary people for extraordinary impact. Join us as we discover and step boldly into the gifts God has given you. The Prayer Team would love to pray for you, let them know how by using this link: https://chathamchurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/914476 Announcements Hello Card: https://chathamchurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/976297 Online Giving: https://www.chathamchurch.org/give Looking for a Small Group?: https://www.chathamchurch.org/small-groups Interested in volunteering for a serving team? Contact Jessica: jessica.waldstein@chathamchurch.org Highlighted Events Upcoming events: https://www.chathamchurch.org/events Learn more about our Worship Multiplied here: https://www.chathamchurch.org/worship-multiplied Proposed Budget 2026-2027: Find more about our budget here - https://www.chathamchurch.org/budget New Service Times this Summer: Services at 9 and 10:30am (livestream will also be at 9am) Become a partner at our church: https://chathamchurch.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/3600830 Salvation Army Support Drive: Learn how you can help, click here - https://www.chathamchurch.org/events/event/414/salvation-army-support-drive/2026-05-24 Summer Better Courses: Find a way to grow, connect, and make the most of your summer - https://www.chathamchurch.org/summer-better Connect Website: https://www.chathamchurch.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chathamchurch Empowered: Spiritual Gifts for Kingdom Good Assessment that Covers General Skills, Gifts, and Talents: https://everygift.org/index.html Spiritual Gifts Assessments/Inventories: https://www.healthygrowingleaders.com/spiritual-gifts https://gifts.churchgrowth.org/spiritual-gifts-survey/ https://uniquelyyou.org/catalog/online-profiles/spiritual-gifts ($10 Fee)
We live in a grind culture that demands a constant image of strength and success, making any admission of weakness feel like a massive risk. But what if hiding your flaws is exactly what's keeping you spiritually and emotionally stuck?In the finale of our series The Refining, Pastor Mark dives into a radical truth that flies in the face of modern influencer culture: God's power is made perfect in our weakness, not our polished performance. Looking at biblical examples like the apostle Paul, Mark shares a deeply personal update on his own battle with burnout and why he is stepping into an 8-week sabbatical. If you're tired of running on empty and relying on your own grit, this message is your invitation to stop performing and start practicing genuine vulnerability.**********
Small group instruction is a common part of math classrooms—but when it comes time to actually sit down with a group of students, many teachers are left wondering what they should be doing. Should you reteach the lesson? Provide more practice? Or try something completely different?The answer isn't about creating a whole new lesson. Instead, effective tier 2 instruction is about helping students access the same rigorous math as their peers—but with the right supports in place. By using formative assessment to understand where students are along the concrete, representational, and abstract continuum, teachers can provide targeted scaffolds that move students forward. The key is not lowering expectations, but removing barriers so every student can engage with the learning.In this episode, you'll explore:What tier 2 math instruction should (and shouldn't) look likeWhy small group time isn't about reteaching the same lessonHow to use the CRA (concrete, representational, abstract) model effectivelyWhat it means to provide “access” to grade-level mathHow to decide when students are ready to move onThe role of high-quality instructional materials and manipulativesIf you've ever wondered what to actually do during small group time in math, this episode will give you a clear and practical way to support students without lowering expectations.We built a simple Math Coherence Compass to help district and school leaders make aligned decisions around math—without adding another initiative. Get your free copy and training here https://makemathmoments.com/compass/Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: https://makemathmoments.com/grow/ Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. https://growyourmathprogram.com Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem-based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units Show Notes PageLove the show? Text us your big takeaway!Empower Your Students (and Teachers) Using A Professional Learning PlanThat Sparks Engagement, Fuels Deep Learning, and Ignites Action! Book a time to chat with our team to see how we can help you achieve your math goals! https://makemathmoments.com/plan/Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don't want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.
In this episode of the Church Planter Podcast, Peyton Jones and Pete Mitchell talk about Discipology, small groups, AI, and what it takes to activate disciple-makers in the church.Peyton unpacks why mobilization has to come before multiplication, and why churches cannot rely on content, programs, or technology alone to make disciples. From small-group growth to leadership development, he explains how disciple-making starts when everyday believers are equipped, sent, and supported as they help others follow Jesus.The conversation also touches on the role of AI in ministry, the limits of technology, and why human connection, spiritual formation, and the work of the Spirit still matter deeply in church life.If you want to move people from learning to action and build a culture where disciples actually make disciples, this episode will help you take the next step.Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode: NewBreed Training DiscipologyThanks for listening to the Church Planter Podcast. We're here to help you go where no one else is going and do what no one else is doing to reach people no one else is reaching.Make sure to review and subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast service to help us connect with more church planters.
Check out this week on the Small Group Leaders Podcast, as Pastor Billy Lile and Chad Udani share insights on guiding your groups through the fourth installment of our series, “Closer: Removing Relational Barriers.”
Don’t worry, it’s not just your family, every family deals with conflict and tension. The question is, how do we deal with conflict? This weekend we get practical and dive into God’s Word to see how we can experience God’s best in our families and work past pressure, tension, and conflict. Join us at Milestone Church as we conclude Let’s Talk Family! Welcome to Milestone Church! For over 20 years, we’ve helped people like you grow in their faith, connect with a life-giving and spirit-filled church, and embody the mission of reaching people and building lives. From weekend services to resources for every age and stage of life, there’s a place for you here! Whether you're joining us from right here in Keller, McKinney, Haslet, Argyle—or anywhere around the world—we’re honored to have you as part of our spiritual family. Each week, you’ll find encouraging messages, full services, and stories that help you take practical steps in your faith journey. We believe when you encounter Jesus, everything changes—and you don’t have to walk that journey alone. Join Pastor Jeff Little each weekend for encouraging, Bible centered messages. Take a Next Step with Us. Everything you need is here: • https://mschur.ch/Discover • Share a prayer request • Join a Small Group • Stay connected with upcoming events Said “Yes” to Jesus? Head to https://mschur.ch/Discover and fill out a connection card so we can celebrate with you and help you take your next step. Join Us Each Weekend Service times and more: https://milestonechurch.com We’re praying for you and believing God has more for your life than you can imagine. Let’s keep growing together! #MilestoneChurch #OnlineChurch #Faith #Jesus #KellerTX #McKinneyTX #HasletTX #ArgyleTX #LiveChurchService #JeffLittle #BibleTeaching #ChristianEncouragement #ChurchOnline
In Part 2 of our new series ADVANCE, Pastor Mark Bonilla challenges the modern church to stop living in defensive mode and start advancing the Kingdom of God.Jesus said that the gates of hell would not prevail against His church. Gates are defensive structures. That means the Church was designed to ADVANCE.Main Scripture: Matthew 16:18Topic: Bible Teaching, Bible Study, Christian Leadership, Kingdom Builders, Living on a Mission, Use Your Gifts, Serve God, Pray Give Serve, Faith ForwardSupport the show ------------------------------------------WANT MORE?Say You Love Me 1: Building Healthy RelationshipsToxic 1: What are Toxic Thoughts? Things Jesus Never Said 1: Is Loving Money Bad?Bondage Breaker 1: Tormented by your past? ------------------------------------------ JOIN US!Visit us at www.FusionChurchNY.com for the most up-to-date in-person service times and events.Join a Small Group.------------------------------------------FOLLOW US!Make sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, and Tiktok.
Sermon Series: What's Next | Treavor Pound Join us for Renew Church Online!PLEASE SHARE! // Sunday at 9am & 10:30am & 12pm!To Give to Renew: Click hereJoin a Small Group by Clicking Here Connect with us! Renew Connect Card To learn more about the Hope Center, please Click here.
Every great hero—and every great villain—has an origin story that shapes their future. But what happens when yours is filled with broken cycles, trauma, or habits you desperately want to break?In this message from our series The Refining, Pastor Mark looks at the generational drama of Joseph in Genesis to unpack a powerful truth: true spiritual health requires us to confront our past. You don't have to live by the script handed down to you. It's time to step into a new, supernatural identity and become who you were actually created to be.CONTENT REFERENCES:Theo Von Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CihTN2GQymcMark Manson Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jfiBDuUVc-A&t=314s**********
What happens when public evangelism is grounded in deep relationships, local culture, and prayerful dependence on the Holy Spirit? Drawing on the remarkable PNG for Christ movement, this article explores what made the outreach so effective—and what lessons can shape more meaningful evangelism worldwide.
Today we're unpacking a different approach to getting people into small groups - backed by national data so you can see where your church stands. We'll also walk through a simple exercise to identify who isn't joining and why. ============================= Table of Contents: ============================= 0:00 - Intro 1:38 - THE BENCHMARK (Know Your Number) 6:45 - THE PHILOSOPHY (Groups as the Ultimate Value) 9:26 - THE PERSONAS (Know Who You're Talking To) 14:12 - THE GROUP TYPES (Broaden the Definition) 20:08 - THE CAMPAIGNS (Sprint vs. Sprinkle) THE 167 NEWSLETTER
Do you have the difference maker in your home? If you need of more unity in your home, more power when raising your kids, more peace in your house, you need to build a home where God dwells. This week, Pastor Jim Laffoon will break down the dos and don’ts of building a home built around God's presence. Join us at Milestone Church as we continue Let’s Talk Family! Welcome to Milestone Church! For over 20 years, we’ve helped people like you grow in their faith, connect with a life-giving and spirit-filled church, and embody the mission of reaching people and building lives. From weekend services to resources for every age and stage of life, there’s a place for you here! Whether you're joining us from right here in Keller, McKinney, Haslet, Argyle—or anywhere around the world—we’re honored to have you as part of our spiritual family. Each week, you’ll find encouraging messages, full services, and stories that help you take practical steps in your faith journey. We believe when you encounter Jesus, everything changes—and you don’t have to walk that journey alone. Join Pastor Jeff Little each weekend for encouraging, Bible centered messages. Take a Next Step with Us. Everything you need is here:• https://mschur.ch/Discover• Share a prayer request• Join a Small Group• Stay connected with upcoming events Said “Yes” to Jesus?Head to https://mschur.ch/Discover and fill out a connection card so we can celebrate with you and help you take your next step. Join Us Each WeekendService times and more: https://milestonechurch.com We’re praying for you and believing God has more for your life than you can imagine. Let’s keep growing together! #MilestoneChurch #OnlineChurch #Faith #Jesus #KellerTX #McKinneyTX #HasletTX #ArgyleTX #LiveChurchService #JeffLittle #BibleTeaching #ChristianEncouragement #ChurchOnline
In Part 1 of our new series ADVANCE, Pastor Armando Palazzo challenges the modern church to stop living in defensive mode and start advancing the Kingdom of God.Jesus said that the gates of hell would not prevail against His church. Gates are defensive structures. That means the Church was designed to ADVANCE.Main Scripture: Matthew 16:18Topic: Bible Teaching, Bible Study, Christian Leadership, Kingdom Builders, Living on a Mission, Use Your Gifts, Serve God, Pray Give Serve, Faith ForwardSupport the show ------------------------------------------WANT MORE?Say You Love Me 1: Building Healthy RelationshipsToxic 1: What are Toxic Thoughts? Things Jesus Never Said 1: Is Loving Money Bad?Bondage Breaker 1: Tormented by your past? ------------------------------------------ JOIN US!Visit us at www.FusionChurchNY.com for the most up-to-date in-person service times and events.Join a Small Group.------------------------------------------FOLLOW US!Make sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, and Tiktok.
Join us as we start our new series called "Camp Paul"Join us every Sunday online or in-person at 9:00am & 11:00am. 4005 Lee Vance Vw, Colorado Springs, CO 80918 Website: rockfamilychurch.com Connect Card: https://rfc.churchcenter.com/people/forms/528074 Prayer Requests: https://www.rockfamilychurch.com/prayer-request Start Serving: https://rfc.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/category/92573 Join a Small Group: https://rfc.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/3287086 Facebook: facebook.com/rockfamilychurch Instagram: instagram.com/rockfamilychurch Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@rockfamilychurch Youtube: youtube.com/@RockFamilyOnline#ColoradoSpringsChurch #Faith #Jesus #Worship #ChurchOnline #SundayMessage
Small Groups are NOT the same as disciple-making. Brian was deep into Small Groups, doing it the way everyone's been doing it for ages, when the Lord suddenly convicted him that he wasn't actually fulfilling the Great Commission with the work he was doing. He chose the path of humility and allowed the Lord to strip him of all that he thought he knew, and to build him back up. And the results have been incredible. Brian's disciple-making went to the 4th and 5th generation and beyond, and he now helps churches make disciples who make disciples...again, getting to that magical 4th generation where growth becomes natural and expected. This is an exciting episode, and one in which I got a major download about something Brian said related to making both Small Groups AND disciple-making work hand in hand without cannibalizing each other. In this episode, we talk about: 0:00 Intro 0:56 Prioritizing Disciple-Making 3:05 The difference between disciple-making and small group ministry 9:48 First principles disciple-making 19:54 Getting to the 4th generation and beyond 24:40 From inclusive to exclusive invitations 29:32 Acceptable time commitment 33:38 What actually works to transform lives 39:00 How to engage local churches Resources: Disciples Made: https://disciplesmade.com The Patient Ferment of the Early Church by Alan Kreider: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0801048494/ Not A Fan by Kyle Idleman: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0310344700/ ---
Sermon Series: What's Next | Treavor Pound Join us for Renew Church Online!PLEASE SHARE! // Sunday at 9am & 10:30am & 12pm!To Give to Renew: Click hereJoin a Small Group by Clicking Here Connect with us! Renew Connect Card To learn more about the Hope Center, please Click here.
Leo Bigger: Gottes Fussabdruck – mutig in Gottes vorbereitete Wege Das Thema «Wie du mutig in Gottes Zukunft gehst | 30 Jahre ICF» von Leo Bigger ist Teil der Predigtserie «30 Jahre ICF ZH» In dieser Predigt feiert Leo Bigger 30 Jahre ICF Zürich und zeigt dir: Das ist nicht nur eine Erfolgsgeschichte von Menschen, sondern Gottes Fussabdruck. Anhand von Epheser 2,10 und Josua 1 ermutigt er dich, alte Saisons loszulassen und mutig in Gottes vorbereitete Wege zu treten. Gott gibt Vision – aber auch Grenzen. Und er ruft dich, gross zu sprechen statt dich von deinen Umständen kleinreden zu lassen. Welche Verheissung sollst du heute über dein Leben aussprechen? Geschichten von Heilung, Bewahrung und Berufung machen sichtbar: Jesus verändert Leben. Leo erinnert dich daran, Gottes Wunder nicht zu vergessen und mit Frieden im Prozess weiterzugehen. Vielleicht ist dein nächster Schritt eine Small Group, ein Team oder eine Microchurch. Du hast Platz. Gott schreibt weiter. Um ICF zu unterstützen weiterhin lokal und global relevante Kirche zu bauen hier klicken: https://icf.ch/geben ICF ist eine freie, überkonfessionelle Kirche auf biblischer Grundlage. Authentisch, relevant und begeistert vom Leben mit Jesus. Geleitet von Pastor Leo & Susanna Bigger. Stay Connected Website: https://icf.ch Instagram: https://instagram.com/icfzurich Instagram Leo Bigger: https://instagram.com/leobigger Facebook: https://facebook.com/icfzurich Telegram: https://icf.ch/telegram Eine ICF Kirche in deiner Nähe finden: https://icf.ch/standorte
In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss two types of questions from two recently published articles, one from the Navigators and one from Church Leaders. The first part of the podcast deals with what the Navigators article describes as "Storytelling Questions", defined as questions that allow people to reveal who they are. These questions help build community in groups which also aids in disciple-making. The second part of the podcast deals with good Bible study questions that help dig into both understanding and applying a Biblical passage. All group leaders should understand and use questions frequently because they help engage people in one another's lives and in their walk with Christ. Don't forget, at Brook Hills we produce a weekly Small Group Guide that focuses on Bible study questions. You can find that each week below the sermon at brookhills.org/sermons.Building Relationships in Small Groups, The NavigatorsTwenty Bible Dialogue Questions, Church Leaders Small Group EditionSee all our Great Groups podcasts.Send us Fan MailThanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.Lifetime Show NotesBrook Hills Pages:The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USASmall Group Leader Resources PageSmall Group Discipleship ResourcesSmall Groups @ Brook Hills
On this episode of the Older Pastor/Younger Pastor Podcast, Dave and Ryan discuss using Scripture in Small Group.
No matter what season of life you’re in, God can be trusted. Whether you’re waiting on a miracle, believing for your family or health, God sees and is always good and always on time. You can take God at His word! Join us at Milestone Church as we celebrate Mother’s Day! Welcome to Milestone Church! For over 20 years, we’ve helped people like you grow in their faith, connect with a life-giving and spirit-filled church, and embody the mission of reaching people and building lives. From weekend services to resources for every age and stage of life, there’s a place for you here! Whether you're joining us from right here in Keller, McKinney, Haslet, Argyle—or anywhere around the world—we’re honored to have you as part of our spiritual family. Each week, you’ll find encouraging messages, full services, and stories that help you take practical steps in your faith journey. We believe when you encounter Jesus, everything changes—and you don’t have to walk that journey alone. Join Pastor Jeff Little each weekend for encouraging, Bible centered messages. Take a Next Step with Us. Everything you need is here:• https://mschur.ch/Discover• Share a prayer request• Join a Small Group• Stay connected with upcoming events Said “Yes” to Jesus?Head to https://mschur.ch/Discover and fill out a connection card so we can celebrate with you and help you take your next step. Join Us Each WeekendService times and more: https://milestonechurch.com We’re praying for you and believing God has more for your life than you can imagine. Let’s keep growing together! #MilestoneChurch #OnlineChurch #Faith #Jesus #KellerTX #McKinneyTX #HasletTX #ArgyleTX #LiveChurchService #JeffLittle #BibleTeaching #ChristianEncouragement #ChurchOnline
MY BODY IS NOT MY BOSS Colossians 3:5–7 So put to death the sinful, earthly things LURKING WITHIN YOU. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. 6 Because of these sins, the anger of God is coming. 7 YOU USED TO DO THESE THINGS when your life was still part of this world. (NLT) 4 STEPS TO GET VICTORY OVER YOUR FLESH 1. RECOGNIZE YOUR FLESH SHOULD NOT LEAD YOUR LIFE Romans 12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies. (NIV) 2. IDENTIFY SINFUL PATTERNS Colossians 3:5 So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. (NLT) Colossians 3:8-9 But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. 9 Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. (NLT) James 1:14 but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their OWN evil desire and enticed. (NIV) James 5:16 Therefore confess YOUR SINS to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. (NIV) Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off EVERYTHING that hinders and THE SIN that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, (NIV) 3. RECOGNIZE THE CONSEQUENCES OF FLESH-LED LIVING Colossians 3:6 Because of these sins, the ANGER of God is coming. (NLT) Galatians 6:7–8 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap DESTRUCTION; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. (NIV) James 1:15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to DEATH. (NIV) Romans 8:6 The mind governed by the flesh is DEATH, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. (NIV) Proverbs 14:12 There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death. (ESV) 4 PUT YOUR FLESH IN ITS RIGHTFUL PLACE 4A. CRUCIFY YOUR FLESH Romans 8:13 For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to DEATH the misdeeds of the body, you will live. (NIV) Galatians 5:24 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have CRUCIFIED the flesh with its passions and desires. (NIV) Matthew 5:30 And if your right hand causes you to stumble, CUT IT OFF and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell. (NIV) 1 Peter 2:11 Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, TO ABSTAIN from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. (NIV) Romans 13:14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make NO PROVISION FOR THE FLESH, to gratify its desires. (ESV) Luke 9:23 Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must DENY themselves and take up THEIR CROSS DAILY and follow me. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 9:27 But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. (ESV) MOST CHRISTIANS ARE NOT DEFEATED BY DEMONS. THEY’RE DEFEATED BY THE UNDISCIPLINED DESIRES. John 8:34 Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. (ESV) 4B. START PRACTICING SPIRITUAL HABITS Colossians 3:9-10 Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. 10 PUT ON YOUR NEW NATURE, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him. (NLT) 2 Corinthians 10:4 For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have DIVINE power to destroy strongholds. (ESV) 1. FASTING 2. DAILY PRAYER, WORSHIP, AND BIBLE READING Psalm 119:11 I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. (NIV) 3. CHURCH 4. SERVING 5. SMALL GROUP 6. SABBATH 4C. START FOLLOWING THE HOLY SPIRIT’S LEADING Galatians 5:16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. (ESV)
MY BODY IS NOT MY BOSS Colossians 3:5–7 So put to death the sinful, earthly things LURKING WITHIN YOU. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. 6 Because of these sins, the anger of God is coming. 7 YOU USED TO DO THESE THINGS when your life was still part of this world. (NLT) 4 STEPS TO GET VICTORY OVER YOUR FLESH 1. RECOGNIZE YOUR FLESH SHOULD NOT LEAD YOUR LIFE Romans 12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies. (NIV) 2. IDENTIFY SINFUL PATTERNS Colossians 3:5 So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. (NLT) Colossians 3:8-9 But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. 9 Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. (NLT) James 1:14 but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their OWN evil desire and enticed. (NIV) James 5:16 Therefore confess YOUR SINS to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. (NIV) Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off EVERYTHING that hinders and THE SIN that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, (NIV) 3. RECOGNIZE THE CONSEQUENCES OF FLESH-LED LIVING Colossians 3:6 Because of these sins, the ANGER of God is coming. (NLT) Galatians 6:7–8 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap DESTRUCTION; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. (NIV) James 1:15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to DEATH. (NIV) Romans 8:6 The mind governed by the flesh is DEATH, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. (NIV) Proverbs 14:12 There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death. (ESV) 4 PUT YOUR FLESH IN ITS RIGHTFUL PLACE 4A. CRUCIFY YOUR FLESH Romans 8:13 For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to DEATH the misdeeds of the body, you will live. (NIV) Galatians 5:24 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have CRUCIFIED the flesh with its passions and desires. (NIV) Matthew 5:30 And if your right hand causes you to stumble, CUT IT OFF and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell. (NIV) 1 Peter 2:11 Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, TO ABSTAIN from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. (NIV) Romans 13:14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make NO PROVISION FOR THE FLESH, to gratify its desires. (ESV) Luke 9:23 Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must DENY themselves and take up THEIR CROSS DAILY and follow me. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 9:27 But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. (ESV) MOST CHRISTIANS ARE NOT DEFEATED BY DEMONS. THEY’RE DEFEATED BY THE UNDISCIPLINED DESIRES. John 8:34 Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. (ESV) 4B. START PRACTICING SPIRITUAL HABITS Colossians 3:9-10 Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. 10 PUT ON YOUR NEW NATURE, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him. (NLT) 2 Corinthians 10:4 For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have DIVINE power to destroy strongholds. (ESV) 1. FASTING 2. DAILY PRAYER, WORSHIP, AND BIBLE READING Psalm 119:11 I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. (NIV) 3. CHURCH 4. SERVING 5. SMALL GROUP 6. SABBATH 4C. START FOLLOWING THE HOLY SPIRIT’S LEADING Galatians 5:16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. (ESV)
In this special Mother's Day message, Jo Marie Palazzo walks how Jesus restores our identity when life tries to label us by our worst moments.Main Scripture: John 8:1–11Topic: Bible Teaching, Bible Study, Christian Leadership, Kingdom Builders, Living on a Mission, Use Your Gifts, Serve God, Pray Give Serve, Faith ForwardSupport the show ------------------------------------------WANT MORE?Say You Love Me 1: Building Healthy RelationshipsToxic 1: What are Toxic Thoughts? Things Jesus Never Said 1: Is Loving Money Bad?Bondage Breaker 1: Tormented by your past? ------------------------------------------ JOIN US!Visit us at www.FusionChurchNY.com for the most up-to-date in-person service times and events.Join a Small Group.------------------------------------------FOLLOW US!Make sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, and Tiktok.
Happy Mother's Day! Today we were joined by 4 mom's in different seasons of parenting to share what motherhood really looks like.Join us every Sunday online or in-person at 9:00am & 11:00am. 4005 Lee Vance Vw, Colorado Springs, CO 80918 Website: rockfamilychurch.com Connect Card: https://rfc.churchcenter.com/people/forms/528074 Prayer Requests: https://www.rockfamilychurch.com/prayer-request Start Serving: https://rfc.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/category/92573 Join a Small Group: https://rfc.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/3287086 Facebook: facebook.com/rockfamilychurch Instagram: instagram.com/rockfamilychurch Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@rockfamilychurch Youtube: youtube.com/@RockFamilyOnline#ColoradoSpringsChurch #Faith #Jesus #Worship #ChurchOnline #SundayMessage
To see the diagram from today's episode, download it HERE. 10 Building Blocks to Engineer a Dynamic Small Group MinistrySteve Gladen and Derek discuss a summer “diagnostic check” for small group ministries by reviewing 10 building blocks to keep groups healthy, scalable, and disciple-making heading into fall. They emphasize first defining what success is for small group leaders, then aligning ministry structures to that outcome through leader training (for members, leaders, and coaches), providing practical tools (including individual and group health assessments and idea resources), and creating a strategic curriculum pathway that addresses weaknesses rather than simply filling time. They also highlight collecting both hard and soft data to support relational shepherding, building a scalable coaching/community-leader structure (often volunteer-based), and defining a group maturity pathway from early fellowship to balanced engagement with the Great Commission/Great Commandment. Finally, they outline three connection strategies—adult Sunday school alignment, a connection strategy when a pastor isn't fully on board, and church-wide campaigns when leadership is aligned—encouraging leaders to regularly reassess and shore up guardrails using the show-notes diagram and related books.00:00 Welcome to SG Squared01:22 Why Summer Is Ideal04:16 Building Block One Success06:52 Building Block Two Training09:37 Building Block Three Tools12:52 Building Block Four Curriculum15:44 Building Block Five Data18:41 Building Block Six Coaches21:48 Building Block Seven Pathway24:30 Building Blocks Eight To Ten29:42 Final Encouragement Outro ★ Support this podcast ★
In this episode, I unpack the instructional shifts that make Tier 2 more targeted, responsive, and effective. Too often, Tier 2 turns into a smaller version of whole-group instruction, repeating the same explanations and tasks that didn't work the first time. I walk through what needs to change, from grouping students based on specific needs to using different instructional approaches, scaffolding thinking, and ensuring students are doing the cognitive heavy lifting. I also explore how pre-assessment and formative data can be used to proactively design support and enrichment, not just react after students struggle. Finally, I share how the station rotation model can create the time and structure teachers need to make small group instruction possible in real classrooms. Episode Resources Related Blog: https://catlintucker.com/2026/04/tier-2-instructional-strategies/ The Station Rotation Model & UDL
How Do I Know If I'm Winning at Home? | Pastor Jeff Little What areas in parenting or marriage are worth the energy to stop everything else and focus on? How do you know if you're winning? What are the non-negotiables that you can't brush over, but have to fight for? This weekend, we'll look at the Bible's wisdom on family and parenting to know which battles are worth fighting. Join us at Milestone Church as we continue Let's Talk Family! Welcome to Milestone Church! For over 20 years, we've helped people like you grow in their faith, connect with a life-giving and spirit-filled church, and embody the mission of reaching people and building lives. From weekend services to resources for every age and stage of life, there's a place for you here! Whether you're joining us from right here in Keller, McKinney, Haslet, Argyle—or anywhere around the world—we're honored to have you as part of our spiritual family. Each week, you'll find encouraging messages, full services, and stories that help you take practical steps in your faith journey. We believe when you encounter Jesus, everything changes—and you don't have to walk that journey alone. Join Pastor Jeff Little each weekend for encouraging, Bible centered messages. Take a Next Step with Us. Everything you need is here:• https://mschur.ch/Discover• Share a prayer request• Join a Small Group• Stay connected with upcoming events Said "Yes" to Jesus? Head to https://mschur.ch/Discover and fill out a connection card so we can celebrate with you and help you take your next step. Join Us Each Weekend Service times and more: https://milestonechurch.com We're praying for you and believing God has more for your life than you can imagine. Let's keep growing together! #MilestoneChurch #OnlineChurch #Faith #Jesus #KellerTX #McKinneyTX #HasletTX #ArgyleTX #LiveChurchService #JeffLittle #BibleTeaching #ChristianEncouragement #ChurchOnline