Introduction Ecclesiastes is one of the most unique books in the Bible. Truth be told, according to tradition Ecclesiastes almost did not make it into the Bible (some say it was the last book to be … Read More
Reflections: Why the Holy Spirit?
Anthony taught that a relationship with the Holy Spirit has been something planned from the beginning, not a change in God’s plan or story. How is this similar or different to your understanding of the … Read More
Reflections: What does the Holy Spirit Do?
Pastor Jim indicated that the way to receive the truth that the Holy Spirit wishes to teach you is to read your Bible. To what extent is Bible reading part of your life? What do … Read More
Reflections: Who is the Holy Spirit?
Pastor Jim noted that we are prone to see the Holy Spirit as an impersonal power rather than a person, and as a result, we seek to use him rather than seek a relationship. Has … Read More
Reflections: Ascension Sunday
How do you see the Ascension as a necessary next step in the work of Christ? Charles Spurgeon said “you cannot fall off the boat of salvation, but you can fall on the boat.” Does … Read More
Reflections: Parable of the Two Houses
Pastor Jim suggested that God is speaking to us now, but we have trouble hearing him among all the other voices that surround us. For you, what interferes with hearing? What practices would help you … Read More
Reflections: Prayer
Pastor Susan contrasted our tendency to view prayer as a way to get what we want with God’s desire that prayer deepen our relationship with him. How do each of these motivations show up in … Read More
Parable of the Talents: Reflections
Pastor Jim described the servant who buried his talent as having “phony humility,” using the sovereignty of God as a “clever and soulless dodge.” Did you see any of yourself in the examples Jim gave … Read More
New City Kids: Reflections
Pastor Trevor portrayed several trajectories our spiritual journeys can take. How would you graph your spiritual trajectory? What’s your reaction to Trevor’s statement that those on any of these paths are in the perfect position … Read More
Easter: Reflections
Referring to Christ’s resurrection, Pastor Jim noted, “What the church asks people to believe is astonishing.” If you have doubts, how do you deal with them? Are you a person with whom others can be … Read More