Session 15: The Means of Grace
Download this page in pdf format
PREPARATION
Read Scripture and background information. Reflect on the questions in the participant book. Review links suggested in the lesson outline below.
Train of Thought
The church is not like any other institution in society. It draws its identity from God. By its nature, the church is a learning organization that is dedicated to continuous improvement, quality, and serving the needs of believers and nonbelievers alike. Leaders in the congregation strive to create an inclusive environment, where everyone is welcome, and no one is denied. Spiritual discipline unites people in common practices that help to give them a unique identity in the world.
Desired Outcomes
As a result of this session, participants should be able to:
- Comprehend the means of grace.
- Design systems with Christ at the center.
- Recognize the importance of identifying our core values.
Lesson Supplies
EXPLORATION AT GROUP SESSION
Total time: 50 minutes
Invite participants to add symbols of their daily life to the worship center. Light the candle with these words, "John Wesley encouraged Methodists to practice the means of grace as a way of placing themselves in the path of God's Spirit and power. He believed that empowered Christians could transform the world through their daily living. May God empower us in this hour." Ask participants about insights and questions from their preparation of this session.
Focus Study: Day 6
Ask for responses to the questions at the end of Day 6 reading, page 133. Here are additional questions: "What are the main benefits of practicing the means of grace for the individual? What are the benefits for the community of faith? What happens to community when the means of grace are not regularly practiced?" Let participants know they can read Wesley's full sermon on the means of grace.
Transition to Our Time
Follow directions on page 134, top right corner. Conclude with the prayer on page 129.
DISCOVERY — APPLYING IDEAS TO THE CONGREGATION
Total time: 45 minutes
Discussion Questions (30 minutes)
Session 15 deepens the contrast between church as an activity center and church as a faith-forming community. Congregations' core values and true identity are recognized by visitors. Discuss the last question on page 135. Use the exercise on page 136 to assess the current practices of your congregation. Ask participants to name church meetings for business, for study, or for fellowship when they experienced the Presence and Guidance of God. Encourage them to describe what happened and how they felt. Summarize elements of the experiences which might be part of future meetings. Click here for a list of meeting resources with attention to spiritual practices.
Feedback & Evaluation (5 minutes)
Ask participants, "hat have we learned in this session? Where can we celebrate God's Presence in our congregation right now?"
Sending Forth (10 minutes)
Ask participants to gaze at the candle and reflect on the Presence of God in the session you are completing. Read the devotional, deleting the last paragraph. Conclude with this prayer, "Lord, open our hearts and minds to your leading for our congregation. Amen."
Text Only Version
|
