Session 16: To Spread Scriptural Holiness Across the Land
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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
Faith-forming communities centered in Christ practice the means of grace individually and corporately. Leaders in the congregation create environments where the means of grace are regularly practiced. Leaders state the mission and vision of the congregation and then ask people the critical questions, "Why is this our mission? Why is this our vision?"
Desired Outcomes
As a result of this session, participants should be able to:
- Differentiate quality from excellence.
- Understand the need for empowerment of individuals and congregations.
- See personal and corporate holiness as a broadening of our mission.
Lesson Supplies
EXPLORATION AT GROUP SESSION
Total time: 50 minutes
Light the candle, noting symbols of current events. John Wesley challenges Christians to spread Scriptural Holiness across the land and bring God's love into current situations. Pray together the prayer on page 137. Ask participants for insights from this week's preparation.
Focus Study: Day 3
For Wesley, living by faith had power because it made no sense in the eyes of the world. Faith is impressive because it defies logic. How does this understanding of faith compare to Jesus' life? How does Wesley's view of the Christian faith match the way we speak of faith in our congregation? Conclude the discussion by reading together Hebrews 11:1-3. Provide copies of the complete sermon for participants who want to read it.
Transition to Our Time
Turn to A Reflective Moment Along the Way, page 142. Ask participants to share the concrete steps needed for the congregation to support and empower people to grow in faith individually and corporately. This is the path of sanctification and personal holiness.
DISCOVERY — APPLYING IDEAS TO THE CONGREGATION
Total time: 45 minutes
Discussion Questions (30 minutes)
Turn to Discussion Questions on page 144. Ask participants to share their insights on the questions and concepts in this session.
Many forces in the world work to disempower people. The church is uniquely positioned to empower people, to give them hope, and to connect them to meaningful work. The exercise on pages 145 provides a way for individuals to gain more control in their own lives. Remind participants of the spiritual practices discussed in Session 14. Ask participants about their experiences with new spiritual practices. How are they attentive to God?
Ask participants to identify three specific measurable goals for growth in the next weeks. Allow time for goal setting, then ask pairs to share goals. Ask them to make a plan for accountability to each other in the coming weeks.
Feedback & Evaluation (5 minutes)
Ask, "What have we learned in this session? How can this group share the learning with the congregation?"
Sending Forth (10 minutes)
Look at page 155 and tell participants the celebration will be part of your session next week. Ask participants to share prayer concerns. Conclude by saying together John Wesley's Covenant Prayer.
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