Spirit Pt. 3
Maintain the Fullness
May 5, 2013- Robbie Sevilla
Week of May 6, 2013

Bible Passage – Ephesians 5:18-21 (NIV)

18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit,19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

COME & Belong

ICE BREAKER – What vacation plans do you have this summer? Share with the group.

THRIVE in the WORD

(The questions below are suggestions only. If you are led by God to change the content, do so.)
1. Today’s message was about maintaining the fullness of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Looking back at the characters of the Bible, give an example of someone who has maintained the fullness of the Holy Spirit in their life? Why do you say this?

2. How effective do you think our witness for Christ could be without the Holy Spirit’s presence?

3. Review the notes from Sunday’s message. Do you have times when you feel the Holy Spirit is absent in your life? What actions can you take when this happens?

4. What is the difference between being drunk with wine and being filled with the Holy Spirit?

5. According to today’s message what is the full impact of the Holy Spirit’s power in our lives?

GO & Serve- As early as now, consider serving as a group in the Go Days of Service.
The three major activities are, Food Drive for Eden Community Food Bank where volunteers are needed to go around the community one Saturday leaving a paper bag and note on how to donate door to door and driving around the following week to collect on top of the church wide campaign; Rolling park, school and malls clean up and bottled water distribution where families can participate and the blood donation. More details to follow.

Event Reminders-
Kingdom Roots Conference on May 25 use this link for more details- http://persecution.net/womensconference.pdf

Go Days of Service- 3 Saturdays in June to bless Mississauga as a church, watch out for more announcements.

North American Christian Convention- July 9-12, Louisville Kentucky

Suggested Bible Reading Plan This Week – This week read Acts Chapters 1-8. Observe the lives of those filled with the Holy Spirit.

Message Outline
18Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy
Spirit,
19 singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music
to the Lord in your hearts. 20 And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name
of our Lord Jesus Christ. 21 And further, submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.
Ephesians 5:18-21, NLT

We need to maintain the fullness that the Holy Spirit gives.

I. THE HOLY SPIRIT IS A DOVE: PURITY
Matthew 3:16-17, NLT; See also
Mark 1:9-11, Luke 3:21-23, John 1:31-33

II. THE HOLY SPIRIT IS A WIND: POWER
Acts 1:8; 2:1-2, NLT
John 3:5-8, NLT

III. THE HOLY SPIRIT IS A FIRE: REFINING
Isaiah 4:4, NIV.
Acts 2:3-4, NLT. – See Matthew 3:11 for how John the Baptist describes Jesus.

IV. THE HOLY SPIRIT IS An OIL: ANOINTS & HEALS
Luke 4:18, NLT
Acts 10:38, NLT
1 Samuel 10:1; 1 Samuel 16:13
Mark 6:12-13; James 5:14

V. THE HOLY SPIRIT IS WATER: SATISFACTION
John 7:37-39, NLT. See also John 4:13-14, 6:35

We maintain the fullness of the Spirit by….

1. Regular worship (v. 19)
2. Fellowship (v. 19)
3. Gratitude (v. 20)
4. Submission (v.21)

RSVP: God’s Gracious Invitation
April 28, 2013- Jim Tune

Week of April 28, 2013

Bible Passage – Luke 14:15-24; Matt. 22:1-4
‘Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.’
Luke 14:21b NIV

COME & Belong

ICE BREAKER –

If you could go to a concert or show that you missed, what would that be?

THRIVE in the WORD

(The questions below are suggestions only. If you are led by God to change the content, do so.)

1. Read Matthew 22:1-4 & Luke 14:15-24. What message is Jesus trying to teach with this parable? In what ways can we own the lesson or lessons of this parable? When you relate it to salvation, what does verse 24 mean?

2. What is the role of baptism in accepting God’s invitation?

3. Assign each member to read the following passages and summarize what it is saying:

Matthew 28:18-20; John 3:1-4; 1 Peter 3:21; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Acts 2:36-41;

1 Corinthians 12:13; Romans 6:3-10; Colossians 2:12

4. Ask the group if they have any questions on baptism and try to answer it as a group. If you get a question you cannot answer, send it to Edmund@churchillmeadows.org

GO & Serve- Think of a friend who you would like to see accepting Christ. In your closing prayer as a group pray for these names and ask the Holy Spirit to help you be a part of the people who can lead your friend to the Lord.

Event Reminders-
Kingdom Roots Conference on May 25 use this link for more details- http://persecution.net/womensconference.pdf

North American Christian Convention- July 9-12, Louisville Kentucky

Suggested Bible Reading Plan This Week – This week read Luke 14:15-24 and meditate on the following:
Day 1- what sins do you need to avoid; Day 2- any Promise you can claim;
Day 3- any Action you need to take in response to the passage; Day 4- any Command to obey and
Day 5- any Example to follow

Message Outline

RSVP: God’s Gracious Invitation

Luke 14:15-24; Matt. 22:1-4

1. God is calling all people to himself.

“A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests.” vs. 16

2. God’s invitation is urgent.

“Come, for everything is now ready.” vs. 17

“Go out quickly into the streets . . .” vs. 21

3. Few sense the greatness of this invitation.

“But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said, ‘I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me.” Another said, ‘I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I’m on my way to try them out. Please excuse me.” Still another said, ‘I just got married, so I can’t come.’” Vs. 18-20

4. Rejection of God’s invitation is a judgment we pronounce on ourselves.

“I tell you, not one of those men who were invited will get a taste of my banquet.” vs. 24

Spirit Pt. 2
Be Filled With the Spirit
April 21- Jim Tune

Week of April 21, 2013

Bible Passage – Ephesians 5:15-18

Be very careful, then, how you live-not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.
NIV

COME & Belong

ICE BREAKER –

Share the worst thing you cooked (accidentally or otherwise) in a microwave?

THRIVE in the WORD

(The questions below are suggestions only. If you are led by God to change the content, do so.)

1. Read Ephesians 5:15-18. In what way could we be wise or unwise today in relation to being filled with the Holy Spirit?

2. What do you think did Paul mean in verses 16-17 “about making the most of opportunity because the days are evil” and about “not being foolish but understand the Lord’s will?”

3. What is our divine assignment for which we will be given power to complete?

4. Considering the great things that the Holy Spirit can do for us if we allow him to, what areas in your life do you need to surrender to Him further so He can do more?

GO & Serve- In groups of three`s, share what steps (from what Pastor Jim shared) do you still need to make in order or you to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Pray for one another after.

Event Reminders-
Kingdom Roots Conference on May 25 use this link for more details- http://persecution.net/womensconference.pdf

Baptism Sunday- April 28

North American Christian Convention- July 9-12, Louisville Kentucky

Suggested Bible Reading Plan This Week – This week read Ephesians 5 and meditate on the following:
Day 1- what sins do you need to avoid; Day 2- any Promise you can claim;
Day 3- any Action you need to take in response to the passage; Day 4- any Command to obey and
Day 5- any Example to follow

Message Outline

I. Who Can Be Filled?

1. God will supply all power needed to complete our divine assignment.

“Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off . . .” Acts 2:38, 39

2. Every believer already has the Holy Spirit.

“For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body . . . and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.” 1 Corinthians 12:13

“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead be filled with the Spirit.” Ephesians 5:18

II. What does the Holy Spirit do?

1. The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin.

“When he comes, he will convict the world of guilt with regard to sin . . .”

2. The Holy Spirit equips us for service.

3. The Holy Spirit guides us into God’s will.

“But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” John 14:26

4. The Holy Spirit guides us in understanding the Bible.

5. The Holy Spirit enhances your personality.

“The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” Galatians 5:22

6. The Holy Spirit comforts us in our trouble.

“I will ask the Father and He will give you a Comforter.” John 14:16

7. The Holy Spirit will raise us from the dead.

“If the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who lives in you.” Romans 8:11

III. How Can We Be Filled With the Holy Spirit?

1. Acknowledge His presence in our lives.

2. Empty yourself of known sin.

“Here I am, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him and he with me.” Rev.3:20

3. Pray for the filling of the Holy Spirit.

4. Saturate your mind with the Word of God.

5. Practice daily obedience.

The Only Thing That Counts…
March 10, 2013- John Weece

Week of March 11, 2013

Bible Passage – Galatians 5:6

6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.
NIV

COME & Belong

ICE BREAKER –

Watch a Coca-Cola Happiness Machine video from this link- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lqT_dPApj9U.
Share: If you have the opportunity to do something like this, what would you do and for whom?

THRIVE in the WORD

(The questions below are suggestions only. If you are led by God to change the content, do so.)

1. Read Ephesians 5:1-6 and discuss what issue was Paul trying to address here?

2. In relation to the Sunday message, in what ways can we expressed faith in love?

3. John Weece posed a question that he asked his church, “If our church vanishes, will the community ever notice,” why is this question sensible to ask? What does it mean to be noticed by the community?

4. ACTION QUESTION: Of the things they did as a church to practice Ephesians 5:6, what things can we do as a church? Kindly email your suggestions to Edmund@churchillmeadows.org or simply pick up the phone during your session and dial, and press # 204 when the message starts. Leave your LG name and your suggestions in the mailbox.

5. John Weece talked about the word “Christian” being a noun and not an adjective. Then he talked about how often we turn this into an adjective. In what way does this happen. Is this a good thing or a bad thing? What does he mean when he says; Christians should love verbs and not adjectives?

GO & Serve- Decide as a group what project blessing a needy outside the church can you do to practice “Faith expressing itself in love” in a concrete way before you close this season of Life Group session. Take the time to do this project in the next two weeks. If you have done something together already, celebrate that and pray for the other Life Groups who may not have done it yet.

Event Reminders-
• This is the last week for a session of the Life Groups with a material. Kindly schedule a social next week for your final meeting before we take a four-week break.
• Last day of Life Group for the winter session is March 25, 2013.
• We resume on April 22, 2013.

Suggested Bible Reading Plan This Week – This week read Galatians 5 and meditate on the part that was used in the message.

Ephesians Series ONE Pt. 4 – Put Off the Old, Put On the New
March 3, 2013- Robbie Sevilla

Week of March 4, 2013

Bible Passage – Ephesians 4:20 -32

Read chapter 4 verses 17- 24

Please refer to Robbie’s notes on page 2 & 3 for more info on this passage.

COME & Belong

ICE BREAKER –
• Have you ever found yourself criticizing a friend or workmate for a “bad” attitude or behaviour, only to later find yourself doing exactly the same thing? Can you share with the group how you felt at your discovery?

THRIVE in the WORD

(The questions below are suggestions only. If you are led by God to change the content, do so.)

1. What part of the Sunday message resonated the most with you?

2. In putting on the new nature (new self) Paul describes 5 behaviours that we must put off in verses 25-30. What are they? Why do you think Paul felt it necessary to describe them here?

3. As Robbie stated people often use lies as a cover-up for their real behaviour? What can happen when we try to hide the truth this way? Are some lies OK? What does Scripture reveal about lying? (See Prov. 6:16-19). What are the benefits of being truthful? (see Prov 12:19,22)

4. Paul did not say we should never be angry. Share a time when you allowed anger to get the better of you and what happened? If anger is OK, how do we control it? (vs. 26) What happens when we don’t control it? (vs. 27) (also Prov. 14:29 & Ecclesiastes 7:9)

5. Most people would say they don’t steal. In Luke 19: 1-9. Zacchaeus, the rich tax collector, was able to steal legally by charging higher taxes. How did he repent when he met Jesus? What does this story say about who Jesus came to save? How are we like Zacchaeus?

6. Do you cringe when you hear others use foul or abusive language? BUT, have you ever heard yourself using unnecessary harsh or critical words to others? What was the result? What kind of words should we be speaking? (vs.29) (see also Prov. 15:1)

7. Paul summarizes our bad behaviours in verse 31. Read this verse together. How does he say we should be treating one another? How can we strive to develop and exhibit the qualities of kindness, compassion and forgiveness every day? How do we encourage one another to do so?

GO & Serve- In Matthew 5:17 Jesus says that we are the light of the world. Our light is only seen when it’s turned on. Strive to demonstrate your light this week by practicing these behaviours as outlined by Paul. Ask members of your group to encourage one another (prayer, email, phone call).

Event Reminders-
• Worship Night, Friday March 8 at 7:30 pm. at CMCC
• CMCC Annual Meeting Sunday March 17 after second service
• Discovery Class for people interested in taking the next step of membership on March 16, 2013 from 10 am to 2 PM. Venue is at the CMCC coffee lounge.
• Marriage Course begins on March 30, 2013, 6:45-9:30 pm. The fee is $180/couple.

Suggested Bible Reading Plan This Week – This week read Ephesians 4:20-32 and meditate on the passages we have covered so far. Note down your reflection of each passage.
Message Outline

Ephesians Series One – Pt 4 Put Off the Old, Put On the New Ephesians 4:25-32 NLT

25 So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we are all parts of the same body. 26 And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 for anger gives a foothold to the devil. 28 If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need. 29 Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.30 And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. 32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.

Put off the old put on the new because of what we learned about Christ.

I. Put off lying and put on truth because we’re united.

16 There are six things the Lord hates— no, seven things he detests: 17 haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that kill the innocent, 18 a heart that plots evil, feet that race to do wrong, 19 a false witness who pours out lies, a person who sows discord in a family. Proverbs 6:16-19, NLT (see also, Psalm 34:12-13)

19 Truthful words stand the test of time, but lies are soon exposed…. 22 The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth. Proverbs 12:19, 22, NLT

II. Put off anger and put on control because that’s Satan’s foothold.

Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. James 1:20
People with understanding control their anger; a hot temper shows great foolishness. Proverbs 14:29
Control your temper, for anger labels you a fool. Ecclesiastes 7:9

III. Put off stealing and put on working because that’s how we can give generously.

For the Zacchaeus story see Luke 19:1-9.

Work brings profit, but mere talk leads to poverty! Proverbs 14:23

IV. Put off unwholesome talk and put on building up others because of our guaranteed redemption.

A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare. Proverbs 15:1, NLT

10 Christ died for us so that, whether we are dead or alive when he returns, we can live with him forever. 11 So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:10-11, NLT
V. Put off unpleasantness and put on forgiveness because that’s what God did for us.

For from the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, all sexual immorality, theft, lying, and slander. Matthew 15:19, NLT
Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends. Proverbs 17:9, NLT

Ephesians Series ONE Pt. 3 – Before and After
February 24, 2013- Jim Tune

Week of February 24, 2013

Bible Passage – Ephesians 4:17-24

Read chapter 4 verses 17- 24

Please refer to Jim’s notes on page two for more info on this passage.

COME & Belong

ICE BREAKER –
• Have you ever attended a sports or other competitive event where the attitudes of fans became increasingly more aggressive as the game progressed? Did you find yourself getting more aggressive? Share your response with the group.

THRIVE in the WORD

(Remember that the questions we send you are suggestions only. If you are led by God to change the content to capture the right context for your group, please do so.)

1. Ephesians 4:17-24 provides a snapshot of our “before” and “after” life in Christ. Paul told these believers that they must no longer live “as the Gentiles do.” Why do you think they needed this reminder of their old life? Do we need these kinds of reminders today?

2. Some people think you can believe anything you want or that anything is OK if it doesn’t hurt anyone else. If these philosophies work, why don’t we have a better world today? Why don’t they work?

3. Paul wrote that believers need to put off their “old self” and put on the “new self” (vs. 22-23). Jim emphasized that we need to change from a worldly mindset to a Biblical mindset. How can this be accomplished? Why don’t all Christians think and behave this way?

4. In his message Jim made reference to two laws that can shape our minds: (1) the law of cognition (you are what you think and (2) the law of exposure (you are what you are exposed to). Given these factors, what can we as believers do to “be made new in the attitude of our minds”? See also Romans 12:2

5. Jim contrasted the characteristics of the godless old self (vs. 17-19) with our new self in Christ (vs.21-24). As a believer, how do you see the characteristics of the new self developing in your life?

GO & Serve- Ephesians 4:1 reminds us to live lives worthy of the calling we received. Is there a philosophy or thinking you are adhering to right now that is more man-made than God-made? Commit to examine this thoroughly and surrender it to God. Focus on developing a Biblical mindset in all that you do. See how this impacts your attitude and behaviour towards others.

Event Reminders-
• Women’s Retreat Mar. 1-3, 2013. Contact Laura Harris at lauraharris@allstate.com for information on signing up before Friday. Sign-up ahead online at:

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dE5jUFo0bHMxVENtQldSVGNUM2FiNEE6MQ#gid=0

• Promise Keepers Conference on Mar. 02, 2013, venue is in London, Ontario. There is a $10 subsidy for the first 30 men who will register.
• Marriage Course begins on March 30, 2013, 6:45-9:30 pm. The fee is $180/couple.

Suggested Bible Reading Plan This Week – This week read Ephesians 4:1-24 and meditate on the passages we have covered so far. Note down your reflection of each passage.

Message Outline

Ephesians Series One – Pt 3 Before and After Ephesians 4:17-24 NIV
So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more. You, however, did not come to know Christ that way. Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
I. The “before” shot.
1. Futile thinking.

2. Darkened understanding.

3. Separated from God.

4. Hardhearted.

5. Given to sensuality.
II. The “after” shot.

1. Purposeful thinking.

2. Enlightened understanding.

3. Knowing God.

4. Teachable heart.

5. Disciplined desires.

Ephesians Series ONE Pt. 2 – Courageous Truth
February 17, 2013- Jim Tune

Week of February 17, 2013

Bible Passage – Ephesians 4: 12-16

Read chapter 4 verses 12- 16

Please refer to Jim’s notes on page two for more info on this passage and references in Esther.

COME & Belong

ICE BREAKER –
• Share an experience when you were appointed as spokesperson for your team or group and felt totally out of your depth? What was the result?

THRIVE in the WORD

(Remember that the questions we send you are suggestions only, NOT Rules. If you are led by God to change the content to capture the right context for your group, please do so.)

1. In the message Jim spoke about the importance of “speaking the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15). In practical terms what do you think this means? How can this help to unify us in the body of Christ? How do you think you would respond if a brother or sister in Christ spoke the truth to you, in love?

2. (If you have time review the book of Esther before posing the next few questions) The book of Esther is a gripping true story, in which a group of faithful Jews in Susa saved the lives of the entire Jewish population). In the first 2 chapters, Esther has become the new queen and her uncle, Mordecai is a palace official in the court of King Xerxes. In chapter 3, the new chief official, Haman, hates all Jews, especially Mordecai who will not bow down before him. He bribes the king to implement his plot for their destruction. How did Mordecai respond when he heard? (Review notes on chapter 4). What did he advise Esther to do?

3. Esther knew that approaching the king without a summons could mean death. What was her first response to Mordecai? (4:11). How did Mordecai challenge her to take courage and approach the king? (4:12-16)

4. How did Esther prepare to approach the king on behalf of her people? (4:15-16). what was she willing to give up? (4:16). What was the final result of her courageous actions? (7:3-7)

5. What influence did Mordecai have on the life of Esther? Like Esther, do you believe you were born for such a time as this? Is there a “Mordecai” in your life who can challenge you to speak the truth in love? Could you be a “Mordecai” in someone’s life and challenge them in serving God?

GO & Serve- Lifegroups are an opportunity to draw us closer to unity in Christ. Encourage your members to practice speaking the truth in love to one another. This week, why not challenge them to pray for one member and then speak a word of encouragement to that person at your next Lifegroup.
Event Reminders-
• Divorce Care started Jan 21, 7-9 pm. (Fee $25 inclusive of workbook)
• Women’s Retreat Mar. 1-3, 2013. You can Sign-up and pay at the CMCC Welcome Center on Sunday OR pay there on Sunday and Sign-up ahead online at:

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dE5jUFo0bHMxVENtQldSVGNUM2FiNEE6MQ#gid=0

• Promise Keepers Conference on Mar. 02, 2013, venue is in London, Ontario. There is a $10 subsidy for the first 30 men who will register.
• Marriage Course begins on March 30, 2013, 6:45-9:30 pm. The fee is $180/couple.

Suggested Bible Reading Plan This Week – This week read Ephesians 4:1-16 and meditate on the passages we have covered so far. Note down your reflection of each passage.

Message Outline

Ephesians Series One – Pt 2 Courageous Truth Ephesians 4:12-16
…to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
1. Spiritual corruption leads to a crisis.

“When the king was in high spirits with wine . . .”Esther 1:10

“He commanded them to bring before him Queen Vashti, wearing her royal crown in order to display her beauty to the people and nobles, for she was lovely to look at.” v.11

2. Crisis is caused by spiritual arrogance.

3. Arrogance always leads to evil.

“After these events, King Xerxes honored Haman . . . elevating him and giving him a seat of honor higher than that of the other nobles. All the royal officials at the king’s gate knelt down and paid honor to Haman, for the King had commanded this concerning him. But Mordecai would not kneel down or pay him honor.” Esther 3:1-2

“When Haman saw that Mordecai would not kneel down or pay him honor, he was enraged. Yet having learned who Mordecai’s people were, he scorned the idea of killing only Mordecai. Instead Haman looked for a way to destroy all Mordecai’s people, the Jews, throughout the whole kingdom of Xerxes.” Esther 3:5-6

“When Mordecai learned of all that had been done, he tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the city, wailing loudly and bitterly.” Esther 4:1

4. Spiritual evil requires dramatic intervention.

“All the king’s officials and the people of the provinces know that for any man or woman who approaches the king in the inner court without being summoned—the king has but one law: that they will be put to death.” Esther 4:11

“When Esther’s words were reported to Mordecai, he sent back the answer, ‘Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape. For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?” Esther 4:12-14
5. Bold intervention leads to an expression of courage.

“When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.” Esther 4:16

• Who is your Mordecai?

• Who in your life thinks of you as Mordecai?

6. The courage of Esther leads to compassion.

“If I have found favor with you, O King, and if it pleases your majesty, grant me my life-this is my petition. And spare my people-this is my request. For I and my people have been sold for destruction and slaughter and annihilation.” King Xerxes asked Queen Esther, “Who is he? Where is the man who has dared to do such a thing?” Esther said, “The adversary and the enemy is this vile Haman.” The king got up in a rage, left his wine, and went out into the palace garden.” Esther 7:3-7

7. Compassion leads to redemption.

ONE Pt. 1 – One in Christ – Unity

February 10, 2013- Robbie Sevilla

Week of February 10, 2013

Bible Passage – Ephesians 4: 1-13

Read chapter 4 together.

Please refer to Robbie’s notes on page two for more info on this passage.

COME & Belong

ICE BREAKER –

• Describe your experience as a team member (be it in a sport or work setting)? Did your team work together to win or did everyone go their own way?

THRIVE in the WORD

(Remember that the questions we send you are Tools and NOT Rules. If you are led by God to change the questions to capture the right context for your group, please do so.)  

1.  In the message Robbie stressed that we need to be One in Christ, as individuals, so that we can be One in Christ, as a church. Based on what we have learned in Ephesians, what does it mean to be One in Christ – as an individual – as a church?
2. Paul urged the believers in Ephesus to live a life worthy of the calling they received from God. What is this calling? As believers how can we live a life worthy of our calling?
3. How did Christ exemplify the characteristics of humility, gentleness and patience described in verse 2? Does this mean we should never be angry? How would you define the expression “Be angry at the right time and never at the wrong time”?
4. Paul identifies the many aspects of our “Oneness” as believers in verses 4-6, but he also relates that different gifts are given to each of us. For what purpose where these gifts given (verses 11-13)? How do these gifts serve to unify the church today? When might they be used to bring about disunity?
5. How does the early church described in Acts 2:42-47 serve as a model of unity for the church today? What are its similarities to the church today? What are the major differences? How can we as a church strive to be more unified in Christ? As individuals? As a church?

  GO & Serve- Think of someone with whom you have been impatient recently. Strive to pray for them on a daily basis this week. How might this change your attitude of impatience towards them?

Event Reminders-

• Divorce Care started Jan 21, 7-9 pm. (Fee $25 inclusive of workbook)
• Women’s Retreat Mar. 1-3, 2013.  You can Sign-up and pay at the CMCC Welcome Center on Sunday OR pay there on Sunday and Sign-up ahead online at:

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dE5jUFo0bHMxVENtQldSVGNUM2FiNEE6MQ#gid=0

• Promise Keepers Conference on Mar. 02, 2013, venue is inLondon,Ontario. There is a $10 subsidy for the first 30 men who will register.
• Marriage Course begins on March 30, 2013, 6:45-9:30 pm.  The fee is $180/couple.

Suggested Bible Reading Plan This Week – This week read Ephesians 4 and meditate on the passages we have covered so far.  Note down your reflection of each passage.

Message Outline

We need to continually be one in Christ (individual) so that we can be one in Christ (CHURCH).

Our fellowship is based upon the person of Christ

He brought this Good News of peace to you Gentiles who were far away from him, and peace to the Jews who were near.  Now all of us can come to the Father through the same Holy Spirit because of what Christ has done for us.—Ephesians 2:17-18, NLT

And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.—1 Corinthians 15:17, NIV.

Our fellowship is preserved by the example of Christ

And this is God’s plan: Both Gentiles and Jews who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children.  Both are part of the same body, and both enjoy the promise of blessings because they belong to Christ Jesus.—Ephesians 3:6, NLT.

Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interest of others.  Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.—Philippians 2:4-5, NIV.

Our fellowship is enriched by the gifts of Christ

God’s purpose in all this was to use the church to display his wisdom in its rich variety to all the unseen rulers and authorities in heavenly places.  This was his eternal place, which he carried out through Christ Jesus our Lord.—Ephesians 3:10-11, NLT

Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification…Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.—Romans 14:19; 15:2, NIV.

What we need to do:

We need to find unity in Christ so we can find unity in others

We need to put ourselves aside and raise up others

We need to use our gifts to exalt Christ, edify the Church and equip others.

For we are God’s masterpiece.  He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.—Ephesians 2:10, NLT

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.  Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles.  All the believers were together and had everything in common.  Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need.  Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts.  They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favour of all the people.  And the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.  - Acts 2:42-47, NIV.

Chosen Pt. 5 – Chosen for Significance

February 3, 2013- Jim Tune

Week of February 3, 2013

Bible Passage – Ephesians 3: 1-21

Read chapter 3 together.

Please refer to Jim’s notes for more info on this passage.

COME & Belong

ICE BREAKER –

• If you could do your dream job (or retirement activity) 10 years from now, what would it be?

THRIVE in the WORD

(Remember that the questions we send you are Tools and NOT Rules. If you are led by God to change the questions to capture the right context for your group, please do so.)  

1. Paul was not a young man when he faced the rigors of his imprisonment inRome. Like all of us he had to face the challenges that mid-life brings. Pastor Jim outlined 4 things that might feel like enemies: our bodies, our work, our families and our God/Faith. Do you agree that this is true? How have you experienced challenges in these areas?

2. Paul called himself “a prisoner of Christ Jesus.” What were some of the unique challenges experienced byPaulin his lifetime? See II Corinthians 11:23 -27.

3. We can get discouraged when the dreams and ambitions of our youth do not materialize. What regrets couldPaulhave had at this stage of his life (see Jim’s note)? DidPaulhave regrets? Look at Philippians 3:4-7. How didPauldescribe his former life? In light of this how would you describe your own life ambitions? How doesPaul’s attitude impact our thinking about what is truly a fulfilled life??

4. Paul had good reason to be discouraged but was not. His enthusiasm for sharing the Gospel of Christ Jesus remained intact. What does this chapter reveal about his motivation to serve others in his ministry?  How do these same factors motivate us?

5. How can serving others in Christ change our lives for the better? As individuals? As a church?

GO & Serve-

Think of someone needing to be reminded of their significance and send the person a note this week.

Event Reminders-

• Divorce Care started Jan 21, 7-9 pm. (Fee $25 inclusive of workbook)
• Promise Keepers Conference on Mar. 02, 2013, venue is inLondon,Ontario. There is a $10 subsidy for the first 30 men who will register.
• Marriage Course begins on March 30, 2013, 6:45-9:30 pm.  The fee is $180/couple.

Suggested Bible Reading Plan This Week – This week read Ephesians 3 and meditate on the passages we have covered so far.  Note down your reflection of each passage.

Message Outline

1. Four enemies attack in mid-life:

1. Your own body can feel like an enemy.

1. Your work can feel like an enemy.

1. Your own family can feel like an enemy.

1. Your God/faith can feel like an enemy.

Paul. . .

• Had not achieved the ambitions of his youth.

• Lived with the haunting memories of past sins.

• Suffered physically and disappointed by others.

II. How DidPaulMaintain His Enthusiasm?

1. He had a sense of self worth: God was using him!

2. He had the challenge of a divine purpose: This motivated him!

3. He had concern for others: They always needed him!

Chosen Pt. 4 – United in Christ

January 27, 2013- Jim Tune

Week of January 27, 2013

Bible Passage – Ephesians 2: 11 – 22

Read verses 11 – 22 together.

Please refer to Jim’s notes for more info on this passage.

COME & Belong

ICE BREAKER – (Choose 1 from the 2)

• Share an experience when you arrived at an event to find you were the only one dressed inappropriately?
• Go around the group using one word to describe you that begins with a letter.  Use one letter per person start with the letter “A,” until you reach the letter “Z.”

THRIVE in the WORD

1. Paulwrites that the Gentile believers were formerly separated from God and excluded from God’s promise.  Looking at verses 11 & 12 how would you describe their condition? What were they excluded from?  Was there a time in your life when you were separated from Christ?

2. In verses 13 – 18,Pauldescribes two different groups. He describes the Gentiles as being those who were “far away” and the Jews as being those who “were near”.  How does Christ’s death on the cross reconcile these two groups? Pastor Jim mentioned that we have become “unified”, what does unity mean to you? How can we as a church become unified?

3. The Jewish believers in that day may have seen the Gentile believers as “uncircumcised” or second class. How doesPauldescribe them in verses 19 & 20? Think about how you might be perceived by other believers if you were transported to another country or cultural environment?

4. If Christ Himself is our chief cornerstone, how is it that we can be at odds or work at cross purposes with believers in our own Church or cultural environment?  How can we exhibit the unity in Christ described by Paulin verses 21 & 22?

5. Pastor Jim described 3 important “unity attitudes” that we should exhibit to build a harmonious church.  Do such attitudes come natural to believers? If not, how can we achieve them?

 GO & Serve- How can we do a “pulse check” on church members who might be considering leaving the church?  Think of someone who can benefit from this?  Pray about it and ask God how and when to act.

Event Reminders-

• Divorce Care begins Jan 21, 7-9 pm. (Fee $25 inclusive of workbook)
• Promise Keepers Conference on Mar. 02, 2013, venue is inLondon,Ontario. There is a $10 subsidy for the first 30 men who will register and the early bird rates are available till Jan. 29.

Suggested Bible Reading Plan This Week – This week read Ephesians 2 and meditate on the passages we have covered so far.  Note down your reflection of each passage.

Message Outline

United in Christ: Chosen Part 4

Ephesians 2:11-22 (NIV)

1. Who we were: separated.

“Remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship inIsraeland foreigners to the covenant of the promise, without hope and without God in the world.” v.12

• Without Christ

• Without Citizenship

• Without Covenants

• Without Hope

• Without God

1. What Christ Did: He reconciled us.

“But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by abolishing in his flesh the law with its commandments and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace, and in this one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.” v. 13-18

1. What we’ve become: unified.

“Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God’s people and members of God’s household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to be a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.” v.19-22

Three “unity” attitudes:

• A spirit of acceptance when different people are added.

• A willingness to confront when serious disagreements threaten.

• A restraint of the tongue when minor irritations arise.