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These Men are Not Drunk as You Suppose

Details: Created on 20 May 2013

This Week’s Texts: Acts 2.1-21, Exodus 9.3-8

Teaching Link: These Men are Not Drunk as You Suppose

For Further Study: May We Risk

Downloadable pdf

Questions for refection:

What are ways that you can listen to the Holy Spirit as it calls you to where it wants to take you?

In the process of Revelation-Redemption- Responsibility, where are you?

What do you need to do, this week, to move forward? With whom can you do this?

You may have heard this quote before. “Eleven o’clock, Sunday morning is the most segregated hour of the week.”

Are there those who are still excluded from the church?

What are you (we) willing to risk in order that all people will be welcome be a part of what the church offers the world?

Like Mother Like God

Details: Created on 13 May 2013

This Week’s Texts: II Timothy 1.1-7, Matthew 23.11-12, 37, Luke 23.33-34,

Teaching Link: Like Mother Like God

For Further Study: http://mothersdaymovement.org/

Downloadable pdf

Questions for refection:

Mothers often display the characteristics of selflessness, service, and unconditional love? In what other ways might the women in our life model the qualities of God?

Read the quote below and discuss its significance:

We don't just want half the pie, we want a completely different pie from the one the men have been serving up to now...We don't want to bring systems of parity into the church now, so that half of the priests, pastors, superintendents, and bishops have to be women. That would be lovely, but it doesn't get us much further. . .What we women really want is that the church should change, not just that we get more power in it. It ought to become a more human church, where certain forms of oppression and destruction of human beings no longer happen, where the gospel is lived in practice, where the principal aim is not to get along with the government and participate in its power, but really and truly to follow the poor man of Nazareth.

Respond to these statements:

Because of the current dynamics expressed in our culture, a move of the church toward greater Chistlikeness may involve a move towards feminization.

"If God is male, then the male is God."

Listen to this clip. What do you think of his logic? What does he seem to be most concerned about?

Ideas for Application

Support an organization that helps women and mothers all over the world:

Mennonite Organizations that address the needs of women both locally and around the world.

http://www.mcc.org/

Women are predominately the recipients of MCC efforts, both domestic and international. The video below about Sudan is an example of the work that they do.

http://westcoast.mcc.org/

Education

http://www.educatinggirlsmatters.org/howtohelp.html

Financial Empowerment

http://www.kiva.org/start

Ending Female Genital Mutilation

http://www.global-alliance-fgm.org/

Health

http://www.iwhc.org/index.php

Human Trafficing

http://www.ijm.org/

Seller of Purple Cloth

Details: Created on 06 May 2013

This Week's Teacher: Ron Faus

This Week’s Text: Acts 16:9-15, 9:36-41

Teaching Link: Seller of Purple Cloth

For Further Study: Read a blog about Mary and Martha here: http://rachelheldevans.com/blog/?category=Women+of+the+Passion

Downloadable .pdf

Questions for refection:

Who and/or what has helped you get direction in your walk with God?

Do you feel God calling you to a missionary journey or to “selling purple cloth?”

Where is God using your gifts right now?

How do you celebrate the important women in your life and in your walk with God?

Do you see yourself in this treatment of Mary and Martha? In what way?

Leaps Like Dear

Details: Created on 29 April 2013

This Week’s Text: Isaiah 35.2-6, Matthew 5.2-10

Teaching Link: Leaps Like Deer

For Further Study: Young Life Capernaum, Joni and Friends, Golden Sun, (Facebook)

Downloadable .pdf

Questions for refection:

How have you felt about your interaction with the disabled in the past?

Although we don't often think about it this way, we all suffer from a weakness, are disabled in some way. What "disabilities" do you wrestle with, and how do they require you to be dependant on others and on God?

Why do we resist dependence?

How might you step out from what is comfortable and connect?

How are your eyes in need of “seeing?”

What keeps you from “hearing” God’s voice?

The "Kingdom of Heaven" is a present reality of a future culmination. We have been invited to give our lives to partnering with God to both declare this and bring it about. Are you “living” or living? How do you know?

God's Creation-Our Home

Details: Created on 22 April 2013

Guest Teacher: Mark Weins

This Week’s Text: Ezekiel 47.1-12, Matthew 5.13-16

Teaching Link: God's Creation-Our Home

For Further Study: Wendell Berry, Sex, Economy, Freedom & Community: Eight Essays

Downloadable .pdf

Questions for refection:

Read the above scriptures and discuss them in light of environmental issues.

From the Ezekiel passage, what is the symbolism of the river?

Where does it originate? Where does it go?

What is the result?

Read the Matthew text. In light of the Ezekiel passage how does this relate to our call as disciples?

What is your primary connection to your relationship with the earth?

What practices are you currently involved in that that are driven by a concern for creation?

Where is God leading you to improve your stewardship of God's creation?

Do you have fresh ideas of Creation Care that you might be able to share with the Trinity Community?

"Creation care is loving your neighbor." Have you thought about sustainability in this way? Might it change your attitude toward creation care?

Like Scales Falling

Details: Created on 14 April 2013

This Week’s Text: Acts 7.51-8.3, 9.1-20

Teaching Link: Like Scales Falling

For Further Study: The Stoning of St. Stephen

Downloadable .pdf

Questions for refection:

Where do you see yourself in this story?

To what injustices might your eyes be blinded?

What are some of the pressures that keep you from seeing the way that Jesus sees?

What are some of the ways that you might go about having your eyes opened?

What might be of the cost of gaining your sight? What might you receive?

Dishonor for the Sake of the Name

Details: Created on 08 April 2013

This Week’s Text: Acts 5.27-42, Matthew 20.25-28, Mark 8.34-36

Teaching Link: Dishonor for the Sake of the Name

For Further Study: Andrew Sullivan, The Radical Chrisitianity of Francis, Francis Emerges

Downloadable Questions and Sermon Text:

Questions for refection:

What does it mean in your life to obey God and not human authority? Be specific.

Who could you join with to encourage you and hold you accountable to "pick up your cross and follow Jesus?"

Can you dream big enough to imagine what might be possible if we were to surrender in this way to the priorities of God?

A Tree to Hang Our Shame

Details: Created on 31 March 2013

This Week's Text: Acts 5.27-31, Deuteronomy 21.22-23, Joshua 8.25-27, 10.25-27, John 19.31, Matthew 3.16.17

This Week's Teaching Audio: A Tree to Hang Our Shame

For Further Study: Gungor, Beautiful Things

Downloadable .pdf

God rescues us from the powers that

we are enslaved to, and that lead us

to death.

Jesus lived the life that we were

created to live-a life of Shalom in

harmony with the purposes of

God in the world.

At the resurrection, God vindicated,

vindicates, the life, ministry,

and example of Jesus.

He erases our shame and

leaves it on the tree.

Our shame is on the cross:

Not Jesus.

The cross and the shame

get left behind.

Jesus invites us to a life of

discipleship and those who

are joined with him in the

resurrection have been rescued

from death and continue on

to the best possible kind of life.

He takes our shame and

makes beautiful things.

He Comes In the Name of the Lord

Details: Created on 24 March 2013

This Week’s Texts: Mark 11.1-11, Zechariah 9.9, 3-4, 10, 14-16, Matthew 27.15-23

Teaching Link: He Comes in the Name of the Lord

What if all of your wishes came true?

What kind of Jesus do you want?

Are we created in God’s image, or do we create God based on what we want?

What is Jesus drawing you to

A Response Most Extravagant

Details: Created on 18 March 2013

This Week’s Text: II Samuel 6, Matthew 26

Teaching Link: A Response Most Extravagant

What does it mean that "Sometimes the world does worship better than we do?"

Where do you see yourselves in the two stories? The woman and David? Or Michal and the disciples?

When have you felt restrained in your ability to respond the way that you wanted to God's extravagant love?

Have you ever been bothered by the way other people choose to express their adoration of God?

God Will Remove Our Disgrace

Details: Created on 11 March 2013

This Week’s Text: Luke 15.1-24

Teaching Link: God Will Remove Our Disgrace

For Further Study: The Return of the Prodigal Son: A Meditation on Fathers, Brothers, and Sons. Henri Nouwen

What do you think of the actions of the shepherd? The woman? How was it different from the actions of the father?

Where do you see yourself in the parable? Have you felt like the son?

When have you felt separate from God?

Where do you see yourself in the parable?

Do you experience God as distant and judgmental or near and receptive?

God is waiting. Are you running from God, or towards God?

We Will Seek the Lord and Be Fruitful

Details: Created on 04 March 2013

This Week’s Text: Luke 13.1-9

Additional Texts: Deuteronomy 28.1-6, 28.15-19, John 9.1-3

Teaching Link: We Will Seek the Lord and Be Fruitful

What voices keep you from seeing yourself the way God sees you?

Where do you see yourself in the parable? Do you experience God as for you or against you?

"Vocation is where our greatest passion meets the world's greatest need." How does this relate to "bearing fruit?"

What fruit do you see in the lives of others in your faith community?

Choose a few individuals and offer a word of affirmation and encouragement for their "fruitfulness."

Does your life bear fruit that the world is hungry for?

Words:Gospel

Details: Created on 10 February 2013

This Week’s Text: Romans 1.16

Additional Texts: Luke 4.16-19, Mark 1.1, 16.15, Hebrews 1.1-3

Teaching Link: Words:Gospel

For Further Study: The Non-Violent Atonement, Atonement and Violence, J. Denny Weaver

If asked, would you be able to explain the gospel?

Of all the pictures of the work of God in our lives, which one most speaks to your heart?

What is your association with evangelism? Is there a way to reclaim “evangelism” and “gospel” in away that allows us to share the good news with the world?

In anticipation of Lent, and as we consider what it means to talk about the atonement, consider these questions:

Does God have to punish sinners?

Did God want the violence perpetrated on Jesus?

Was it part of the divine plan of redemption?

If so, is God inherently violent?

How does that square with the teachings of Jesus?

If God is violent, does that justify acts of violence on behalf of Christians?

In light of this, how are Anabaptists to do theology?

Big Peace

Details: Created on 04 February 2013

Guest teacher: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , Coordinating Minister, Peace and Justice Support Network, (919) 827-6235

Teaching link:Peace and Justice Network

Reflection Questions:

How do you experience the peace of Jesus?

What is it that locks you away from Jesus?

How do you make space for Jesus behind that locked door?

What is the difference between "theoretical," ideological," and "shalom (the big peace of Jesus)?"

Community and Commitment II

Details: Created on 27 January 2013

Teaching Link: Community and Commitment II

Today's Text: Hebrews 10.24-25

...let us consider how to provoke

one another to love and good deeds,

not neglecting to meet together,

as is the habit of some,

but encouraging one another,

and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Some ideas- I can make a commitment to:

financially support the ministry of the church in a way that stretches me.

find a ministry/area of service that honors the gifts and talents that God has given me.

discovering something else the Spirit of God has placed on my heart to create/do.

discern any/all of the above by entering into an intentional relationship with a group of people who will pray with me and provoke me.

Community and Commitment I

Details: Created on 21 January 2013

This Week’s Text: Acts 2.43-47

Additional Texts: Ephesians 5.21, Romans 12.3-5

Teaching Link: Community and Commitment I

For Further Study: The Secret of the Strength: What Would the Anabaptists Tell this Generation, by Peter Hoover

What if Zell Kravinski Isn't Crazy, by Jason Zagone

What is the nature of our community?

What other types of groups have you ~~been a member of~~ belonged to? How were they different from the church?

Are you willing to allow this church to look less like you want it to in order to make space for others as God adds to our numbers?

What is the nature of your commitment to this community?

God's Purposeful Plan for the Church

Details: Created on 17 January 2013

Guest Speaker: Erv Stutzman, Executive Director, Mennonite Church USA

Text: Ephesians 1

For Further Study: A Purposeful Plan-Mennonite Church USA

Teaching Link: God's Purpose and Plan for the Church

Surviving the Zombie Apocalypse

Details: Created on 01 January 2013

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

What are some ways that you can practice hospitality to strengthen the group in 2013?

What do you contribute to the group? How is it stronger because of your participation?

How can you develop this in the new year?

What are new ways the church can be an oasis for those outside who are suffering?

This Week’s Text: Matthew 24.3-14

Additional Texts: Romans 12.12-21

Teaching Link: Surviving the Zombie Apocalypse

Advent IV: Floods of Mercy-Carried on a Flood of Reversal

Details: Created on 24 December 2012

This Week’s Text: Luke 1.39-55

Additional Texts: Isaiah 40.3-5, Matthew 5-7

Teaching Link: Advent IV: Floods of Mercy-Carried on a Flood of Reversal

For Further Study: Meghan Good, The Confidence of Women

The good news of Christmas is that God has come to dwell among

us-come to the poor, the suffering, to those on the margins.

A seismic event that signals that the old order has passed away.

That a new reality has been established. That the current of history

has been reversed, and that everything will be forever changed.

The powers of death, war, violence and oppression have been defeated:

The first have become last and the last have become first.

What kind of seismic events have occurred in your life? What were some life changing things that came out of that experience?

Knowing that God is the god of those on the margins, what response does that produce in you?

What are concrete ways that you can serve Jesus by serving the least of these?

Advent III: Floods of Mercy-Repentance

Details: Created on 17 December 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

Have you ever relied on heritage, tradition or culture for your Christian identity? What are the dangers of this? What are some positive things?

What are you afraid of that might keep you from turning around and changing direction?

What kind of fruit is there in your life that would bear witness to your being in God’s “current?”

This Week’s Text: Luke 3.7-18

Additional Texts: Matthew 3.7, Isaiah 1.10-18, Zephaniah 3.14-20, Luke 15.11-32

Teaching Link: Advent III: Floods of Mercy-Repentance

For Further Study: Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God, Jonathan Edwards

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

Read the Luke passage. Who are the people that make up the crowd (look at Matthew 3.7 as well.)

John says "God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham." What does he mean by this? What is the danger of having grown up in the church, around religion, with a lifelong faith heritage? What might be the challenge of repentance in this instance?

John gives specific things that the people can do to show repentance. What are they? What do they have to do with what Isaiah says in 1.10-18?

What does God say in vs 18 in the Isaiah chapter? What do you think that means? What is your reaction to this?

In the story of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15.11-32) the son returns to his father's household, but in shame, expecting to rejoin the family as a servant. His shame is contrasted with his father's reaction. What is the contrast?

Repentance is often times associated with fear and shame. How have you thought about repentance in the past? Knowing that God is for us, loves us, and is rooting for us to turn to him should make a difference in the way we think about repentance. Discuss that idea.

Read and discuss the questions at the top of this page.

Advent II: Floods of Mercy-Surrender

Details: Created on 10 December 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

What kind of conduit are you? What flows through you to the world?

How do you feel about surrender? How can you be more open to and yield to the work God wants to do in the world through you?

This Week’s Text: Luke 3.1-6

Additional Texts: Isaiah 40

Teaching Link: Advent II: Surrender

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

Read the Luke passage. What is this introducing? What is its connection to Advent?

Luke quotes Isaiah in this passage. The imagery he uses is geologic. List them and think what they might symbolize. How does this language relate to God's work in our lives.

In the worship service on Sunday, we were asked to take a rock made smooth by the effect of water. What is your sense of the shaping, carving, and ordering of God in your life? Is it always a pleasant experience?

The creation of a canyon begins with the action of water upon the land. Over time, the water carves a channel and shapes the contour of the canyon. Eventually, however, the canyon affects the route of the water. How does this illustrate our relationship to God, and God's to us? Do you think that as God works with and through us, we affect God's actions in the world?

Read and discuss the questions at the top of this page.

Floods of Mercy: Advent 1

Details: Created on 03 December 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

What is the chaos in your life? Where does God need to do a creative and ordering work?

Some things need to be washed away in order to make room for new life. What things need to be washed awayfor you to move forward into alignment with God’s purposes?

Baptism is about discipleship and community. What role do these play in your faith journey?

This Week’s Text: Romans 6.3-4

Additional Texts: Galatians 20.19-20, Genesis 1.1-5, 7.18-22

Additional Study: Flood Stories from Diffferent Civilizations

Teaching Link: Floods of Mercy

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

The beginning of the scripture text involves God's creative action and water. What are your associations with water? Are they good, happy associations, or fearful ones? Can you identify with an ancient culture's association of water with chaos and confusion?

In these first five verses of Genesis, God creates light out of darkness, order out of chaos. What learnings or applications can we draw from the text?

Water is at the same time a force for incredible good and incredible destruction. List the positive, life-giving aspects/uses of water and the destructive potential that water holds. What insight can we draw from this regarding dualism in life and nature? (life/death, male/female, etc.)

The story of Noah is a tragic account of the alienation of God and his creation. Why do you think that we sentimentalize Biblical stories like this, avoiding the darker elements? What impact does this have on the way people interact with the scripture?

Baptism brings the "waters of death" and the "waters of life" together in one symbolic image. We are baptized into the death of Jesus. What are implications of this? We are washed and raised unto new life. What are the implications of this? Which one of these images resonate more clearly with you? With those you interact with on a daily basis?

Read and discuss the questions at the top of this page.

Words:Reveal

Details: Created on 12 November 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

Have there been things in the past about the Bible that have been confusing to you? How have you dealt with that confusion? How have people reacted to that?

Does the idea of a “Christ Centered” approach to the interpretation of scripture appeal to you? Why or why not?

If the Holy Spirit guides us to all truth, what does that mean for us as a community of faith?

This Week’s Text: John 14.1-9

Additional Texts: II Timothy 2.15, Hebrews 1.1-3, John 16.13-15

Additional Study: A Year of Biblical Womanhood, Rachel Held Evans

Teaching Link: Words:Reveal

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

Anabaptist Core Conviction:

Jesus is the focal point of God’s revelation. We are committed to a Jesus centered approach to the Bible and to the community of faith as the primary context in which we read the Bible and discern and apply its implications for discipleship.

How would you explain this to someone who was new to the concept?

"God said it. I believe it. That settles it." Where have you seen this before? What is the problem with this approach to the Bible?

(The following questions are adapted from MennoMedia's The Naked Anabaptist Study Guide.)

Does a “Jesus-centered approach to the Bible” inevitably mean that parts of Scripture are downgraded? Why or why not?

How can Christians be resourced to discern and apply the implications of the Bible?

What practical strategies can you suggest to ensure that biblical interpretation does not get stuck but leads on to application and discipleship?

Try out the practice of “dwelling in the Word.” Choose a biblical passage and give each person a copy of it. Read the passage aloud, and then allow a period of quiet reflection. Share with another person what struck you, and listen to his reflection. Then tell the rest of the group what your reflection partner noticed (not what you noticed).

Read and discuss the questions at the top of this page.

Words:Wait

Details: Created on 22 October 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

Are you a person who wants to fix things, or are you someone who is able to more easily wait upon the Lord?

How can we find a balance between throwing up our hands in futile resignation and waiting and hoping in the salvation of the Lord?

Knowing that Christ suffered for us, as an example, how can you be encouraged in the midst of your own suffering?

This Week’s Text: Lamentations 3.22-26,

Additional Texts: Ezekiel 4.9-15, Jeremiah 19.8-9, Luke 4.16-21, Luke 7.18-23

Additional Study: Jeremiah Laments the Destruction of Jerusalem, Rembrandt van Rijn, 1630;

Center for Online Judaic Studies, Commentary on The Rembrandt Painting, Dr. Bryna Jocheved Levy

Teaching Link: Words:Wait

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

(Read below the comments by Dr. Levy on the painting)

By the rivers of Babylon there we sat and wept as we remembered Zion. (Psalms 137:1)

In the year 586 B.C.E., the Babylonian tyrant Nebuchadnezzar conquered the city of Jerusalem, destroyed its Temple, and carried off its people into exile. Among the handful of those who remained was the prophet Jeremiah of Anatoth. In this portrait, he is mourning the destruction of Jerusalem, alone with a few remaining holy vessels from the Temple, as the people of the city have been taken into exile by their Babylonian conquerors. Behind him, the ruined Temple smolders. The prophet sits desolate and lost in thought, leaving the viewer to wonder what he is contemplating.

Is he focused upon the catastrophe of a people bereft of their sacred Temple and banished from their land? Or is he crushed not by the effect of the destruction but rather by its cause -- the fatal breach of trust and loyalty towards the Lord God of Israel? Jeremiah's sadness might be a result of the fact that as a prophet, he strove with all his might to prevent that breach – and tragically failed in his attempt.

Rembrandt depicts Jeremiah leaning on the Bible, on his immortal words of prophecy. Does this symbolize the obsolescence of his words, which have fallen on deaf ears? Does it perhaps suggest that the book is closed to others, and now serves to support the prophet alone? Note that the prophet is leaning on his left hand. His right hand is not visible, reminiscent of the biblical verse:

If I forget thee, O Jerusalem, let my right hand wither, let my tongue stick to my palate if I cease to think of you, if I do not keep Jerusalem in memory even at my happiest hour. (Psalms 137:5-6)

Dr. Bryna Jocheved Levy

Which possibility given by Dr. Levy for the mourning of Jeremiah rings truest to you (empathy for the suffering of those he loves? His own sorrow? His inability to save others?)

Which one do you most identify with?

The Lamentations passage says that it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord? How easy/difficult is that for you to do in the midst of suffering?

Remember back to a time when you were grieving. What made the most difference to you? What people did for you (meals, errands, etc.) or their presence?

Read and discuss the questions at the top of this page.

Pulpit Freedom Sunday Wrap-up

Details: Created on 09 October 2012

Pulpit Freedom Sunday has come and gone. If you follow my twitter account (@PastorHShrader) or my Facebook page, you have seen that I have been very critical of the event, both in purpose and tone.

The reason it was misguided was not because Christians should not have a political opinion. They should. Christians should engage in the debate, make their voices heard, but do so with respect and humility.

I have a problem, however, with a pastor, from the pulpit, with a captive audience, telling his flock that there is one and only one candidate or party that represents the purposes of God for the country.

There is a diversity of opinion between Christians of good faith. We should encourage discussion and discernment between people as we listen to each other with respect. That's what we try and model at Trinity Mennonite Church with a lot of issues beyond the election. We are not a homogeneous group, but one that represents many voices. We are committed to discerning together, listening for the voice of the Holy Spirit inside each of us. And in the same spirit of humility, agree to disagree in love.

But for churches who do not share that value, and want to speak with one voice and want their pastor to tell them who to vote for, the problem is crying "persecution" when they accept the benefits of a tax exempt status but don't accept the rules that go with them.

If they feel like the restrictions are too great, they should surrender the tax exemption out of conviction, not dishonor the courage and commitment of thousands of Christians around the world who have been imprisoned tortured and killed for their faith. Equating the two situations as persecution is shameful.

In my teaching on Chistendom on Sunday, I encouraged everyone, that when they vote, they do so from their deepest identity as a disciple of Jesus, not a Republican, not a Democrat, not even as an American. We do so as followers of Jesus, who recognize that our ultimate allegiance is to a Kingdom which is present and future and to which we bear witness.

Word:Christendom

Details: Created on 08 October 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

Do the lines between your faith and your national citizenship, at times, blur?

What are specific ways that you can live your life in such a way that it “silences the foolish talk of sinful men?”

Knowing that Christ suffered for us, as an example, how can you be encouraged in the midst of your own suffering?

This Week’s Texts: I Peter 2.19-25

Teaching Link: Words:Christendom

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

For Further Study: The Naked Anabaptist, by Stuart Murray, Attack Upon "Christendom," by Soren Kierkegaard

In the coming weeks, the Sunday teachings will come from the core convictions that many Anabaptist Chirstians share. While not a creed or a checklist for inclusion, these convictions can become a conversation starter for those wishing to explore Anabaptist theological distinctions more deeply. The following discussion questions come from Herald Press, and can be found here.

Discuss the following:

Core Conviction 2:

Western culture is slowly emerging from the Christendom era when church and state jointly presided over a society in which almost all were assumed to be Christian. Whatever its positive contributions on values and institutions, Christendom seriously distorted the gospel, marginalized Jesus, and has left the churches ill equipped for mission in a post-Christendom culture. As we reflect on this, we are committed to learning from the experience and perspectives of movements such as Anabaptism that rejected standard Christendom assumptions and pursued alternative ways of thinking and behaving.

From Kierkegaard's Attack Upon "Christendom" :

When one sees what it is to be a Christian in Denmark, how could it occur to anyone that htis is what Jesus Christ talks about: cross and agony and suffering, crucifying the flesh, suffering for the doctrine, , being salt, being sacrificed, etc?

...the official Christianity (of Denmark) is not the Christianity of the New Testament, resembling it no more than a square resembles a circle...

So I repeat. This has to be said: by ceasing to take part in the official worship of God as it now is, thou has one guilt the less, and that a great one: thou dost not take part in treating God as a fool.

But one thing I will not do; no, not for anything in the world: I will not, though it were merely with the last quarter of the last joint of my little finger, I will not take part in what is known as official Christianity, which by suppression and by artifice gives the impression of being the Christianity of the New Testament.

How does Kierkegaard's analysis of Christianity in 19th century Denmark mirror the situation in America today?

How much evidence can you find that your community is in post-Christendom?

Are Anabaptists too hung up on Christendom—unable to appreciate its huge benefits and locked into an unhelpful Christendom/post-Christendom framework?

What “alternative ways of thinking and behaving” does the Anabaptist tradition offer? How might you learn from these?

Peter says that we are "aliens and strangers." How helpful do you find the analogy of exile in describing the situation of the church in the West? Are there other helpful motifs we could use?

Read and discuss the questions at the top of this page.

Words:Example

Details: Created on 01 October 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

As you reflect on Jesus and your relationship to him, which have you emphasized most; the Savior or the Lord.

What would it take for you to be comfortable with the idea that you reflect Jesus to others? Do you believe that?

We point people to Jesus as he points us to God. In light of this, how might you need to live your life differently?

This Week’s Texts: John 14.8-12

Teaching Link: Words:Example

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

For Further Study: The Naked Anabaptist, by Stuart Murray, The Gospel of Jesus's Wife: A New Coptic Gospel Papyrus, by Dr. Karen King, Harvard University

Discuss the following:

Core Conviction 1:

Jesus is our example, teacher, friend, redeemer, and Lord. He is the source of our life, the central reference point for our faith and lifestyle, for our understanding of church and our engagement with society. We are committed to following Jesus as well as worshipping him.

“Example, teacher, friend, redeemer, Lord”: with which of these designations of Jesus do you least identify? How might you explore this further?

What examples can you give of Jesus being “the central reference point” for your life or your church? What examples can you give of him not being this?

Do you agree that in many places Jesus is worshipped but not followed? What are the implications of this?

Hans Denck (an early Anabaptist believer) wrote, “No one can know Christ unless he follows after him in life.” Do you agree? Or is this a return to “salvation by works”?

Over the centuries, those who could confess the creeds were considered Christians. Stuart Murray proposes that that we should drop the term Christians and call ourselves “followers of Jesus”? What does follower imply? How do you respond to the proposal?

Read and discuss the questions at the top of this page.

Words:Passion

Details: Created on 24 September 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

Think of a time when you had to do something out of obligation. What are some feelings (positive and negative) you have about it.

Now think of a time when you got to do something you loved. What did you feel then?

Do you know what your deepest passion is? Your greatest gift? How can you find that out? Can we help you with that?

This Week’s Texts: Joshua 22.5-6, Psalm 105.42-45, Jeremiah 20.9, Matthew 21.28-31,John 1.1-2, I Corinthians 1.22-25

Teaching Link: Words:Passion

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

For Further Study: On Rhetoric, Aristotle, 350 B.C.E., Aristotle Contemplating the Bust of Homer, Rembrand an Rijn

Discuss the following:

Aristotle tells us that there are three essential components of a persuasive argument: Ethos-establishing the credibility of the speaker; Pathos-appealing to the emotions of the hearer; Logos-appealing to evidence. During this election season, we have on display all of these rhetorical pieces. Talk about ways you have seen each, lately.

From the Greek words ethos, pathos, and logos, we get our words "ethics," passion," and "logic." In terms of service and ministry, these words can be thought about in the following way:

Ethics-We serve out of duty and obligation. What are the benefits of this kind of service? What are the negatives?

Passion-We serve out of our deepest joy. What are the benefits of this kind of service? What are the negatives?

Read the parable in Mathew 21. Which brother do you most identify with?

The prophet Jeremiah describes the feeling of not being able to follow his passion. What are some of the images he uses? Discuss with the group, if you feel comfortable, the thing you get most excited about. Is there a ministry at Trinity that could use that energy? If not, is there a way of using that passion in a new kind of ministry that has yet to be started?

Logic-the way that our experience matches up with the way the world works. Read the I Corinthians passage. Paul talks about the difference between the wisdom of God, and the wisdom of the world. What ways have you witnessed that in your faith journey?

The opening of the Gospel of John describes Jesus as the logos-the "logic" of God. What does that mean to you?

Read and discuss the questions at the top of this page.

Words:Empty

Details: Created on 10 September 2012

This Week’s Texts: Luke 22.24-30, Philippians 2.2-8

Teaching Link: Words:Empty

Downloadable group discussion sheet: Words:Empty

Use the sermon discussion questions above or discuss the following:

Why is our culture so preoccupied with power? What do you think is the source of this preoccupation?

Which is greater- the exercise of power or the restraint of power?

What is the most important attribute of God for you in your faith? To what extent is that dependent on his power?

As we follow Jesus together as a community, what role does power and restraint of power have to do with discipleship?

Word:Seek

Details: Created on 03 September 2012

Words:Seek

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

What are the ways that you seek God?

Does God seem hidden to you at the moment or revealed clearly?

Have you ever had the sense that God was seeking you?

If God has not “found” you yet, are you open to being found?

This Week’s Texts: Hebrews 11:6, Isaiah 55:6, Luke 15:8

Teaching Link: Word:Seek

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

Use the sermon discussion questions above or discuss the following:

Read Isaiah 55:6. Are there places or times when God is more near than others? What do you think about the Celtic Christianity view that there are "thin places" where heaven and earth, or the spiritual and physical world are close to one another?

Read Luke 15:8. Have you ever "dropped everthing" to search for something? Have you ever pursued God with fervor? What would that look like for you?

Read Hebrews 11. Do these stories give an idea of what fervent seeking looks like? Which "hero of the faith" do you relate to the most?

Words:Story

Details: Created on 27 August 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

How aware are you of your life as a story? Are you content with the role your character is playing? What could you do to change that?

How much anxiety are you experiencing over the uncertainty of the story you are in? What are some ways that you can embrace the journey?

Who do you share the journey with? How could the other characters in your story encourage you? And you them?

This Week’s Texts: Psalm 61.1-3, Revelation 21.1-6

Teaching Link: Words:Story

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

For Further Study: The Monster at the End of this Book, Jon Stone

Discuss the following:

What was your favorite story when you were growing up? Why? Looking back, as an adult, can you see some more profound meanings in it than when you were a child?

There is a bigger story that we have the opportunity to be a part of...

Read Psalm 61.1-3. What does it mean to be led to the "rock that is higher" than yourself?

In what ways have you been a part of something bigger than yourself? What affect did that have on your life?

One of the most significant aspects of the biblical text is that God is constantly inviting people to participate in history with him. In what ways do you feel like you are participating God's bigger story?

There is more to a story than its ending...

A lot of emphasis is placed on our eternal destiny in American Christianity. While this is certainly important, what danger might exist if this is the extent of the story?

We have all heard that the journey is as important as the destination. How might this apply to your spirituality?

Respond to this quote:

"Journeys where the outcome is already known are not adventures, they're errands. And you were created to do more than run errands."

-Jon Accuff

Hope is knowing that we are a part of God’s story and there is an end that draws us to it...

Read Revelation 21.1-6. What stands out to you in this description of the world transformed by the partnership between God and those whom he has invited into his story?

Read and discuss the questions at the top of this page.

Words:Sacred

Details: Created on 20 August 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

How blurry or defined are the lines between your “church” life and your “real” life?

Do you find yourself being one way sometimes and another way others? Are you a part of a community that can hold you accountable to integrity?

What kind of compartments do you keep in your life? What would it take to give God access to all of them?

This Week’s Texts: Deuteronomy 6.4-9, Amos 8.4-6, Mark 12.13-17

Teaching Link: Words:Sacred

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

For Further Study: Everything Is Spiritual, Rob Bell

Discuss the following:

Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God, the Lord alone.

Read Deuteronomy 6.4-9. We are pulled to serve many masters: peers, culture, employers, etc. What forces exert the greatest pull on your life, and which ones do you find most difficult to resist?

How might the reminder to Israel that God is alone in authority be applicable in our own contexts?

You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might.

Three times "all." Those of us who have grown up in the church, or have been involved with church for very long have heard this verse. It is easy to skip over it because of its familiarity. Specifically, in your life, what would it mean to love God with "all your heart?"

"All your soul?"

"All your might?"

...talk about them when you are at home and when you are away...

That pretty much covers it! But we like to divide our lives up into segments or compartments. It is a natural part of our psychology.

Compartmentalization is an unconscious psychological defense mechanism used to avoid cognitive dissonance, or the mental discomfort and anxiety caused by a person's having conflicting values, cognitions, emotions, beliefs, etc. within themselves. Compartmentalization allows these conflicting ideas to co-exist by inhibiting direct or explicit acknowledgement and interaction between separate compartmentalized self states.

What are some of the conflicting values and beliefs that cause us to separate our relationship to God from other parts of our lives?

Read and discuss the questions at the top of this page.

Words:Glance

Details: Created on 13 August 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

What kind of pain, what kinds of burdens or hardships are keeping you from seeing that God is with you and working in your midst?

What are some ways that you can slow down enough to be able to see what God is doing around you?

Are there people in your life that you share life with? How are you God’s presence to them and they to you?

This Week’s Texts: Genesis 22.9-13, 21.14-19, 16.7-11, 13

Teaching Link: Words:Glance

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

For Further Study: Colors, Radiolab May 21, 2012

Discuss the following:

Read and compare the stories found in Genesis 21.14-19 and 22.9-13. What are the similarities between the two stories. As similar as they are, what are some reasons the one story is so much more well known than the other?

Sometimes, there is something there, but we don’t see it until it is revealed to us.

Describe your biggest "aha" moment; a time when all at once, you realized some truth that had been available to you all along.

Sometimes, what we think we see is not all there is to see.

How does this work in your life? How have you experienced this? Are you more or less inclined to believe in things that can not be seen

Read Genesis 16.7-11, 13. Many times in the scripture, people get renamed after an encounter with God: Jacob-Israel; Abram-Abraham; Saul-Paul. But after Hagar encounters God, she renames God. "El-Roi" means "God has seen." Knowing that God sees our circumstances and that we aren't alone is one of the most comforting messages of scripture. Do you believe this? How might your life be different if this is really true?

Discuss the reflection questions above.

Words:Play

Details: Created on 06 August 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

Do you regularly take time out to recharge, refresh, and renew? What are the barriers to that?

What are the burdens that weigh you down most? Do you experience the menuha of God in your life?

Are there people in your life that you share down time with? How might living in community enable to share your burdens and give you rest?

This Week’s Texts: Matthew 11.28-30, Mark 6.30-32, I Kings 19.4, 9-12, Psalm 46.9-10, Psalm 23

Teaching Link: Words:Play

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

For Further Study: Sabbath by Abraham Joshua Heschel

Discuss the following:

Read and discuss each of the scriptures above with reference to recreation, re-creation and rest.

The Hebrew word for "still" in Psalm 23 is menuha. Read the following quote by Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel:

To the biblical mind menuha is the same as happiness and stillness, as peace and harmony. . . It is the state in which there is no strife and no fighting, no fear and no distrust. The essence of the good life is menuha. . . . In later time menuha became a synonym for the life in the world to come, for eternal life.

How might God's desire for us and the Kingdom of God that Jesus came to proclaim have to do with the idea of menuha?

Discuss the reflection questions above with reference to the above scriptures.

Words:Give

Details: Created on 30 July 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

What has driven your attitude towards giving? Who have been example and models of giving in your life?

What would “extravagant generosity” look like in your life and current context?

What is your next step in the practice of giving? How can you challenge yourself to be the kind of giver God desires for you to be?

This Week’s Texts: Mark 10.17-27, Mark 12.41-44, Psalm 50.10-12, II Corinthians 9.6-8

Additional Text: Ephesians 4.1-13

Teaching Link: Words:Give

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

For Further Study: Free of Charge: Giving and Forgiving in a Culture Stripped of Grace by Miroslav Volf

Discuss the following:

Giving comes in all different forms: Hospitality, time, sharing possessions, and money. Arrange these in the order of difficulty for you (easiest first) Discuss why you ordered them the way you did.

Read Mark 10.17-27. What do you imagine was the intention of the young man? Why? Why do you suppose Jesus responds to him the way he does?

“Teacher, I have kept all these since my youth.” What do you think this answer says about the young man? Jesus touches him in a sensitive spot by suggesting he sell everything and give it to the poor. But he declines the invitation.

We can all do more than we are. That is not meant to overwhelm, or lay a burden on those who are already stretched. What it means is that the inward spiritual practice of giving can give us the perspective and ability to deal with the overwhelming circumstances that stretch us to our limits.

- Some people are not in a position to give back to God. Their financial situation does not allow them to pay the bills, and they are sinking further into debt. What is a possible next step for this person?

-Some people live right on the edge of there means. They would like to develop a practice of giving but don't know where to start. What is a possible next step for this person?

- Some people give, but they give whatever they have in their pocket/wallet/purse at any given moment. Maybe five dollars, ten dollars, a twenty here and there. What is a possible next step for this person?

-Some people have made a commitment to give a significant portion of their income to the church. This may be $200 a month, $300 a month, etc. But it still doesn't approach the 10% of a tithe. What is a possible next step for this person?

-Some people tithe. That means the first 10% of their income is set aside for the work of the church and the remaining 90% is what is lived off of. What is a possible next step for this person?

-Some give above and beyond the tithe; either a percentage greater than ten percent to the church, or ten percent to the church and additional money to missionaries, ministries, causes, etc.What is a possible next step for this person?

The point is that giving is something a disciple does. It is an act of obedience, a demonstration of Christlikeness, and a spiritual practice of a maturing follower of Jesus. The gift is a byproduct of the inward process of maturity in the life of the believer. Respond to this quote by Miroslav Volf:

"On the other hand, if we believe that God has given us everything, then giving will be our way of living..."

Discuss the questions at the beginning of this post.

Words:Serve

Details: Created on 23 July 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

Are you using your gifts to build up the “body of Christ?” If not, what prevents you?

What are you passionate about? Where do your passions and gifts intersect with needs within the church?

What are some needs of yours that have been met by those serving in the church? What are ways that you might be able to serve others as well?

This Week’s Text: Ephesians 4.1-13

Additional Texts: Psalm 29.10-11, Isaiah 43.16-21, Psalm 68.18-20, 35, Matthew 20.20-28

Teaching Link: Words:Serve

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

For Further Study: Enuma Elish, Tablet VI

Discuss the following:

In the Ancient Near East, it was customary that when a great King accomplised a great victory, he would ascend on high, many times to a throne, and bestow upon his subjects gifts of many kinds. You can read one of the oldest versions of this meme here. In the following verses, what has God triumphed over, and what are the gifts he gives:

Psalm 29.10-11

Isaiah 43.16-21

Psalm 68.18-20, 35

Paul uses this same language when he talks about the gifts he bestows upon the church. Read Ephesians 4.1-13. What is the great victory of God that Paul refers to? What are the gifts he gives to his people?

One model of church leadership is that the staff (pastors) do all the work and the church members are the recipients. What kinds of churches do these tend to be? What is their ministry focus? Who do they serve?

At Trinity, we have chosen a model where the church staff recruits, trains, resources, and retains the ministers of the church. We all have a responsibility to serve. How is this phrased in Ephesians 4.12-13?

What difference in ministry style and focus might a church with this model have?

One of the central values we have at Trinity is discipleship. We want everyon to grow in maturity and the likeness of Jesus. Unless you are a servant, it is impossible to be like Jesus. Read Matthew 20.20-28. what are the disciples focused on? How do you know? Where does Jesus re-direct them?

Discuss the questions at the beginning of this post.

Words:Word

Details: Created on 16 July 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

In the past, what images and ideas has the term “word of God” produced in you?

If Jesus is the action of God in the world, what does that mean for us as disciples of Jesus?

In what ways can the “living word of God” produce action in your life, this church, the world?

This Week’s Text: John 1.1-4

Additional Texts: I Kings 10.6-7, Psalm 33.6, Isaiah 55.10-11

Teaching Link: Words:Word

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

For Further Study: National Geographic "Vanishing Languages"

Discuss the following:

Everyone has a set of lenses through which they see the world. A set of presupositions with which they construct reality. This is called a worldview. What are some aspects of your worldview? (i.e. the world is basically good/bad, God exists/doesn't exist, God is vengeful/loving, etc.)

Your worldview is undeniably affected by language. “Language shapes human experience—our very cognition—as it goes about classifying the world to make sense of the circumstances at hand..." National Geographic "Vanishing Languages What does this mean? What are some examples of this?

One language dies every 14 days. By the next century nearly half of the roughly 7,000 languages spoken on Earth will likely disappear, as communities abandon native tongues in favor of English, Mandarin, or Spanish. What is lost when a language goes silent?

In our world, words are largely symbolic, a group of letters that stand for a thing. But in ancient times, words were active, imbued with power. The rabbis taught that when God created the world, it was spoken into existence. (Read Psalm 33.6) Can you think of ways that words have power beyond a collection of words today?

A distinctive quality of God is that God communicates with God's people. Not only is he aware of us, but wants to interact, and while he occasionally will do that through the medium of flaming foliage or meteorological events, he does so with words. The Bible is the story of the ongoing conversation between God and the people God loves. Much of the conversation is about his purpose for the world, and our participation in God's plan.

Read Isaiah 55.10-11 What is the promise of the passage?

In John chapter 1, Jesus is referred to as the "word of God." What are some of the ramifications of this?

Discuss the questions at the beginning of this post.

Adultery

Details: Created on 11 June 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

How do the concepts of “commitment” and “fidelity” play out in your life?

How does being a part of a “covenanted” community aid you in your process of following Jesus?

God limits God in order to be in relationship. In what ways are you being called to “limit yourself” on behalf of Jesus and others?

This Week’s Text: Exodus 20.14

Additional Texts: Matthew 5.27-28, Exodus 24.3-8, Ezekiel 16

Teaching Link: Adultery

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

For Further Study:

cheatingculture.com website by The Cheating Culture author, David Calahan, with a treatment of the systemic causes of cheating in the United States

Discuss the following:

When we talk about adultery, we often talk about sex. But for God and the Israelites, adultery was about commitment to the covenant. Out of 26 verses in the Old Testament where the word for adultery is used, only 9 are about actual marital infidelity. The other 17 are about Israel's faithlessness to the covenant with their God.

Read Ezekiel chapter 16 to get a glimpse of the seriousness with which God viewed the breaking of the covenant.

God is a covenant keeping God. God limits God by the making and keeping of covenants. We cheat because we want to do what we want. But when we are faithful, when we honor our commitments, to God and eachother, we are behaving like God.

Discuss the questions at the beginning of this post.

Mom and Pop

Details: Created on 27 May 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

What is your connection to your biological family? How has your ancestry impacted the faith you have today?
In what ways can the church be a family to those whose experience of actual family has been disappointing?
What are specific things we can do to honor those who came before us?

This Week’s Text: Exodus 20.12

Additional Texts: Luke 14.25-26, Exodus 3.6, Ephesians 2.17-20, and Philippians 3.7-9

Teaching Link: Mom and Pop

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

For Further Study: Even unto Death: The Heroic Witness of The Sixteenth-Century Anabaptist

By John Christian Wenger; The Story of John and Janneken van Munstdorp

Questions for Groups or Reflection:

Some people have a different relationship to their extended family. On a scale of 1-10, how connected do you feel to your ancestral roots? How important to you have older members of your family been?

Share something that you learned from one of your grandparents or great grandparents. Is there a time whenguidance from them helped you in a specific life situation?

Read Exodus 20.12. How have you heard this commandment in the past?

The hebrew word here is kabed. It carries the idea of weight. In this sense, what is the difference between honor and obey?

To honor your parents in the world of ancient Israel, meant to honor your ancestors, to tie yourself back to the heretige handed down generation to generation. Specifically, this meant the promise given to Abraham and passed down to his descendants-the promise that through him and his family all nations and peoples would be blessed. To dishonor your parents meant to be "cut off from your people." To be separated from the covenant.

So family, in the biblical sense, goes beyond what we in modern times think of as family. Family becomes the people or "household of God." (Ephesians 2.17-20)

What are some examples of families today that don't look "traditional?" How can the church be "family" to them?

As members of the "household of God," we are called to give priority to it above all else, even our earthly families. How do Jesus' words in Luke 14.25-27 make you feel? How can we live up to this? Is it even possible?

Read The Story of John and Janneken van Munstdorp. What emotions does this story of discipleship create in you?

Read and discus the reflection questions from last Sunday at the top of this post.

Sabbath

Details: Created on 21 May 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

How do you practice Sabbath? Do you?
What might a sabbath look like for your that allows you to enjoy the fruit of your labor without becoming a burden of legalism?
“Sabbath is for man, not man for Sabbath.” What areas in your life need to be examined in light of this?
What are the things out of balance in your life that the concept of sabbath could re-order?

This Week’s Text: Exodus 20.8-11

Additional Texts: Genesis 2.1-3, Mark 2.23-28, Mark 3.1-6

Teaching Link: Sabbath

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

Questions for Groups or Reflection:

If you grew up in the church, what memories of sabbath regulations do you remember from your childhood? Were there specific things you were allowed or not allowed to do?

Often times we define sabbath with reference to work. Doing this makes work the important element. Are there kinds of work that are more life giving than others? Are there types of work that if you were to refrain from doing them, it would not be restful?

Jesus clearly places the concept of sabbath back into perspective (Mark 2.23-28, Mark 3.1-6) The sabbath is intended to be life giving not burdensome. What does this meant to you?

God gives us an opportunity to step back, slow down, appreciate what God has given us, and to put things back into perspective. Kind of a reset button. Sabbath is often used to recharge, to go back to work energizing us and allowing us to go back and give our work our best, having been put in the right perspective. Are there times recently that you have needed a "reset" button?

In a subsistence culture, like that of the Israelites, were it not for sabbath, you would continue to hunt and gather or farm seven days of the week. Sabbath saves us from our selves. What are ways that you are driven and need to be reminded to stop?

There is a constant battle between "being" and "doing." In what ways do you derive your identity from what you do?

In the Bible sabbath is always linked to rest. Not necessarily rest from fatigue, but rest in the sense of resting in something. To what extent do you feel like you "rest in God?"

Read and discus the reflection questions from last Sunday at the top of this post.

The Name

Details: Created on 14 May 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

Do you experience God as a “noun” or a “verb?” Is God, for you, an experience or an idea? Do you have specific examples?
In what ways have we attached God to ourselves, rather than attaching ourselves to God?How are we participants in a system that “wrongfully uses the name of God” to justify our prejudice, our wars, our wealth, etc.?
How can we change that, as individuals and a community “called by the name of Christ?”

This Week’s Text: Exodus 20.7

Additional Texts: Exodus 3.14-15, Micah 3.9-4.5

Teaching Link: " The Name."

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

For Additional Study: Writing the Name of G-D

Questions for Groups or Reflection:

Read Exodus 20.7. How have you understood this commandment in the past?

In the ancient near east, words had power. A curse or a blessing was taken very seriously. Names were filled with significance. To know someone's name was to potentially have power over them. Do you know what your name means? Does it fit you well or not? If you could choose a name for yourself, what would it be?

With what kind of reverance do you approach God and God's name? Take a look at the article for further study above. Notice the extent to which some Jews go to be reverent to the name of God. Is this needed or unnecessary legalism?

What is the balance between being intimate with God in a familiar way (God is my best friend) and experiencing God's holiness (Awe?)

The prohibition aginst using God's name wrongfully is similar to the prohibition on images. How might "naming" God be an attempt to control him.

Micah 3.9-4.5 describes the leaders of Israel acting unjustly, appealing to the name of God. Do people take advantage of others in our culture and use God a cover for their injustice to others? Talk about examples of this.

In what ways might we attatch God to our agenda as opposed to attaching ourselves to God's agenda.

Exodus 3.14-15 tells of God's interaction with Moses. God says, "I AM who I AM." But this is not the name. The name is later, YHWH. It is unpronounceable, and associated with the verbs of being- "He Was," "He Is," and "He Will Be." Does thnking about God in terms of "being" and "verbs" give you a different way of thinking about interacting with God? What thoughts does this conjure for you?

Read and discus the reflection questions from last Sunday at the top of this post.

Idols, Images, and the Future

Details: Created on 07 May 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

If you were to be completely honest with yourself, how much do you rely on God rather than other things to take care of you and give you what you need?
What are things you trust in for the short term that have long term, negative consequences?
What are some things that might be idols in your life? What can you do to wrest yourself from their control? Do you need help?

This Week’s Text: Exodus 20.3-6

Additional Texts: Isaiah 44.9-20, Luke 15.11-32

Teaching Link:"Idols, Images, and the Future"

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

For Additional Study:God Wants to Save Christians, Rob Bell

Questions for Groups or Reflection:

Idolotry in the Old Testament was an attempt by people to cause an effect in the natural world by submitting to the power of a supernatural force. So they would perform intricate rituals, and perform ceremonies, and make sacrifices to a god whom they believed would produce a desired result. What is wrong with this kind of thinking?

God wanted his people to trust him for their needs and their identity. To what things do we look to today to meet our needs and give us identity?

During the teaching this week, I made a case for being able to insert the term "addiction" for "idolatry." Do you agree or disagree? Why or why not?

The sacrifice of children to Molech is an especially gruesome and horrifying way for people to have tried to influence the god. Many addictions today lead to gruesome and horrifying behaviors. To sacrifice a child to Molech meant risking your future for present benefit. Discuss ways our addictions mirror this process. If not addictions, are there other ways we mortgage our future for present benefit?

Rachel Muers, professor of theology at the University of Exeter, broadens this discussion to include "war" as a kind of sacrifice to Molech:

War supplies "Molech," not merely with the blood of innocent victims, but more insidiously with the binding of successive generations to deathly patterns of existence, in the name of the present seizure of control over the future. Contemplating the the intergenerational sustainability of bitter warefare in the contemporary world-including, the sustainablity of warfare in which religion is directly invoked-provokes horror at the power of "Molech," and ever increasing horror at people's willingness to continue to sacrifice to it.

As Christians in the world, how can we stand up against the present day worship of Molech, and assist people in leaving behaviors and addictions that lead to death?

Read and discus the reflection questions from last Sunday at the top of this post.

"It Doesn't Sound Like a Commandment"

Details: Created on 30 April 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

God saves us so that we can worship God. What has God saved you from? What could God save you from that would allow you to experience God in a more profound way?

What forms of slavery/bondage do you see around you? Can you imagine the spirit of God being a delivering presence in those circumstances?

In what ways is your life an act of worship?

This Week’s Text: Exodus 20.1-2

Additional Texts: Romans 12.1-2

Teaching Link: It Doesn't Sound Like a Commandment

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

Questions for Groups or Reflection:

The Ten Commandments have often been portrayed as a list and "do" s and "don't" s. What has been your experience with this?

During the teaching this week, there was a distinction made between the ten "sayings," or ten "words," and the idea of commandments. Does it make any difference to you whether they are called "sayings" or "commandments"? If so, why? Or does it feel like semantics to you?

Stanley Hauerwas says that you cannot understand the commandments outside of it's context of a community of people who are called to live a lifestyle of worship. Think about that for a minute. What does that mean to you? What could be the implications of this be?

Read Romans 12.1-2. We often think of worship in terms of things that take place on Sunday. What is Paul saying about the nature of worship? What does that have to do with the role of Israel and the commandments? What does it mean for the church? For Christians?

Read and discus the reflection questions from last Sunday at the top of this post.

"The Ten Commandments: Introduction"

Details: Created on 23 April 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

As we enter into the next 50 years of Trinity Mennonite Church’s story, what part will you play in advancing its mission?

From where do you derive your moral center? What role do the 10 Commandments and the Sermon on the mount play in your daily life?

God called Israel a “kingdom of priests” and a “holy nation.” What was so important about God dealing directly with his people, not through a king?

This Week’s Text: Exodus 19.4-8

Additional Texts: Exodus 2.23-25

Teaching Link: The Ten Commandments

For Further Study: 2600 Years of History in One Object

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

Questions for Groups or Reflection:

What thoughts come up for you when you think of the Ten Commandments? What is the role they should play in society? What are some inappropriate uses of them have you experienced?

Read Exodus 2.23-25. The story of the Exodus, and by extension the Ten Commandments starts with the cry of God's people. What is God's response?

How does knowing that God sees our situation and hears our cries make you feel? Has that been your experience? Share times you felt that God felt your pain and saw your situation. Share a time when you cried out but felt alone and unheard.

Does God need to act in order for us to feel that he sees and hears? Is it enough for him to suffer with us, or is rescue necessary?

Read Exodus 19.4-8 God wants to make Israel a "priestly kingdom and a holy nation." How is that different from the political situation in the ancient near east during this time? What kind of images or ideas to the words "priestly" and "holy" bring up for you?

As we look at the Ten Commandments over the next weeks, we will look at the following things:

What did they mean in their historical contexts?

What was Jesus’ perspective on them?

What can they teach us as we try and follow them and more importantly follow Jesus?

Read and discus the reflection questions from last Sunday at the top of this post.

"So, What Now?" April 15th, 2012

Details: Created on 16 April 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

Has your encounter with Jesus changed you? In what ways are you a new creature?

In what ways has Trinity been a “light to the nations?” How might we take that further?

God has reconciled us to make us his ambassadors. How can you-personally, specifically- be an ambassador for Jesus?

This Week’s Text: II Corinthians 5.14-21

Additional Texts: Isaiah 42.6-9

Teaching Link: "So, What Now?"

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

Questions for Groups or Reflection:

Read II Corinthians 5.21. How does the love of Jesus compel you?

Read vs. 17. The image give is reminiscent of a caterpillar undergoing the change into a butterfly. What are some ways that a person who is "in Christ" changes? Is it habits? Behaviors? Priorities? All three? None?

What does it mean to be "in Christ?"

Why do you think God made us his ambassadors?

Read through the reflection questions above and discuss them.

Easter Sunday, 2012 "The Final Enemy is Death"

Details: Created on 09 April 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions:

How do you feel about your own death? Do you even, ever think about it?

If the inevitability of death has been replaced by the reality of life, how might you now be freed to live, in light of the resurrection?

If the church is a witness to the resurrection, how are you-as part of the community- a witness to the resurrection?

This Week’s Text: I Corinthians 15.20-26

Additional Texts: Isaiah 25.6-9

Teaching Link: "The Final Enemy is Death"

Additional Resources: The Denial of Death, Ernest Becker; War and the American Difference, Stanley Hauerwas

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

Questions for Groups or Reflection:

Death is a reality that is all around us, and yet often, we are hesitant to acknowledge it, or deal with it directly. We separate ourselves from the dead and dying as much as possible and we do everything that we can to ward off the inevitable. Read through and talk about the reflection questions above. What is your experience with death?

How old were you when your first close relative died? What is your memory of that event?

Read Isaiah 25.6-9. What is the sheet and the shroud?

Despite the fascination with Satan, the Devil, etc. in our culture, according to the scripture text, the great enemy of God, man and creation is death. Had you ever thought of that before? What is your reaction to that?

As Paul interprets the significance of the resurrection in I Corinthians 15.20-26, he describes it as the defeat of death. What is the implication of that interpretation?

Reflect on the significance that the following paragraph has for the church in light of the resurrection:

"...we are driven back to that basic conviction that in the death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ, the destructive powers of this world, prominent among them war, were radically overcome. " War and the American Difference, Stanley Hauerwas, pg. 41.

"Supersize My Heart," March 25, 2012

Details: Created on 26 March 2012

Sunday's Reflection Questions: Is it easier for you to focus on the inward aspects of faith or the inward? Do you feel more comfortable with “do” or “be?”

Imagine what God might write on your heart. What would you ask him to write if you could?

At the end of Lent, what are some things you might want to “sign up” for with God in terms of your spiritual journey?

This Week’s Text: Deuteronomy 30.1-6

Additional Texts: Genesis 17.9-11, Psalm 51.6, Jeremiah 31.31-34

Teaching Link: "Supersize My Heart"

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

Questions for Groups or Reflection:

Abraham is commanded by God to be circumcised, and all the males of his household. Israel is commanded that all her males must be circumcised. Why do you think God commanded this?

How do you react when you are forced to do something?

Later, after having given the Law to Israel, God says this:

"Moreover, the Lord your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your descendants, so that you will love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, in order that you may live."

Why do you think God was looking forward to this day? What's in it for him?

Read Jeremiah 31.31-34. What stands out to you? What are the implications for your life? For the world?

Sermon Questions, March 18, 2012

Details: Created on 19 March 2012

Text: II Samuel 7.1-17, II Samuel 24.20-24

What is your earliest memory of wanting to be something when you grew up? (Click on the photo at right to revel in one young man's vision of his own future as told to a weatherman.)

David wanted to build a house for God (II Samuel 7.1-17.) But God had other plans. Was there a time when what God had for you was better than what you could planned for yourself?

It is nice to look back and see how God works. But when you are in the middle of it, it can be really frustrating and difficult. How do you/have you dealt with such times? How have you gotten through the times when nothing seemed to be working out?

In II Samuel 24. 20-24 David says, "I will not give to God something that costs me nothing." What has it cost you to follow Jesus? Has it been worth it?

For I Know Whom I Have Believed, March 4, 2012

Details: Created on 05 March 2012

The path ahead is rarely as clear as the path behind

This Week’s Text: Genesis 17.1-16

Teaching Link: "For I Know Whom I Have Believed"

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

Questions for Groups or Reflection:

Apollo, the Sun God, drove his chariot through the sky. Ixcacao, the Mayan Goddess of Chocolate, symbolized abundance and fertility. Based on the experience of God in your life and in the world around you, how would you complete the following phrase, "The God of Jesus and the Bible is the god of ______________." Be creative and use this as a discussion starter.

Pastor Hal made the case for "The God of Jesus and the Bible is the god of covenants." American ethicist Paul Ramsey said, "Never imagine that you have rightly grasped a Biblical idea until you have reduced it to a corollary of the idea of covenant.”

Covenants are about promises made between two parties. God has promised us many things. We have faith that God will see us through and that as we follow God, God will provide what we need in order to follow. What are some things that we need in order to be able to follow God?

Read Genesis 17.1-2. Why was it difficult for Abram and Sarai to continue to trust in God?

Walter Brueggemann says, “Our text is situated in that long, uncertain season before fulfillment, where faith in the promise wrestles with loss of confidence in the promise.”

Have you experienced a "long uncertain season" where trusting was difficult?

The story of Abram is the story of God establishing covenants with his people. God pursues us! How do you feel about the God of the universe pursuing you?

Any kind of covenant requires trust. We talk about having faith in God, but GOd has faith in us. What could it mean in your life that God has faith in you?

What things can you see behind you that can carry you forward on your path?

Blood of the Dragon:Blood of the Lamb

Details: Created on 30 January 2012

When the empire presents the cross, Jesus presents himself

This Week’s Text: Mark 1.21-28

For Further Study: Rachel Held Evans Blog, Matthew Paul Turner Blog

Teaching Link: “Blood of the Dragon; Blood of the Lamb”

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

Questions for Groups or Reflection:

When you read the Matthew Paul Turner article, how do you react to this type of church discipline? How does it differ from the accountability we promise to participate in when we become members at Trinity?

At what point does church discipline become controlling and abusive? What criteria might you use?

Read Mark 1.21-22 In your understanding, what is the difference between “power” and “authority?”

Jesus teaching in the synagogue was a challenge to the religious control the Scribes and Pharisees had on the people. Why do religious institutions often feel the need to exercise power over its members?

In what areas of your life do you experience the tension between “power” and “authority?”

Read Rachel Held Evans’ blog post. “Being right is not enough, but it is living out the vision of a new way of living that will eventually overturn the powers of this world.” As followers of Jesus, how can we exemplify his example of persuasion over coercion?

"Unity By Any Other Name" January 22, 2012

Details: Created on 23 January 2012

What is unity? And do we have to agree on everything before we can achieve it?

This Week’s Text: John 17.20-21

Additional Texts: Acts 2.44-47, I Corinthians 2.2-5

For Further Study: Rachel Held Evans, Evolving in Monkey Town

Teaching Link: "Unity By Any Other Name"

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

Questions for Groups or Reflection:

Read John 17.20-21. Why was it important for Jesus to pray for the unity of his disciples? What differences did they have?

Jesus prayed for unity for the disciples “so that the world may believe that you (the Father) have sent me.” How could unity be a sign that God is present in a group of people?

Read Acts 2.44-47. What differences were present in the early church? What was the result of the unity that they displayed?

“Unity as commonly used, is really a veiled appeal to orthodoxy.” What are some subjects that some churches can promote orthodoxy around?

Orthodoxy is a barrier to unity. Read I Corinthians 2.2-5. What one thing should we be building our unity around?

In your journey of faith, are there boundaries about which you feel strongly?

What are areas where you feel disconnected from other followers of Jesus?

What might your role be in fostering more conversation and unity?

"Here I Am," January 15, 2012

Details: Created on 16 January 2012

Is God speaking in the world today? If yes, through whom, and why is it that we often can’t hear him?

This Week's Text: I Samuel 3.1-11

Additional Texts:

For Further Study: Bob Ekblad, Reading the BIble with the Damned

Teaching Link: “Here I Am,” January 15, 2012

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

Questions for Groups or Reflection:

Read through the story of the calling of Samuel. Respond to and discuss the following statements.

God speaks through unlikely sources.

God’s message isn’t always clear at first.

It is not a lack of speaking but of hearing.

2. Discuss this quote by Dorothee Soelle:

"God has no other hands than ours. If the sick are to be healed, it is our hands that will heal them. If the lonely and the frightened are to be comforted, it is our embrace, not God's, that will comfort them."

Do you agree or disagree?

3. To whom have you yet to listen that might teach you something about God? Yourself? Yourself and God?

4. What do you do when God’s message is unclear? To whom do you go for clarification? Are you part of a discerning community?

5. Are there ways that you hear the voice of God more clearly than others? What are some things you might do to help you hear better?

"He Shepherds His Sheep" January 8, 2012

Details: Created on 09 January 2012

The intersection between one of America’s most brilliant psychologists and the coming of the Kingdom of God

This Week's Text: Matthew 9.35-38

Additional Texts: Ezekiel 34

For Further Study: Steven Pinker, The Better Angels of Our Nature: Why Violence has Declined

Teaching Link: “He Shepherds His Sheep,” January 8, 2012

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

Questions for Groups or Reflection:

1. Are things better now or in the past? In terms of violence, war and suffering, are things getting better or worse? Why do you answer one way or the other? What do you think is the dominant opinion of the larger American culture? The American Evangelical culture?

2. Steven Pinker, Harvard College Professor of Psychology, Harvard University makes the case in his most recent book, The Better Angels of Our Nature, that “The world of the past was much worse. In fact, we may be living in the most peaceable era in our species’ existence.” Some of the reasons he gives for this include:

(Negative) (Positive)

Aversion to dominance Empathy

Aversion to revenge Self-control

Rejection of sadism (cruelty) Morality

Rejection of ideology Reason

What, if any of these, sound like they have a connection to the teachings of Jesus? Share specific examples.

3. Pastor Hal made the statement, “When violence goes down to zero, and is able to be enjoyed by all people everywhere-that is essentially the definition of the “Kingdom of God.” Do you agree or disagree with this? Why or why not?

4. Jesus tells his disciples to “ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” The “good news” is that we as followers of Jesus, get to be a part of his work in the world If living out the “way of Jesus” is bringing about a better world, what are some concrete things that you can do to advance the “Kingdom of God?” What are way you can partner with and involve others as well?

“If I Be Lifted Up,” January 1, 2012

Details: Created on 03 January 2012

We often avoid sharing our faith because of a negative experience. But just because some people do “evangelism” badly, doesn’t mean we have to.

This Week's Text: Isaiah 60.1-6

Additional Texts: Numbers 21.4-9, John 3.14, 12.32

For Further Study: Scot McKnight, The King Jesus Gospel

Teaching Link: “If I Be Lifted Up,” January 1, 2012

Downloadable group discussion sheet: .pdf

Questions for Groups or Reflection:

1. What has been your experience with sharing your faith, or “evangelism?” Are there positive stories? Any negative ones?

2. The word “evangelism” comes from the Greek words meaning, “good news.” It is sometimes translated as “gospel.” In what ways is the message of Jesus good news? Are there some ways that it is communicated that can come across as bad news?

3. When the message of Jesus is truly good news in your life, you should not feel guilty about sharing it. After all, you have received a gift that is meaningful to you, and you should want others to experience it as well. What are some barriers people encounter to sharing their faith?

4. Often times, the “gospel” is narrowly defined as “salvation,” by what happens to you when you die. Jesus said, “I came they might have life, and have it abundantly.” What are the ways that your life is better and more abundant for having followed Jesus?

5. In John 3.14 and 12.32, Jesus talks about being “lifted up” and how he will “draw all people to” himself. If we see evangelism as “lifting Jesus up,” we don’t feel the pressure to “save” anyone, or “win” anyone to Christ. Talk about ways that we can “lift Jesus up,” in such a way that it is good news to people, and he can draw people to himself.

Vessel

Details: Created on 19 December 2011

Mary stands at the beginning of Luke’s Gospel as an example of discipleship. In accepting the call of God, Jesus literally grows in her just as the Spirit of Christ can symbolically grow in our life if we surrender to God.

This Week's Text: Luke 1.26-38

Additional Texts: Isaiah 7.14, Jeremiah 18.1-4

Teaching Link: “Vessel,” December 18, 2012

Downloadable group sheet: .pdf

Questions for Groups or Reflection:

1. Think of different kinds of vessels. What are they used for? How are they used? What makes a good one? Or bad?

2. Read Luke 1.26-38. In addition to it coming from angel, how would you have received this message from God? What is Mary’s response (there are two, one in vs. 29, the other in vs. 38?) The word for “perplexed” can also mean “terrified.” What is there in the message that could be considered “terrifying.”

3. At very least, this would have been disruptive to the direction Mary’s life was headed. In what ways can the call of God, if answered, be disruptive to your life?

4. In Jeremiah 18.1-4, God takes a vessel unsuited for a task, and remolds it, making it useful. What are some things that you struggle with that you would like God to help you change?

5. A vessel needs to be emptied sometimes in order to be re-filled. What are some barriers in your life that keep you from being used by God? Mary is a model of discipleship in that her answer to God was “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.” Describe a time when you were able to respond to God in that way.

Sorrow Transformed, December 11, 2011

Details: Created on 12 December 2011

The Gospel is about transformation. But there isn’t much transformative power in the baby Jesus, maybe that’s why so many people like him. But for the good stuff, the hard stuff, you got to let him grow up; and then in a sense he helps you grow up as well.

This Week's Text: Isaiah 61.1-4

Additional Texts: Isaiah 42.1-4, 49.1-6, 53, Luke 4.16-30

For Further Study: Rachel Held Evans, Blog: Blessed Are The Entitled

Teaching Link: "Sorrow Transformed" December 11, 2011

Questions for Groups or Reflection:

1. When you think of the “true meaning of Christmas,” what comes to mind? What do you think of the “war on Christmas?” Why are both of these concepts important to people?

2. Read Isaiah 61.1-4. The word “anointed” in Hebrew is the same word for “Messiah.” What are some of the things the “Messiah” is going to proclaim? What, if any, of these groups do you feel like a member of? What would “good news” look like for you?

3. The “anointed one” has something for “those who mourn.” Are there things you grieve? What would it look like to have “ashes” turned into “a garland;” “mourning” into “gladness?”

4. Read Luke 4.16-30. Jesus selects this passage (Isaiah 61) to announce his ministry in Nazareth. What does he mean when he says, “Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing?”

5. At first the crowd welcomes the arrival of the “anointed one.” They turn on him once he challenges them. (The challenge has to do with the “exceptionalism” of the people of Israel.) There is a parallel to Christmas. Everyone loves a baby. But people lose interest, or get uncomfortable when faced with discipleship. It is easier to demand public nativity displays than care for the poor. It is easier to insist that others do thigs exactly as we do than work for justice for the oppressed. What are your reflections about this?

6. What are ways you can be challenged by Christmas this year?

"Changing the Landscape," December 4, 2011

Details: Created on 05 December 2011

This Week's Text: Isaiah 40.1-11

Additional Texts: Mark 1.1-3, Isaiah 37.14-20, 38.1-6, 39.1-7, II Kings 18.1-7

For Further Study: Rikki E. Watts, Isaiah’s New Exodus in Mark; Wiki article, Hezekiah

Teaching Link: Changing the Landscape December 4, 2011

Downloadable, printable file: .pdf

Questions for Groups or Reflection:

1. After David, Hezekiah was the greatest King of Israel. What were some of the things that garnered favor with God (II Kings 18.1-7)

There are two miracles associated with Hezekiah: The delivery of his kingdom from Assyria (Isaiah 37.14-20,) and his personal healing (Isaiah 38.1-6.) Read the cry of Hezekiah to the Lord in each passage. What stands out to you? About Hezekiah’s prayer? About God’s response?

Between vs. 1 of chapter 38 and vs. 5, God seems to change his mind. We don’t generally associate “change of mind” with God. What are the implications of that? How do you feel about a God who changes his mind? How could this affect the way you pray?

2. Isaiah’s encouragement to Hezekiah/Israel echoes the Exodus of the Jews from Egypt (Isaiah 40.1-5.) How does looking back, give us hope for tomorrow?

Remember a time when God was there for you. Can he be there for you again?

3. God made a way for the children of Israel in the desert. Isaiah refers to this with a series of images:

“prepare the way of the Lord,” “make straight in the desert a highway for our God,” “valley shall be lifted up,” and “mountain and hill be made low”

God goes ahead of his people and removes obstacles. What kinds of obstacles in your life need to be moved out of the way for you to go forward?

4. At the beginning of the Gospel of Mark, the author uses similar Exodus imagery to give context to the ministry of Jesus (Mark 1.1-3.) Jesus is sent to rescue God’s people as they had been rescued time and time again. This time it is not only the Jews, but all people of every race, language, and culture. Does this help you think of the Christmas story differently? How?

"The Treasure and the Pearl" November 20, 2011

Details: Created on 21 November 2011

Discipleship is at the heart of the Christian Gospel. As God sets out to re-create the world, the discipleship project is the means to that end. But there is a cost to discipleship-and failing to take into account the costs, can lead to discouragement and ultimately failure.

This Week's Texts: Luke 14.25-33, Matthew 13.44-46

Additional Texts: N/A

For Further Study: The Cost of Discipleship, Dietrich Bonhoeffer; Mere Discipleship, Lee C. Camp; The Divine Conspiracy, Dallas Willard

Teaching Link: "The Treasure and the Pearl" November 20, 2011

Downloadable, printable file: .pdf

Questions for Groups or Reflection:

1. What difference does it make when something has a high price? When it costs nothing?

Discuss some things in your life that have come at great personal sacrifice? How do you feel about them? What emotions do you associate with them?

2. When Jesus says to the crowds, “Whoever comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and even life itself, cannot be my disciple,” (Luke 14.26) what do you think he means? Is he serious? Is this meant to be taken literally? If not, why not?

For Jesus, the cost of obedience was the cross. Jesus invites his followers to “carry the cross.” (Luke 14.27) What does it mean to “carry the cross?”

3. Jesus uses the example of a builder and a king to demonstrate the importance of counting the cost of being a disciple. He then mentions possesions (Luke 14.27-33). Is discipleship just a matter of wealth and possesions? How does that speak to us in our materialistic culture?

4. In the Matthew passage, Jesus contrasts a pearl merchant and a man who found a treasure hidden in a field (Matthew 13.44-46.) What is the difference between the two? Who made the better choice?

What percentage of North American Christians do you think have actually counted the cost of discipleship?

What is the danger of entering into the discipleship project without fully anticipating the cost?

Where are you in the process of following Jesus?

"Sons, Coins and Sheep" November 13, 2011

Details: Created on 14 November 2011

"With his declaration that “God hates some of you,” Driscoll is simultaneously relieving the burden of weary Calvinists and providing shining examples for critics to use as evidence that the underpinnings of Calvinism lead to dangerous and hurtful outcomes." - Zack Lind, Finding Rythm

This Week's Text: Luke 15

Additional Texts: Job 38.1-11, 40.2-5, Psalm 44.17-26, 88.13-18

For Further Study: Zach Lind, Finding Rythm Blog: "Why Mark Driscoll is So Compelling."

Teaching Link: "Sons, Coins and Sheep" November 13, 2011

Downloadable, printable file: .pdf

Questions for Groups or Reflection:

1. What is the most difficult time you have ever had to go through?

What are some things people say to help others feel better during times of sorrow and trial?

Read Psalm 88. Have you ever felt like this?

Which are the most unfortunate and misguided? Which, if any, have you found helpful and comforting?

Is there something in your life right now that causes you to have doubts about God's presence or love for you?

2. People seem divided in their response to God's answer to Job in chapter 38. Do you find it comforting or frustrating? Discuss why. (Job 38. 1-11, 40.2-5)

Are you the kind of person who needs answers, or are you comfortable with uncertainty?

3. There is a subconscious assumption that if we do right, if we obey God, then things will turn out okay. Why do you think that is?

Read Psalm 44.17-26. Why does the writer express such despair?

4. When you read through Luke 15, what are the similarities between the three stories that Jesus tells?

What are the stories a response to?

What behaviors of the woman, the shepherd, and the father are unexpected, even unexplainable?

"God loves us so much, it's stupid." What does this mean? What does this mean: "Jesus is God's wound in the world?"

5. Faced with a decision to rescue us or join us, God joins us in the person of Jesus. How is this different from the popular idea of omnipotence?

6. This week, we saw the church rally together to support one of their own and each other. How has God reached out to you in the midst of this horrifying event?

November 6, 2011 "Clean and Unclean/Inside and Outside"

Details: Created on 07 November 2011

This Week's Text: Mark 5.21-43 Unclean: Richard Beck

Additional Texts: Matthew 9.18-26, Luke 8.40-56, Mark 3.1-6, Leviticus 15.25-27, Numbers 19.13, Malachi 4.2

For Further Study: Richard Beck, Unclean: Meditations on Purity, Hospitality and Mortality, Experimental Theology

Teaching Link: "Clean and Unclean/Inside and Outside" November 6, 2011

Downloadable, printable file: .pdf

Questions for Groups or Reflection:

1. What do we know about Jairus? Why might he have been reluctant to go to Jesus on behalf of his daughter? (Mark 5.21-24, 3.1-6)

In the end, what drove him to Jesus? (vs. 23) How are motives important when responding to God?

Are there conflicts in your life that keep you from experiencing God more deeply? What kind of things pull you in competing directions?

2. What was the significance of the plight of the woman? (Mark 5.25-26, Leviticus 15.25-27)

What are some practical aspects of purity codes of ancient societies?

When have you felt on the outside?

Was there a time when you felt "unclean?"

Think about the healing that is needed in your life.

3. When Jesus is touched by the woman, and when he touches the young girl, he invites uncleanness upon himself (Leviticus 15.25-27, Numbers 19.13). What does that say about his ministry and what was important to him?

What is the challenge to us, as his followers, in reacing out to the unclean, outsiders, impure? Discuss specific examples, as well as our successes and failures in those areas.

Who do you have a difficult time reaching out to? Are there barriers and borders you maintain in your life?

What are specific ways you can transcend differences and reach out to those looking in?

Loving God and Neighbor on 9/11-Rod Cardoza

Details: Created on 06 October 2011

Rod Cardoza, Founder and Executive Director of Abrahamic Alliance International, preaches at Trinity on the 10th anniversary of 9/11.

This followed a powerful seminar called "Loving Muslim Neighbors." That afternoon, participants in the seminar partnered with members of a local mosque to prepare and serve a meal to the homless in Phoenix.

Reflecting the Nature of God

Details: Created on 20 June 2011

alexander-mosaic There is an old story that goes a little something like this:

Alexander the Great, one of the greatest military generals who ever lived, conquered almost the entire known world with his vast army. One night during a campaign, he couldn't sleep and left his tent to walk around the campgrounds.

As he was walking he came across a soldier asleep on guard duty - a serious offense. The penalty for falling asleep on guard duty was, in some cases, instant death; the commanding officer sometimes poured kerosene on the sleeping soldier and lit it.
The soldier began to wake up as Alexander the Great approached him.

Recognizing who was standing in front of him, the young man feared for his
life. "Do you know what the penalty is for falling asleep on guard duty?"
Alexander the Great asked the soldier.
"Yes, sir," the soldier responded in a quivering voice.
"Soldier, what's your name?" demanded Alexander the Great.
"Alexander, sir."
Alexander the Great repeated the question: "What is your name?"
"My name is Alexander, sir," the soldier repeated.
A third time and more loudly Alexander the Great asked, "What is your name?"
A third time the soldier meekly said, "My name is Alexander, sir."
Alexander the Great then looked the young soldier straight in the eye.

"Soldier," he said with intensity, "either change your name or change
your conduct!"

Last Sunday we talked about how you will know a tree by its fruit. In one sense, we can know if a tree (or person, or organization, or ministry, etc) is good if it produces good fruit.

But in another sense, the fruit carries on the heritage of the tree to the next generation. The peach delivers the “peachness” of the peach tree, the apple the “appleness,” and so on.

In the same way, as followers of Jesus, we should reflect the nature of God in our lives. Now, that might sound like a no brainer. Of course people should look at our lives and see Jesus, and in so doing see God. But unfortunately this is not the always the case.

In a recent study, people were asked “"Do you think the use of torture against suspected terrorists in order to gain important information can . . . be justified?"

You would think that people who called themselves by the name “Christian” would have a clear conviction against the use of torture. But only 31% of “White Evangelical Christians” said it was “never” justified to use torture. This was less than the “Total Public,” both Christian and non-Christian combined (32%,) and significantly less than their “Secular” counterparts (41%.) 1

When self identified followers of Jesus are 10% less likely to oppose the use of torture under any circumstances than their secular neighbors, something is out of line.

One missionary scholar writes, “The results of these various polls suggest not only that self-identified Christians do not reflect Christian values but that they do not fundamentally think as Christians to begin with. Perhaps it is time to start over, and Matthew's theme of discipleship may be just the place.” (Thomas Haverly, Currents in Theology and Mission, April 2008, p.126)

If we are going to bear his name, our conduct should reflect his character. As we continue to study the teachings of Jesus, through the end of the Sermon on the Mount and on into his parables, let us continue to find ways to faithfully live out the gospel in our lives.

1.According to the Pew Research Center for the People and the Press [PRCPP], "Trends in Political Values and Core Attitudes: 1987- 2007" (March 22, 2007), p. 25, this question was asked in five polls taken between July 2004 and January 2007

Bridges to the Cross

Details: Created on 14 June 2011

This Sunday we talked about the word chesed; the single most commonly used adjective to describe God in the Old Testament. Sometimes translated, "lovingkindness," "mercy," or even "kindness," the best translation is "covenant loyalty." God's nature is to help us as covenant partners to keep the covenant, even when we fail to do our part.

As we prepare for the Mennonite Church USA Convention in Pittsburgh, even if you can't physically attend, I encourage you to read this article that appeared in the Mennonite about reconciliation, and about this Sunday's text, II Corinthians 5. It is by Ched Myers, who is a member a First Mennonite Church of Pasadena.

Ambassadors of Reconciliation

Some Ways to live out the Golden Rule

Details: Created on 29 May 2011

This Sunday, we talked about how Jesus is the purest expression of who God is. So when he taught, "In everything do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets" this expresses something primal about the character of God.

At the heart of all the world's faith traditions stand a common formulation: treat others as you would like to be treated. And in a world that has the capacity to destroy itself 100 times over, it is this commonality upon which we can begin to make peace.

I mentioned a couple of ways that you can be involved in this process, both locally and globally. These are certainly not comprehensive, and I would not want anyone to think that by merely buying a liscense plate or signing a declaration that one has done one's duty. We must strive to live the Golden Rule daily. These are just some ways to remind ourselves and others of what following Jesus is all about.

Arizona Interfaith Movement

Next time you renew your tags, consider spending the extra $25 and getting the "Live the Golden Rule" Arizona liscence plate.

Link to the Arizona Motor Vehicle Department is here.

Read about the project to unite people around the globe around the foundational principle of the Golden Rule.

A couple videos are below, one that I showed in church this week, and another cool one where people of all faiths, shapes and sizes, genders and nationalities read from the Charter.

I hope you will consider signing the charter and then living out the way of Jesus.

The Faults of Others

Details: Created on 17 May 2011

This last Sunday I talked about how easy it is to see the shortfalls of others, and miss our own. You can listen to it here. It's as universal as anything that makes us human. Social scientists have found the mechanisms that create the inate bias that cause us to be hard on others while giving ourselves a pass. A Japanese proverb goes like this:

Though you see the seven defects of others, we do not see our own ten defects.

This is why the metaphor of the log in our own eye is so brilliantly absurd. Something so huge should be at once be obvious and blinding to this things around us. But instead, we are blind to the log while our neigbor's splinter is amplified.

One of the things that makes this easier is "the myth of pure evil." One of my favorite social scientists, Jonathan Haidt, lays out this hypothesis in his book The Happiness Hypothesis. If we can ascribe evil motives to our physical and/or ideological enemies, we can entrench ourselves in our already held conclusions about how the world works, and our own self righteousness.

The trick, here, is to be aware that we tend to do this and to, whenever possible, place safegaurds agaianst it. One of the greatest safegaurds is radical humility, the willingness to acknowledge that we may be wrong. This is something we have done well, here at Trinity Mennonite Church, and it will continue to serve us well in the future as we navigate difficult issues, together as a community.

Last thing. I quoted an article yesterday entitled "The Myth of the Myth of Moderate Islam." Click on the link if you would like to read it in its entirety.

God's Hands

Details: Created on 18 April 2011

This is the short video from the end of our teaching time on Sunday. As Jesus commits his spirit into the hands of God, I was thinking of how God commits his Kingdom into ours. As Paul writes in II Corinthians 5, Jesus has reconciled us to God, but God has entrusted us with the ministry of reconciliation, making us his ambassadors.

The questions for reflection are in the video as well as in the liner notes of the video which can also be found on Vimeo.

When, on the cross, Jesus committed His spirit into the hands of God, He set the scene for God to commit His Kingdom into ours. How does knowing that God has faith in us make you feel? How differently would you act if you knew/believed that the fate of the world depended on you? How can you be the hands of God, the feet of God?

Robertson McQuilkin and Radical Comitment

Details: Created on 28 March 2011

This weekend, I talked about the difference between goodness and happiness.While often times the culture encourages the "pursuit of happiness," the things that make us happy, often don't make us good, and the things that make us good, often don't make us happy. i first heard this concept in an illustration used by Tony Campolo. He referred to his good friend, Columbia Bible College President, Robert McQuilkin, who had resigned his position with the college in order to care for his wife of forty years who was stricken with Alzheimer's disease.

The story is a powerful one-one of commitment, love and integrity In a now famous article for Christianity Today, he wrote:

This was no grim duty to which I stoically resigned, however. It was only fair. She had, after all, cared for me for almost four decades with marvelous devotion; now it was my turn. And such a partner she was! If I took care of her for 40 years, I would never be out of her debt.

I would encourage you to read the piece in its entirety. It is an inspirational call to all of us to seek that which makes us good over what may make us, at least for the time being, happy.

There are also some remarkable resources on YouTube, for those who would like to get to know this man better. One is the resignation speech when he stepped down to care for Muriel. The other is a more comprehensive biography of a man, who without the decision to care for his wife, would have been remarkable nonetheless.

I hope these stories encourage you to follow the calling of God in your own life.

Love Wins

Details: Created on 21 March 2011

Yesterday, I made reference to the controversy surrounding Rob Bell's new book, Love Wins: A Book about Heaven, Hell and the Fate of Every Person Who Ever Lived. Becuase our former Lead Pastor, Shane Hipps, is now the co-teaching Pastor at Rob's church (Mars Hill Bible Church, Grand Rapids, MI,) and because we enjoy a quais-sister church relationship with MHBC, I thought it was important to address the situation and give some context to what is going on in the larger Christian culture.

If you weren't able to be here, I encourtage you to download, or stream the teaching while driving, cooking dinner or washing your cat. My hope is that we at Trinity can be a different type of community, one that is equipped to deal with questions, and is centered enough in Christ, to not be intimidated by different ways of looking at faith.

In the teaching, I quoted a review to Rob's book by Dr. Richard Mouw, President of Fuller Theological Seminary. Money quote:

Some folks zeroed in on that one story to condemn me as a heretic. I find their attitude puzzling. Maybe they think that folks like Rob Bell and me go too far in the direction of leniency, but what about folks who go in the other direction? I just received an angry email from someone who pulled a comment out of something I wrote a few years ago in Christianity Today. A prominent evangelical had criticized those of us who have been in a sustained dialogue with Catholics for giving the impression that a person can be saved without having the right theology about justification by faith. My response to that: of course a person can be saved without having the right theology of justification by faith. A straightforward question: Did Mother Teresa go to hell? My guess is that she was a little confused about justification by faith alone. If you think that means she went to hell, I have only one response: shame on you.

I encourage you to follow the link above and read the entire article. I also encourage you to read Rob's book, and discuss it with friends. Last week, someone asked me was going to agree with everything in the book. I said, "I hope not! I don't have time to read books with which I already agree. It is interacting with new ideas and ones that challenge what you think that give way to growth and developement.

FASCINATION

Details: Created on 09 February 2011

In ancient Pompei, the "evil eye" was never far from the thoughts of the people.

When archeologists excavated the ruins of the city, centuries after its destruction by the volcano Vesuvius, they found some intriguing features that were unique to it.

Built into the walls, streets, ceilings and door posts, were huge representations of sexually explicit images. They were everywhere. Scholars did not know what to make of these images and what it said about the city and its inhabitants. Were they sexuall deviants who had developed an early form of extreme pornography, or was there another explanation?

John Elliot, of the University of San Fransisco, is one of the most prominent experts on the subject of the evil eye. "Protection against the Evil Eye is naturally a major preoccupation in Evil Eye cultures, ancient and modern. Devices and strategies for deflecting or distracting the Evil Eye were numerous and varied. All public places, thoroughfares, city walls, public squares, work places, holy sites, and graves were protected..." Among the devices and strategies were these images that would be impossible to ignore. They were called fascina, and to be distracted by them was to be fascinated.

Fascinating!

Jacob And Esau redux

Details: Created on 24 January 2011

For those of you who enjoyed the graphics from this week's sermon, I'm linking to the original G-d Cast video from which I borrowed it. These are amazing short films that take a Torah portion and then interpret it with the help of various artists and thinkers.

A Couple of Forgiveness Resources

Details: Created on 09 January 2011

“To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner is you.” Lewis B. Smedes

We have a fascination with forgiveness. In literature and film, we are inspired by stories of selflessness portrayed as forgiveness. The nation was captivated by the grace and forgiveness offered by the Amish community after the horrendous killings at the school in Pennsylvania.

Maybe it is because when we forgive, we are most like God-the best of him is on display in us.

But it is hard. If it were easy, we wouldn't need to be encouraged to do it.

So in light of this week's sermon, I thought I would post a few practical resources for those who might be struggling with being able to forgive.

The late Lewis B. Smedes was an ethicist and theologian who taught ate Fuller Theological Seminary for 25 years. He is best known for his works on the ethics of sexuality and the practice of forgiveness. His two main boks are here:

The Art of Forgiving

Forgive and Forget: Healing the Hurts We Don't Deserve

Wrestling with the Uncertainty

Details: Created on 14 December 2010

One of the things that I have been thinking about a lot lately, has been the overwhelming desire most people have for certainty and assurance. I think it is part of what makes us human. Especially in times of trouble, we tend to look for an anchor to tether ourselves against the storm.

But just because we want something, there is no guarantee that we necessarily get it. Where else in our lives do things work like that?

Spiritual teacher Pema Chodron says, “We can try to control the uncontrollable by looking for security and predictability; always hoping to be comfortable and safe. But the truth is that we can never avoid uncertainty. This not-knowing is part of the adventure. It’s also what makes us afraid.”

coping_tree Fear comes about because we may not believe in God as much as we think we do. When we trust that God walks with us through the uncertainty, it is an act of faithfulness.

She goes on to say that when we realize this, we “grow up.” So the central question is not how to avoid uncertainty and fear, but how we relate to it. This becomes the very definition of faith.

"Doubt and faith are brothers. We are the in between time where the truth as it is has yet to be revealed. but in the mean time we have to have faith that not only is the path we are on the right one, and will lead us where we want to go, but that our guide knows what he is doing and there is someone to greet us at our destination."

It is during this season that we think of Emmanuel, "God with us." God doesn't deliver from the suffering, but is with us in the midst of the uncertainty. The good news is that He is also working tirelessly to bring about his purposes.

"It may seem to the soul that everything is moving in the contrary direction to what it has been led to expect, and yet, even if many years go by, it never loses its belief that, though God may use other means incomprehensible to men, in the end what He has said will come true; as in fact it does." Teresa of Avila

Panem et Circenses

Details: Created on 01 December 2010

I want everybody to know that my sermon on Sunday was not an indictment on technology, but of the problems with the un-reflective use of the same. It is interesting that anytime you begin to talk about the downside of our interaction with technology, people automatically think that it is a blanket condemnation. Part of that, I think, is a larger cultural narrative that usually goes down that path. It is a familiar story arc that people are used to. Terminator, The Matrix, Battlestar Galactica, and the classic Mary Shelly story are all cautionary tales of our creation (read "tech") turning against the creator (read "us".) But anyone who knows me knows I love technology, and its ability to be cretive and make connections in ways unimaginable before.

My point was, with technology and life, a lack of reflection leads to a kind of sleep walking existence that is more like being entertained to death, than really living. The strategy of pacification of the populace by "bread and circuses" was wildly successful by the Romans who were the first to distract their population from their wretched existence. It is no less successful today. Gadgets, celebrities, big time sports (yes, even football) are very effective means of distracting us from boring and complex problems like poverty, war, the environment, and sustainability. The key to resisting the "bread and circuses" effect is to, like Paul urges us in Romans 13 and Ephesians 5, is to wake up, realize we were created for more than to just wander our way through life, and to join God where he is at work.

Baptism, Ministry and Goodbye

Details: Created on 22 November 2010

This really was an amazing Sunday! If someone happened to have been visiting with us this week, I wonder what they thought.

The doxasoma has been a wonderful way to involve our bodies in the experience of the Lord's Prayer. Thanks Rachel. And congratulations to her mother, Cheryl Paulovich on her ordination. It fit in well with the beginings that baptism represent. We recieved new people into the community through baptism, and we said goodbye to some longtime members as they move on to Oregon. Paul Davidhizar and I shared a stage early on during my first months at Trinity. Shane was interviewing a few people one Sunday, individuals that had different connections to the Mennonites, and different entrances into the community. I had found the Mennonites later in life, but Paul had been one his entire life. I remember being struck by hs story of what it had cost him to follow Jesus, as he understood it, and the humility to, at the same time, be able to say, "But, I might be wrong!" That phrase made its way into Shane's second book, and has been incredibly influential to me, as a leader and a follower of Christ.

Thank you Paul and Ellen, for your lives, your encouragement, a what you have meant to this community.

In the future, I will try and post things here that didn't make it into the sermon, but might be interesting for some of you for further study. Some times it will be a .pdf of a scholarly journal article, an Amazon.com link to a book I'm reading in preparation, or a simple Wikipedia link that sheds some light on something I said.

220px-Yeshua_hebreo

This week is it is a Wikipedia link about the name of Jesus.

Yeshua

Hat tip to Aaron Woods for getting me thinking about this.

Daily Bread

Details: Created on 12 November 2010

There are few metaphors for sustenance that ring true like "bread." Chela is the wife of Camillo, a peasant farmer who lives in the south of Chile. Chela would help us with food when we would bring groups of North Americans to work on projects in the area. It was Camilo who taught me how to kill a sheep or young bull, depending on the size of the group we were feeding. But Chela made the bread.

Technically, bread is a formed loaf, containing a leavening agent, and baked in an oven. Chela had a stove, but no oven, and it was in the coals of a fire in the larder, a fire whose smoke preserved various foodstuffs in the rafters, that she baked her bread.

At the beginning of the week, I would buy a 50 kilo sack of flour, drop it off at Chela's home, and three times a day, Chela would bring fire blackened loaves of bread that she would slice into biscotti like portions. The bread looked like a long, wide ciabatta, and had a dense crumb. Spread with jam squeezed from a bag, or with manjar, a Chilean version of dulce de leche, it was a perfect breakfast, providing energy for the morning's work.

I loved to watch Chela bake bread. She knew just when the coals were ready. She would throw the dough into the coals, and at precise moment, with her bare hands, extract a perfect loaf, fully formed, from the ashes.