Sunday’s play list via YouTube

This Week’s Bible Readings    Mar. 1 – 6,  1 Cor. 1-7

• Where’s your space to read?
• What’s your time to study?
• What are the key words?
• What was God saying to them?  What’s God saying to you?
• What’s the Holy Spirit going to show throughout the day?
• For what are you grateful?
• For what are you concerned?
• Who needs you today?

Next Week’s Bible Readings   Mar. 7 – 13,  1 Cor. 8-16

Texts: 1 Cor. 1:10-15; 1 Cor. 4:6-7;  2 Cor. 10:12; 1 Cor. 9:24-27; 1 Cor. 10:31;  2 Tim. 2:5; 2 Tim. 4:7-8; 1 Tim. 4:7-8; 2 Cor. 9:2

IN A NUTSHELL At what point does the healthy competition of politics and/or March Madness leave the realm of “competition” to become destructive conflict?  When winning the election is more important than building up the nation, or winning the tournament is more important than the integrity and reputation of the team it’s no longer healthy competition.           

ICE BREAKER   Describe the biggest "poor sport" story you can recall. 

HIS WORD

1.  Why was Paul glad he hadn't baptized many people at Corinth?
2. How did Paul utilize sports illustrations in the letters he wrote to the Christians?  What were his main points illustrated through sports pictures?
3. At what point does it seem energy, resolve or aggression moves from healthy energy to selfish arrogance?
4.  People that are "puffed up" about what some have over another tends to boast about what they have.  But what does Paul remind us about how we got what we have? 

YOUR WORLD

1. What is it about "the games" that you enjoy?  Is it the victory of excellence in a team?  Or is it the thrill of defeating an opponent? 

2. How do you respond to someone that tells you in the heat of a game,  "It's only a game... calm down!"

SMALL PIECES

1. If you hold a Non-Christian worldview then your only real purpose for existence is to advance as far as you can doing what you want most.  How would this affect your attitude toward competition?

2. If you hold a Christian worldview then your purpose is to subdue the earth and bring glory to God.  How would this affect your attitude toward competition? 

BIG PICTURE

1. What is the Big Picture issue for competition with the Christian?   2 Tim. 4:7-8; 1 Cor. 10:31

1. CARE Sheet
2. Should Christian be competitive?  Yes
3. Should Christian be competitive?  No
4. 2016 MOSAIC series and Bible Readings
5. 12 Francis Schaeffer Quotes That Will Challenge the Way You Engage Culture (Relevant Magazine)
6. Inspired Evidence – a good devotion book for 2016
7. Timber Lake Christian Church Website
8. Timber Lake Live! (simulcast)
9. Timber Lake’s past videos (Vimeo)

SMALL PIECES/BIG PICTURE

Sunday’s play list via YouTube

This Week’s Bible Readings   Feb. 15 - 21, Matt. 22-25

• Where’s your space to read?
• What’s your time to study?
• What are the key words?
• What was God saying to them?  What’s God saying to you?
• What’s the Holy Spirit going to show throughout the day?
• For what are you grateful?
• For what are you concerned?
• Who needs you today?

Next Week’s Bible Readings  Feb. 22 - 28,  Matt. 26-28

Guest Speaker/Blogger - Allen Todd 

Texts:   Matthew 25:45-46; 2 Thess. 1:8-9; 2 Peter 2:4-9; Rev. 20:10-15; 21:1-8; John 14:1-3

IN A NUTSHELL Either your eternal destination will affect your present decisions, or your present decisions will affect your eternal destination?    

ICE BREAKER   Have you ever wondered if Christianity and the Bible were true? Have you wondered if other world religions are equal to Christianity, or if they are right and Christianity is wrong? What was the main reason for your questioning? (e.g. You met nice, moral people who weren't Christians. You are uncomfortable about something in the Bible that seems unpopular in our culture. You have doubt in general about what is true.) ?

HIS WORD

1. Since Jesus is the author of all Truth, we must especially regard his teaching as the authority on any subject.  Read Matt. 25:31-46 and note what is Jesus says about how the way someone lives determines their eternal destination.        

2. What was so seriously wrong with the "goats" that eternal punishment was the King's reaction? What did they have in common with the devil and his angels?  

3. Read these other texts that seem pretty clear about the reality of heaven and hell. 2 Thess. 1:8-9; 2 Peter 2:4-9; Rev. 20:10-15; 21:1-8; John 14:1-3.

YOUR WORLD

1. Looking at the criteria on the basis of which the King Jesus judged all the nations, would you fall into the sheep or the goat category? Discuss each area of love and compassion and how it must be an intentional way of life.

2. Encourage one another to meet the needs of those in our community. Ask these questions with Gal. 6:10 in mind. Who is hungry? Who is thirsty? Who is sick? Who needs clothes? Who is in prison? Who is needing a place to stay? 

SMALL PIECES

1. If our worldview does not include any eternal consequences, then the rest of the gospel is less than urgent and maybe even unnecessary.

BIG PICTURE

1. Though we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, it is clear that a person's lifestyle will be judged to determine if their faith is a saving faith (James 2:14), seen by the way we live and love and care for those around us.

1. CARE Sheet
2. Erasing Hell by Francis Chan 
3. 2016 MOSAIC series and Bible Readings
4. Scriptures about Heaven
5. Scriptures about Hell
6. 12 Francis Schaeffer Quotes That Will Challenge the Way You Engage Culture (Relevant Magazine)
7. Inspired Evidence – a good devotion book for 2016
8. Timber Lake Christian Church Website
9. Timber Lake Live! (simulcast)
10. Timber Lake’s past videos (Vimeo)

SMALL PIECES | BIG PICTURE

SMALL PIECES / BIG PICTURE

Sunday’s play list via YouTube

This Week’s Bible Readings  Feb. 8 - 14, Matt. 19-21

• Where’s your space to read?
• What’s your time to study?
• What are the key words?
• What was God saying to them?  What’s God saying to you?
• What’s the Holy Spirit going to show throughout the day?
• For what are you grateful?
• For what are you concerned?
• Who needs you today?

Next Week’s Bible Readings  Feb. 15 - 21, Matt. 22-25

Texts:   Matt. 19:3-12;  Gen. 1:27-28; 2:21-25;  Eph. 5:23,24,32; Hos. 2:19,20; Heb. 13:4; Rev. 19:7-9

IN A NUTSHELL Did the “family” evolve or did it have a designer?  Who wrote the rules?  What happens if someone breaks the rules? How does it’s design relate to our relationship with God?    

 ICE BREAKER   If there were no concept of family...how would your life be different? Think hard, every aspect of life… how would it be different?

 HIS WORD

1. Does the Bible seem to be conclusive that the family, a monogamous husband and wife, having children, was instituted intentionally, at the outset of creation, and for a purpose?

2. What was it that created the need for Moses to authorize a bill of divorce”?

3. What is the cosmic picture illustrated by the earthly relationship of a man and a woman?

 YOUR WORLD

1. Who is your favorite “model” for having a good marriage?  Have you told them lately what that means to you?

3. Who has God put in your path that you might be able to mentor?

4. Does your marriage look more like something God has purposely designed or more like something that is just coasting/evolvoing?

 SMALL PIECES

1. What relationships in your life are just “evolving” from some random actions of self-promotion or self-preservation?

 BIG PICTURE

1. If God is the designer and he has a cosmic reason for Man and Woman to be together, then what does that say about other formats the world wants to call "family"?

 Online Resources

1. CARE Sheet
2. Marriage Covenant Information and Policy
3. The Meaning of Marriage by Timothy Keller
4. The Resolution for Men
5. The Resolution for Women
6. Wikki Source - Ancient Origins of the Family
7. 2016 MOSAIC series and Bible Readings
8. 12 Francis Schaeffer Quotes That Will Challenge the Way You Engage Culture (Relevant Magazine)
9. Inspired Evidence – a good devotion book for 2016
10. Timber Lake Christian Church Website
11. Timber Lake Live! (simulcast)
12. Timber Lake’s past videos (Vimeo)

 

SMALL PIECES / BIG PICTURE

Sunday’s play list via YouTube

This Week’s Bible Readings  Feb. 1 – 7,  Matt. 15-18

• Where’s your space to read?
• What’s your time to study?
• What are the key words?
• What was God saying to them?  What’s God saying to you?
• What’s the Holy Spirit going to show throughout the day?
• For what are you grateful?
• For what are you concerned?
• Who needs you today?

Next Week’s Bible Readings  Feb. 8 - 14, Matt. 19-21

Title: “MOSAIC: Those Whose Faith is Great.”

Text:  Matthew 15:1-28

IN A NUTSHELL  “Jesus met a gentile woman whose "faith was great."  Those who are willing to change worldviews look for truth without a desire to be affirmed for anything other than the truth.  Fragile egos aren't able to see the world through another view. This will be a review of amazing people who have left their worldview to embrace Jesus.” 

ICE BREAKER   Have you ever met a person that came to faith late in life? What caught their attention and drew them to their new faith?

IN A NUTSHELL" Jesus met a gentile woman whose "faith was great."  Those who are willing to change worldviews look for truth without a desire to be affirmed for anything other than the truth.  Fragile egos like those of the Pharisees aren't able to see the world through another view. This will be a review of some people who have left their old worldview to look to God.”     

ICE BREAKER   Have you ever met a person that came to faith late in life? What caught their attention and drew them to their new faith?

HIS WORD

1. What are the key differences between the Pharisees (vss. 1-14) and the “Canaanite” woman (vss. 21-28)?

2. Boil it down. What “defiles a person” according to Jesus? Mt. 15:18-20

3. What did Jesus say was the problem with the Pharisees? Mt. 15:6-9

4. What did Jesus say was to the Canaanite woman’s credit? Mt. 15:28

5. How might knowing that Jews hated dogs and Greeks enjoyed them influence this story?  Mt. 15:26,27 [Worldview!!!]

YOUR WORLD

1. How has personal tragedy affected faith in your family?

2. What is the difference between a faith that is desperate and a faith that is enjoyable?  Which type of faith do you seek? 

3. How does “ego” seem to play into the difference of these faiths?

SMALL PIECES

1. How many times have tragedies brought you closer to Jesus?

BIG PICTURE

1. How many of those hard times have made God’s wisdom and grace more visible?

 Online Resources:

1. CARE Sheet – 2116MosaicCAREsheet
2. Former "Skeptics" that have embraced God. awakeandamazed.com
3. Why are so many Christians turning into Atheists?  Charisma
4. Worldview comparison chart
5. The Case for Faith,  Lee Stroble
6. The Reason for God, Tim Keller
7. More Than a Carpenter, Josh McDowell
8. Mere Christianity, C.S. Lewis
9. 2016 MOSAIC series and Bible Readings
10. 12 Francis Schaeffer Quotes That Will Challenge the Way You Engage Culture (Relevant Magazine)
11. Inspired Evidence – a good devotion book for 2016
12. Timber Lake Christian Church Website
13. Timber Lake Live! (simulcast)
14. Timber Lake’s past videos (Vimeo)

by dougdelp

SMALL PIECES / BIG PICTURE

Sunday’s play list via YouTube

This Week’s Bible Readings  Jan. 25 – Jan. 31  , Matt. 13-14

• Where’s your space to read?
• What’s your time to study?
• What are the key words?
• What was God saying to them?  What’s God saying to you?
• What’s the Holy Spirit going to show throughout the day?
• For what are you grateful?
• For what are you concerned?
• Who needs you today?

Next Week’s Bible Readings Feb. 1 – 7,  Matt. 15-18

Title: “MOSAIC: Blessed Are Your Eyes – looking at the world through the eyes of a story teller.”

Text:  Matthew 13

IN A NUTSHELL  “ Jesus used stories to explain to those that would listen to some of the key truths about a Kingdom view of this world.  There is evil, there are opinions about the value of these stories, but we all have free-will to establish personal opinions about those stories.

ICE BREAKER   What is a favorite story you remember one of your parents or grandparents telling you? Was there a moral to the story?

HIS WORD

1. If you were forced to narrow each parable to ONE most dominant point, what would it be?

• Parable of the Sower
• Parable of the weeds
• Mustard Seed and the Leaven
• Hidden Treasure
• Pearl of Great Value
• The Net

YOURWORLD

1. Judging by the time, money, and effort you have spent over the past year what would say you “value” most with your life?
2. If you valued “the Kingdom” more what might that look like?

SMALL PIECES

1. List the worldview topics found in these parables.

BIG PICTURE

1. Looking at all the parables—how is the biblical worldview different from other world views.

 Online Resources:

1. CARE Sheet –1516MosaicCAREsheet
2. Got Questions? – Matt. 13 Parables about the Kingdom of Heaven
3. Worldview comparison chart
4. 2016 MOSAIC series and Bible Readings
5. http://davemiers.com/whats-your-worldview/
6. Inspired Evidence – a good devotion book for 2016
7. Timber Lake Christian Church Website
8. Timber Lake Live! (simulcast)
9. Timber Lake’s past videos (Vimeo)

SMALL PIECES / BIG PICTURE

Sunday’s play list via YouTube

This Week’s Bible Readings  Jan. 18 – Jan. 24   Matthew 11-12

• Where’s your space to read?
• What’s your time to study?
• What are the key words?
• What was God saying to them?  What’s God saying to you?
• What’s the Holy Spirit going to show throughout the day?
• For what are you grateful?
• For what are you concerned?
• Who needs you today?

Next Week’s Bible Readings  Jan. 25 – Jan. 31  , Matt. 13-14

Title: “MOSAIC – Sanctity of Human Life”

Text: Lev. 17:11;  Mt. 22:37-39 ; Ps. 139;

IN A NUTSHELL 

The sanctity of life means that humanity is more sacred than the rest of creation. Human life is not holy in the same sense that God is holy. Only God is holy in and of Himself. Human life is only holy in the sense of being “set apart” from all other life created by God. The sanctity of life should motivate us to combat all forms of evil and injustice that are perpetuated against human life. Violence, abuse, oppression, human trafficking, as well as abortion and euthanasia and many other evils are also violations of the sanctity of life.

ICE BREAKER

Describe something in your home that is “set apart” for a very unique—rare use.  What is it? Can you see how that could be called “sanctified?”

HIS WORD

1. How is the blood unique according to Lev. 17:11?  Is the uniqueness of blood just an Old Testament issue?  (Acts 15:20)
2. What does the “Golden Rule” teach us about defining how we should treat other humans? Mt. 22:37-39
3. What does Ps. 139 say about us humans? God’s view of human life?

YOUR WORLD

1. How does government decide who/what should be regarded as “special” or protected? https://www.fws.gov/endangered/esa-library/pdf/listing.pdf

SMALL PIECES

1. How has the devaluing of human life effected your everyday life? Does the younger generation see it getting better or worse?

BIG PICTURE

1. How does God view the underprivileged in this world?https://dougdelp.files.wordpress.com/2012/05/scriptures-concerning-poor-2.pdf

 Online Resources:

1. CARE Sheet – 1416MosaicCAREsheet
2. Worldview comparison chart
3. Life Network of Central Missouri
4. Missouri Right to Life
5. Focus on the Family “Sanctity of Human Life Guide“
6. Defining what is an Endangered Species
7. 2016 MOSAIC series and Bible Readings
8. Inspired Evidence – a good devotion book for 2016
9. Timber Lake Christian Church Website
10. Timber Lake Live! (simulcast)
11. Timber Lake’s past videos (Vimeo)

SMALL PIECES / BIG PICTURE

Sunday’s play list via YouTube

This Week’s Bible Readings  Jan. 18 – Jan. 24   Matthew 11-12

• Where’s your space to read?
• What’s your time to study?
• What are the key words?
• What was God saying to them?  What’s God saying to you?
• What’s the Holy Spirit going to show throughout the day?
• For what are you grateful?
• For what are you concerned?
• Who needs you today?

Title: “Mosaic – Will Your Foundation Hold Up?”

Texts:   Mt. 7:24-29; 1 Cor. 15:3-4; 1 Pe. 3:8-17; He. 5:11-6:2

IN A NUTSHELL  From first thoughts organized and prioritized to a person’s “final words” we can identify what some people see as being MOST important. Jesus told us to be careful about the principles we build our lives on.  Basically listen carefully to Him and act upon what we hear.  Paul challenges skeptical shallow thinking Christians to the most critical historical event known to man.  Can’t argue there!  Peter challenges us to evaluate our faith on the basis of how we respond to suffering and skeptical people.  When foundations are solid everything else above it retains or builds it’s value!

ICE BREAKER   Have you made any New Year’s resolutions?

HIS WORD

1. What are the consequences of living life without listing your priorities and defining most important principles to live by?
2. Have you ever study any other worldviews that don’t rest on something historical like the death and resurrection of Jesus?
3. If you were to rewrite 1 Pet. 3:8-17 tailored to your life, then how would it read?

YOUR WORLD

Based upon the reverse side of the CARE Sheet “2016 Personal Evaluation” how’s your foundation?1316MosaicCAREsheet

SMALL PIECES

Confidence in a world view…

• give us structures to help us determine questions and answers
• gives us emotional security
• validates our cultural norms
• helps us integrate our culture.
• helps us monitor cultural change
• provide psychological reassurance leading  us (hopefully) to “world peace”

BIG PICTURE

1. Look into Jesus’ eyes… what do you see when He looks at you?

 Online Resources:

1. What is a Worldview by Focus on the Family
2. What makes Christianity unique from every other religious faith?
3. CARE Sheet 1316MosaicCAREsheet
4. 2016 MOSAIC series and Bible Readings
5. Inspired Evidence – a good devotion book for 2016
6. Timber Lake Christian Church Website
7. Timber Lake Live! (simulcast)
8. Timber Lake’s past videos (Vimeo)

 SMALL PIECES / BIG PICTURE

Sunday’s play list via YouTube

This Week’s Bible Readings  Jan. 11 – Jan. 17

Jan. 11 -17,  Matt. 8-10 ;

• Where's your space?
• What's your time?
• What are the key words?
• What was God saying to them?  What's God saying to you?
• What's the Holy Spirit going to show throughout the day?
• For what are you grateful?
• For what are you concerned?
• Who needs you today?

Title: “Mosaic - The Sermon on the Mount”

Texts:  Matthew 5-7; Exodus 25:9,40; Hebrews 8:5; 1 Chr. 28:11-12,19; Matt. 15:6,7

IN A NUTSHELL: Those listening to Jesus preach these sermons had heard the laws and principles of the Mosaic law taught since birth.  Now Jesus goes deeper and teaches the heart of God's nature. Those interested in being a part of the Kingdom must learn to focus on God's nature, not just rules that might make them look like Him. It is interesting how man can take elements of one worldview and make them appear contradictory! (Mt. 5:17) It's not people who obey the law that are happy, it's the people that think the thoughts of God and delight in those things He delights in that will find themselves blessed.  Big difference!.

HIS WORD

1. What was Jesus trying to communicate when He said, "You have heard it said..."?  (Matt. 5:21-6:4)  Was he negating the Old Testament Law?  Was He instating a New Law?
2. Are the Beatitudes - are they virtues to pursue, heavenly characteristics to anticipate or indicators of a present Kingdom of Heaven citizen? What's the difference? (Matt. 5:1-16)
3. What do Ex. 25:9,40, 1 Chr. 28:11-12,19 and Heb. 8:5 tell us about the patterns for the tabernacle and temple?

YOUR WORLD

1. Do you tend to view Bible verses such as the Beatitudes as prescriptions for how to "become godly", or descriptions of what "those who are godly" look like? What's the difference?
2. What are some passages of Scripture that may have the appearance of contradicting other passages?  Have you ever lost any arguments or just avoided talking about passages out of fear of losing the argument?
3. Do you ever find your self promoting an opinion, conviction  or tradition (worldview) at the expense of God's word?

SMALL PIECES

1. How might your family, or a CARE Group, Bible Fellowship Class or Ministry team at T.L.C.C. help you become a "citizen" of the Kingdom rather than just someone trying on a Kingdom uniform?

BIG PICTURE

1. How might this week look different from last week if you decided today that "being a Christian" is quite different from "looking like one" or trying to "act like one?"

 Online Resources:

1. A study of 143 alleged contradictions in the Bible
2. The Beatitudes (gotquestions.org)
3. 2016 MOSAIC series and Bible Readings
4. Inspired Evidence – a good devotion book for 2016
5. Timber Lake Christian Church Website
6. Timber Lake Live! (simulcast)
7. Timber Lake’s past videos (Vimeo)

Sunday’s play list via YouTube This Week’s Bible Readings  Jan. 4 - Jan. 10

•  Jan. 4 - Jan. 10, Matt. 5-7  Begin by setting a specific and consistent time to read through and pray the Scriptures. Ask the Lord to bring to mind key words especially relevant to your life, needs and interests. Circle or underline those words. Ask questions regarding the context as to the meaning of those words. Pray about those words asking God to help you understand and apply yourself to His will and the Holy Spirit's leading. Watch for things to happen that will affirm the relevance of those verses. Share the insights gained with someone else. Thank God for helping you understand them by not only learning them, but loving them and living them out each day.

Title: “Advent – The Wise Men”

Texts: Matthew 2:1-12; Micah 5:4-6;  Dan. 2:46-49;  Numbers 24:17; Isaiah 60:2-6

IN A NUTSHELL: What has the story of "The Wise Men" meant to you? Has it just been another part of the Christmas Story or maybe something bigger, like a story about very smart people willing to cash in one worldview for a better one?  The Wise Men were foreign diplomats on a quest inspired by an ancient book to find a new King!  Wise Men and women ask questions about/from the Bible and are willing to risk life changing commitments to follow it’s truths.

CONNECTING WITH THE TEXT

1. What do we know about the Wise Men?   What is just conjecture?
2. How could Wise Men from the East have known about a King and linked it to a star?
3. What had Isaiah said about "the Light" in Israel?
4. What were the uses and value of the gifts the Magi brought?

REFLECTING ON OUR LIVES

1. How would you respond to a national leader acting the way Herod did when you had set out to find the new King with so much hope for the future?
2. What does a closed mind look like?  What causes such a closed mind?
3. Are there any major assumptions that you have recently turned you back on because you have sought the truth from a different perspective?

CONNECTING TO OUR CHURCH

1. Do you see "the Church" at large as better at teaching the truth or brainwashing the next generation with urban legends?
2. How can our church improve "truth telling" over

 Online Resources:

1. Snopes.com on The Wise Men (facts & fiction)
2. The Wise Men's gifts - contemporary estimates
3. 2016 MOSAIC series and Bible Readings
4. Inspired Evidence – Devotional for 2016
5. Timber Lake Christian Church Website
7. Timber Lake’s past videos (Vimeo)

Sunday’s play list via YouTube

This Week’s Bible Readings  Dec. 28- Jan. 3

•  Dec. 28 – Jan. 3, Matt. 1-4  Begin by setting a specific and consistent time to read through and pray the Scriptures. Ask the Lord to bring to mind key words especially relevant to your life, needs and interests. Circle or underline those words. Ask questions regarding the context as to the meaning of those words. Pray about those words asking God to help you understand and apply yourself to the Scripture you are reading. Watch for things to happen that will affirm the relevance of those verses. Share the insights gained with someone else. Thank God for helping you understand them by not only learning them, but loving them and living them out each day.

Title: "Advent – The Shepherds"

Texts: Luke 2:8-20;  Gen. 46:34;  Col. 3:23-24

IN A NUTSHELL: How do you view your work in light of God's purpose in your life? How do you think the shepherds viewed their work?   How did those around the shepherds view their work? Many people tie their self worth to the way the world views their work.  Not God!  Obstacle? or Opportunity?

CONNECTING WITH THE TEXT

1. How did the Egyptians view the Israelites since they herded livestock? Gen. 46:34
2. How did the shepherds react to the Angel's announcement?
3. What passages of Scripture can help guide me to know if God is "pleased with me"? John 8:24; 11:25; 3:16-18, 36;  Acts 2:38
4. What are some key biblical principles that should guide us as we view our work in light of God's purpose?Proverbs 11:1; 1 Thessalonians 4:17; Psalms 127:1; 1Timothy 5:8; Ephesians 4:28; Proverbs 22:29; Proverbs 14:23; Matthew 5:16; 1 Corinthians 16:14; Proverbs 24:27; James 4:13-15; 1 Peter 3:15; 2 Corinthians 5:20; Colossians 3:23-24; 1 Peter 2:18; Proverbs 28:19; Ephesians 4:29

REFLECTING ON OUR LIVES

1. What are some key issues of your work that appear to be obstacles?
2. How might God use those obstacles to "grow you in your faith, love and hope"?

CONNECTING TO OUR CHURCH

1. How might the church... your CARE group, help you change your perspective of obstacles into opportunities?

 Online Resources:

1. Shepherd's Status w/ Randy Alcorn
2. 2016 MOSAIC series and Bible Readings
3. Inspired Evidence – Devotional for 2016
4. Timber Lake Christian Church Website
5. Timber Lake’s past videos (Vimeo)

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Sunday’s play list via YouTube

This Week’s Bible Readings  Dec. 20-26

• II Peter 1-3 
• Psalms 145-150
• Ruth 1-4
• Malachi 1-4

Title: Advent - Jesus

Texts: Micah 5:2; Luke 1:47-48; Matthew 19:28-30;  16:24;  Matthew 20:15-16; Hebrews 2:9-10

IN A NUTSHELL: King of kings and Lord of lords, Holy One of God,  Light of the World, Firstborn over all creation, Prince of Peace, Son of God, Alpha and Omega... given birth in a stable to be cared for by young blue collar workers. Jesus as a new born was laid in a feeding trough, greeted by itinerant shepherds and funded by the benevolence of foreign diplomats.  No room in the inn, no tolerance from His people, and no patience from his brothers and sisters.  Irony of ironies... what can make sense of these extreme realities?  Oh yes, born...to die...to rise again...to prepare for us home. Merry Christmas to all!

CONNECTING WITH THE TEXT

1. How  was the city of Bethlehem viewed around the time of Jesus? Micah 5:2
2. What was the irony that Mary saw in God's call on her life?   Luke 1:47-48
3. What are two extreme contrasting things that Jesus  says about  those who follow Him? Matthew 19:28-30;  16:24
4. What has resulted in your life because of Jesus', birth... life...death... resurrection?  Hebrews 2:9-10

REFLECTING ON OUR LIVES

1. Is there anything special, "redeeming" about your town?  Your family?  Your home?  Name it! Thank God for it! Ask God to help you grow it!
2. What obstacles do you see in your life right now?   How might they become backdrops to God's grace!
3. How might you need to "reverse" your thinking about your life?

CONNECTING TO OUR CHURCH

1. How has the ministry of T.L.C.C. helped God take obstacles and turn them into backdrops of God's grace, making them opportunities?

 Online Resources:

1. Names for Jesus  Christ - "Got Questions website"
2. TLCC’s 2015 Advent Calendar
3. Legacy Video - Ray, Jim, Becky & Karen
4. The True Story of Pain and Hope Behind the "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day"
5. Inspired Evidence – Devotional for 2016
6. 50 People Every Christian Should Know
7. Timber Lake Christian Church Website
8. Timber Lake’s past videos (Vimeo)

by dougdelp

Sunday’s play list via YouTube

This Week’s Bible Readings  Dec. 13-19

• Zechariah 1-14

Texts: Matt. 1:18-25; Lk. 1:38-40;  Lk. 2; Eph. 5:25-33; Lev. 20:10; Jn. 8:1-11

IN A NUTSHELL:  First century Jewish husbands were large and in charge. The women of their lives could easily have been (and often were) viewed as little more than “arrow fillers of a man’s quiver.” Joseph’s obstacles humanly speaking were huge, but in spite  of those obstacles he chose to look at the opportunities.  Marriages that put God’s purpose before their own preferences often change the course of history for their families, our churches and even our world!

CONNECTING WITH THE TEXT

1. How might we manage ourselves in order to turn times of obstacles into times of opportunities with our spouses? Rom. 12:16-21; Pr. 15:1; Ph. 2:4; Col. 3:13; Eph. 4:26; Jas. 1:2-4
2. What is to be the priority for husbands toward their wives and who provided the ultimate example?
3. What was the common reaction toward women that had been unfaithful? John 8:1-11
4. Do we see any words describing Mary’s reaction to the news of her being pregnant? (Lk. 1:39)
5. What specifically did Joseph decide to do to settle the issue of Mary’s alleged unfaithfulness?
6. What all can we understand about Joseph from Matthew’s and Luke’s Gospels?

REFLECTING ON OUR LIVES

1. Did you ever wonder if Jesus thought about how Joseph handled Mary as he looked upon the woman caught in adultery?
2. Just because your spouses’ actions gives you a just reason to react negatively toward them does Christ’s example give us the right to do so?
3. Which is better to focus on manage our own reactions or controlling our spouses?
4. What are your “fear buttons”?  (See "Fear Cycle" below)
5. What are your typical reactions when your “buttons are pushed”?
6. What do you really want in your relationship?
7. Do your typical reactions tend to promote or detract from your “wants”?

CONNECTING TO OUR CHURCH

1. How might the church better help families in conflict?

 Online Resources:

1. This week’s CARE Sheet
2. Fear Cycle - fear buttons, reactions, wants assessment - Fear Cycle
3. TLCC’s 2015 Advent Calendar
4. Christianity: the Best Thing that Ever Happened to Women (an article)
5. A Test of Love tract
6. Inspired Evidence - Devotional for 2016
7. Conflict Resolution in the Bible
8. Timber Lake Christian Church Website
9. Timber Lake’s past videos (Vimeo)

Sunday’s play list via YouTube

This Week’s Bible Readings  Nov. 22-28

• Haggai 1-2
• Psalms 117-137

Texts:  Luke 1:26-56

IN A NUTSHELL: Many women’s lives historically have been divided into pre-marriage/post marriage, pre-college or post college, pre-children or post-children. Mary’s life could have been regarded as “pre-Gabriel” and “post-Gabriel."  In every stage of life there are obstacles and opportunities. What we choose to see as we embrace that stage may make the difference of finishing well or destroying a great Godly legacy.

QUESTIONS: 

1. How does the Bible describe people responding to an angel appearing to them?
2. What was at stake (going to be the cost) for Mary because of this announcement?
3. What are the ironies, contrasting views, or “reversals” that Mary sees in God’s announcement to her?
4. What seemed to inspire Mary to view this as an opportunity of service, rather than an obstacle in her life?
5. How do you imagine responding if an angel appeared to you for any reason?
6. How has being a faithful Christian (parent, spouse, employee, church leader) been an obstacle to your comfort, happiness, or life enjoyment?
7. “Motherhood” for many ladies become a source of personal fulfillment. Knowing what Mary watched take place in Jesus’ life how much “personal fulfillment” do you imagine her receiving from being Jesus’ mother?
8. How have you practice viewing challenges as opportunities?
9. What are some Scriptures that you need to embrace which can help you view life obstacles as Godly opportunities to fulfill His purpose?
10. Do you sense God calling on you to sacrifice any life hope or dream for Him to be able to fulfill His purpose through your ministry instead?

 Online Resources:

1. This week's CARE Sheet CARE Sheet 12-1-15
2. TLCC’s 2015 Advent Calendar
3. Mary - The Virgin Birth of Jesus compared to the Mythological god Mithras
4. Timber Lake Christian Church Website
5. Timber Lake’s past videos (Vimeo)
6. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1WwoU-kGDxUjj7KJATDNlzG6_vj_nSWU9JwcUugklolw/editjusp=sharing_eid&ts=56547c04

Sunday’s play list via YouTube

This Week’s Bible Readings  Nov. 22-28

• Nehemiah 9-13
• Psalms 99-116

Texts:  Traditionally,  each week of the advent season has emphasized one of these five elements of the Christmas story.  These will form the outline of our message on Sunday, and you can look ahead at the texts if you want.. #1 -- Prophecy / Hope (Romans 15:12-13) #2 -- Bethlehem / Peace (Luke 3:4-6) #3 -- Shepherds / Joy (Luke 2:7-15) #4 -- Angel / Love (John 3:16-17) #5 -- Christ (John 1:29)

IN A NUTSHELL: What's the Advent Season all about?  Is it the same as the Christmas season or unique?  Is it consistent with biblical themes and priorities?  Could this season be celebrated in a way that helps us grow in faith rather than focus on materialistic 'stuff?"

QUESTIONS: During Advent, we recall the waiting and expectancy that God's people had in anticipation of the Messiah.  Think about these questions in relationship to waiting and patience in your own life:

1. Do you find it difficult to wait and trust in God’s love? Why or why not?
2. We often think of waiting as being passive. However, the waiting we see in Scripture is very active. One author has described it this way: “Active waiting means to be present fully to the moment, in the conviction that something is happening where you are and that you want to be present to it.” Have you ever thought of waiting in this way? What are some ways in which you can practice active waiting?
3. In general, do you try to control your life or do you allow God to define your life? Does it scare you to trust God with your future?

 Online Resources:

1. TLCC's 2015 Advent Calendar
2. What is Advent?
3. Family Advent Ideas
4. Timber Lake Christian Church Website
5. Timber Lake’s past videos (Vimeo)

Sunday’s play list via YouTube

Title:  “Encountering God- with Gratitude”

This Week’s Bible Readings  Nov. 22-28

• Nehemiah 1-8
• Psalms 87-98

Texts:  Mic. 6:8; Mt. 7:14; Lk. 17, 18 & 19;  Rev. 12:7-12

IN A NUTSHELL:  The prophet Micah said, “Do justice, love mercy and walk humbly before God.”  Worship is the humble walk. It is the knee buckling, jaw dropping acknowledgement of the gap between the creature and the creator, sinful and the Holy.  It is the heart-rending, spirit-mending gratitude and the joy of celebrating grace and redemption. This is all wrapped up in a hope that starts today and will last an eternity.

ICE BREAKER:  When was the last time you felt overwhelmed with gratitude?  What caused your thankfulness?  How did you respond?

WINDOWS IN THE WORD

1. What does Mt. 7:14 suggest about the number of those going to heaven?
2. What are God's priorities for us as His children? Mic. 6:8
3. List the stories recorded in Luke chapters 17 - 19.  What lessons on gratitude might be taken from those stories?  Lk. 17, 18 & 19
4. We've heard the phrase for decades, no doubt, it's been said for millennia, "What's this world coming to?"  What's the answer? Rev. 12:7-12

WINDOWS INTO MY HEART

1. Some have suggested that there are often key events in a person’s life that moves them from a mindset of gratitude, discovery and hope to a mindset of criticism, discouragement and hopelessness. Can you identify an event, relationship or circumstance that generally speaking changed your disposition (either good to bad or bad to good) Do you have any unfinished business with God or someone else regarding forgiveness or expressing gratitude?

WINDOWS TO THE WORLD

1.  How might the world be different if gratitude for God’s grace were more spoken of by the church rather than criticism and judgement. We’re not talking about the absence of Scripture but rather the improvement of our tone!

 WHAT I SEE…

Online Resources:

1. The CARE Sheet –11415GodEnccaresheet
2. "Teaching Thankfulness" - Creative Connections for Kids
3. "Biscuit is Thankful" - A children's book
4. "30 Days of Thanksgiving" a daily devotional
5. "The Dangerous Act of Worship" book by Mark Labberton
6. TLCC Music Ministry – Pinterest Board
7. Timber Lake Christian Church Website
8. Timber Lake’s past videos (Vimeo)

Sunday’s play list via YouTube

Title:  “Encountering God- Spiritual Warfare in Worship”

This Week’s Bible Readings  Nov. 16-21 

• Ezra 1-10
• Psalms 72-86

Texts: Matt. 5:23-24; Ac. 16:16-40;  John 4:23-24;  Eph. 6:10-18; 1 Pet. 5:8-10;  2 Cor. 10:3-4; Heb. 3:13, 4:12-13;  Gal. 5:19-21;  Col. 3:5-8; Mk. 7:21-23

IN A NUTSHELL  If  worshiping God “in spirit and in truth” is seen by Jesus as one of the most important things for us to understand in our worship, then Satan is more than happy to just tweak our disposition and slightly distorting the truth.

ICE BREAKER  Describe the last time you saw the patrolman and knew you were going to be stopped.  What is it that causes us to be careless until we think we are about to be caught?

WINDOWS IN THE WORD

1. What did the woman at Jacob's well go to for discussion when she perceived Jesus was a prophet?
2. Since the devil is trying to "devour" us what does Peter say we should do?
3. What are the weapons we fight with as Christians?
4. In what ways might John 4:23,24 and Heb. 4:12-13 be linked regarding the "spirit & truth"?

WINDOWS INTO MY HEART

1. How can Christians help each other avoid being deceived by Satan?
2. What today has challenged your ability to worship God in Spirit and truth?
3. Take a look at the back of the CARE Sheet (Worship Priority) and spend some time this week evaluating your thoughts and actions.  If you are a Christian they are at war with the Holy Spirit in you as you try to worship. In light of those passages of Scripture how might you better make worshiping God in Spirit and truth a priority this next week?

WINDOWS TO THE WORLD

1. If someone came to church today for the first time and asked you about the most important thing about your church, what would you describe?  Why?

 WHAT I SEE…

Online Resources:

1. The CARE Sheet –11315GodEnccaresheet
2. Spiritual Warfare - by Karl Payne
3. Indications of Spiritual Warfare 
4. TLCC Music Ministry – Pinterest Board
5. Timber Lake Christian Church Website
6. Timber Lake’s past videos (Vimeo)
7. "Oh, that's good!" Hee Haw tribute to comedian Archie Campbell

Sunday’s play list via YouTube

This Week’s Bible Readings  Nov. 8-15 

• Esther 1-10
• Psalms 59-71

Texts:   Rev. 4:8-11; Neh. 8:6; Hab. 2:20; Matt. 2:11; Ps. 47:1; 2 Sam. 6:14, 16, 22

IN A NUTSHELL  Posture not only reflects the attitude of humility and gratitude that is present in the believer, but postures can enhance and magnify the experience of gratitude and reverence expressed by the believer.

ICE BREAKER  When a child raises their hands to his father, he wants to be picked up. When a friend offers you a gift, you reach out to receive it. When you celebrate a great victory, you jump up and down and shout and high five those around you. When you enter in the presence of a great king, you bow down in honor and respect. Talk about how posture does have meaning and significance in our lives.

WINDOWS IN THE WORD

Read 2 Sam. 6.  Why was David dancing with all his might in worship of the Lord?  What was his response to his wife's critical comments about his expression of worship?

WINDOWS INTO MY HEART

Do you find yourself more often being like David and worshiping God without inhibitions? Or do you find yourself more like Michal who is embarrassed and critical of those who are expressive in worship? Which one did God bless?

WINDOWS TO THE WORLD

In a world that often does not believe in a Creator God, what do you think the average person thinks when they see someone passionately singing and lifting their hands in worship? How could posture communicate to a broken world that you believe in an unseen God?  ?

 WHAT I SEE...

Online Resources:

1. The CARE Sheet –11215GodEnccaresheet
2. Worship in the Bible - David Carpenter
3. LCC Music Ministry – Pinterest Board
4. Timber Lake Christian Church Website
5. Timber Lake’s past videos (Vimeo)

Sunday’s play list via YouTube

This Week’s Bible Readings  Nov. 1-7 

• Ezekiel 33-48
• II Timothy 1-4
• Psalms 56-58

Title: “Encountering the Holy Spirit in Worship”

Texts: Acts 4; Gal. 5:19-26;  1 Cor. 12:1-11;  Jn. 15:26; 14:15-25; 1 Cor. 14:33; Ro. 8:26; Jn. 3:1-13; Rom. 11:34;  Is. 55:8,9

In a Nutshell: According to Acts 4 when we encounter the Holy Spirit amidst worship we could see some or all of these things which happen totally at God's discretion, not by man’s invention or device.  The overriding manifestations of the presence of the Holy Spirit include: respectful boldness of the believers and indisputable resources & successes of the gospel among the believers and unbelievers.

 ICE BREAKER  When is the last time you prayed for revival? Why? Why not?

 WINDOWS IN THE WORD

1. What things “happened to the church” in Acts 4?
2. What things did “the church do” in Acts 4?
3. What happened “amidst the church” outside of their control in Acts 4?
4. What was Paul saying to the most divided, confused and argumentative church (Corinth) found in the Bible when he said, “You know that when you were pagans you were led astray to mute idols, however you were led.” See also 1 Cor. 14:12,20
5. What is the difference between “manifestations of the Spirit” and the “fruits of the Spirit”? Gal. 5:19-26

WINDOWS INTO MY HEART

1. If you had a choice between having the power to do miraculous things and gain a large audience or the power to live every day filled with resolve growing in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control which would you choose? Why?
2. What would you say is the most “noteworthy” thing that happened in Acts 4?
3. What would you like to see in Acts 4 happen to Timber Lake today?

WINDOWS TO THE WORLD

1. How might Randolph County be changed if we prayed for boldness to share Christ with others amidst difficult situations?

1. This week at supper read, discuss the meaning of and pray about the “Fruits of the Spirit” (Gal. 5:22-24).  Look for ways to foster hope in the worlds in which each of your family members live. Believing in the Holy Spirit and celebrating life means living in hope. Have a positive , enthusiastic and supportive attitude rather than a critical one.   See how that habit changes  your next time “at church.”

Online Resources:

1. The CARE Sheet –11115GodEnccaresheet
2. "Forgotten God"  by Francis Chan
3. "The Holy Spirit" by Jack Cottrell
4. "Counterfeit Revival" by Hank Hanegraff
5. “The Difference Between Emotion and Emotionalism in Worship”
6. LCC Music Ministry – Pinterest Board
7. Timber Lake’s past videos (Vimeo)

Sunday’s play list via YouTube

This Week’s Bible Readings  Oct. 24 – 31 

• Ezekiel 17-32
• Psalms 54-55
• I Thessalonians 1-5

Title: “A Genuine Encounter"

Texts: 1 Sam. 16:7; Mat. 15; 1 Cor. 10; Heb 12:28-29; Isa. 57:15

In a Nutshell: What does it mean to worship God authentically?  What are the qualities of genuine worship?  The New Testament does not give us a “prescription” for how to worship God.  It would have been much easier if God had done that, but He wanted us to have freedom and creativity.  We’ll look at several “healthy tensions” when it comes to worshiping God with our mind, bodies, and emotions (heart).

 ICE BREAKER:  Describe a time in your life (an event, personal worship time, etc.) when you had an awesome God encounter.  What were the circumstances? How did that experience change your overall picture of what it means to worship God?

QUESTIONS:

WINDOWS IN THE WORD

1. What does 1 Sam. 16:7 teach us about genuine worship? Can you tell if someone else is worshiping God by how the look, act, feel, etc.?
2. What does 1 Cor. 10:31 tell us about when / how often we worship God? Have you ever been guilty of having an “event-oriented” view of worship rather than worshiping in all of life?
3. In what ways do we worship horizontally, and in what ways do we worship vertically? (Psalm 29, Eph. 1:3-6, 1 Cor. 14:26, Col. 3:16, 1 Cor. 11)

WINDOWS INTO MY HEART

1. What is the number one priority when it comes to worshiping and serving God? (Matthew 15:8ff)  Have you been focused too much on emotions or actions and not enough on your heart?

WINDOWS TO THE WORLD

1. What do you believe is the healthy balance between staying rooted (tradition, hymns, doctrinal emphasis) and relevant (modern terminology, changes in style, etc.)?
2. In what ways are your expressions of worship and service observable and compelling to the world (unbelievers) around you?

WHAT I SEE

1. Did the explanations of any of the healthy tensions challenge your thinking about genuine worship?

1.  
2. Worship and service cannot be separated.  The fact is that we were created to serve God. When we worship God, we will naturally serve Him, and when we serve God, we are worshiping Him.  As Christians, no matter how young or old, we all have something to do.  We are servants of the Most High God!   When we think of a servant, we may think of someone who reports to work for a specific amount of time and is paid a specific wage. That is an employee – not a servant.  In the New Testament, the Greek word for “serve” is often “latreuo” and is often translated as “worship.”  This is not the picture of a slave serving a master. It is the picture of a relationship of love that compels action.  Romans 12:1 — “Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God – this is your spiritual act of worship.”

Online Resources:

1. The CARE Sheet –10415GodEnccaresheet (1)
2. LCC Music Ministry – Pinterest Board
3. Timber Lake’s past videos (Vimeo)

Sunday’s play list via YouTube

This Week’s Bible Readings  Oct. 11 – 17 

• Ezekiel 1-16
• Romans 12-16
• Psalms 52-53

Title: “Encountering God in Scripture ”

Texts: Matthew 6:1-15; Psalm 100

In a Nutshell:  The principle of ’affirmation’ could be derived from Scripture and compiled into a format that would act as a prayer  tool to enable people to encounter God in Scripture.

 ICE BREAKER:  Do you remember a time you fell asleep while you were praying?

QUESTIONS:

WINDOWS IN THE WORD

1. What seems to be a reoccurring theme (comparison/contrast) in Matthew 6:1-15?
2. What is Jesus asking God for when he says” your will be done on earth as it is in heaven”?
3. It has been suggested that two verses of Psalm 100 are action oriented, and two are knowledge based. Which ones are which in your estimation?
4. Is it possible to enter “his presence/courts” without singing, really singing?
5. What would it look like to come into a corporate worship service not realizing that you are His? He owns you…

WINDOWS INTO MY HEART

1. What areas of your life are not ordered as God has ordered heaven?
2. What keeps you singing when you worship?
3. How is my prayer life… really? Selfish or selfless? Focused or haphazard

WINDOWS TO THE WORLD

1. How might you take this verse (Matt. 9:35-37)and pray for people in your world?

WHAT I SEE

1.  
2. This week take seriously one of the below challenges:
   1. This week commit to read/pray with/from/through 1 John chapter 1.
   2. Go to next week’s CARE sheet usually posted on Thursdays and then read/pray the Scriptures to be used in the sermon. www.dougdelp.wordpress.com
   3. Buy the book (“Face to Face: Praying the Scriptures for Intimate Worship”) and commit to at least one month of praying through Scripture.  [Oct. 25—Nov. 26, Thanksgiving]
   4. Check out this website knowing only the Scripture is inspired and man’s interpretation and application always needs to be checked with the Bible (Acts 17:11). www.pray-the-scriptures.com

Online Resources:

1. The CARE Sheet – 10315GodEnccaresheet
2. “Face to Face: Praying the Scriptures for Intimate Worship" by Kenneth Boa
3. TLCC Music Ministry – Pinterest Board
4. Timber Lake’s past videos (Vimeo)