Sunday Rewind | 10.6.13
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Be Lifted High (John 3:30) – Nothing Is Wasted by Elevation Worship
In Your Presence (Deuteronomy 31:6) – Nothing Is Wasted by Elevation Worship
Forever Reign (Lamentations 5:19) – A Beautiful Exchange by Hillsong
Jesus Paid It All (Colossians 2:13-14) – North Point Live by Krsitian Stanfill (North Point)
With Us (Psalm 46:10-11a) – God Is Able by Hillsong
TEACHING: The Missing Peace, Part 3
To wrap up our series on peace and peacemaking, Erik Palmer moderates a session with Jason VanDorsten and Jason Goetz to answer some of the questions that were submitted over the course of the series, including the topics of persecution, being salt & light, making peace with non-Christians, and more.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
HAVE A STORY TO SHARE ABOUT PEACE OR PEACEMAKING?
We would also love to hear from you if you have a story of peace or peacemaking as a result of this series or just through something God has done in your life regarding peace. You can email your story to themissingpeace@restonbible.org. We’d love to share your stories in future blog posts, rejoice with you and encourage others by what God is doing in this area in our church body.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- Has this series been helpful to you in regards to the subject of peace or peacemaking? Why or why not?
- Read and discuss Matthew 5:1-16. What is your reaction to the introduction of persecution into the Beatitudes text? Why should peacemakers expect to be persecuted? Why would Jesus say “blessed are those who are persecuted”?
- Do you feel you have ever been persecuted as a direct result of following Christ?
- What is your response to Jesus’ admonition to “rejoice and be glad” in the midst of persecution (v. 12)? Why can Jesus make such a bold command?
- Have you ever made peace with a non-Christian? What happened? What was the process like?
- Do you tend to think of the Gospel mainly as a presentation or as a way of life? How can you grow in that area?
- What does it mean to “live out the Gospel” before others? How do you feel you’re doing with that?
- Do you know someone who is having a difficult time finding peace in the midst of a difficult season or situation? What could you do to encourage them? Take some time to pray for them in your group, then make some time this week to reach out and encourage them.
Sunday Rewind | 9.29.13
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Sing, Sing, Sing (Psalm 47:6-7) – Hello Love by Chris Tomlin
Exalted One (Psalm 121:1-2) – For The Honor by Elevation Worship
Give Me Faith (Psalm 73:25-26) – Nothing Is Wasted by Elevation Worship
Nothing But The Blood (Ephesians 1:7-8a) – Facedown by Matt Redman
Majesty (Isaiah 53:5) – Majesty: The Worship EP by Leeland
TEACHING: The Missing Peace, Part 2
All Christ-followers are called to be peacemakers and “make every effort” to pursue peace with God, peace with God’s people, and peace with all men. Peacemaking in the biblical sense is bringing the fullness of the Gospel of Jesus into broken situations and hurting hearts, despite painful circumstances.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
HAVE A QUESTION ABOUT PEACE?
We would love to have an interactive/collaborative component to our Missing Peace series. If you have any questions regarding the topic of peace or peacemaking, please email us at themissingpeace@restonbible.org. We will address some of your questions in the final part of the teaching series. The deadline for question submission is noon on Wednesday, October 2.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What is one thing from this teaching that you found particularly helpful, insightful, or difficult to grasp?
- Is peace reliant on situations or circumstances? Why or why not?
- Read and discuss Matthew 5:1-10. What do you observe about the person of Christ? What does this indicate about the nature of man? What observations do you note about the sequence of the Beatitudes?
- Can you think of any examples you’ve seen or experienced of peacebreaking, peacefaking and/or peacemaking?
- Do you tend to lean more toward peacebreaking or peacefaking? What would it look like for you to move more toward peacemaking?
- Are you a child of God? Why or why not? How is this related to having peace, making peace and bringing peace?
- How is the good news of Jesus Christ God’s terms for peace & peacemaking?
- Is there a situation, circumstance or relationship in your life where you need to “make every effort to do what leads to peace” (Romans 14:19)? What would it look like to bring the gospel into that? Spend some time in prayer with your small group about it.
Sunday Rewind | 8.4.13
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Exalted One (Psalm 121:1-2) – For The Honor by Elevation Worship
Your Love Never Fails (Romans 8:28) – Your Love Never Fails by Jesus Culture
God Is Able (Ephesians 3:20-21) – God Is Able by Hillsong
Always (Psalm 121:1-2) – Here For You by Kristian Stanfill (Passion)
How Deep The Father’s Love For Us (Galatians 6:14) – Original Arrangement
In Christ Alone (Galatians 2:20) – Let The Future Begin by Kristian Stanfill (Passion)
TEACHING: But Now, Jesus
In Romans 3, the apostle Paul gives a scathing indictment against the sin in all of mankind’s character, communication and conduct. However, two beautiful words in the chapter lead to hope and life to all who stand condemned under the wrath of God – “but now…” Pastor Ed Nalle teaches on the contrast between human sinfulness and God’s grace in salvation.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
Here is a bulletin insert that was included with this sermon with a 7-day reading plan to cover the book of Romans. Click here to download.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- As you reflect on this sermon, what one insight or principle stands out as being particularly helpful, insightful or difficult to grasp?
- Read and discuss Romans 3:9-20. What does this tell you about the nature of man in his character, communication & conduct? What is inferred about the nature of God?
- Romans 3:18 summarizes man’s condition as “There is no fear of God before their eyes.” What does it mean to fear God? Why is this important?
- What does it mean to seek God “on our own terms”? How do we tend to do that? What is the result?
- Read Romans 3:21-31. What does this tell you about the character & nature of God? Why are the words “but now” (v. 21) so important?
- Can we be justified before God by our good works? Why or why not?
- John Newton said, “‘Til sin be bitter, grace will not be sweet.” What does this mean? How does understanding the depth of our personal sin help us understand God’s grace in the gospel of Jesus? How does this lead to grateful worship?
- How does the gospel provide a balanced view of sin and grace? Spend some time in prayer with your group, thanking God for the amazing provision of the gospel.
Sunday Rewind | 7.21.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Endless Light (Psalm 113:3-4) – Cornerstone by Hillsong
Open Up Our Eyes (Ephesians 1:18-19a) – Nothing Is Wasted by Elevation Worship
Rock of Ages (Deuteronomy 32:3-4) – Death of Death by Charlie Hall
Forever Reign (Lamentations 5:19) – A Beautiful Exchange by Hillsong
Jesus Paid It All (Colossians 2:13-14) – North Point Live by Kristian Stanfill (North Point)
TEACHING: Ruth: A Story of God’s Redemptive Love, Part 4
There is often a disconnect between how we see ourselves and how others see us. As representatives of Christ in a fallen world, we should take inventory of our character in light of Scripture. The character of Ruth and generosity of Boaz point us toward an integral life in Christ.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- As you reflect on this sermon, what one insight or principle stands out as being particularly helpful, insightful or difficult to grasp?
- What is “character”? Can you think of any examples of bad character? Of good character?
- Read and discuss Ruth 2. In terms of character, how does the foreman view Ruth? How does Boaz view Ruth? How does Ruth view Boaz? How does Naomi view Boaz? How does the author view Naomi?
- How does the character and generosity of Boaz point us to Christ?
- Is it important to consider how others see us? Why or why not?
- In what ways are you prone to have a “heat index” in your view of yourself and think more highly of yourself than you ought?
- How does the gospel help us see ourselves as we really are? How does the gospel tell us about how God views us? How are our personal character deficits redeemed in the gospel?
- Just based on outward observation, would your faith in Christ be evident to others? Why or why not? Can you think of any areas for intentional improvement? Spend some time in prayer about this with your group.
Evening of Worship SET LIST
Many of you have requested a list of songs from last Friday’s Evening of Worship… and here it is. Thanks to everyone who came out! We had an incredible time together!
Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord;
let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.
Let us come before him with thanksgiving
and extol him with music and song.
For the Lord is the great God,
the great King above all gods.
Psalm 95:1-3
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GOD IS ABLE – Hillsong
GOD, YOU LIFTED ME OUT – Elevation Worship
+ Psalm 113:1-3
ENDLESS LIGHT – Hillsong
HOW GREAT THOU ART – Charlie Hall / Passion
FOREVER REIGN – Hillsong
ALWAYS – Kristian Stanfill / Passion
+ Psalm 16:5-11
COME THOU FOUNT OF EVERY BLESSING – Original Arrangement
OUR KING HAS COME – Elevation Worship
IN YOUR PRESENCE – Elevation Worship
GIVE ME FAITH – Elevation Worship
OPEN UP OUR EYES – Elevation Worship
UNENDING LOVE – Hillsong
+ Philippians 4:4-7 / Proverbs 3:3-6
‘TIS SO SWEET TO TRUST IN JESUS – Original Arrangement
O FOR A THOUSAND TONGUES TO SING – Original Arrangement
+ Isaiah 53:4-6 / Galatians 6:14
HOW DEEP THE FATHER’S LOVE FOR US – Original Arrangement
IN CHRIST ALONE – Kristian Stanfill / Passion
OUR GOD IS LOVE – Hillsong
The Unity of Worship
“The sound of our House will always reflect the soul of our House.”
-Brian Houston, Senior Pastor // Hillsong Church
I hold firm to a belief that nothing can bond and unify a church community like corporate worship. What an amazing opportunity for us as a body of believers to look around, celebrate, and exalt our Lord and King – TOGETHER! It’s designed to clarify who God is, who we are, what we need, and how that need is fully supplied in the grace of Jesus. God uses it to bring glory to Himself and to lift up our eyes to see the glory of what He has done, what He is doing, and what He will do in our lives. As a church body, we are more connected in our times together on Sunday morning than any other time. It is our prayer that we will continue to grow to fully embrace worship as a critical component of the Christian life. God is always revealing Himself to us. In return, he desires an outpouring of affection and worth from us – just as calls us to give Him our highest love and greatest service.
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment.”
-Matthew 22:37-38
That’s our worship. And it brings us together like nothing else can.
—
Join us this Friday night at 7:00pm in the auditorium for an extended time of corporate worship. We will praise God together with one voice—unified for His glory.
Sunday Rewind | 4.22.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Exalted One (Psalm 121:1-2) – For The Honor by Elevation Worship
O Worship The King (Psalm 145:9-10) – Hymns Ancient & Modern by Chris Tomlin (Passion)
Our God Is Love (1 John 4:9-10) – A Beautiful Exchange by Hillsong
The Wonderful Cross (Galatians 6:14) – Original Arrangement
Your Love Oh Lord (Psalm 36:7) – Original Arrangement
TEACHING: Fruitful
In Genesis 1:28, we are commanded to “be fruitful,” which is impossible apart from relationship. Pastor Wayne Johnson teaches on how living a fruitful, godly life is not a means to a relationship with God, but the result of living in relationship with Him.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- If you could give a one-sentence synopsis of this message, what would it be?
- Read and discuss Genesis 1:26-28. What do you observe about God’s intentions for His people?
- Read and discuss Exodus 1:7-14. What do you observe about God’s enemies’ intentions for His people?
- How would you define “fruitfulness” in context of a relationship with God?
- How does fruitfulness bring multiplication? How is fruitfulness dependent on relationship?
- In what ways does Satan seek to enslave us and keep us from living fruitful lives before God?
- What role does behavior play in the Christian walk? How is fruitfulness dependent or not dependent on our behavior?
- “We are in bondage largely because of the lies in which we believe.” Are you able to identify some lies you may believe that keep you from fruitfulness? How does the Gospel answer those lies? Spend some time in prayer with your small group about this.
Sunday Rewind | 3.31.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Alive In Us (Ephesians 2:4-5) – God Is Able by Hillsong
Endless Light (Psalm 113:3-4) – Cornerstone by Hillsong
Majesty (Isaiah 53:5) – Majesty: The Worship EP by Leeland
Forever Reign (Lamentations 5:19) – A Beautiful Exchange by Hillsong
Crown Him With Many Crowns (1 Peter 1:3)
TEACHING: He Is Risen
The two thieves hung with Jesus at His crucifixion show the beautiful simplicity of the Gospel. These thieves represent two paths – one leading to death, the other leading to life. Which path have you chosen?
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What is one thing from this sermon you hope to discuss as a group?
- What Easter traditions do you and your family have?
- Read and discuss Luke 23:32-43. What do you see about the nature of man in these verses? What do you observe about the nature of Christ?
- Compare and contrast the two thieves. How are they similar? How are they different?
- In what way does the one thief represent death? In what way does the other represent life?
- In the context of Pastor Mike’s sermon, what does it mean to “pass through the cross”?
- Spend some time in prayer with your small group giving thanks for our risen Savior, Jesus.
Sunday Rewind | 3.17.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
O Worship The King (Psalm 145:9-10) – Hymns Ancient & Modern by Chris Tomlin (Passion)
Sing, Sing, Sing (Psalm 47:6-7) – Hello Love by Chris Tomlin
The Solid Rock (Psalm 18:2) – Original Arrangement
Beautiful Jesus (Romans 1:20) – Attention by Kristian Stanfill
Unending Love (Romans 8:38-39) – God Is Able by Hillsong
TEACHING: A Word to the Wise – Part 2
Proverbs 18:21 teaches us that the power of life and death is in the tongue. Words are a signature of the soul, and the weight and power our words carry is directly proportional to the relationship you have with that person. Do you use your words wisely?
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
ARTICLES
Here are links to Pastor Mike’s articles on encouragement, which he referenced during this week’s sermon.
- Why We Need to Encourage & Be Encouraged: http://bit.ly/dBcx0o
- How to Encourage: http://bit.ly/bEOP78
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What principle, insight or idea struck you as particularly helpful, insightful or difficult to grasp?
- What verses in Scripture can you think of that deal with the power of words? What do these verses tell you the nature of man? What do you see about the nature of God? Do you observe anything in these verses regarding characteristics of wisdom?
- How have you personally seen or experienced the power of words and speech in a positive way? In a negative way?
- “Words are the signature of the soul.” Can you think of any examples where you’ve observed this?
- How can intellect and wisdom be at odds regarding how we use our words?
- How does the Gospel help us grow in wisdom in how we use our words?
- Who is someone you can impact in a positive way this week though the power of your words? Share with your small group and plan to follow up on this the next time you meet.
VIDEO: Whom Shall I Fear
As we prepare to close out our series on The Forgotten War, it’s plain to see that our takeaway centers around the pure truth of the Word of God and our obedience to Christ. We are in a constant struggle between the war of two kingdoms – the Kingdom of Darkness and the Kingdom of Light. We must see this conflict through the eyes of Scripture in order to engage as children of the Kingdom of Light. Satan’s tactics follow the same pattern nearly every time; a combination of doubt, direct contradictions of the Word of God, and half-truths. He works diligently to set up strongholds of shame, keeping us captive in hopelessness.
But there is hope. And He is God. He crushes the enemy under our feet. He is our sword and shield in times of trouble. Who is left to fear? We know who goes before us. We know who stands behind us. He is the God of Angel Armies And He is by our side, reigning forever.
You are my morning song
Though darkness fills the night
It cannot hide the light
Whom shall I fear
Underneath my feet
You are my Sword and Shield
Though trouble lingers still
Whom shall I fearI know Who goes before me
I know Who stands behind
The God of angel armies
Is always on my side
The One who reigns forever
He is a Friend of mine
The God of angel armies
Is always by my side
My strength is in Your name
For You alone can save
You will deliver me
Yours is the victory
I know Who goes before me
I know Who stands behind
The God of angel armies
Is always on my side
The One who reigns forever
He is a Friend of mine
The God of angel armies
Is always by my side
Whom shall I fear
Whom shall I fear
And nothing formed against me shall stand
You hold the whole world in Your hands
I’m holding onto Your promises
You are faithful
You are faithful
You are faithful
The God of angel armies is always by my side