Brazil Mission 2013
Every year since 2007, teams from Northern Virginia have been visiting the community of Benevides, Brazil, working with a ministry called Creative Hands. Creative Hands works with families living near a landfill.
Mission
Our mission is to support the ministry of Creative Hands through community service projects and the gathering of material they can use throughout the year.
Description
This year, the team will be working to build two houses for two families in the community.
In addition, the team will host a week of day camp for families to attend. During the week of camp, we’ll offer soccer clinics, sports activities, arts and crafts, workshops, and vocational courses. Our hope is to provide a safe and warm environment for families to grow both as individuals and as a unit. We desire to encourage them in the love of Christ.
General Information
One group of team members will be in Brazil from June 28 to July 7, where they will be hosting family camp and constructing a house. From the 7th to the 16th, a second group will be constructing a second home.
Help with supplies
If you’d like to financially contribute to camp and building supplies for this trip, you can give online. Be sure to designate “Brazil Building/Camp Supplies.” You can also drop a check in an offering box at church, with “Brazil Supplies” in the memo line.
Sunday Rewind | 5.26.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Alive In Us (Ephesians 2:4-5) – God Is Able by Hillsong
As It Is In Heaven (Psalm 96:1-3) – Overflow by Matt Maher
Forever Reign (Lamentations 5:19) – Forever Reign by Hillsong Chapel
Majesty (Isaiah 53:5) – Majesty: The Worship EP by Leeland
I Lift My Hands (Psalm 46:10) – And If Our God Is For Us… by Chris Tomlin
TEACHING: The Prodigal Son, Part 1
The prodigal son is a well-known parable that tells us the story of our lives – but not in the way you might think. Pastor Mike begins a series that will look at the grace-filled intricacies of this amazing parable.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What is one thing from this teaching that you hope to discuss as a group?
- Read and discuss Jesus’ parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15. Does anything bother you about this parable?
- What is Jesus commanding, teaching or implying in this parable regarding how to live the Christian life?
- Who is Jesus’ audience as He tells this parable, and why is that important for us to consider?
- Identify the main characters in this parable. In what way(s) can you relate to each of them? Where do you see yourself in this story?
- How does the gospel apply to “younger brothers”? How does the gospel apply to “elder brothers”?
- Is there a situation or relationship in your life where you need to reach out in grace, as the father in this parable did? What would it look like to apply the parable of the prodigal to that situation or relationship? Spend some time in prayer about this.
Sunday Rewind | 5.19.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Sing, Sing, Sing (Psalm 47:6-7) – Hello Love by Chris Tomlin
In Your Presence (Deuteronomy 31:6) – Nothing Is Wasted by Elevation Worship
In Christ Alone (Galatians 2:20) – Let The Future Begin by Kristian Stanfill (Passion)
Agnus Dei (Revelation 5:12) – Original Arrangement
TEACHING: Impact, Part 2
God has sovereignly given every believer spiritual gifts to use for the good of His people and the advancement of His kingdom. What would it look like for you to “fan the flame” of your gifts for the glory of God?
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What is one thing from this teaching that you hope to discuss as a group?
- Read and discuss Romans 12:1-8. What do you observe about the nature of God? What do you observe about man?
- What do these verses command, teach or imply regarding how to live the Christian life?
- What spiritual gifts does Paul list in these verses? What other spiritual gifts can you think of from Scripture?
- In what way(s) do you feel God has spiritual gifted you? What area(s) of your life do see an intersection of passion and ability?
- Do you feel that you are using or neglecting your gifts?
- In what ways does the gospel empower our gifts and abilities for kingdom purposes?
- What would it look like for you to “fan the flame” of your gifts for the glory of God? Spend some time in prayer about this.
From the Field: Indonesia Follow Up
Last week, we shared a report from the Pioneers mission agency about Don Richardson and his family, whose years of faithful service saw the Lord bring the gospel to cannibal tribes in Indonesia. This incredible video documents the legacy of God’s grace to the Sawi tribes when Don and his three sons, Steve, Shannon and Paul, went back to visit the Sawi to see how they were doing.
Sunday Rewind | 5.12.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Open Up Our Eyes (Ephesians 1:18-19a) – Nothing Is Wasted by Elevation Worship
Let Your Kingdom Come (Psalm 59:16-17) – Valley of Vision by Sovereign Grace Music
Give Me Faith (Psalm 73:25-26) – Nothing Is Wasted by Elevation Worship
Beautiful, Scandalous Night (Romans 5:8) – Give Yourself Away by Robbie Seay Band
Unending Love (Romans 8:38-39) – God is Able by Hillsong
Endless Light (Psalm 113:3-4) – Cornerstone by Hillsong
TEACHING: Impact, Part 1
Does our life influence and impact those around us for the sake of the Kingdom? Living a life of intentional, faithful obedience to God will impact others for His glory.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- If you were to give a one-sentence summary of this message, what would it be?
- Do you believe God has given you a specific purpose, calling or burden for your life? Explain.
- Read and discuss Nehemiah 2. What do you observe about the nature of God? What stands out to you about Nehemiah’s character?
- What is the significance of Nehemiah “setting a time” (v. 6)?
- Do you feel like you are living your life on purpose? Why or why not?
- “Living life on purpose always meets with resistance.”What opposes us from living our lives on purpose?
- How does the gospel provide context and power for living life on purpose?
- Is there something in your life that God is prompting you to “set a time” for? What practical steps could you take toward obedience in this area? Spend some time in prayer about this with your small group.
A Call for Deacons
God’s mercy requires us to relieve suffering and makes us sensitive to others’ trials in order to be His love to them during a time of need.
“Bear one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ,” Scripture tells us (Galatians 6:2). Thus, RBC is appointing a specific group of men and women in our church to help bear the burdens of those in need – particularly, widows and widowers – within our congregation.
If you missed the announcement in services last weekend, you can watch it in the video above. For more information on the Deacon Ministry, including FAQs and the online nomination form, please visit www.restonbible.org/deacons.
Sunday Rewind | 5.5.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
God Is Able (Ephesians 3:20-21) – God Is Able by Hillsong
How Great Thou Art (Psalm 145:3) – Original Arrangement
In Your Presence (Deuteronomy 31:6) – Nothing Is Wasted by Elevation Worship
Beautiful Lord (Ephesians 2:4-5) – Sound of Melodies by Leeland
TEACHING: The Silence of Adam
The silence of Adam in the garden is the beginning of every man’s inclination to remain silent when he should speak. Pastor & author Gary Thomas teaches on the need for men to be passionately engaged & empowered by God to influence the world.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What is one thing from this sermon that resonated with you or that you found particularly insightful, helpful, or difficult to grasp?
- Read and discuss Genesis 3:1-7. What do these verses tell us about the nature of man? What do you observe about the nature of our enemy, Satan?
- What do these verses command, teach or imply regarding how to live the Christian life?
- Do you feel that you struggle with passivity? Are you affected by others’ struggle in this area? In what ways?
- “You can trace virtually every major social issue back to the silence of Adam.” Have you seen this to be true? How?
- How does the Gospel of Jesus address the issue of passivity and give hope to those affected by this struggle? How is Jesus our example of what a man should be?
- What is an area of your life where you feel God is calling you to be passionately engaged and empowered by Him? What practical steps could you take toward obedience in this area? Spend some time in prayer about this.
DIAGNOSTIC QUESTIONS FOR MEN FROM GARY THOMAS
SINGLE MEN
- Are you growing in faith, courage & selflessness?
- Are your relationships with females edifying or destructive?
- Are you protecting and developing your influence?
HUSBANDS
- Are you pursuing your wife?
- Are you loving her in such a way that it is costing you something?
- Is your wife first in your affection, even over your own ambition and comfort?
- Are you praying for & with her?
FATHERS
- Do you know your children and their friends?
- What is the spiritual temperature of their hearts?
- What are their greatest temptations?
- Are you watching over your children in their romantic relationships?
- What strengths are you encouraging and building?
Sunday Rewind | 4.28.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Famous One (Psalm 19:1-2) – Not To Us by Chris Tomlin
In Your Presence (Deuteronomy 31:6) – Nothing Is Wasted by Elevation Worship
The Solid Rock (Psalm 18:2) – Original Arrangement
You Never Let Go (Psalm 23:4) – Beautiful News by Matt Redman
Lord Of All (Psalm 97:5-6) – Attention by Kristian Stanfill
TEACHING: The Key to Victory
God has given those who are in Christ “every spiritual blessing” (Ephesian 1:3) – but why do some Christians seem to be living a life of victory, while others struggle greatly? Pastor Tony Pedroni teaches from the book of Ephesians on the key to living victoriously.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
1.) What is one thing from today’s sermon you hope we talk about as a group?
2.) Pastor Tony referenced Psalm 121 as a great comfort in times of trial. What books or verses from Scripture have been a great comfort or encouragement to you personally during times of trial?
3.) Read and discuss Ephesians 1:15-23 and 3:14-19. What do Paul’s prayers tell us about human nature? What do they tell us about the nature of Christ?
4.) What do these verses command, teach or imply regarding how to live the Christian life?
5.) Pastor Tony highlighted several blessings from God in Ephesians 1 & 2. Which ones particularly resonated with you? What other blessings can you think of that God promises in Scripture?
6.) Do you find it difficult to experience the blessings & promises of God in your daily life? Why or why not?
7.) If knowing God is the key to victoriously living in and for Christ, what steps could you take to know Him better? Spend some time in prayer about these.
Sunday Rewind | 4.14.2013
MUSIC & SCRIPTURE
Endless Light (Psalm 113:3-4) – A Beautiful Exchange by Hillsong
Glorious (Psalm 111:2-3) – Everything Glorious by Chris Tomlin (Passion)
Nothing But The Blood (Ephesians 1:7-8) – Facedown by Matt Redman
Mighty To Save (Zephaniah 3:17) – Yahweh by Hillsong Chapel
Glorious (Psalm 72:18-19) – Glorious by Paul Baloche
TEACHING: A Word to the Wise – Part 5
Because Satan is the “father of lies” (John 8:44) and rules over the world system (Ephesians 2:2), we can conclude that the world is lying to us constantly about how we ought to live. Scripture gives us a clear lens through which we can distinguish truth from lies in the world system.
CLICK HERE FOR THE SERMON AUDIO/VIDEO
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- As you reflect back on this week’s sermon, what one principle or insight, what one principle stands out as being particularly helpful, insightful or difficult to grasp?
- Read and discuss Proverbs 1. What do you see about the nature of man in these verses? What do you observe about the nature of God? What do you learn about wisdom from these verses?
- How does wisdom “cry out” to us?
- Why do we often turn a deaf ear to wisdom’s call?
- What are some ways we can grow in wisdom? How does the Gospel allow us to do this?
- What have been some big take-aways from the “Word to the Wise” series for you personally?
- What are some specific areas of your life where you currently need wisdom? Spend some time in prayer with your small group about these.
Men’s Ministry News – April 2013
Men of RBC: The Men’s Ministry would like to invite you to some upcoming activities that have been designed to positively and encouragingly impact your walk with the Lord and in turn your spheres of influence.
WEEKLY DISCIPLESHIP CLASSES
Men’s Ministry weekly discipleship classes are a great way to get connected and increase your knowledge of the word and provide you with some mid-week encouragement. No previous experience or Bible knowledge is required; all you need is a willingness to grow and be challenged. For a course listing and full details, please visit www.restonbible.org/men.
- FUEL—Men of Action: The Role of Authentic Men in the Next Generation Church. Join us on this journey to Authentic Manhood. Tuesdays 6:25-7:30 AM – Sr. High Bldg.
- Training Faithful Men-Great Doctrines of the Faith. No registration required. For questions, call or email Ray Shoaff (703-625-5595) or ray@shoaff.com). Wednesday 6:00-7:00 AM – Sr. High Bldg.
- Exemplary Husband – Wednesday 7:00-9:00 PM- Room 250A. For questions, call James Roberts at 703-309-0303.
DAD & DONUTS – DON’T MISS OUT—REGISTER TODAY!!!
When: April 20, 2013, 8:30-11:30 AM
Where: RBC Clubhouse
Sigh-up: www.restonbible.org/donuts
While the women are at retreat, Jason Goetz will direct the Annual Dads and Donuts event on Saturday, April 20, 8:30-11:30. It will be a low-key event that includes breakfast, a short family devotional/skit, activities similar to AWANA games, board games, and crafts. Childcare will be provided for infants/toddlers in the Nursery if Dads have multiple children
FAITH & REASONING 101
When: Monday, April 22, 2013, 7:00 PM-8:30 PM
Where: RBC, Room 238
Topic: Topic: “The Legend Theory”: If you’re sharing your faith with non-believers, it’s inevitable that you will run into objections, and one of the most prevalent theories among skeptics is “The Legend Theory”. It says that Jesus was just a good teacher and although there may be wisdom in His teachings, He is not God; He did not die for our sins, and He is not the only way to heaven. You’ve undoubtedly heard some version of this – the Bible is just a bunch of fables and stories full of legendary material that were exaggerated over time…
Are the teachings about Jesus being God and having died for our sins the result of embellishments? Or do we actually have good reasons to believe the Gospel message?
Come out and join us on Monday, April 22nd, as we’ll examine the historical evidence for “The Legend Theory”. RSVP: wgaines@firstphc.com
Upcoming activities are scheduled in May and beyond. So mark your calendars.
SACRED RELATIONSHIP WEEKEND – Early Bird Registration Ends 4/8/13
When: May 2-4, 2013
Where: RBC Sanctuary
Speaker: Gary Thomas
Sign-up: www.restonbible.org/sacred
Sacred Search – May 2 – Singles
Join us as Gary Thomas explores love, dating, and how to find a spectacular marital match in his new book, The Sacred Search.
Sacred Marriage – May 3-4-Engaged/Married Couples
What if God designed marriage to make us holy instead of happy? Scores of books have been written that offer guidance for building the marriage of your dreams. Yet, what if God’s primary intent for your marriage isn’t to make you happy…but holy? And, what if your relationship isn’t as much about you and your spouse as it is about you and God?
Based on Gary’s bestselling book, the Sacred Marriage seminar helps couples uncover how marriage can become a doorway to a closer walk with God and each other. Learn more about Gary at www.garythomas.com. Childcare and scholarships information available on the web.
THE SUMMIT
When: Monday, May 20, 2013
Where: RBC Sanctuary
Speaker: Larry Moody
Sign-up: www.restonbible.org/summit
EMF Director Larry Moody is President of Search Ministries, and since 1981, Moody also has served as the Bible study leader for the Professional Golf Association (PGA) Tour.
DAD & KIDS CAMPOUT
When: June 7-9, 2012
Where: Pohick Bay Regional Park, Lorton
Sign-up: www.restonbible.org/campout
Dads, bring your kids and come on out to Pohick Bay Regional Park (near the Mason Neck Wildlife Refuge) in the Lorton area for a weekend of bonfires, sleeping under the stars and just plain fun! We’re going have a blast with group games, bonfires, campfire-songs, marshmallow roast, and Sunday morning worship. Special opportunities to create life-long memories with your kids and get connected with other dads. Scholarships available.
RBC MEN’S RETREAT
When: September 20-22, 2013
Speaker: Dr. Richard Blackaby
Where: Meadowkirk Retreat & Conference Center, Middleburg, VA.
Information and registration will be on website soon.
SERVICE OPPORTUNITY
Men’s Ministry is looking for a few good men to help with our event logistics and to take photos of our events. No special skills needed—just a servant heart. Events are The Summit, Marriage Conference, Boosters, and special men’s events. We plan to have teams that can alternate events. If interested, please contact Brad Hummel at mensministry@restonbible.org.
As always, the Men’s Ministry is here to be an encouragement in your walk with the Lord. Contact us at mensministry@restonbible.org if you have any questions or concerns.
God Bless,
The Men’s Ministry Leadership Team<