North West Publishing have available the following Lutheran Adult Bible Studies online....which you can download
What is the Gospel?
I am Christian even at work
Who is Jesus?
Narrow Lutheran middle
Prepared to answer
The theology of the Cross
and more
visit here to discover more
Showing posts with label Studies for congregational and individual use. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Studies for congregational and individual use. Show all posts
Friday, April 19, 2013
Saturday, April 13, 2013
Bible Study: Pew Sisters
Pew Sisters
Women's Bible study based on real women in the church today....
This 12-session Bible study for women “goes and tells what God has done” in the lives of real women in the church today. From alcoholism to postpartum depression to cancer, twelve different women generously share the story of God’s faithfulness in their lives for the consolation of their sisters in Christ.
Each session begins with a scripture reading followed by a narrative of an individual woman’s real-life story. Eight study questions, designed for both personal and group study, help the reader apply the reading and narrative to her own life in Christ. A meditative hymn stanza and collect complete each session.
The goal of this study is to encourage and build up the faith of our Christian sisters. Every woman sitting in the pew has a story to share of God’s faithfulness in her life, and women love nothing more than to hear a good story and to delight in the sisterhood of believers.
Reviews
Suzanne Mcafee
"I found this book to be insightful, not only for my own daily needs, but to help support others who are also in need. I liked the set up of the lessons, and enjoyed the hymns that went along with each chapter. I can find many ways to use this material now, in my daily life for me and for others I care for. Each subject is a quick read, with lots of knowledge to be obtained, all followed up with Scripture verses and where to find them in the Bible. I would recommend this book to my other Sisters in Christ, not only for their daily lives but to support our other sisters in the body."
Amazon Customer
Pew Sisters, by Katie Schuermann, is a 12 week Bible Study. Small Groups and individuals both, will be enlightened by these teachings. Each week starts out with a Bible verse, followed by a short story, a hymn to medicate on, a prayer to accompany that weeks teaching, before some insightful questions, ending with a summery of the story including the rationales for the questions. Each lesson is based on a difficult situation women can deal with in their life.
Have you suffered from someone else's sins, brought into your life, angry and unforgiving? "Forgiveness is not a feeling, it is a gift that is given to you regardless of how you feel." Praying for guidance and emotions needed to forgive, is just one of the learned lessons in this study guide. Pray and then "tell satin to go to hell", I love that line! Other subjects covered are depression, grieving, anxiety, sickness, low self esteem, loss of talent, worry, children are God's gifts, and not judging others. There are other lessons within a lesson also that can be obtained it you spend the time to really study with this book. You will find the answers to the questions to each chapter in the back of the book, not answered from the author but by the authors Preacher Pastor McGuire. Not only does each lesson relate to one's life but it also shows how to give comfort to our "Pew Sisters", our sisters in Christ, who struggle and need our shoulders to lean on.
I found this book to be insightful, not only for my own daily needs, but to help support others who are also in need. I liked the set up of the lessons, and enjoyed the hymns that went along with each chapter. I can find many ways to use this material now, in my daily life for me and for others I care for. Each subject is a quick read, with lots of knowledge to be obtained, all followed up with scriptures and where to find them in the Bible. I would recommend this book to my other Sisters in Christ, not only for their daily lives but to support our other sisters in the body.
Women's Bible study based on real women in the church today....
This 12-session Bible study for women “goes and tells what God has done” in the lives of real women in the church today. From alcoholism to postpartum depression to cancer, twelve different women generously share the story of God’s faithfulness in their lives for the consolation of their sisters in Christ.
Each session begins with a scripture reading followed by a narrative of an individual woman’s real-life story. Eight study questions, designed for both personal and group study, help the reader apply the reading and narrative to her own life in Christ. A meditative hymn stanza and collect complete each session.
The goal of this study is to encourage and build up the faith of our Christian sisters. Every woman sitting in the pew has a story to share of God’s faithfulness in her life, and women love nothing more than to hear a good story and to delight in the sisterhood of believers.
Reviews
Suzanne Mcafee
"I found this book to be insightful, not only for my own daily needs, but to help support others who are also in need. I liked the set up of the lessons, and enjoyed the hymns that went along with each chapter. I can find many ways to use this material now, in my daily life for me and for others I care for. Each subject is a quick read, with lots of knowledge to be obtained, all followed up with Scripture verses and where to find them in the Bible. I would recommend this book to my other Sisters in Christ, not only for their daily lives but to support our other sisters in the body."
Amazon Customer
Pew Sisters, by Katie Schuermann, is a 12 week Bible Study. Small Groups and individuals both, will be enlightened by these teachings. Each week starts out with a Bible verse, followed by a short story, a hymn to medicate on, a prayer to accompany that weeks teaching, before some insightful questions, ending with a summery of the story including the rationales for the questions. Each lesson is based on a difficult situation women can deal with in their life.
Have you suffered from someone else's sins, brought into your life, angry and unforgiving? "Forgiveness is not a feeling, it is a gift that is given to you regardless of how you feel." Praying for guidance and emotions needed to forgive, is just one of the learned lessons in this study guide. Pray and then "tell satin to go to hell", I love that line! Other subjects covered are depression, grieving, anxiety, sickness, low self esteem, loss of talent, worry, children are God's gifts, and not judging others. There are other lessons within a lesson also that can be obtained it you spend the time to really study with this book. You will find the answers to the questions to each chapter in the back of the book, not answered from the author but by the authors Preacher Pastor McGuire. Not only does each lesson relate to one's life but it also shows how to give comfort to our "Pew Sisters", our sisters in Christ, who struggle and need our shoulders to lean on.
I found this book to be insightful, not only for my own daily needs, but to help support others who are also in need. I liked the set up of the lessons, and enjoyed the hymns that went along with each chapter. I can find many ways to use this material now, in my daily life for me and for others I care for. Each subject is a quick read, with lots of knowledge to be obtained, all followed up with scriptures and where to find them in the Bible. I would recommend this book to my other Sisters in Christ, not only for their daily lives but to support our other sisters in the body.
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
What do Aussies believe? some recent research
In October 2011 Olive Tree Media and McCrindle Research undertook some research into what Aussies believe and how they react to religion and church.
The full report is available at: http://olivetreemedia.com.au/the-apologetics-series.aspx
Here is a summary of their research:
The full report is available at: http://olivetreemedia.com.au/the-apologetics-series.aspx
Here is a summary of their research:
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Free Courses from Pastor Wade Johnston Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church
Pastor Wade Johnston from Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church makes available a number of studies and courses including:
Visit http://www.christsaginaw.com/pastorspage.html to obtain these and other courses
- Liturgical Catechesis in the Lutheran Faith
- The why in our worship
- Morsels from the Master
- Survey of Christian History
- End of life issues
- Sacramental Evangelism in a Postmodern World
Visit http://www.christsaginaw.com/pastorspage.html to obtain these and other courses
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Lutheran Leadership: Nehmehiah chapter 3
At least a day before you meet; read Nehmehiah chapter 3
This chapter highlights that many people are needed for rebuilding the temple.
Reflect and Share
How does this chapter relate to your congregation?
Now read 1st Corinthians chapter 12
Reflect and Share
What these two chapters maybe saying to you as a leader and to those you are leading?
Apart from the actual building what else did some of those involved in the building do?
read Nehmehiah 3:1
Reflect and Share
What might this mean for your organisation?
Next Steps
Thinking about Nehmehiah 3, what are the next steps for your congregation or organisation.
Do you think there is a need for better planning and co-ordinating in your congregation or organisation?
How can you encourage more people to be involved in building God's church?
This chapter highlights that many people are needed for rebuilding the temple.
Reflect and Share
How does this chapter relate to your congregation?
Now read 1st Corinthians chapter 12
Reflect and Share
What these two chapters maybe saying to you as a leader and to those you are leading?
Apart from the actual building what else did some of those involved in the building do?
read Nehmehiah 3:1
Reflect and Share
What might this mean for your organisation?
Next Steps
Thinking about Nehmehiah 3, what are the next steps for your congregation or organisation.
Do you think there is a need for better planning and co-ordinating in your congregation or organisation?
How can you encourage more people to be involved in building God's church?
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Lutheran Leadership 10: Handling complaints in a healthy way
Background
Complaints are inherit part of being church, especially a church that is welcoming, has a diverse range of people and lives the reality of being a bunch of saints and sinners. If you want a biblical example of a church complaining, read 1st and 2nd Corinthians and see how they acted and how St Paul responded.
Some complaints are legitimate, that is why we have processes in place and biblical guidance. Many other complaints are not legitimate especially when you consider the full context of a situation and what the church is called to do.
The following teaching is about dealing with complaints in a healthy way, a way that encourages others and helps us grow more like Christ and as the body of Christ.
Some of the issues that lead to complaints
We have the basic issue of sin, people mess up and people think primarily of themselves. We sin and people sin against us.
At times, we think of ourselves as individuals above what we agree and have agreed to do together as the body of Christ. Our position by itself may not necessarily be wrong, but it is wrong when we are part of the Body of Christ and yet put our position above that or in competition to the rest of the body.
At times, we don’t understand the context God has called us to shine His light into. We ignore generational differences, time differences, cultural differences, geographical differences and social differences.
At times, our loyalty is to things other than God. (ie. We are more interested in a particular style of worship, our friends, maintaining a tradition, even an attitude of what is right in church, money or anything else above God.)
At times, we allow the law to dominate over the Gospel (ie. We don’t help people see that God accepts them and forgives them), or we don’t speak any law at all, ultimately resulting in the Gospel being irrelevant (ie. We allow people to do whatever they want).
Responding to complaints
When it comes to complaints, God gives us some fundamental tools and principles.
The primary principles come from scripture.
The most frequent scripture passage used by the Christian Community is Matthew 18:15-20
15 "If a brother or sister sins, go and point out the fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. 16 But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that 'every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.' 17 If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector.
18 "Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
Two other important passages in this area are:
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Ephesians 4:29-32
29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Also Luther’s Small Catechism offers some guidance…
The Eighth Commandment says
You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour. Luther also pointed out that the bible says we are not to tell lies about others, betray or slander them or destroy their reputation. Instead we are to always defend them, speak well of them and interpret everything they do in the best possible light.
These three passages and Luther’s explanation to the 8th Commandment highlight that there is a process and attitude which is biblical when it comes to complaints.
1/ They recognise that complaints will occur.
2/ Forgiveness and love are essential goals in dealing with complaints.
3/ When we have an issue with someone in the church (or a group) we should first meet with that person or when it is a complaint against a team decision or action, the responsible team leader. We should not to wait for a meeting, especially a congregational meeting. If we don’t believe it has been dealt with appropriately we need to inform the person we have complained to and then bring the issue up with the relevant team. If it still has not been handled appropriately then it becomes a matter for the BCL (Church Council) and then the congregation as a whole.
4/ Our motivation for raising issues is to encourage people, build them up and help people and the church grow.
What happens when others complain to us or we hear a complaint on the grapevine?
One of the most damaging complaints in a church is the anonymous complaints, eg. someone has told me, I have heard on the grapevine, etc.. People who raise such complaints should not expect any action to occur in regards to their complaint. Apart from ignoring biblical principles, these complaints are damaging because:
· We cannot clarify the nature of the complaint, there maybe misunderstandings.
· It does not allow informed discussion about the complaint, why an issue occurred or what is happening.
· It does not allow people to defend themselves, explain their actions or provide another side of the story against a complaint.
· It prohibits us educating people of why and how certain things occur or do not occur, or even what it means to be church at our congregation.
The most appropriate way to handle these complaints officially is to ignore them until the person who instigated the complaint is prepared to come forward.
Complaints are inherit part of being church, especially a church that is welcoming, has a diverse range of people and lives the reality of being a bunch of saints and sinners. If you want a biblical example of a church complaining, read 1st and 2nd Corinthians and see how they acted and how St Paul responded.
Some complaints are legitimate, that is why we have processes in place and biblical guidance. Many other complaints are not legitimate especially when you consider the full context of a situation and what the church is called to do.
The following teaching is about dealing with complaints in a healthy way, a way that encourages others and helps us grow more like Christ and as the body of Christ.
Some of the issues that lead to complaints
We have the basic issue of sin, people mess up and people think primarily of themselves. We sin and people sin against us.
At times, we think of ourselves as individuals above what we agree and have agreed to do together as the body of Christ. Our position by itself may not necessarily be wrong, but it is wrong when we are part of the Body of Christ and yet put our position above that or in competition to the rest of the body.
At times, we don’t understand the context God has called us to shine His light into. We ignore generational differences, time differences, cultural differences, geographical differences and social differences.
At times, our loyalty is to things other than God. (ie. We are more interested in a particular style of worship, our friends, maintaining a tradition, even an attitude of what is right in church, money or anything else above God.)
At times, we allow the law to dominate over the Gospel (ie. We don’t help people see that God accepts them and forgives them), or we don’t speak any law at all, ultimately resulting in the Gospel being irrelevant (ie. We allow people to do whatever they want).
Responding to complaints
When it comes to complaints, God gives us some fundamental tools and principles.
The primary principles come from scripture.
The most frequent scripture passage used by the Christian Community is Matthew 18:15-20
15 "If a brother or sister sins, go and point out the fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. 16 But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that 'every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.' 17 If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector.
18 "Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
Two other important passages in this area are:
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Ephesians 4:29-32
29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Also Luther’s Small Catechism offers some guidance…
The Eighth Commandment says
You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour. Luther also pointed out that the bible says we are not to tell lies about others, betray or slander them or destroy their reputation. Instead we are to always defend them, speak well of them and interpret everything they do in the best possible light.
These three passages and Luther’s explanation to the 8th Commandment highlight that there is a process and attitude which is biblical when it comes to complaints.
1/ They recognise that complaints will occur.
2/ Forgiveness and love are essential goals in dealing with complaints.
3/ When we have an issue with someone in the church (or a group) we should first meet with that person or when it is a complaint against a team decision or action, the responsible team leader. We should not to wait for a meeting, especially a congregational meeting. If we don’t believe it has been dealt with appropriately we need to inform the person we have complained to and then bring the issue up with the relevant team. If it still has not been handled appropriately then it becomes a matter for the BCL (Church Council) and then the congregation as a whole.
4/ Our motivation for raising issues is to encourage people, build them up and help people and the church grow.
What happens when others complain to us or we hear a complaint on the grapevine?
One of the most damaging complaints in a church is the anonymous complaints, eg. someone has told me, I have heard on the grapevine, etc.. People who raise such complaints should not expect any action to occur in regards to their complaint. Apart from ignoring biblical principles, these complaints are damaging because:
· We cannot clarify the nature of the complaint, there maybe misunderstandings.
· It does not allow informed discussion about the complaint, why an issue occurred or what is happening.
· It does not allow people to defend themselves, explain their actions or provide another side of the story against a complaint.
· It prohibits us educating people of why and how certain things occur or do not occur, or even what it means to be church at our congregation.
The most appropriate way to handle these complaints officially is to ignore them until the person who instigated the complaint is prepared to come forward.
What to do when people complain to us about someone else?
If we are not the appropriate person when we hear people complaining, an appropriate and biblical consistent approach to take is:
1/ Listen to them. They maybe just blowing off steam or getting an opinion if others think that way.
2/ Encourage them to take the complaint to the person or team they have a complaint with. If they are not confident in doing this, say you are prepared to go with them, but you will not speak on their behalf. It is not your role to represent them and bring complaints to others on their behalf. As a last resort, encourage them to talk the issue over with the pastor.
3/ If they are unwilling to go directly to the person they have a complaint against encourage them to drop the issue and forget about it, suggest they read the above passages. Also don’t listen to the complaint any further.
If someone complains to us or to the team we are leading.
1/ Listen to them.
2/ Clarify with them what their complaint is.
3/ Let them know we are following the principles in the above bible passages.
4/ Put the complaint into context. What have others said? How many have complained? Has there been praise for the very thing people are complaining about? Does a once off, mean it happens all the time?
5/ Explain your side of the story and why things were done or not done.
6/ Judge your complaint and actions based on what we are called to do as a church, against what our congregation’s objects are, our mission statement, your team’s responsibilities, our congregation’s decisions, member’s responsibilities and what scripture say.
7/ If necessary agree to disagree.
8/ Seek forgiveness and offer forgiveness.
9/ Pray to God about the situation
10/ Help the person be more involved in the congregation.
IMPORTANT
Due to laws and our responsibility as a congregation if you hear of a complaint of a criminal matter, sexual abuse nature or abuse relating to children or the elderly regardless of how you have heard it this must be discussed immediately with the pastor of the congregation and not discussed widely.
© 2009 Richard Schwedes. Please feel free to use this for congregational and church use.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Reflection and Discussion starter on what is required for a church to grow
Kelly Fryer explores and discusses what is required to make a church grow in Reflections on Traffic Jams and transformation
This could be helpful for various congregation groups or a congregation as a whole.
This could be helpful for various congregation groups or a congregation as a whole.
Monday, July 21, 2008
New beginnings for Living congregations
The American Free Lutheran Church Home Mission department has produced a clear bible study based on Colossians: New beginnings for Living congregations
Three themes are foundational to this study.
Be forgiven
Forgive others
Give of yourself to the Lord's service
And it encourages us to have
Passion for Jesus
Passion for the Word
Passion for Prayer
Passion for the Lost
Passion to be Lutheran in Doctrine and the Sacraments
Passion for Holy Living
Passion to be involved in building up the kingdom
Passion for Spiritual life in the congregation
Passion for God's order in marriage, family and congregation
Passion for the priesthood of believers
Passion for God's righteousness regardless of suffering
Passion for God centred worship
Passion for Christ centred victorious living
Three themes are foundational to this study.
Be forgiven
Forgive others
Give of yourself to the Lord's service
And it encourages us to have
Passion for Jesus
Passion for the Word
Passion for Prayer
Passion for the Lost
Passion to be Lutheran in Doctrine and the Sacraments
Passion for Holy Living
Passion to be involved in building up the kingdom
Passion for Spiritual life in the congregation
Passion for God's order in marriage, family and congregation
Passion for the priesthood of believers
Passion for God's righteousness regardless of suffering
Passion for God centred worship
Passion for Christ centred victorious living
Monday, February 04, 2008
Forming an Evangelizing People: persepectives and questions for use in the Church
The Wartburg Theological Seminart has put together this Evangelism preparation resource:
The format of each section is a story, some questions for discussion and reflection and a bible study.
It is a resource that can be used in many situations around the church
Chapters include:
The format of each section is a story, some questions for discussion and reflection and a bible study.
It is a resource that can be used in many situations around the church
Chapters include:
- Christ Goes Before Us: Evangelism in Seminary Admissions
- Hebrew Bible: Immersing Ourselves in the Stories
- Can This Congregation Live?
- Foundations of the Church
- Social Ministry and Evangelism - Craig Nessan
- Advocacy, Evangelism and the Church in Public Life
- Ministry in Time of Crisis: Stress, Depression, Conflict and Opportunity -
- Educational Ministry: Learning Leads To Mission
- Spiritual Direction Conversations
- Evangelism and the New Testament
- Becoming Evangelists through Seminary Study -
- Master of Arts Program in Theology, Development, and Evangelism -
- The Evangelism of Discovering Hope in Rural Congregations -
- Acts: A Call to Servanthood -
- Youth, Culture and Mission: Ministry with Young People
- Theology for Youth Outreach
- Systematic Theology and Bearing Witness To Jesus Christ
- Student Services and Evangelism
- Office of Mission Support
- “I Can't Wait to Tell You!”
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Understanding Christian freedom
Christian freedom is something many Christians hold tightly to...
Saying it is one thing, understanding it is another!!!
Jeff Silcock a lecturer at Australian Lutheran College has written a paper that is easy to follow and may help understand and even help you explain what Christian Freedom is about.
The paper is available at http://www.lutheran.edu.au/tools/getFile.aspx?tbl=tblContentItem&id=646
Saying it is one thing, understanding it is another!!!
Jeff Silcock a lecturer at Australian Lutheran College has written a paper that is easy to follow and may help understand and even help you explain what Christian Freedom is about.
The paper is available at http://www.lutheran.edu.au/tools/getFile.aspx?tbl=tblContentItem&id=646
Monday, October 29, 2007
Equipping people when it comes to elections
In Australia its election time...federally and in Tasmania...we also have local councils.
Some people have a real problem when it comes to God and politics mixing, but God in His bible does have something to say about politics...
We are infact called to pray for governments.
So election time may be a good way to help people pray and read the scriptures (and see what God really says..not just what one group thinks he says)
The Australian Prayer Network offers a four week daily short bible reading and prayer starter at http://www.ausprayernet.org.au/
Also in the September edition of the Lutheran (australian edition) i wrote an article about the two leaders and how politics and Christianity mix...there are also some extra resources to look and USE at http://www.lca. org.au/media/ thelutheran/ index0709. cfm
http://www.lca. org.au/resources /thelutheran/ bibleStudyChrist iansGovernment. doc
Some people have a real problem when it comes to God and politics mixing, but God in His bible does have something to say about politics...
We are infact called to pray for governments.
So election time may be a good way to help people pray and read the scriptures (and see what God really says..not just what one group thinks he says)
The Australian Prayer Network offers a four week daily short bible reading and prayer starter at http://www.ausprayernet.org.au/
Also in the September edition of the Lutheran (australian edition) i wrote an article about the two leaders and how politics and Christianity mix...there are also some extra resources to look and USE at http://www.lca. org.au/media/ thelutheran/ index0709. cfm
http://www.lca. org.au/resources /thelutheran/ bibleStudyChrist iansGovernment. doc
Thursday, October 18, 2007
A congregation to visit: St Pauls Townsville
A congregation web site well worth visiting is St Pauls Townsville Australia at http://www.gracespace.info/
There is an abundant range of resources relating to many different aspects of mission and being part of bringing God's presence into people's lives
Following are some of the resources they offer (free of charge):
40 days of real life faith: how to live faith practically
Welcoming new comers
Ministering during times of suicide
Grief
Confirmation
First Communion
How to be a role model for young people
Marriage resources
Understanding Grace
Youth and family ministry: Child in our hands
There is an abundant range of resources relating to many different aspects of mission and being part of bringing God's presence into people's lives
Following are some of the resources they offer (free of charge):
40 days of real life faith: how to live faith practically
Welcoming new comers
Ministering during times of suicide
Grief
Confirmation
First Communion
How to be a role model for young people
Marriage resources
Understanding Grace
Youth and family ministry: Child in our hands
Friday, October 12, 2007
Bible Study format for meetings; Mission is discerned through prayer and bible study
Bible study format for meetings
Mission is discerned through prayer and study
The Lower Susquehanna synod of the ELCA have developed a bible study format with suggested readings to help church councils, committees, and in fact everyone who meets in relation to church business to focus on sharing the faith and mission.
Preparation:
Choose a Bible study leader for the next meeting. The leader will select the Scripture and have copies printed to distribute so that everyone can follow along.
Implementation:
The leader will distribute the selected Scripture passage to each person. He/she will then read aloud the scripture passage. Wait a few minutes and then read it aloud again. The people can just listen or follow along on the printed paper making notes about words or phrases that jump out at them if desired.
The group will then discuss the following questions:
What is the word of God in this text?
Who does this text call us to be at this time, in this place?
What is the Word of God in text calling us to do?
Set a time limit for your discussion.
Closing:
After discussing the above questions, the leader will read the scripture passage a final time. Allow a few minutes of silent reflection before beginning the meeting.
Suggested Scripture texts that deal with mission
Mark 8:27-38
Hebrews 12: 1-3, 14-15
John 4:5-32, 39-42
Acts 1:8
II Corinthians 5:17-21
Matthew 28:18-20
Titus 2:7-14
Romans 12:1-2
Galatians 2:20
Luke 15 (entire chapter)
Isaiah 2:2-4
Isaiah 6:6-8
Romans 8:31-39
Exodus 3 (entire chapter)
Haggai 1:2-11
II Timothy 4:1-5
I Corinthians 1:21-25
Philippians 1:9-11
Jeremiah 1:5-8
Deuteronomy 10:12-22
Jeremiah 15:19-20
I Corinthians 15: 3-11
Jeremiah 29: 11-13
Amos 8: 11-12
for more details and resources visit the Lower Susqehanna synod of the ELCA at http://www.lss-elca.org/
Mission is discerned through prayer and study
The Lower Susquehanna synod of the ELCA have developed a bible study format with suggested readings to help church councils, committees, and in fact everyone who meets in relation to church business to focus on sharing the faith and mission.
Preparation:
Choose a Bible study leader for the next meeting. The leader will select the Scripture and have copies printed to distribute so that everyone can follow along.
Implementation:
The leader will distribute the selected Scripture passage to each person. He/she will then read aloud the scripture passage. Wait a few minutes and then read it aloud again. The people can just listen or follow along on the printed paper making notes about words or phrases that jump out at them if desired.
The group will then discuss the following questions:
What is the word of God in this text?
Who does this text call us to be at this time, in this place?
What is the Word of God in text calling us to do?
Set a time limit for your discussion.
Closing:
After discussing the above questions, the leader will read the scripture passage a final time. Allow a few minutes of silent reflection before beginning the meeting.
Suggested Scripture texts that deal with mission
Mark 8:27-38
Hebrews 12: 1-3, 14-15
John 4:5-32, 39-42
Acts 1:8
II Corinthians 5:17-21
Matthew 28:18-20
Titus 2:7-14
Romans 12:1-2
Galatians 2:20
Luke 15 (entire chapter)
Isaiah 2:2-4
Isaiah 6:6-8
Romans 8:31-39
Exodus 3 (entire chapter)
Haggai 1:2-11
II Timothy 4:1-5
I Corinthians 1:21-25
Philippians 1:9-11
Jeremiah 1:5-8
Deuteronomy 10:12-22
Jeremiah 15:19-20
I Corinthians 15: 3-11
Jeremiah 29: 11-13
Amos 8: 11-12
for more details and resources visit the Lower Susqehanna synod of the ELCA at http://www.lss-elca.org/
Monday, December 04, 2006
Book: When choice matters
Why are we recommending an ethics book?
What has it to do with mission?
Well many people are looking for answers about life, how to live???
Many ethics books simply tell us what to do!!!
This book written by the Lutheran pastor and academic Dr Mark Worthing, focusses not so much on the issues but rather helps us explore and understand the framework and foundation for making decisions as Christians.
It is an easy to read book, ideal for small groups, people wanting to explore decision making as a Christian and desiring to find a gracious God in the midst of difficult decisions.
Chapters include:
What is ethics
What is Christian ethics?
Major ethical systems
Ethics of Jesus
Role of the bible in Christian ethics
Ethics and the Christian community
Law and Gospel
Christian Liberty
Sin
Sanctification and Good works
Christianity and culture
Ethics of Vocation and work
Money Money Money
Marriage and sexuality
Decision making and the will of God
Resources for Christian decision making
coping with controversy
plus bonus material
What has it to do with mission?
Well many people are looking for answers about life, how to live???
Many ethics books simply tell us what to do!!!
This book written by the Lutheran pastor and academic Dr Mark Worthing, focusses not so much on the issues but rather helps us explore and understand the framework and foundation for making decisions as Christians.
It is an easy to read book, ideal for small groups, people wanting to explore decision making as a Christian and desiring to find a gracious God in the midst of difficult decisions.
Chapters include:
What is ethics
What is Christian ethics?
Major ethical systems
Ethics of Jesus
Role of the bible in Christian ethics
Ethics and the Christian community
Law and Gospel
Christian Liberty
Sin
Sanctification and Good works
Christianity and culture
Ethics of Vocation and work
Money Money Money
Marriage and sexuality
Decision making and the will of God
Resources for Christian decision making
coping with controversy
plus bonus material
Friday, November 24, 2006
Book(s): The Lutheran Handbooks
The Lutheran Handbook
These books are not constitutions or by laws but easy to read books abou God and living the Christian life
The essential field guide for all things Lutheran. For anyone hiking the trails of life's adventures and challenges — will want to pack this handy illustrated field guide to Lutheran theology and culture. This enjoyable, easy-to-read, reliable, all-in-one collection helps you understand the essential information about our theology, culture and Lutheran way of life. Organized by Church Stuff, Everyday Stuff and Bible Stuff with how-to's like "How to Forgive Someone" and lists like "The Top-10 Bible Villains." Encapsulates essential principles of the Christian life, making many of the complexities of our religious tradition accessible for contemporary seekers.
What the publisher says: "This is a fun book that affirms that Lutherans can (and must!) continue to laugh at themselves! It takes God very seriously but helps the reader to 'lighten-up!' It reminds me of the quote, 'Laughter is another way of crossing ourselves!' From the picture of Luther on the cover (is this his confirmation photo?) to the final pages of 'tongue in check' humor, these pages are a great mix of what life is all about — hurts and hoorays, Good Fridays and Easters, life and death, praying and playing!
What others say:
R Stout an amazon customer: You have no idea how excited I've been about this book. It's a thing of pure beauty. It is history, geography, sociology, practicality, theology, and -- perhaps most importantly -- great oozing masses of offbeat humor. It is hands-down the best single piece of popular religious writing and armchair theology that I've seen. Funny, intelligent, down-to-earth, comically illustrated, and irreverent. It's everything you need to see what good, orthodox, traditional Christianity is all about. (And it's a good tool for defense against extremist nutjobs!) It's set up in the same format as the ever-famous Worst Case Scenario guides. From chapters on camparative religion, a family tree of Christian denominations, and anatomical drawings of a proper Crucifixion, to a history of the Church, Medieval life, and good orthodox Christian theology, this book is perfect for people who know nothing of religion, perfect for Christians of any stripe, and perfect for life-long Lutherans.
My home parish bought 100 of them and sold out immediately. My work parish just ordered 25 and we've already pre-sold several. Did I mention there's a section on HOW TO AVOID BEING BURNED AT THE STAKE? Also tips on what to request if you can't avoid being burned at the stake. I kid you not. Another list includes ways to cast the Devil out from your presence. #6 is "break wind," and is noted as one of Luther's favorites. Also included:
How to Stay Alert During a Boring Church Service
Five Grossest Bible Stories
Five Weirdest Old Testament Laws
How to Perform a Crucifixion
How to Reform the Church History's
Six Most Notorious Heretics
Three Most Rebellious Things Jesus Did
Five Funniest Stories in the Bible
I've highlighted the humor, but this handbook is no satire. It is a serious, joyous, and thoroughly Christian document meant to educate, entertain, and deepen one's relationship with God and Christ's Church. It also includes guides on how to appreciate liturgy, how to deepen your experience of a worship service, how to find famous stories in the Bible, how to understand miracles, how to approach Scripture, how to live as a Christian in your everyday life... Honestly, this book is simply priceless. By all means, buy it, and pick a few copies up for your friends and loved ones.
The Lutheran Handbook on Marriage
In this book you will find:
The Lutheran Handbook for Pastors
These books are not constitutions or by laws but easy to read books abou God and living the Christian life
The essential field guide for all things Lutheran. For anyone hiking the trails of life's adventures and challenges — will want to pack this handy illustrated field guide to Lutheran theology and culture. This enjoyable, easy-to-read, reliable, all-in-one collection helps you understand the essential information about our theology, culture and Lutheran way of life. Organized by Church Stuff, Everyday Stuff and Bible Stuff with how-to's like "How to Forgive Someone" and lists like "The Top-10 Bible Villains." Encapsulates essential principles of the Christian life, making many of the complexities of our religious tradition accessible for contemporary seekers.
What the publisher says: "This is a fun book that affirms that Lutherans can (and must!) continue to laugh at themselves! It takes God very seriously but helps the reader to 'lighten-up!' It reminds me of the quote, 'Laughter is another way of crossing ourselves!' From the picture of Luther on the cover (is this his confirmation photo?) to the final pages of 'tongue in check' humor, these pages are a great mix of what life is all about — hurts and hoorays, Good Fridays and Easters, life and death, praying and playing!
What others say:
R Stout an amazon customer: You have no idea how excited I've been about this book. It's a thing of pure beauty. It is history, geography, sociology, practicality, theology, and -- perhaps most importantly -- great oozing masses of offbeat humor. It is hands-down the best single piece of popular religious writing and armchair theology that I've seen. Funny, intelligent, down-to-earth, comically illustrated, and irreverent. It's everything you need to see what good, orthodox, traditional Christianity is all about. (And it's a good tool for defense against extremist nutjobs!) It's set up in the same format as the ever-famous Worst Case Scenario guides. From chapters on camparative religion, a family tree of Christian denominations, and anatomical drawings of a proper Crucifixion, to a history of the Church, Medieval life, and good orthodox Christian theology, this book is perfect for people who know nothing of religion, perfect for Christians of any stripe, and perfect for life-long Lutherans.
My home parish bought 100 of them and sold out immediately. My work parish just ordered 25 and we've already pre-sold several. Did I mention there's a section on HOW TO AVOID BEING BURNED AT THE STAKE? Also tips on what to request if you can't avoid being burned at the stake. I kid you not. Another list includes ways to cast the Devil out from your presence. #6 is "break wind," and is noted as one of Luther's favorites. Also included:
How to Stay Alert During a Boring Church Service
Five Grossest Bible Stories
Five Weirdest Old Testament Laws
How to Perform a Crucifixion
How to Reform the Church History's
Six Most Notorious Heretics
Three Most Rebellious Things Jesus Did
Five Funniest Stories in the Bible
I've highlighted the humor, but this handbook is no satire. It is a serious, joyous, and thoroughly Christian document meant to educate, entertain, and deepen one's relationship with God and Christ's Church. It also includes guides on how to appreciate liturgy, how to deepen your experience of a worship service, how to find famous stories in the Bible, how to understand miracles, how to approach Scripture, how to live as a Christian in your everyday life... Honestly, this book is simply priceless. By all means, buy it, and pick a few copies up for your friends and loved ones.
The Lutheran Handbook on Marriage
In this book you will find:
The Lutheran Model for Marriage and Its Biblical Forerunners
The Five Stages of the Luther/von Bora Marriage
Katharina von Bora's Herring Barrel Escape from the Convent
Five Noteworthy Things Martin Luther Said about Marriage
Portrait of Martin and Katie
Five Faithful Couples in the Bible
Five Unfaithful Couples in the Bible
The Five Most Interesting Things Paul Said about Marriage
The Three Most Interesting Things the Song of Solomon Says Dating & Courtship
Ten Rules for the First Date
The Top Ten Attributes to Look for in a Spouse
How to Probe for Your Prospective Spouse's True Religious Views
The Five Most Effective Ways to Pop the Question The Wedding
Anatomy of a Lutheran Wedding
How to Plan a Lutheran Wedding
How to Select Your Maid of Honor or Best Man
How to Make Mutually Satisfactory Decisions about the Wedding
The Five Most Overused Wedding Bible Readings
Five Fresh Bible Wedding Readings
The Five Most Overused Wedding Hymns
Five Fresh Wedding Hymns
How to Light the Unity Candle without Setting the Bride's Hair on Fire
How to Respond When the Groomsman or Bridesmaid Faints
Five Common Wedding Ceremony Emergencies and How to Handle Them The First Year
How to Train Your Spouse
How to Merge Household Possessions
How to Merge Household Finances
How to Share a Car
How to Maintain Your Own Friendships
The Five Most Important Things to Remember When Choosing Your First Home
How to Decorate a Lutheran Home
How to Choose a Church Home Together
How to Establish a Routine of Daily Devotions
How to Keep Christ at the Center of a Marriage
How to Negotiate Where You Go for the Holidays
How to Prevent In-Law Encroachment
How to Prepare for an In-Law Visit
How to Respond to an In-Law's Nosy Question
Seven Common Moments in Which You Should Think before You Speak
How to Identify an Ill Spouse
Four Biblical Passages to Quote When You Call Your Spouse by an Old Flame's Name
How to Make Your Marriage a Springboard for Ministry
How to Use Your Spiritual Gifts in Your Marriage
How to Forge a Strong Second Marriage
How to Parent Your Spouse's Children Early Years
How to Manage a Household Calendar
How to Start and Maintain Your Own Holiday Traditions
How to Choose Your Child's Godparents
How to Get Your Family to Church on Sunday Morning
How to Pack a Diaper Bag for Worship
The Top Five Criteria for Evaluating the Church Nursery before Putting Your Kids in There
How to Handle Your Child's Non-Lutheran Friendships
How to Adopt a Child
How to Enjoy a Successful Marriage without Children Middle Years
How to Survive the Seven-Year Itch
How to Date Your Spouse and Keep Things Spicy
How to Balance Work, Home, and Church
How to Preserve Your Marriage through Your Kids' Adolescent Years
Ten Tips for Surviving the "Sandwich Generation" Years
How to Handle a Career Change
How to Recognize a Midlife Crisis
How to Maintain Your Marriage as You and Your Spouse Change Later Years
Ten Effective Ways to Dislodge Your Adult Children from Your Home
How to Survive after Your Kids Leave Home
How to Spoil Your Grandchildren Rotten
How to Grandparent Other Peoples' Kids
How to Survive Your Spouse?s Retirement
How to Retire without Ruining Your Marriage
Seven Rewarding Ways to Spend Time after Retirement
How to Support Your Spouse through a Serious Illness
How to Honor Your Spouse?s Memory
How to Plan Your Own Funeral
How to Leave a Legacy Money, Sex, & Other Fractious Issues
How to Navigate an Interdenominational or Interfaith Marriage
How to Get Your Spouse to Accompany You to Church
How to Plan Your Lutheran Vacation
How to Resolve Marital Conflict
Common Marriage "Stressors" and How to Manage Them as a Team
How to Talk to Your Spouse about Money
How to Write a Will (to Prevent a Posthumous Fight over Your Assets)
How to Write Living Wills Together
How to Plan for Retirement
How to Talk to Your Spouse about Sex
The Top Five Ways to Strengthen Marital Communication The Top Ten In-Law Issues and How to Deal with Them
How to Be Gracious to Your Spouse?s Friends Even When You Don't Really Like Them
How to Avoid Being Triangulated by the Kids
How to Decide Who Does What around the House
How to Share the TV Remote Control
The Lutheran Handbook for Pastors
This book contains:
Call Stuff
How to Know if You're Called to Be a Pastor
Luther's Call to Ministry
Seven Critical Pieces of Pastoral Advice Luther Gave
Luther's Five Biggest Pastoral Dilemmas and How He Handled Them
How to Avoid Becoming the Pastor You Swore You'd Never Be and Become the Pastor You Always Wanted to Be
How to Manage Your Relationship with the Bishop
Five Important Ways the Lutheran Confessions Define Pastoral Ministry
Seven Things Luther and the Reformers Said about Ministry
How to Know When It's Time to Find a New Call
Seven Things to Keep in Mind When You Interview For a New Call
What to Do When You Find Out You're the Wrong Person for the Call You're In
How to Retire from Ministry Gracefully Administrative Stuff
Five Tips on Hiring the Right Personnel to Make a Great Ministry Team
Thirty Subjects You Should Never Ask about in an Interview for New Staff
How to Empower Your Staff to Do Good Work
Five Things Senior Pastors Can Do to Endear Themselves to Their Staff
How to Run a Staff Meeting
How to Fire Someone When You Really Have to
How to Get the Best Out of the Church Administrative Assistant
How to Relate Effectively to a Senior Colleague
How to Relate Effectively to a Junior Colleague
Five Common Pitfalls Solo Pastors Fall into and How to Avoid Them
Ten Tips for Building Effective Pastoral Relationships in a Congregation
Four Unlikely Leaders in the Bible and What You Can Learn from Them
How to Release Your Congregation's Ability to Develop a Vision for Ministry
How to Delegate
How to Enable Your Congregation to Live as the Priesthood of all Believers
How to Participate in a Committee Meeting without Having to Be in Charge
How to Take Charge of a Committee Meeting When it Gets Off Track
How to Support and Empower Your Church Council without Becoming a Dictator or a Wallflower
How to Survive an Annual Meeting
Ten Things about Parish Ministry They Didn't Teach You in Seminary
How to Read a Congregational Financial Statement (and Why it's Important)
How to Manage Your Calendar
How to Carve Out Time for Sermon Preparation
How to Lead a Retreat Pastoral Stuff
How To Follow Jesus As Your Pastoral Model
How And When To Respond To A Request For Pastoral Care
How To Make An Effective Hospital Visit
How To Make An Effective Home Visit
How To Make An Effective Shut-in and Care-Facility Visit
Ten Things You Should Never Say to a Parishioner
How To Use The Grapevine To Support Your Ministry
How To Identify A Church Alligator
How To Avoid Getting Triangulated
How To Manage Habitual Office Drop-In Visitors So You Can Get Your Work Done
How To Remain Calm In A Crisis Situation
How To Mentally Prepare For A Funeral
Seven Preachers In The Bible and What Made Them Great
How To Preach A Prophetic Word Without Getting Fired
Three Clean Ice-Breaker Jokes For Use With Church Crowds
How To Preach A Stewardship Sermon Without Sounding Like You're Begging for a Raise
How To Create A Climate of Care, Love, and Openness In Your Congregation
How To Conduct Yourself at an Ecumenical Worship Service
How to Deal With Disgruntled Transfers From Other Churches
How To Drink Coffee
How To Accept Cookies and Other Goodies Without Gaining Weight
How To Listen To The Same Story For The 100th Time And Feign Interest
How To Respond When You Forget A Parishioner's Name
Five Ways To Handle The Tacky Gifts Parishioners Give You Worship Stuff
Ten Things You Should Never Say during Worship
How to Welcome Visitors
How to Ad-Lib a Prayer, Blessing, or Benediction
How to Use Your Family Members as Sermon Illustrations without Alienating Them or Boring the Congregation
How to Preach without Notes
How to Wing a Sermon When You Forget Your Notes at Home
How to Use Pronouns and Verbs in a Sermon
Eight Common Hand Gestures to Use with Your Sermon
Ten Uses for Old Sermon Manuscripts
How to Recover When You Lose Your Place or Forget...
How to Recruit Worship Assistants Discreetly When Someone Doesn't Show Up
How to Handle a Ringing Cell Phone during Worship
How to Handle Loudspeaker Feedback
How to Recover from an Open-Mike Gaffe
How to Respond to a Shrieking Child Incident
Five Common Wedding Faux Pas and How to Avoid Them
How to Survive an Anxious Wedding Party Personal Stuff
How to Recover from Christmas and Easter Overload
How to Stay Fit
How to Maintain Your Personal Devotional Life
How to Keep Up on Current Trends in Theology, Even When You're Busy
How to Maintain a Social Life as a Single Pastor
How to Keep Both Your Job and Your Family
Five Ways to Help Your Marriage Thrive Despite the Demands of the Job
How to Avoid Answering Personal Questions
How to Get Out of a Traffic Ticket
The Pros and Cons of Wearing a Clergy Shirt
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Spiritual Growth Project: Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod
SPIRITUAL GROWTH PROJECT
The ongoing mission of the WELS Spiritual Growth Task Force is to assist God’s people of the WELS in identifying issues which are symptoms of a need for Spiritual Growth and then to assist them in addressing these issues through the use and application of God’s Word.
Objectives
• Help God’s people see and understand our ongoing need for spiritual growth.
• Help God’s people take ownership of these ongoing needs for spiritual growth.
• Help God’s people develop processes and strategies which apply God’s Word to these issues.
• Assist and encourage God’s people to implement these strategies and processes in their individual lives of service.
Available from this page are 20 studies including:
A-1 A Personal Relationship with Jesus
A-2 The Mission of the Church
A-3 Spiritually Healthy Families
A-4 Universal Priesthood and Public Ministry
B-1 Flexibility in Ministry Methods
B-2 Opportunities for Member Ministry
B-3 Serving in an Atmosphere of Permission Giving and Trust
B-4 Ministry Empowerment
B-5 Male Leadership
B-6 Women's spiritual gifts
C-1 Personal Spiritual Growth -Called Workers.
C-2 Ministry Attitudes
C-3 Mutual Encouragement and Respect
C-4 Ministry Appraisal
C-5 Relevant Preaching and Teaching
C-6 Interpersonal and Management Skills
D-1 Students' Spiritual and Academic Growth
D-2 Spiritual Character development of Future Called Workers
D-3 Teaching Flexibility in Minstry Methods
D-4 Unity and Respect Among Different Forms of Ministry
Details of running a spiritual growth retreat, other tools and papers
Why not take a look at http://www.wels.net/cgi-bin/site.pl?2601&collectionID=1139&t=16345
The ongoing mission of the WELS Spiritual Growth Task Force is to assist God’s people of the WELS in identifying issues which are symptoms of a need for Spiritual Growth and then to assist them in addressing these issues through the use and application of God’s Word.
Objectives
• Help God’s people see and understand our ongoing need for spiritual growth.
• Help God’s people take ownership of these ongoing needs for spiritual growth.
• Help God’s people develop processes and strategies which apply God’s Word to these issues.
• Assist and encourage God’s people to implement these strategies and processes in their individual lives of service.
Available from this page are 20 studies including:
A-1 A Personal Relationship with Jesus
A-2 The Mission of the Church
A-3 Spiritually Healthy Families
A-4 Universal Priesthood and Public Ministry
B-1 Flexibility in Ministry Methods
B-2 Opportunities for Member Ministry
B-3 Serving in an Atmosphere of Permission Giving and Trust
B-4 Ministry Empowerment
B-5 Male Leadership
B-6 Women's spiritual gifts
C-1 Personal Spiritual Growth -Called Workers.
C-2 Ministry Attitudes
C-3 Mutual Encouragement and Respect
C-4 Ministry Appraisal
C-5 Relevant Preaching and Teaching
C-6 Interpersonal and Management Skills
D-1 Students' Spiritual and Academic Growth
D-2 Spiritual Character development of Future Called Workers
D-3 Teaching Flexibility in Minstry Methods
D-4 Unity and Respect Among Different Forms of Ministry
Details of running a spiritual growth retreat, other tools and papers
Why not take a look at http://www.wels.net/cgi-bin/site.pl?2601&collectionID=1139&t=16345
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Mission in context: Transformation, reconciliation, empowerment a LWF document
The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) is a global communion of Christian churches in the Lutheran tradition. Founded in 1947 in Lund, Sweden, the LWF now has 140 member churches in 78 countries all over the world representing 66.2 million Christians.
The Lutheran World Federation Department for Mission and Development works together with member churches of LWF to create, maintain and develop ministries that integrate proclamation, service and advocacy for justice. Church leaders and workers, both clergy and lay, are trained through LWF sponsorship. About 450 ongoing mission, communication and development projects and programs worldwide are carried out annually for the benefit of churches and communities.
They have produced the document - "Mission in context: Transformation, Reconciliation, Empowerment - An LWF Contribution to the Understanding and Practice of Mission."
This 62-page publication aims at stimulating a self-analysis and reaffirmation of mission in context among the LWF member churches and other bodies.
The LWF Mission document is available in English, French, German and Spanish.
To download the full content of the LWF mission document please follow the links below:
Full LWF Mission document (low resolution – PDF, 1.754 MB)
Preface and Introduction (PDF, 313 KB)
Section 1 - Contexts of Mission (PDF, 341 KB)
Section 2 - Theology of Mission (PDF, 642 KB)
Section 3 - Practice of Mission (PDF, 438 KB)
Conclusion (PDF, 142 KB)
The Lutheran World Federation Department for Mission and Development works together with member churches of LWF to create, maintain and develop ministries that integrate proclamation, service and advocacy for justice. Church leaders and workers, both clergy and lay, are trained through LWF sponsorship. About 450 ongoing mission, communication and development projects and programs worldwide are carried out annually for the benefit of churches and communities.
They have produced the document - "Mission in context: Transformation, Reconciliation, Empowerment - An LWF Contribution to the Understanding and Practice of Mission."
This 62-page publication aims at stimulating a self-analysis and reaffirmation of mission in context among the LWF member churches and other bodies.
The LWF Mission document is available in English, French, German and Spanish.
To download the full content of the LWF mission document please follow the links below:
Full LWF Mission document (low resolution – PDF, 1.754 MB)
Preface and Introduction (PDF, 313 KB)
Section 1 - Contexts of Mission (PDF, 341 KB)
Section 2 - Theology of Mission (PDF, 642 KB)
Section 3 - Practice of Mission (PDF, 438 KB)
Conclusion (PDF, 142 KB)
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Missional Bible Studies from the Center for US missions
The Center provides Missional Bible studies to help people dig into God's Word and hear God's call to be in mission. Scripturally based and doctrinally sound, they are also designed to be engaging, calling the saints to radical discipleship and sometimes challenging the status quo. The Bible studies offered on this page are changed periodically. They are free for use within your congregation when printed with the included copyright information. You can open and print the Adobe document, or save it to your computer. The Center is in the process of creating additional Missional Bible studies. New studies will be available on this page for a time, then they will be moved to the extensive offering of resources available without additional cost to those who purchase a Center for U.S. Missions/CoachNet membership ($60 per year). More information on the membership available soon.
CURRENT STUDIES
"Female and Fertile: Reproductive Capacity in the Local Congregation" by Mike Ruhl.
Scriptures describe the church as the ‘body of Christ’ (Romans 12; I Corinthians 12) – a living organism. Living things reproduce, institutions generally don’t. This study looks at scriptural descriptions of the church, explores the repercussions of the Bible’s portrayal of the church as female, and encourages application to your local congregation.
Leader's Guide: Female and Fertile
Participant Handout: Female and Fertile
"God's Mission to the City" by Tom Eggold.
This study looks at various Scripture selections to emphasize the heart of God connected to the welfare and ministry of the church in the city. It also acquaints the class with the realities of urbanization, immigration and economic and cultural interdependence. The bottom line: How can the Christian community effectively respond to the mission field of the city?
Leaders Guide: God's Mission to the City
Participant Handout: God's Mission to the City
"Grace Upon Grace" by Glenn Lucas. The foundational scripture passage is John 1:16, "From his fullness we have all received grace upon grace." This study focuses upon God’s grace in the life of the participant. Through the study of God’s word the participant realizes that salvation in Jesus Christ flows fully out of God’s grace. Additionally, participants are invited to reflect upon and share times of grace experienced in their lives.
Leader's Guide: Grace Upon Grace
Monday, November 13, 2006
Web site: ELCA evangelism
The theme of this web site from the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America is
You Shall Be My Witnesses... Marked with the cross of Christ forever, we are claimed, gathered and sent for the sake of the world
The site offers resources and information for:
- individuals (you are my witnesses in your families, neighbourhoods, jobs, schools and to the end of the earth)
- leaders (you are my witnesses in your meetings, planning, training and mentoring and to the end of the earth)
- congregations (you are my witnesses in your worship, neighbourhoods, communities and to the end of the earth)
- synods (you are my wintesses in your councils, committees, campuses, offices and to the end of the earth).
There are assessment tools for:
- communication
- hospitality
- evangelism
- prayer
- spiritiual gifts
- yonger generations
Well worth exploring at http://www.elca.org/evangelism/
Our Church in Mission from Lutheran Church of Australia's
This 3 page document outlines how the Lutheran Church of Australia (including New Zealand) sees it self in mission. It covers:
What the bible teaches about mission
That mission is both local and global
Local emphasis
Global emphasis
It concludes with the following:
The mission of the church is God’s mission. Sent out by the command of Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit, the people of God participate in God’s ‘plan for the fullness of time, to gather up all things in Christ' (Ephesians 1:10)
Why not have a look at the page:
http://www.lca.org.au/resources/bfm/ourchurch0310.pdf
What the bible teaches about mission
That mission is both local and global
Local emphasis
Global emphasis
It concludes with the following:
The mission of the church is God’s mission. Sent out by the command of Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit, the people of God participate in God’s ‘plan for the fullness of time, to gather up all things in Christ' (Ephesians 1:10)
Why not have a look at the page:
http://www.lca.org.au/resources/bfm/ourchurch0310.pdf
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