dust of the rabbi fpc small group manual

IN THE DUSTOF THE RABBILenten Small Group Study Guide

WHEN FACILITATOR(S) HOST(S) WHERE CHILDCARE

Sundays 4 – 6 PM

Stephanie & Bill Knoebloch

Open Church Yes, at Church

Tuesdays 9:30 – 11:30 AM

Barb Martin Myra and Tom Gallant

Gallant’s Address at

Kendall

No (?)

Tuesdays 7 – 9 PM

John Wiegand Paula and Bob Hinebaugh

Hinebaugh Address

Could be arranged at

Church?

Wednesdays 7 – 9 PM

Evelyn & Vern Walker

Open TBD Could be arranged at

Church?

Thursdays 1 -3 PM

Suzy Henry Open Church Could be arranged at

Church?

Thursdays 7 – 9 PM

Susan & Joe Leithauser

Mel and Reed Fraley

Fraley Address Could be arranged at

Church?

Fridays 7 – 9 PM

Shannon and Greg Phelghar

LuAnn and Keith Duffus

Duffus Address Yes; limited

Small GroupsQuick Reference

Introduction

This study guide outlines a 6-week study based on passages from the Gospel of Matthew. There is a saying that disciples want to be covered by the dust of their Rabbi, because they are following so closely as their Master leads them. We will study Christ’s words to his disciples, and the promises of his abiding presence:

1. Matthew 5:17-20, 38-42—the Law’s demands and the greater righteousness.

2. Mt. 6:5-18—how to pray. 3. Mt. 8:18-22, 9:9-17—requirements of discipleship. 4. Mt. 13:31-33, 44-46, 51-52—parables of the Kingdom. 5. Mt. 19:13-26—how God wants us to live. 6. Mt. 26:(31)36-46—Jesus and the disciples in Gethsemane.

Each week consists of a brief worship [reading of a Psalm, playing or singing Lenten music], a brief group-building check-in [sometimes integrated with the Bible study], a Bible study with the text first read, then discussed using questions supplied in the study guide, a time of sharing concerns and joys, and a period of prayer. In the check-in, the time for sharing concerns and joys, and the prayer, an opportunity is given for each participant in the group to speak, or to pass. This is how we come to know each other better. Discussion in the Bible study portion of the meeting is more free-flowing and voluntary, though managed so that no one (including the leader) dominates.

The study guide is for the use of the leader, not to be distributed generally to the group. It contains an outline of each meeting, with suggestions for the worship time and the check-in, background on the Bible passage, and suggested questions for the Bible study, as well as prompts to facilitate the sharing and prayer time. A meeting time of at least an hour and a half, plus social time, should be allowed. The first meeting would include a brief discussion of a rudimentary covenant of the group [meeting time and day, a commitment to attend every meeting if not sick or out of town, and absolute, permanent confidentiality of all sharing].

An experienced small group leader may choose to prepare for a meeting and not require all these prompts, or even the suggested questions for the Bible study portion of the meeting. These suggestions on sharing, prayer and Bible study provide a general structure that is to be followed, though, with suggested texts and

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questions for those who would be more comfortable with a little more guidance on how to lead or how to bring a group together. [There is an alternative set of community-building exercises for groups who went through an earlier Lenten study together and may have done these group-forming exercises then.]

FPC small groups have four activities, including mission together, as well as prayer and worship, community-building and burden-sharing, and Bible study. Sometime during the 6 weeks of Lent, the group should plan and carry out a mission activity together, in addition to their weekly meeting.

It is certainly not expected that any group would have time to answer all the suggested questions in the Bible study. These questions are discussion-starters, thought-provokers, and a group may have meaningful discussion of how the Scripture they have read relates to their life, without getting past the first question the leader poses. It is useful, however, to close the Bible discussion with a question or challenge for the group to respond to in the time between meetings, when they are apart.

Background on the passages from the Gospel of Matthew to be studied

“For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there in the midst of them,” Jesus tells his disciples in Mt. 18:20. As the author of Matthew has organized his Gospel and presented the deeds and words of Jesus, this is the consistent message—that Christ is present with his disciples and the Kingdom of God has already begun! In the first chapter, quoting the prophet Isaiah, he says, “…and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means, ‘God with us’.” [Mt. 1:23] And Matthew concludes with Mt. 28:20, “And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” For the Gospel of Matthew, Christ’s words to his disciples are founded upon his continuing presence with them, even when only two are together—and that is also the foundation for our life together in small groups.

The Gospel of Matthew was probably written around 80 or 90 A.D. Scholars think Matthew is not an eyewitness account, but draws on the earlier Gospel of Mark and a collection of Jesus’ sayings, now lost in their original form, known as Quelle, or Q, as well as the particular traditions and liturgy of the Matthean community. It is thought the author was a Jewish Christian who spoke Greek, but knew Aramaic or Hebrew as

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well. It was probably written for the Christian community in Antioch, Syria (where believers were first called “Christians”), at a time when many Gentile Christians were coming into the faith community there. Also, Jews and Jewish Christians were struggling with the destruction of the Temple in 70 A.D. and the end of Temple sacrifice, and the Rabbis’ effort to develop a Torah-obedience based Jewish observance to replace sacrifice.

In fact, there is a continuing scholarly debate as to whether the author of Matthew, with a strong encouragement to “do God’s will” and even to go beyond the strict requirements of the Law (as evidenced in the Sermon on the Mount), was trying to counter the antinomianism (negative feeling toward the Law) of Paul [see 5:19], or trying to counter the post-Temple Torah obedience of the Pharisees. In this Lenten study, however, we will focus on what Jesus is saying to his disciples—how to follow him, and how to live where Christ has promised to be present.

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Week 1

Dust of the RabbiStudy Guide

Week 1 of Lent[February 22-28, 2015]

Opening worship [5 minutes]

Start with a word of welcome, and an opening prayer. You may create one of your own, or use this one:

Dear Lord, as we come together in this season of Lent, we know you are with us, because you have promised that where two or three are gathered in your name, you will be among them. We are excited about this chance to get to know you, and one another, better, and to study your Word. Care for us, guide us, and lead us into a fellowship of love and acceptance. Thank you for gathering us to receive your love. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Then read Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16, or play a recording of some music appropriate for Lent, or sing a favorite song or hymn.

Community Building [35 minutes]

Tell the group your expectations for your time together, and seek their agreement. SAY something like:

As we meet together through Lent, we will be encountering what it means to be a disciple of Jesus, by studying together a series of passages from the Gospel of Matthew. You will want to bring your Bible every week, to follow along. I will tell you what the following week's passage will be, but you will be able to take part in the discussion, even if you don't have time to read it before the meeting. This isn't academic Bible study; we will explore what Matthew’s Gospel says and means, and then move on to making connections with our daily lives and encouraging one another to live according to what we are learning.

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Week 1We will also build community in our group, and care for each other. We will listen to each other, and we will pray for each other. And we will worship together. So, these are our expectations for our time together this Lent. First, we will commit to be here every week unless we are sick or out of town. We will try to start on time and end on time, because we have baby sitters and other commitments, too. Second, we will hold everything we hear in confidence, not repeating it outside the group. This will be our commitment now, during Lent, and for the future when the group may not be meeting. We will build trust in the group. And third, we will listen lovingly and accept each other unconditionally. We will support each other. We will not offer advice, only support and encouragement, and prayer. Is that all right with everybody? Can you all commit to that?

[Option A, New Groups:] Now, let's get to know each other a little better. Let's go around and introduce ourselves, and make it more interesting by giving a brief answer to a few questions. I'll ask each question and give my answer first, so you get the idea. Then, everyone can take a turn. You can share as much or as little as you want, and if you prefer not to answer, just say "pass". In fact, that's how we will work all our sharing in this group.

[Ask one question at a time, and allow each group member to answer before moving to the next question. Model brevity; a suggestion of reasonable time for each person is noted after the question.]

1. Tell us your name, where you live, how many brothers and sisters you have, and one place you lived before you were 12. [30 seconds each]

2. How was that place where you lived when you were a child heated? [30 seconds each]

3. Who was a source of human warmth for you during that time? [1 minute each]

4. When--if ever--did God become real, alive, and warm for you? [1-2 minutes each]

[Option B, Previously Meeting Groups:] Let’s play a little game called “Two Truths and a Surprise”. We will go around the group, and each person will share two truths about yourself. These might be just the basics, but since we know a lot about each other, let’s try to make the third truth a surprise, something you think others in the

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Week 1group might not know about you. We’ll keep our answers pretty short, but you might have to elaborate on your “surprise”. I’ll start, then each of you can take your turn.

OR

Let’s share a few facts about ourselves. First, when I say, “hometown”, what place do you think of, and why? Second—and this may or may not be related—what was your favorite food as a child? I’ll start, then each of you can take your turn.

Bible Study—Matthew 5:17-20, 5:38-48 [25 minutes]

Start with a moment of silence, in which group members are invited to open their minds and hearts to the Word. Try for a full, measured minute of silence, though it may seem an eternity at first. Then, after the reading of the text, have another moment of silence, in which to consider the Word and allow it to take root. You may read the text yourself, or ask one person to read it all, or have several read two or three verses at a time.

Background on Matthew 5: The Sermon on the Mount, as reported in Matthew, is a challenging example of what Jesus expects of his disciples. You have to do more than just keep the Law, and everything you have heard is a rule for human behavior, God expects more [even “perfection” v. 48], or perhaps just the opposite from what the old rules required. What does Jesus mean? Where is grace in this message? The group will find its way through this to Christ’s graceful presence, but here are a few notes to help clarify. In v. 17 the phrase “I have come” expresses the authoritative prophetic consciousness of Jesus as having been sent by God. Christ is the lawgiver, the new Moses, in these passages. “Fulfill” is a key Christological category for Matthew. God’s work is not complete, although the kingdom is bursting in with the advent of Jesus, and the Law and the Prophets point the way to a definite act of God in an eschatological, messianic future. It is that future, standing in the presence of Christ, where we can fully live as the disciples Jesus calls us to be in the Sermon on the Mount.

Verse 19 is in the form of a “sentence of holy law” in which eschatological judgment is paralleled with present conduct (which can be seen as an indication that 5:17-20 reflects debates in the post-Easter church on the role of the law, a subject Paul also discusses). V. 19 seems aimed at some Greek or Gentile Christians who relaxed some of the law’s demands. The rest of chapter 5 is known as the “antitheses”, in

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Week 1which Jesus reaffirms the law, then radicalizes its demands, yet builds in a situational application, where it must be interpreted from case to case. Verses 38-48 put limits on revenge and retaliation, where the disciple must embrace the enemy and take positive action in the interest of the aggressor. In Matthew’s “inaugurated eschatology” (the Kingdom has already broken in, in Jesus), your conduct must be appropriate to your status as a child of God, which you already are. To be perfect, as invited in v. 48, is not absolute moral perfection in the Greek sense, or the legalistic sense of keeping all the laws of the community (as among the Jews at Qumran). Rather, the word for “perfect” is from Old Testament texts, the Greek word used for the Hebrew word mymt tamim, “wholeness”—to serve God wholeheartedly, single-minded in devotion to the one God.

Any of this background may be shared, at points in the discussion when you think it is relevant, but the purpose of this Bible study is the shared reflections of the group, not a lecture.

After the reading and following silence, invite comments on some of the following questions, as appropriate: Openers: 1) As a child, what family rule did you love to break? Why? 2) What is the hardest rule to keep, for you? It could be a family rule, a rule from school, a Biblical rule, or anything else. 3) What is the best advice you have been given for dealing with anger? Explore: 1) How did Jesus “fulfill” the Law and the Prophets? 2) What does it mean for “everything [to be] accomplished”? When is that? By whom? 3) How can we obtain a “righteousness that surpasses the Pharisees and the scribes”? 4) What qualities is Jesus saying should replace revenge and retaliation? Reflect: 1) Why is the bar set so high in this passage? 2) What does the type of love Jesus is calling for involve? 3) What would change in your life for you to be “perfect”? 4) When it comes to making things right with others, or reconciling, who in your life do you think of? What does vv. 38-48 say to you?

At the end of the Bible study discussion, to continue reflection on this passage through the week, ask the group to take two minutes to think in silence in a specific way, about who in their circle of friends, neighbors, or family they can treat in a new way, based on these verses, while you are apart this week. They do not have to disclose this, but ask them to commit to doing it.

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Week 1

Sharing of Concerns and Joys [15 minutes]

SAY something like: Let's take a few minutes and go around the room, sharing anything that we want the group to be praying about, for us. Remember, this is all confidential. This is about you, and how we can pray for you. This is not general intercessory prayer for others in the church or the world, but for your concerns. And, of course, you can pass. Then we will pray together.

Go first, try to be vulnerable [the group will follow your example, and be comfortable sharing if you lead them in sharing yourself]. And model the amount of time you hope each member will use to share their concerns.

Prayer [10 minutes]

SAY something like: A great way to experience God's love is to be prayed for. We have learned a little about each other, and about how God feeds our hearts. Let's pray together, taking turns and thanking God for loving care and each other, and lifting up each other's needs. I'll pray first, then we'll go around the circle as we did with our sharing. When it's your turn, you only need to say a sentence or two. If you want to pass, just say "Thank you, God", or squeeze the hand of the person next to you. If you aren't sure what to pray for, out of all we have shared today, think of the person on your right and what you can pray for them. Then, I'll close at the end. Let's pray.

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Week 2


Week 2 of Lent[March 1-7, 2015]



Lord, we are glad to be together again. We pray that your Word will be fresh for us today, and we thank you for letting us get to know each other better, as we come to know you better. Help us to love and care for one another. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen

Then read Psalm 27:4-14, or play a recording of some music appropriate for Lent, or sing a favorite song or hymn. Wait for the Lord, a Taize setting of Psalm 27, might be effective. Hymn 179 is a hymn with the text of Psalm 27. Hymns that go with Christ’s teaching on prayer include 349, 589 [a fun version of the Lord’s Prayer, 425 [on Mt. 6:10] and 347 [on Mt. 6:12].


[Option A, Listening Skills exercise for new groups—Please use the exercise on Page 27]

[Option B, Previously Meeting Groups:]—If the group is not newly formed, proceed directly to community building and SAY something like:

If people really listened to you, what is one thing they would find out about how your life is going right now? I'll go first, so you get the idea. Then, everyone can take a turn. You can share as much or as little as you want, and if you prefer not to answer, just say "pass". Remember, that's how we work all our sharing in this group.

OR

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Week 2

Let’s go back in time. Think back three or four decades, or more if you like. Each person in the group will briefly describe a home they lived in during each of those decades. I’ll go first, so you get the idea. Then, everyone can take a turn.

Go first, try to be vulnerable [the group will follow your example, and be comfortable sharing if you lead them in sharing]. And model the amount of time you hope each member will use to share their concerns.

Bible Study—Matthew 6:5-18 [30 minutes]


Background on Mt. 6:5-18: This portion of the Sermon on the Mount is Christ’s words to his disciples on how to pray. The Lord’s Prayer, vv. 9-13, is structurally and theologically the center of the Sermon on the Mount. The earlier verses do not criticize all Jewish prayer, only the “hypocrites”, the actors, who pray for show. The words “closet” or “inner room” are not intended literally, but rather an instruction to pray to God only, not for an audience. Community prayer is definitely acceptable. The “many words” of v. 7 may refer to invocations of many gods, empty insincere talk, ritual prayer formula, or attempts to “inform” or manipulate the deity. The Lord’s Prayer, as recorded in Matthew, has two sets of three petitions. Perhaps some of these were formulated in pre-Matthean Jewish Christianity; the opening and first two petitions were common in first century Jewish prayer. The first three actually have rhythm and rhyme in Greek. They are in the third person imperative [“let come”, etc.], which is a form indicating we understand that only God can hallow the name or bring about the Kingdom, or help us do God’s will.

This prayer was used for a generation in Matthean church liturgy, and had been slightly expanded and nuanced for the Jewish Christianity of the time of the author of the Gospel of Matthew. “Our Father” recognizes that we are brothers and sisters with Jesus. “Let your Kingdom come” realizes that only God can bring in the Kingdom fully, yet for Jesus’ disciples, the Kingdom is a present reality. In praying this prayer,

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Week 2one commits oneself to hallowing God’s name, bringing in the Kingdom, and doing God’s will. In fact, “thy will be done” is the theme of the Gospel of Matthew [see Mt. 26:42, in Gethsemane, to be studied during Holy Week].

In the second set of petitions, “bread” is both a recognition of providence and a symbol of eschatological blessing—today’s specific needs and finally bread for all. Sin is a debt to God that cannot be repaid. Here, without presumption, but in confidence, the disciple is taught to ask for God’s forgiveness, both here and now and in our ending. God’s forgiveness is unconditional, and is the ground and cause for our forgiveness of other human beings. Prayer is the language of confession, not merely admitting that we have done wrong, but confession in the sense of confessing faith, dependence, and commitment.

This may be shared, at points in the discussion when you think it is relevant, but the purpose of this Bible study is the shared reflections of the group, not a lecture.

After the reading and following silence, invite comments on some of the following questions, as appropriate: Openers: 1) What role did prayer play in your family’s life when you were growing up? 2) Were you taught any prayers when you were a child? What was one of the earliest that you can recall? Explore: 1) How does hypocrisy affect prayer? Assume you are talking privately to God. Is there still a possibility of hypocrisy? 2) Why does Jesus warn his disciples to avoid wordiness in prayer? 3) Why is the Lord’s Prayer structured as 2 sets of 3 petitions, and why this order? 4) If God knows what we need before we ask, why pray? 5) What should be our attitude toward God’s Kingdom and will? What about our attitude toward life’s necessities? Reflect: 1) Why is it crucial to forgive those who wrong us? 2) Are you comfortable or uncomfortable, praying out loud? 3) What overused phrases in prayer bother you? 4) Is your prayer life mostly about your needs, about needs in your family or community, or about God’s will?

At the end of the Bible study discussion, to continue reflection on this passage through the week while you are apart, ask the group to take two minutes to think in silence about what they might do in their prayer lives to obtain better balance, where

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Week 2prayers [and action] to bring about God’s Kingdom and do God’s will are as common as prayers for friends and family and self. They do not have to disclose this, but ask them to commit to doing one specific step in this direction this week.


SAY something like: Let's take a few minutes and go around the room, sharing anything that we want the group to be praying about, for us. Remember, this is all confidential. This is about you, and how we can pray for you this week. And, of course, you can pass. Then we will pray together.


Prayer [10 minutes]

SAY something like: We have learned today a little more about each other, and about how Jesus teaches us to pray for God’s Kingdom and God’s will, as well as our own needs. Today, though, let's pray together, taking turns and thanking God for loving care and each other, and lifting up each other's needs. I'll pray first, then we'll go around the circle as we did with our sharing. When it's your turn, you only need to say a sentence or two. If you want to pass, just say "Thank you, God", or squeeze the hand of the person next to you. If you aren't sure what to pray for, out of all we have shared today, think of the person on your left and what you can pray for them. Then, I'll close at the end. Let's pray.

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Week 3





Dear Lord, with this meeting we will be half way through Lent. We thank you for blessing us with this fellowship. Open our ears to your Word, and our eyes to the needs in each other's heart, for which you call us to care. Hold each of us as we meet together, and as we carry your love into the world. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Then read Psalm 63:1-8, or play a recording of some music appropriate for Lent, or sing a favorite song or hymn. Hymn 198 is a setting of Psalm 63.

Brief Check-in [15 minutes]

SAY something like:

Sometimes we have a brief check-in at the beginning of the meeting, to see if anything major is going on in our lives, that can't wait until our sharing toward the end of the meeting. We'll go around quickly, and just briefly let each other know how we're doing this week. If we hear something major, we can deal with it now, before going on the other business of the evening [afternoon], or we can agree to hear more detail later in the meeting.

Go first, model brevity, and listen attentively for truly big matters that cannot be put off for discussion later. Use caution; if comments here are too long, the meeting schedule will be derailed. If heavy burdens are postponed, however, later in the meeting there may not be time adequate to fully hear them out.

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Week 3Bible Study—Matthew 8:18-22, 9:9-17 [25 minutes]


Background on Mt. 8:18-22, 9:9-17: These passages illustrate how costly, yet how blessed, is the life of discipleship. The verses from chapter 9 contain one of the most appealing promises of the enduring presence of Christ among us. The Bridegroom is still with us! And we are called to celebrate, as we serve. A Christian theatrical group, Friends of the Groom (based in Cincinnati, and headed by famed playwright Tom Long), travels to churches to help them discover this truth with plays and workshops based on Scripture. This span of verses, from 8:18 to 9:17, is sometimes characterized as a time when Christ’s “deeds of power” and words of teaching created a community of disciples.

The passage from chapter 8 comes in the middle of a series of accounts of miraculous healings. It is intended to convey the severe requirements of discipleship. First, we may give up our comfortable life. Then, we may be required to sacrifice honor and respectability: among first-century Jews, the duty to bury one’s father was considered a higher claim than even ordinary duties of faithful observance, a sacred obligation. The story also clarifies that one cannot “apply” to be a disciple—the initiative is always with Jesus. This is picked up in Mt. 9:9-13, where Jesus is free to choose the most unlikely—even you—to follow him as disciples. Once again, it is Jesus’ powerful word that calls and creates discipleship. Verses 10-11 convey a sense of the eschatological fellowship of the messianic banquet. Verse 13 is one of two times in Matthew that Jesus quotes Hosea 6:6. Sinners—those who are sick—become righteous through Christ, and learn to do mercy. [“Sacrifice” is a reference to Temple sacrifice, which of course had ended with the destruction of the Temple before the Gospel of Matthew was written.]

In vv. 14-17, Jesus affirms fasting (he has even given rules for it in Mt. 6:16-18). He uses the question, however, to let his disciples know that the presence of Jesus is the time of eschatological celebration, the presence of the Kingdom of God, here pictured as the messianic wedding banquet. Among the interpretations that have

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Week 3been offered of vv. 16-17, one suggests that the life of discipleship may not fit easily with the old lifestyle. They provide contrasting images: new cloth may shrink and pull away from the old garment, yet old wineskins may not stretch to hold new wine as it continues to ferment and change.


After the reading and following silence, invite comments on some of the following questions, as appropriate: Opener: 1) What is the best excuse you have heard for not getting your work done? 2) What are the pros and cons for traveling all the time, always living out of a suitcase? 3) As a kid, did you outgrow your clothes or wear them out? Explore: 1) What is the difference between “teacher” and “Lord”? 2) Why did Jesus respond like this, in chapter 8? What do his responses tell you about discipleship? 3) How do unshrunk cloth and new wine relate to the bridegroom and the Kingdom? 4) Who eats with Jesus? 5) What does it mean to celebrate while the Bridegroom is with you? Reflect: 1) Who or what are the “old wineskins” in your life? Matthew suggests preserving both the new wine and the old wineskins. How can you do that, with growing discipleship? 2) How can we do a better job of demonstrating the joy of Christ and the blessings of discipleship to the world? 3) How would you explain these passages to a friend, in terms of your life?

At the end of the Bible study discussion, to continue reflection on this passage through the week while you are apart, ask the group to take two minutes to think in silence about one thing in your life, where you will play priority on discipleship ahead of other demands. Ask them to pray, in a specific way, for the strength to carry out your discipleship, with the joy of having the Bridegroom at your side, and to continue to pray that way through this week. They do not have to disclose this, but ask them to commit to doing it.

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Week 3Community Building [25 minutes]

SAY something like:

[Option A, New Groups:] Share a challenge or frustration in your life that you are carrying right now, that you would like to turn over to God. I'll go first, so you get the idea. Then, everyone can take a turn. You can share as much or as little as you want, and if you prefer not to answer, just say "pass". Remember, that's how we work all our sharing in this group.

OR

[Option B, Alternative Exercise:] I want you each to describe how one very important person influenced your life in your childhood, and then one from your teen years or young adulthood. I'll go first, so you get the idea. Then, everyone can take a turn. You can share as much or as little as you want, and if you prefer not to answer, just say "pass". Remember, that's how we work all our sharing in this group.




Go first, try to be vulnerable, and model the amount of time you hope each member will use to share their concerns.

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Week 3Prayer [10 minutes]

SAY something like: Today we learned how God calls us into discipleship, despite our weaknesses and past history. And we learned how Christ has promised to be with us, like the bridegroom at the wedding feast, as we strive to follow him. Christ, our brother, bears our burdens with us, and strengthens us. As we celebrate God’s care for us, let's pray together, taking turns and thanking God for loving care and each other, and lifting up each other's needs. I'll pray first, then we'll go around the circle as we did with our sharing. When it's your turn, you only need to say a sentence or two. If you want to pass, just say "Thank you, God", or squeeze the hand of the person next to you. Then, I'll close at the end. Let's pray.

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Week 4





Lord, we praise you for bringing your Kingdom close to us, and inviting us to follow where you lead. As we meet together and care for each other in your name, teach us to do our part in bringing about your Kingdom. In your holy name, Amen.

Then read Psalm 32, or play a recording of some music appropriate for Lent, or sing a favorite song or hymn. Hymn 184 is a good setting of Psalm 32, sung to the same tune as hymn 435, We All Are One in Mission.

History Sharing [20 minutes]

SAY something like:

[Option A, New Groups:] Let's spend a little time sharing our own histories. Briefly describe a time when someone cared for you and helped you through a difficult situation. I'll go first, so you get the idea. Then, everyone can take a turn. You can share as much or as little as you want, and if you prefer not to answer, just say "pass". Remember, that's how we work all our sharing in this group.

OR

[Option B, Alternative Exercise:] Let’s talk about something you really liked about growing up. Tell us an event from your childhood, or possibly your teen years, that evokes warm memories for you. I'll go first, so you get the idea. Then, everyone can take a turn. You can share as much or as little as you want, and if you prefer not to answer, just say "pass". Remember, that's how we work all our sharing in this group.

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Week 4

Go first, try to be vulnerable [the group will follow your example, and be comfortable sharing if you lead them in sharing]. And model the amount of time you hope each member will use to share.

Bible Study—Matthew 13:31-33, 44-46, 51-52 [25 minutes]


Background on Mt. 13:31-33, 44-46, 51-52: These are parables of the Kingdom of God, and particularly, how it will be in relationship to the life of a disciple. The reading selects several well-known parables: the mustard seed, the yeast, the hidden treasure, the pearl, and the concluding parable, the householder. Mustard seed is proverbially small, yet grows into a large shrub (two to nine feet tall, not actually ever a tree; that is theology and reflects Old Testament imagery of the coming Kingdom of God [Ps. 104, Daniel, Ezekiel]). It contrasts the present lowliness of the Kingdom, and our discipleship, with what will come. Yeast is a surprising choice, since in Jewish tradition (and elsewhere in Matthew, cf. Mt. 16:6), it is almost always a symbol of corruption. The quantity of flour is surprising, too—enough to make bread for 100 to 150 people. Again, this parable is a picture of surprising extravagance (see also Gen 18:6). The focus is on the coming Kingdom, and the life of discipleship, not the spread of Christianity. The verb for placing the yeast in the flour is “hid”; the Kingdom is at present hidden and silent, Jesus says, but will be revealed.

The other three parables do not occur elsewhere in the Gospels. The hidden treasure and the pearl are apparently to be interpreted together. Both the plowman and the merchant go and sell everything for the sake of the one thing. The Kingdom is not “like” either the treasure or the pearl, but like the story as a whole: the single-minded response of the pure in heart [Mt. 5:8]. The plowman is just doing his regular routine, while the merchant is explicitly looking for fine pearls. In both cases, they find something beyond all expectations. The pearl was often a symbol of the highest good, much like diamonds are in modern Western culture. In v. 52, the word “trained” or “instructed” is actually the Greek word for “discipled”. As in Mt. 9:17,

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Week 4both the old and the new have value, the old being reclaimed for the new situation in light of the coming of the Kingdom.


After the reading and following silence, invite comments on some of the following questions, as appropriate: Opener: 1) With the proceeds of a garage sale or a moving sale, what worthy item would you purchase? 2) What small or seemingly insignificant possession is worth a great deal to you? Why? Explore: 1) What aspects of Jesus’ ministry seem small? How have they become like the mustard seed, or the yeast? What aspects of your ministry seem like small seeds? 2) How does yeast work? (and what is the parallel with discipleship?) 3) In vv. 44-46, what energy and emotion are modeled in obtaining the Kingdom (and in living within the Kingdom)? 4) When, if ever, has your faith cost you something? Reflect: 1) How valuable is the kingdom to you, and why?: (a) It’s worth more than anything else. (b) I think I’d miss too many of the other things. (c) I’m not ready to put all my eggs in one basket. 2) What would you say to someone who says you can be a good disciple without completely “selling all” to follow Christ? 3) What items do you need to “sell off” this week in order to follow Christ and his Kingdom?

At the end of the Bible study discussion, to continue reflection on this passage through the week while you are apart, ask the group to take two minutes to think in silence about one specific action each of them will do this week to help their discipleship grow to bless others. They do not have to disclose this, but ask them to commit to doing it.


SAY something like:

There are five areas or types of need that a person might experience: physical need, social, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual. Briefly tell us about an area of your life in

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Week 4which you need care right now. I'll go first, so you get the idea. Then, everyone can take a turn. You can share as much or as little as you want, and if you prefer not to answer, just say "pass". Remember, that's how we work all our sharing in this group.





Prayer [10 minutes]

SAY something like: And on us has the light shined. As we live in the light of life, let's pray together, taking turns and thanking God for loving care and each other, and lifting up each other's needs. [John], you pray first, then others as they are ready to pray. Then, I'll close at the end. Let's pray.

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Week 5





Lord, sometimes we go through terrible trials. We thank you that you choose to be present with us in these trials, and that we can see you in the faces and hearts of those gathered around us in this group, and those you send to be with us in our trials. Bless us as we spend this time together today, sharing your love. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Then read Psalm 126, or play a recording of some music appropriate for Lent, or sing a favorite song or hymn. Hymn 304, Jesus Loves Me!, goes with this passage from Matthew, especially the second verse of the hymn.

Bible Study—Matthew 19:13-26 [35 minutes]


Background on Mt. 19:13-26: This text contains two of the most challenging stories about Jesus’ words to his disciples, the blessing of the little children and his encounter with the rich young man. In chapter 18, Jesus’ teaching on the church, he devoted the first 10 verses to the role of children in the Kingdom, and our responsibilities toward them. This is in part a metaphor for the “little people” in the Christian community, but in Mt. 19:13-15, Jesus’ words and actions are concrete and

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Week 5specific. He laid hands on them and blessed them. This was a serious reordering of how the community treated children. In vv. 16-26, the first part is a dialogue with a young man of great wealth, but the rest is teaching the disciples. Jesus includes with a sampling of the 10 Commandments “love your neighbor as yourself”, which he also offers as part of the “greatest commandment” in Mt. 22:34-40. “Perfect” means radical obedience, not merely keeping the Law, but it does not mean sinless. As we have seen in the discussion of Mt. 5, it means “whole”, “undivided”, even “mature”. This is not a requirement for a special class, but for every disciple who strives to be obedient to God. Christ’s invitation to the rich young man in v. 21 is the same as given to Matthew in Mt. 9:9. Note that Jesus does not say that it is impossible for a rich person to enter heaven, but to enter the Kingdom of God. Jesus completes this teaching for his disciples with the resounding truth that for God, all things are possible. That is what the promised presence of Christ means for his disciples: all things are possible.


After the reading and following silence, invite comments on some of the following questions, as appropriate: Openers: 1) What are the most exciting and the most frightening aspects of parenthood? 2) Where do we draw the line between being productive and being rushed, or between being dedicated and being driven? 3) If your house were on fire, what three items would you try to save? Explore: 1) What was Jesus trying to get the disciples to understand about children and the Kingdom? 2) Why did Jesus not choose commandments from the first four for his response to the rich young man? Why did he add one not from the Decalogue [although this commandment is in Lev. 19:18]? 3) What did Jesus have to say about riches and the Kingdom of God? What riches does he mean? 4) What is the key verse in this story? Verse 21? Verse 24? Verse 26? Reflect: 1) Jesus hit this man where it hurts—in his wallet. If Jesus were to call you in a way that hurts, what would be his hot topic for your life? 2) Why is it that we often do not become more generous as our wealth increases? 3) What have you given up to follow Jesus? How is your life different as a result? What will you give up now, to follow Jesus?

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Week 5

At the end of the Bible study discussion, to continue reflection on this passage through the week while you are apart, ask the group to take two minutes to think in silence about what you need to count as rubbish [as Paul would say Phil. 3:8], for the sake of following Christ. Ask them to then pick one specific action each of them will do this week to put some of the rubbish aside. They do not have to disclose this, but ask them to commit to doing it.


SAY something like:

[Option A, New Groups:] What good news from the past week would you like to share with the group? Or perhaps a challenge has come up for you this past week that you need to share. Has being a member of this group affected your daily life? I'll go first, so you get the idea. Then, everyone can take a turn. You can share as much or as little as you want, and if you prefer not to answer, just say "pass".

OR

[Option B, Previously Meeting Groups:] Give us an adjective, to use in front of your name, that describes how you feel right now. You know, like Stressed-out Susan, Worried Dan, Peaceful Tim. Or you could use an adjective that describes how you would like to feel. I'll go first, so you get the idea. Then, everyone can take a turn. You can share as much or as little as you want, and if you prefer not to answer, just say "pass". Remember, that's how we work all our sharing in this group.




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Week 5


Prayer [10 minutes]

SAY something like: Jesus truly is the giver of new life, and we know that for God, all things are possible. Let's pray together, taking turns and thanking God for loving care and each other, and lifting up each other's needs. [Sue], you pray first, then others as they are ready to pray. Then, I'll close at the end. Let's pray.

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Week 6


Week 6 of Lent Holy Week

[March 29 - April 4, 2015]



Dear Lord, you have shown us how to serve you through serving others. You willingly took our burdens upon you, and you chose to do your Father’s will. Keep us connected as branches to a vine, and help us abide in you, and do your will, as your Word abides in us. Thank you for giving us friends to love in your name. Amen.

Then read Psalm 118:1, 19-29, or Philippians 2:1-11, or play a recording of some music appropriate for Lent, or sing a favorite song or hymn. Hymn 97 is appropriate for this week’s passage from Matthew. Michael Card's The Basin and the Towel is excellent for Holy Week, and Buddy Greene’s Shining Like Stars picks up the following passages from Phil. 2. Hymn 230 is a setting of Psalm 118, and hymns 113 [Christ the Lord is Risen Today, esp. v. 4], 142 [All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name], and 148 [At the Name of Jesus] are also well suited.

History Sharing [15 minutes]

SAY something like:

[Option A, New Groups:] Briefly tell about someone you know, or have heard of, who really shows what it means to live as a disciple or follower of Jesus. I'll go first, so you get the idea. Then, everyone can take a turn. You can share as much or as little as you want, and if you prefer not to answer, just say "pass".

OR

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Week 6[Option B, Alternative Exercise:] Tell us about an experience when you had serious doubts about your faith, or about what God wanted you to do in your life. Then, if you can, tell us how you got through that experience. I'll go first, so you get the idea. Then, everyone can take a turn. You can share as much or as little as you want, and if you prefer not to answer, just say "pass". Remember, that's how we work all our sharing in this group.

Go first, and model the amount of time you hope each member will use to share their history.

Bible Study—Matthew 26:(31)36-46 [30 minutes]


Background on Mt. 26:(31)36-46: This text is the story of Jesus and the disciples in Gethsemane. There are two things to notice in this story: Jesus’ behavior, and that of the disciples. As to the disciples, this is teaching by negative example. The way this story is reported in the Gospels, the disciples must have felt great shame and remorse for falling asleep when their Lord needed them most. Verses 31-35 are optional, if the leader wishes to stress the weakness and unreliability of even the chosen disciples—weakness and unreliability, but redemption and empowerment through the presence of the Risen Christ.

Note that in vv. 38 and 40, Jesus stresses, “stay awake with me,” an expression of his abiding and mutual presence. The author of Matthew focuses on Jesus as a model for prayer, going off to pray three times, and surrendering with the words “Let your will be done”. Again, this is the theme of Matthew, and Jesus’ key teaching for his disciples. Jesus has prayed three times, resolving in trust and commitment to God’s will, as opposed to Peter, who has slept, then denied Christ three times. Jesus knew that the spirit was willing, but the flesh was weak, for himself as well as the disciples, so he prayed. Note also, the word Jesus uses to say that the hour has come near in v. 45 and that his betrayer (“the one handing me over”) has come near, is the same

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Week 6word he uses in Mt. 4:17 to say that the Kingdom has come near. The Kingdom has come!


After the reading and following silence, invite comments on some of the following questions, as appropriate: Openers: 1) In what particular situations is it hardest for you to stay awake? 2) What friends do you turn to when your world is turned upside down? 3) What was the longest night of your life: Delivering your first child? Waiting up for your teenager? Making a major decision? Explore: 1) What are the various emotions Jesus must have felt in Gethsemane? What does he ask of his disciples? What does he ask of God? 2) What does it mean to pray that God’s will be done? Is there a place for thinking about your will, your needs? 3) This is a model for our prayer life—what about the rest of our discipleship? 4) What is given to the disciples to overcome their weak flesh and sleepiness? Reflect: 1) What has been your Gethsemane? 2) Who would you want to watch and pray with you next time you face a Gethsemane? 3) What do you appreciate about Jesus’ emotions in this story?

At the end of the Bible study discussion, to continue reflection on this passage through the week while you are apart, ask the group to take two minutes to think in silence about how they will bring the teachings of Jesus to his disciples, especially about their prayer life, into their actions and commit to do at least one specific thing in the coming week. They do not have to disclose this, but ask them to commit to doing it.


SAY something like:

If you feel comfortable doing so, share a specific situation in your life right now in which Jesus is challenging you to live more completely as his disciple--at home, at church, at work, or in your neighborhood. Or if you don't feel comfortable sharing an answer to that question, tell us more generally how things went for you in the past

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Week 6week. I'll go first, so you get the idea. Then, everyone can take a turn. You can share as much or as little as you want, and if you prefer not to answer, just say "pass".

Go first, try to be vulnerable [the group will follow your example, and be comfortable sharing if you lead them in sharing]. And model the amount of time you hope each member will use to share.

This may also be a time to discuss whether the group will commit to continuing meeting after Lent, if they have not already decided. Perhaps changing the meeting schedule (say, to every other week) will make it easier for some to make the continuing commitment.




Prayer [10 minutes]

SAY something like: We hope in the Lord, and we hope we have learned how to serve and care for one another. Let's pray together, taking turns and thanking God for loving care and each other, and lifting up each other's needs. I will pray first, then others as they are ready to pray. Then, [Bill], will you close at the end? Let's pray.

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Week 6Optional Listening Skills Exercise for use on page 8

Before the meeting, you will need to recruit a member to help you with a demonstration of listening skills. You will be the speaker in the demonstration, and the group member will be the listener. During the first part of the demonstration, you as speaker will be trying to describe a situation in your daily life that is troubling you (perhaps a problem with a neighbor or the extra workload at your job). The group member, instead of listening attentively, will tune you out--fidgeting, yawning, looking around, checking a watch--communicating that the group member is not listening.

For the second part of the demonstration, you will again describe the situation that is troubling, but this time the group member will use good listening skills--nodding, asking questions, saying "uh huh" or something else encouraging you to go on, leaning forward slightly, maintaining eye contact.

SAY: "[name of group member] and I are going to perform a brief listening demonstration. Please watch for the listening skills we demonstrate."

Then demonstrate the example of how not to listen for about 30 seconds, or long enough for the group to see what is happening. Then discuss what happened.

SAY: "How can you tell when a person is not really listening to you? Give specific examples. "

Discuss this for about two minutes. Answers might include: listener looks at watch a lot; listener gazes into space or refuses to make eye contact; listener slouched or yawns; listener fidgets or sits on the edge of the chair; listener changes the subject.

SAY: "Now we'd like to do another brief listening demonstration. We'll try to get the skills right this time. Please watch for signs that [name] is really listening to me."

Conduct the second part of the demonstration, as a good listener, for about two minutes [always model the correct behavior longer than the incorrect]. Then, discuss for about three minutes.

SAY: "How can you tell when a person is really listening? What are specific examples?"

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Week 6

Answers might include: eye contact; posture; facial expressions; verbal encouragement like "uh huh"; nodding; asking questions; not being distracted by outside noises or movement.

SAY: "Now we want to take some time to practice good listening. Find a partner to practice with. Take about three minutes each now to share some important information about yourself with your partner. Describe something that you are happy or excited about. While you are talking, your partner will listen using the good listening indicators we just discussed. I will tell you when three minutes have passed, then you will switch roles and both have an opportunity to practice good listening skills, and to tell your story."

After three minutes, let the partners change roles. At the end,

SAY: "This is the kind of listening we should always use in our group's times of sharing, to show Christ's love for one another."

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