CG Booklet v4.1 2

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family devotionals ACTIVITY:

Week #5: Accept One Another

Grab a dry erase board and markers OR a chalk board and chalk OR simply a paper and pencil with eraser. Note: Peter is referred to as both Peter and Simon Peter.

This is a long passage but you can choose to read all of John 18 and 21, or simply read John 18:10-11, 15-17, 25-27; 21:15-17 Note: The specific verses are those that are most helpful. What you want your kids to see is the relationship Peter and Jesus had; the good and the bad.

While someone is reading ask family members to draw a sad face on the board each time Peter says he does not know Jesus. Then as you get into Chapter 21 ask family members to erase and change the sad faces to smiley faces each times Peter says he loves Jesus. Isn’t it great that God loves us when we mess up? He wants us to share that with others!

FOCUS: STEP IT UP:

(if you are able to make more time in your week)

God wants His people to accept and pray for one another. Get a large poster Markers/colored pencils A stack of post-its. Have someone, or take turns, write Romans 15:7 on the poster. Then as a family color and draw all over the poster. Encourage kids to draw pictures that help them remember the verse. Take the stack of post-its, have everyone close their eyes and have one family member pick random words in the verse to cover. See if you can remember those words that are covered without peeking. Have everyone close their eyes again and let a different family member cover new words. Keep doing this until the verse is memorized. Hang your poster up somewhere you will see it all week.

GO DEEPER:

(have older kids or are just ready for more?)

Read John 21:25. The final verse in John quite interesting. We have so many stories about Jesus yet this verse makes it clear that we don’t know the half of it. As a family write a story about Jesus. Choose your setting, plot, and characters. You may draw pictures or use cartoon bubbles, whatever you want. You can have it set in Bible times or present day. You can be in the story with Jesus! What would He say? Would He perform a miracle? Would He be telling a great story? It’s up to you! Note: If your kids need to move a bit more. Act out a story you create about Jesus. Common Ground 2017: One Another

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ADULT DEVOTIONALS

WEEK 5: MONDAY “May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” - Romans 15:5-7 Paul wrote this letter to the Romans and when studying letters in the New Testament, it's always interesting to look at the people they were written to and how that affects what the writer chose to say. Paul actually directs his letter to some of the different groups of believers that were in Rome at the time. There were Jews who had accepted Jesus as their Messiah. There were Gentiles that had also accepted Jesus. As you can imagine, it would not have been easy for these groups of believers to come together—to unify. This week, we are looking at the concept of “accepting one another”. Paul gave these instructions to the Romans, and isn't it amazing how it can apply to us today as well? Have you ever had an experience in the church where you realized how different you were than others around you? What was that like and did it ever seem to hinder your ministry? Were you able to look past differences and remember your common ground? Sometimes it can be hard to remember that our foundation is in Jesus Christ. We all come from different backgrounds. We have different personalities, thoughts, and ideas. Paul speaks on the profound truth that we are truly unified with “one mind and one voice” through Christ and our relationship with him. How incredible is that? God made us so uniquely different and yet, we are made the same in Him to ultimately glorify Him on earth. Have you seen this power in a group of believers? Take time today to pray for unity within our church and among all believers. It is so easy to dwell on our differences, but there is power in glorifying our Father together.

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ADULT DEVOTIONALS

WEEK 5: TUESDAY “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of others.” - Philippians 2:3-4 Humility is mentioned quite a few times throughout the Bible. Its importance for the believer cannot be overlooked. It is such an important quality, especially when it comes to unity among believers. Humility allows us to have a more modest and correct view of ourselves, and therefore will allow us to view God properly as well. But it will also show us a way to look at others in a new light. We see the importance of “valuing others” above ourselves and looking to the “interests of others”. Does this come easy for you? I think it's safe to say that it doesn't come easy for most of us. Our nature is to look out for ourselves and to even be selfish. It's also easy to look down on those around you who are different than you. Is this something you have struggled or are struggling with? Having a wrong view of ourselves can be such a hindrance for us as believers, as well as the unity that God desires for us. How can we act as one body united if we think we are better than those around us? Take some time today to confess to God where you have not valued others or shown humility that they deserve. Ask God to open your eyes to see those around you in a new way and to understand that we are so much better when we are working together for His glory. If you have time, take a look at other places in the Bible where humility is mentioned and let these verses change your outlook on those around you. Be completely humble and gently; be patient, bearing with one another in love. - Ephesians 4:2 Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. - 1 Peter 3:8

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ADULT DEVOTIONALS

WEEK 5: WEDNESDAY “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” - Psalm 133:1 Unity and acceptance in the church is so important to allow our common mission to succeed. And it pleases God! God wants us to remember that as believers, we all have the Holy Spirit in us. Through Jesus, we are all unified no matter our circumstances, our backgrounds, or the strengths and weaknesses God has given us. In the book of Philippians, Paul tells a short story of two women, Euodia and Syntyche, who came into a disagreement. Biblical scholars believe these women may have been leaders in the early church, which would have made this disagreement and disunity all the more harmful to the mission. Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends! I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life. - Philippians 4:1-3 Paul encourages these women to come together in their unity for the cause of the gospel. Their acceptance of one another should stem from their acceptance of Jesus as their savior just as it does for us. What are some ways that you can ensure that our mission is not hindered by disagreements and arguments among one another? Today, pray for a like mind in Christ Jesus and that we can be accepting of one another just how God made us and placed us together for a common purpose. “Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one person for the faith of the gospel.” - Philippians 1:27

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ADULT DEVOTIONALS

WEEK 5: THURSDAY “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” - Ephesians 4:4-6 There is no better example of loving others, accepting others, and serving others than that of Jesus Christ. He went to the cross where he humbled himself for each of us. How incredible is that? And what an example it is for how we should be treating our brothers and sisters in Christ. We can use Christ's example to put the needs of others before our own. Has anyone in your life ever sacrificed something so that you could have an opportunity you may not have had otherwise? Has anyone in your life ever humbled themselves and seen themselves as less than they were so that you could get ahead? Jesus was willing to lower himself and give up so much to serve us. This love and this acceptance of us, just as we are, is what drives us all forward and is what allows us to reach others together with the gospel of Christ. Take some time today to thank God for those in your life that have accepted you and have made it possible for you to excel. Take time to thank Jesus for lowering himself to the point of death for you and for us all. Finally, think of some steps you can take to model yourself after Jesus, especially in your ministry. Maybe you need to set apart some time each week to pray or even fast. Maybe you need to reach out to someone who has been on the outskirts of our church. Take bold steps in the coming weeks that will ultimately unify us as one body. “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” - Romans 5:8

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ADULT DEVOTIONALS

WEEK 5: FRIDAY “If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” - Ecclesiastes 4:10-12 God's people are such a diverse group of people. We come from different backgrounds, have different gifts and strengths, and we also have different thoughts and opinions. It is only through Christ that we can be truly unified and accepting of each other. Let this message change you this week and beyond. God can come into our church and into our individual lives and change things in a big way. He can break down walls between us and unify us in a way no one else can through the Holy Spirit. God brings acceptance among believers and unity with our mission. It's our prayer that for this year's Common Ground and beyond that we will have a new way of working together.

And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. - Colossians 3:14 As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. - Ephesians 4:1-6

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ONE ANOTHER

WEEK 5: ACCEPT ONE ANOTHER OCTOBER 15, 2017

DISCUSSION GUIDE

MAIN POINT God’s people are called to accept one another and pray for a spirit of unity.

INTRODUCTION There are few things more beautiful than a symphony playing in perfect unison. Although the instruments are unique on their own, when musicians play the same song, in the same key, with the same timing, the music is an inspiring blend that highlights each musician’s talent, while still creating something together that they couldn’t produce as solo artists. But imagine what would happen if each person played in a key of his or her own choosing, or decided to play his or her own song. Rather than a thing of beauty, the symphony would sound like a jumbled and chaotic mess. A symphony can only make beautiful music when there is unity among its members. In the same way, God’s people are called to live in unity with one another. Christians have a variety of gifts and diverse characteristics. Christ’s church is comprised of people from all different races, backgrounds, languages, and skill sets. Unity does not mean blandness; unity means using our gifts and talents in harmony with others in the church body, with the shared goal of bringing glory to God.

What are common stumbling blocks to unity in the local church? Have you ever witnessed personal disagreements that led to friction?

Why should diversity be valued in the body of Christ? Can you give specific examples of how diversity is a blessing in our church community?

UNDERSTANDING > READ ROMANS 15:5-7.

In your own words, what did Paul pray for in this passage? Why do you think Paul asked God to grant unity to this group of believers?

Is unity something you pray for regularly for The Chapel? From Paul’s words to the Roman Christians, why should it be?

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ONE ANOTHER THE CHAPEL

DISCUSSION GUIDE

Paul prayed that God would give the church at Rome a spirit of unity among its members. Paul recognized that church members have different opinions, mindsets, attitudes, and skill sets. Diversity of all kinds is a good thing in the local church. But one thing that must be consistent is a shared attitude toward Christ and one another. So Paul specifically prayed that God would grant unity to this group of believers. He understood that unity was something that needed to be prayed for. Paul’s desire that they “have the same attitude of mind toward one another” didn’t mean they should all think the same way or come to the same conclusion; rather, they should be unified in their focus on Christ and Jesus should be considered the model for Christian conduct.

Glance back at verse 7. What does Paul instruct his readers to do? What does it mean to “accept” one another?

Why is feeling accepted such an important factor in biblical community?

What would happen if newcomers and longtime church members didn’t feel accepted at The Chapel?

Paul instructs the church at Rome to “accept one another” in the same way Christ has accepted us. All people are sinners and fall short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23). Christ has accepted us with our flaws and shortcomings, so we, too, are to accept one another. When the local church doesn’t embrace people, they will look elsewhere for a place to belong. Some translations use the phrase “welcome one another.” It’s important for believers to continually welcome new believers into the local church. As the body of Christ grows in our local church communities, it is imperative that we embrace and accept one another despite our differences. Unity in Christ far outweighs any other differences or preferences. Paul isn’t the only one in the New Testament who prayed for unity in the local church. > READ JOHN 17:20-23.

What does Jesus pray for future believers (v. 21)? Why do you think Jesus prayed that we would be “one”?

Jesus prayed for unity in the church. How does this change the way you relate to one another (or how should it)?

How does division in the church undermine the greater purpose of making Christ known to a lost world?

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ONE ANOTHER THE CHAPEL

DISCUSSION GUIDE

Just hours before going to the cross, Jesus prayed what theologians refer to as the High Priestly Prayer. In the High Priestly Prayer, Jesus not only prayed for Himself and His disciples, but He also prayed for future believers. Jesus was concerned for unity among His followers. Jesus knew that His number of followers would continue to expand and multiply. Of course, the same is true today. Through the power of the gospel, men and women from different cultures, races, languages, and backgrounds become Christ followers, and Jesus prayed to the Father for continued unity among us. Inevitably, disagreements will arise among believers. But when they do, we need to model humility with one another. > READ EPHESIANS 4:2-3.

What role does humility play in promoting a culture of unity? What pitfalls could be avoided if we truly learned to accept one another and embrace unity in our church community?

Do you think Satan works to undermine Christ’s church by sowing discord among members? How does the enemy often use pride (the opposite of humility) to cause problems among people?

How do disagreements over minor details cause us to lose focus on the greater goal of sharing the gospel? Can you think of any examples?

Jesus constantly modeled a Spirit of humility (Phil 2:3). As Christ followers, we are to humble ourselves for the sake of unity in the church. Christians experience unity when we are united in God and in the truth of the gospel. As a unified church, we will be empowered to bear witness to the true identity of Jesus and the way to eternal life. Although as believers we all have distinct backgrounds, personalities, and spiritual gifts, we are to be one in purpose. We live in a divided and hostile world that is in desperate need of the unifying power of the gospel. Unity among the body of Christ is essential if we are going to share the gospel with a lost world.

APPLICATION Practically speaking, what steps can we take as a church family to promote unity in our community?

What steps can we take to avoid division that leads to strife among church members?

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ONE ANOTHER THE CHAPEL

DISCUSSION GUIDE

What would it look like for you to be accepting of those in our church family who differ from you?

What might happen if everyone who walked through the doors at The Chapel felt accepted and embraced? What would that tell a lost world about our God?

PRAY Father, we thank You that You accept us in Jesus Christ, despite our sins and shortcomings. We pray for unity in our church. We ask You to empower us to be people who accept others as they are. We pray that we will love each other and be unified in sharing the gospel with a lost world.

MEMORIZE “May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” -Romans 15:5-7

COMMENTARY ROMANS 15:5-7

15:5-6. Paul’s prayer is that God will bring these house churches of Rome to the place of harmony, love, and unity that will enable them to best honor God. 15:7-8. These verses show that people from Jewish and Gentile backgrounds struggled with accepting one another. Jesus as the Messiah was born a Jew and ministered to Israel (“I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel,” Mt 15:24) to fulfill OT promises and prophecies. His primary purpose was for Israel, but He also had a design for the nations (Gentiles). JOHN 17:20-23

17:20-21. If we had any doubt that this prayer applies to believers today, it is erased by verse 20. The heart of this final paragraph of the chapter focuses on unity—the ultimate demonstration of God’s work through his people in the world. We learn here that body unity is patterned after divine unity. The absolute oneness of the Father and the Son will now be spiritually transferred to believers for a specific purpose— spiritual unity.

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ONE ANOTHER THE CHAPEL

DISCUSSION GUIDE

The union of the church is not patterned after some earthly organization or any wellmeaning intentions of humanity. God joins our spirits through the Holy Spirit because Jesus’ blood is “thicker than water” and thicker than human bonds. Perhaps there is no verse in all of Scripture which has been more frequently quoted to support ecclesiastical church union than John 17:21. However, the emphasis of the prayer centers in spiritual unity, not organizational unity. It must be understood in the light of John 10:30, “I and my Father are one.” If we are to understand the unity of the church, we must first understand unity between the Son and the Father. 17:22. Christian unity is facilitated by glory, first given to Christ and then in turn to the disciples. Glory in this context is not an absolute attribute of God but a relative possession that can be reassigned to believers. Some interpreters see heaven here, but there would be no point in such a futuristic view with respect to the mission statement of verse 23: “to let the world know that you sent me.” Peter wrote that the divine nature was already in us as a result of regeneration, so we already have a measure of the glory of Jesus himself. 17:23. We also learn in this passage that body unity is a witness to the world. Like a set of matched mixing bowls, we are the smaller one that fits into Christ who fits into the Father. Purpose? To let the world know that you sent me. Mixing bowls may provide too mundane a metaphor here, but Jesus’ teaching about the vine and the branches in chapter 15 is affirmed by this prayer of chapter 17. The unity of believers calls forth a recognition of God’s hand by observers in the world even while the church is on earth. Just a few hours before this prayer, Jesus told the disciples, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love fore one another” (13:35). EPHESIANS 4:2-3

4:2. Four attitudes are essential to the Christian’s worthy walk—humility, gentleness, patience, and love. Humility is the lowliness of mind that sees other people as valuable. Gentleness refers to strength under control. Patience means slowness to avenge a wrong or to retaliate when hurt by another. Love is the famous Greek noun agape, the John 3:16 kind of sacrificial concern for others that sent Jesus willingly to the cross. 4:3. The unity of the spirit already exists. It was brought about historically by Christ’s cross. We experience it by God’s Spirit. Thus we do not have to manufacture unity; rather we are to work at diligently keeping it. This happens as we focus our energy on expressing the peace that binds us to God and to one another (Col. 3:15). Christians are not called to create spiritual unity but rather to demonstrate it through relational unity.

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