Miracles Week Four

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MIRACLES: Week 4 – The Unexpected Blessing Open in Prayer W elcom e/Introductions/Cast Vision Rem ind the Grow Group of the ground rules Share context/sum m ary of the story [Provide context by sharing the information below.]

In obedience to the Jewish law, Joseph and Mary brought Jesus to the temple to present Him to God and offer a sacrifice. In the temple, a devout man named Simeon approached Jesus and delivered a prophecy describing Him as salvation for Israel. Anna, a woman of great faith, also approached Jesus. She began to praise God for the redemption that He would bring to Jerusalem through Jesus. Tell the story – Luke 2:22-38 [Have someone tell the story.] Rebuild the story [Group members tell the story together based on what they remember.] Read the story out loud [Read the scripture passage to see if anything was added or omitted.] Discuss these questions:

1. What do we learn about God from this passage? [Jesus is God in flesh that came to dwell among us (John 1:14); Jesus is the Light that pierces through the darkness of the world (John 8:12); God places people in our paths to encourage and comfort us in our walk with Him; God calls us to model a life of devotion and faithfulness to Him (Eph. 2:10); it is only through Jesus that we can experience a relationship with God (John 14:6); in Jesus alone do we have redemption through His blood, forgiveness of sins; etc.]

2. What do we learn about Man/Us from this passage? [I can grow impatient when the Lord does not answer my prayers within my time frame; I need God to surround me with fellow believers that encourage me in my walk with the Lord; like Simeon looked forward to the coming Messiah, I also need to be looking forward to Jesus’ imminent return; I need to follow the example of Simeon and Anna and never retire from making disciples; I need to look to the future with hope and joy instead of fear and worry; etc.]

3. What is God saying to you specifically through this passage as it pertains to your life, marriage, family, and work? 4. In light of what you’ve learned today, what do you need to do to obey God? Other questions specific to this passage:

1. This passage details how God revealed the truth of who Jesus was. How did God reveal the truth of the gospel to you? Who did He use to reveal the gospel to you? 2. After studying Simeon and Anna, how do you want to spend your retirement? Assign next week’s passage – M atthew 4:1-17 [Ask someone to tell the story next week.] Close in Prayer

MIRACLES: Week 4 – Leadership Coaching The purpose of this page is to help you sharpen your skills as a Grow Group leader. Each week, we will include concepts, challenges, and resources designed to assist you as you lead and shepherd your Grow Group and grow as a disciple yourself.

Leading [learn to facilitate your group more effectively] Remember that our goal is to help our people walk through the head, heart, and hands process. Here are some good questions for helping those in your Grow Group bring truth into their everyday lives: (1) What is one way you can apply this truth to your life this week? (2) What are you challenged to think/believe/do differently because of this passage and our discussion? (3) How can you use this to disciple others? (4) How does this impact you?

Shepherding [know the sheep, feed the sheep, lead the sheep, protect the sheep] Write a note to each person in your Grow Group this week. Some things you may want to include in the note: Thankfulness for the way they add to your group dynamic. Encouragement about how you have seen them grow spiritually or serve others. Prayer for a need they have expressed.

Developing [grow as a disciple yourself] Even as leaders, I know that we can struggle with having a daily time set aside for God. This time is essential. Here are a few keys to help you be more successful in abiding in your personal relationship with Jesus: (1) Set a standard time and place. (2) Have all your materials at that specific location. (3) Remove all distractions. (For example: If it is your office, clear your desk. If it is in your bedroom, make sure that the television and cell phone are off.) (4) Have a plan. You don’t want it to be so routine that it loses its importance, but it is very helpful to have a consistent plan. You want to make sure you include enough time for the Holy Spirit to speak to you through His Word and prayer. Make time also to approach the throne with the things on your heart. (5) Journal your thoughts. Write down the things God is teaching you. Record the scripture you are reading. Write down your prayer requests and even your prayers to God.