Gospel Translations - User contributions [en]

Cur Deus Homo/fr

2008-10-28T18:03:15Z

Sweetlybroken:

{{info|Pourquoi le Dieu –Homme ?}}<br>

<br> '''Article from Gospel Translations'''

Pourquoi le Dieu –Homme ?

« Why the God-Man ? » Dans le onzième siècle, un des savants les plus brillants de l'église, Anselme, l'archevêque de Cantorbéry a écrit trois oeuvres importants qui ont influencé l'Eglise depuis. Dans le champ de philosophie chrétien, il nous a donne son Monologium et son Proslogium ; dans le champ de théologie systématique, il a écrit le grand classique chrétien ''Cur Deus Homo'', lequel est traduit « Pourquoi le Dieu-Homme » ?

Dans cet oeuvre, Anselme a établit les fondations philosophiques et théologiques d’un aspect important de la compréhension de l'Eglise de l'expiation de Christ, en particulier la vue de la satisfaction de l'expiation. Dans lequel, Anselme soutenait qu'il fallait qu’on ait l'expiation pour satisfaire la justice de Dieu. Ce point de vue est devenu la pièce centrale d'orthodoxie chrétienne classique dans le Moyen Age, en regard a la compréhension de l'église du travail de Christ dans Son expiation. Depuis, cependant, la vue de la satisfaction de l'expiation n'a pas été sans ses critiques.

Dans Moyen Age, on a posé des questions a propos de la bienséance de la pensée que l'expiation de Jésus était nécessaire par quelque loi abstraite de l'univers qui exigeait que la justice de Dieu soit satisfaite. Ceci a engendré le débat prétendu ''d'Ex-Lex''. Dans le débat ''d'Ex-Lex'', la question était engendre si la volonté de Dieu fonctionnait à part d’une loi (ex-lex) ou si la volonté de Dieu lui-même était exposé à quelque norme de vertueusement ou une loi cosmique qui exigeait que Dieu soit oblige à le suivre et, donc, Sa volonté a été exercée sous la loi (sous lego. La question était : Dieu est-il à part de la loi ou L'est sous la loi ?

La réponse de l'église à ce dilemme était de dire fondamentalement

« une variole sur les deux maisons », et déclarer que Dieu est ni a part de la loi ni sous la loi dans ces sens respectifs. Plutôt, l'Eglise a rependu en affirmant que Dieu est les deux, soit à part de la loi et sous la loi, dans la mesure ou Il est libre de n'importe quelles restrictions imposées sur Lui par une loi qui existe à part de Lui-même. Dans ce sens, Il est à part de la loi et pas sous la loi. Pourtant en même temps, Dieu n'est pas d'arbitraire ni capricieux et travail selon la loi de Sa propre nature. La Eglise a déclaré que Dieu est une loi à Lui-même. Ceci ne reflète pas un esprit d'anarchie dans Dieu, mais que la norme pour le comportement de Dieu et la volonté de Dieu est fondée sur ce que les théologiens orthodoxes du dix-septième siècle ont appelé le « la loi naturelle de Dieu.

La loi naturelle de Dieu, comme une expression théologique, pourrait être facilement comprise ou pourrait être confondue avec le concept plus large que nous rencontrons dans la théorie politique et dans la théologie prétendue, « la loi de nature » (lex naturalis). Dans ce sens de la phrase, la loi de nature se réfère à ces choses que Dieu révèle dans le monde de nature des certains principes d'éthique. Dans la distinction de cet usage commun du terme la loi naturelle, les ecclésiastiques de Westminster du dix-septième siècle avaient en vue quand ils parlaient de la loi naturelle de Dieu était ceci : que functionne-Dieu selon la loi de Sa propre nature ? C'est à dire, Dieu n'agit jamais dans une telle façon qui contredirait Sa propre sainteté, Son propre vertueusement, Sa propre justice, Sa propre omnipotence, et ainsi de suite. Dieu ne compromet jamais la perfection de Lui-même ni son caractère par ces actions.

Quand l'église avoue la nécessité de la satisfaction de la vertueusement de Dieu, cette nécessité n'est pas quelque chose qui est imposé sur Dieu de l'extérieur, mais c'est une nécessité imposée sur Dieu par Son propre caractère et Sa propre nature. Il faut que Dieu soit Dieu, qu’Il ne compromet jamais Sa propre sainteté, Son propre vertueusement ou Sa propre justice. C'est dans ce sens qu’on estime qu’une expiation qui a satisfait Son vertueusement est nécessaire.

Ces temps-ci, les savants modernes se sont opposés à la vue de la satisfaction de l'expiation parce qu'il lance une ombre sur la grâce libre et l 'amour de Dieu. Si Dieu est un Dieu d'amour, pourquoi ne peut-Il pas pardonner point des gens libéralement selon la motivation de Son propre amour et Sa propre grâce, sans se préoccuper de satisfaire un type de justice, que ça soit d’une loi selon Sa propre nature ou une loi imposée d’aparté ? Encore, cette vue de l'expiation ne comprend pas que Dieu ne négociera jamais Son propre vertueusement, même de Son désir d'épargner des pécheurs.

Dans l'expiation, nous voyons que Dieu manifeste les deux, Son amour gracieux vers nous et en même temps, Il manifeste pourtant un engagement à Son propre vertueusement et Sa propre justice. La justice est servie par l’œuvre de Christ qui satisfait les demandes de vertueusement de Dieu, maintenant de cette façon l'engagement de Dieu a la vertueusement et à la justice. Dieu a satisfait les demandes de Son vertueusement en nous donnant un Remplaçant qui s’est mis à notre place, en offrant cette satisfaction pour nous. Ceci affiche merveilleusement la grâce de Dieu au milieu de cette satisfaction. La grâce de Dieu est illustrée par la satisfaction de Sa justice vu qu'il l’a fait pour nous par le l'Un qu'Il a nommé. C'est la nature de Dieu comme le Juge de tout le monde de faire ce qui est bon. Et le Juge qui fait ce qui est bon ne viole jamais point les canons de Son propre vertueusement.

La Bible explique la Croix sur le plan d’un sacrifice propitiatoire et l'expiation, les accomplissements jumeaux de Christ dans notre part. Le sacrifice propitiatoire se réfère en particulier a l’œuvre de Christ qui aboutit à la satisfaction de la vertueusement de Dieu. Il paie la peine qui nous est dû nos péchés. Nous sommes des débiteurs qui ne peuvent absolument pas payer la dette morale que nous avons contractée par notre offense contre le vertueusement de Dieu, et la colère de Dieu est satisfaite et est apaisée par le sacrifice parfait que Christ a fait de notre part. Mais cela est seulement un aspect de l‘oeuvre. La seconde est l'expiation. Dans l'expiation, nos péchés nous sont enlevés, remis en avouant nos péchés, ils sont transférés ou imputés à Christ, qui souffre comme le délègue, a notre place. Dieu est satisfait, et notre péché nous est enlevé dans l'expiation parfaite de Jésus. Ceci remplit le sens double auquel le pécher à été expié en le Jour d'Expiation de l’Alliance Ancien, par le sacrifice d'un animal et le transfert symbolique des péchés des gens au dos du bouc émissaire, qui a été alors envoyé au désert sauvage enlevant les péchés des gens.

Why Small Groups?/Take This Group and Own It!

2008-04-22T02:40:01Z

Sweetlybroken:

== Chapter Three: Take This Group and Own It! ==

Greg Somerville

We begin with a tale of two cars: an aging Plymouth Voyager and a sleek new Lincoln Continental. I had the opportunity to drive them both last year, but I treated them quite differently.

The Plymouth minivan looked as if it had been owned and operated by a second-rate day care center. There were footprints on the vinyl and nose prints on the windows. Cracker crumbs littered the floor. Acorns, rocks, chewing-gum wrappers, and other collector’s items filled the cup holders. In the cracks between the seats I found a wide assortment of archeological remains. And judging by the smell, the windows had been left down during a series of heavy thunderstorms.

It was a well-used vehicle.

The Lincoln, on the other hand, appeared to have rolled off the assembly line moments before I got behind the wheel. The floor mats were not sticky with spilled soda. The rearview mirror had not been knocked off and reattached three times. The carpet didn’t ooze with some unidentifiable engine fluid. The odometer had not broken a thousand, much less a hundred thousand. And the smell—is it only guys who notice?—the smell of that new leather interior, untainted by rotten bananas and car sick-ness and all the other fragrances of a family van.

It was a beautiful car...but it was a rental car, and I treated it that way. I filled it up with low-grade gas. I accelerated fast and braked hard. I didn’t wash it, vacuum it, or change the oil. And by the time I returned it to the rental lot, those pristine floor mats were thick with dirt and sand.

My Plymouth Voyager isn’t much to look at, but it’s mine. (And it’s paid for!) I wash it, change the oil, check the tire pressure, and vacuum it out when the cracker crumbs get too deep. This morning I dropped it off at the body shop, hoping the skilled staff at Paintmasters can  unbend a fender that just got smashed. My vehicle looks worse than ever, but it’s mine.  The rental car wasn’t. And that explains why I treat an aging minivan better than I treated that mint-condition Lincoln Continental. {{RightInsert|'''Meditate on 1 Timothy 4:12-15.''' Why did Timothy need this encouragement? Do Paul’s words motivate you to contribute more actively in your group?}}

The issue is ownership. Not only does ownership affect the way we care for our cars and homes and lawns, but it determines how much—or how little—we invest in our small groups. 

Do you think of your group as ''your'' group? 

Do you ''own'' your group and its vision? 

Or do you simply rent a chair on Thursday evenings? 

As a group leader, I usually don’t have to think about these questions. Of course I’m an owner. I’m supposed to lead by example in worship, in prayer, in discussion, and in fellowship. If I simply show up and smile, there’s a good chance the meeting will be a flop. (Though God is gracious enough to spare even the most incompetent leader!) 

Recently, though, my friend Jim has been leading our discussions. This has given him a great opportunity to grow in leadership...and given me a great opportunity to fine-tune my laziness. Suddenly it doesn’t seem so essential that I study the book in advance. The pressure isn’t on me to think up questions that will help others apply what we are learning. During this season, Jim is the one having to discern where the Spirit is leading our discussion—not I. So guess who has tried skimming the material 30 minutes before the meeting? That’s right. As a result, I not only neglect to feed my own soul, but I lower the quality of my contributions to group discussion. 

If you see yourself as an owner of your group, you will take the assignments seriously. You will show up on time. You will work to make the group a success. But if you’re only renting space you won’t be motivated to invest yourself. You may go along for the ride, but when the group hits a pothole or some maintenance is required, you may choose to look for a new group rather than get under the hood and help make repairs.  {{LeftInsert|'''PLEASE LOOK AT THE CURTAINS'''<br>
'''A Testimony'''<br>When my husband Scott and I attended our first small-group meeting five years ago, the leader asked each person to express thankfulness for something. When I had to speak, I asked everyone to please look at the curtains instead of at me. I kept attending but I usually kept quiet, especially if there were people I didn’t know. I thought my lack of participation was due to “insecurity.” (I now know the biblical definition is “fear of man,” which is sin.) Last Thursday there were more than a dozen at our women’s meeting, including several I didn’t know well. And I thought, “I’m not afraid to speak any more!” I’ve thoroughly changed. I believe I John 4:18 describes what I have experienced: “Perfect love drives out fear.” My fear was driven out by the love of the people in our group. We encourage one another. We serve each other in practical ways. Just last week, as I shared a trial my husband and I were going through, people cried with me and prayed for us. Recently, my pastor asked me to speak to the whole church about overcoming the fear of man. I told the people I was facing my fear even as I spoke to them—and that God has set me free! Later that afternoon, I went door-to-door in our neighborhood letting people know about an upcoming Christian event. I feel so free! I want to do this again!'''<br> — Lisa Adams (Indiana, PA)'''}}

Your group may not be a new Lincoln Continental. It may be an ’86 Ford Escort with bald tires and a leaky radiator. But it’s yours! And you’re responsible for taking care of it. Look closely at Paul’s words to the church in Ephesus: “From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as ''each part does its work''”(Eph 4:16). 

A small group doesn’t belong to the leader. It belongs to God—and to each member. Each member is an owner. Each member is equally responsible for insuring that the group glorifies God. And unless God calls you to a different group, you have the privilege of making this one run as well as it can.

=== Everybody Has a Job ===

My next-door neighbor has the nicest lawn on our street. He has owned his property for over 30 years, and now that he’s retired, he spends a lot of his time making it beautiful. The guy who lives across the street, however, is a different story. When his wife’s car is blocking the driveway, he simply drives his truck across the yard. The big ruts in the lawn don’t bother him. Why? Because he’s a renter and knows he’ll eventually be moving out. Someone else will have the responsibility of re-seeding the lawn. It’s not his job.

In a small group, everybody has a job. That’s why the pastors in my church have written a “Small-Group Member Job Description” (see page 37). It explains what is expected of each member. As you read, notice that it assumes a high degree of ownership. {{RightInsert|'''Meditate on 1 Corinthians 12:7.'''
Why does God give you the “manifestation of the Spirit”?}}Did you realize your job was so big? It’s critical! “No member of the church should be isolated or uninvolved,” writes Brent Detwiler. “Only through your enthusiastic involvement will the church be able to do everything God has called you to.”

===  '''What Makes a Group Successful?''' ===

Suppose R.C. Sproul taught your small group, Larnelle Harris led worship, Billy Graham oversaw evangelistic out- reach, and Mother Teresa coordinated your service projects. Wouldn’t that be fantastic? Can you imagine the potential your group would have? {{RightInsert|'''1''' What is the greatest need for improvement in your group right now? How can you help?}}

Actually, by my definition, the group would almost certainly fail. For in the shadow of such gifted leaders, you would be tempted to leave ministry to the “experts” and neglect your own responsibility. And small groups don’t succeed unless the entire group is working together.

It doesn’t take a highly gifted leader to build a great group. But it does take men and women who are devoted to applying Scripture, to practicing fellowship, to serving their church, and to sharing the Gospel.

Peter expresses the essence of Christian community— and of small groups—in these compelling verses:
<blockquote>The end of all things is near. Therefore be clearminded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. (1Pe 4:7-10) </blockquote>
{{LeftInsert|'''For Further Study:''' Read 1 Corinthians 12:14-20. God has given us all unique parts to play in our groups. Do you know what yourpart is?}}

For more than seven years I’ve enjoyed the privilege of leading a group who live by the principles in this passage. These men and women discipline themselves to pray. They love each other deeply. They freely extend hospitality. Best of all, they serve each other with the gifts and grace God has given them. Not perfectly, of course—we all have plenty of room to grow. But through their faithful and creative service in the church and community, they are bringing much praise to God.

Your small-group leader may never teach at the seminary level. Your worship leader probably won’t release his own CD anytime soon. But in God’s eyes, your group can be a total success...here’s how.

'''Hunger to know God.''' The single greatest contribution you can make to a group is your own passionate pursuit of God. This is true for two reasons.

{{LeftInsert|'''"'''In a typical church, 20 percent of the people do 80 percent of the work. Thankfully, this has not been my experience. What a joy it is to serve with people who are giving their lives away in service—people who are committed to using their gifts and graces in the context of the local church.'''"''''''— Brent Detwile'''}}

As you diligently study God's Word, pray, worship, confess sin, witness to non-Christians, and cultivate the various expressions of a healthy Christian faith, your zeal will influence the entire group. Your passion will spur others on "toward love and good dees" (Heb. 10:24). Do you realize that your example can accomplish more than a month's worth of teaching and exhortations from the leader? You are the proof that a passionate life is possible...and not just for leaders.

Secondly, as you press in to a deeper knowledge of God, he will reveal himself to you. He will give you fresh insights about his fatherly love, or understanding of his holiness. But these aren’t just for your benefit. They are also for the group. As you mine the riches of God’s grace and kindness and share your discoveries with the group, you’ll find they are enriched as well.

'''Love the church.''' Sooner or later, your group leader (or another member) will do something you don’t like. Probably it will be minor—an unpleasant assignment or inconvenient request. But if it’s major, what’s going to keep you from seeking “greener pastures”?

{{LeftInsert|'''Meditate on Ephesians 5:25-27.''' What does this passage tell you about God's love for the church?}}

Suppose your leader asks you to reach out to a new member of the group-someone from another culture with a thick accent and different customs. Suppose he challenges you to fast for a couple of days, or participate in a pro-life march, or spend a Saturday helping with a church service project. What if another member of the group confronts you (and not very tactfully) about that way your children behaved at the group picnic?

You will find it easier to respond if you genuinely love the church, its leaders, and the priority they place on small groups. Jesus gladly laid down his life for the church. To make your group a success, be prepared to lay down some things as well. It may be uncomfortable; it may force you to do something you've never done. But for the sake of Christ and his church, give it your best.

{{RightInsert|'''2''' Genuine love is sacrificial love. Can you think of one thing you have done in the past month that would indicate you love the church?}}

'''Understand your "job description."''' I think it's safe to speculate that most small-group members have clear expectations of their leader but vague (or nonexistent) expectations of themselves. They have never understood, or embraced, their role as co-owners in the group. As a result, the group never comes near its potential-even if it as an outstanding leader.

The sidebar on the next page lists the expectations my church has of small-group members. As you can see, it's quite specific-and quite challenging! Your church may not define small-group membership the way my church has, but this kind of “job description” is invaluable. Find out what your pastor expects of group members in your church, and then begin doing your job!

'''Assume your leader is ''not'' Sherlock Holmes.''' How I wish I had this venerable detective’s gift! It would serve me (and the group) so well if I could take one look at a couple and say, “Ah, yes...Marital Conflict #174—He thought he was serving the family by bringing home pizza (observe the sliver of pepperoni under his left thumbnail), and she broke down sobbing. Why? Note the calculator sticking out of her purse—she’s convinced he is wasting the family’s money and leading them straight into bankruptcy. Elementary, my dear Watson. Here’s all you
need to do....”

Your leader would like this type of discernment, too, but I doubt he has it. Don’t make him guess how you’re
doing, what you’re feeling, when you’re struggling. Please don’t doubt his concern just because he can’t read your mind. He wants to be involved, but he needs you to tell him ''when'' and ''how''.

Sometimes you have to tell a leader twice...or more. If I kicked myself for every time I’ve failed to follow up when a group member asked for my input, I would be black and blue. When you’ve shared a need,and the leader has apparently forgotten all about it, don't retreat into a sinful shell of self-pity. Share it again. Muster up the courage to be vulnerable. God will give you grace as you humble yourself.

{{LeftInsert|'''For Further Study: ''' What character trait is absolutely essential in order for you to confess sint to others? (Read 1 Peter 5:5)}}

'''Share the bad stuff, too.''' One of the best ways to make

Why Small Groups?/Take This Group and Own It!

2008-04-21T22:38:50Z

Sweetlybroken:

== Chapter Three: Take This Group and Own It! ==

Greg Somerville

We begin with a tale of two cars: an aging Plymouth Voyager and a sleek new Lincoln Continental. I had the opportunity to drive them both last year, but I treated them quite differently.

The Plymouth minivan looked as if it had been owned and operated by a second-rate day care center. There were footprints on the vinyl and nose prints on the windows. Cracker crumbs littered the floor. Acorns, rocks, chewing-gum wrappers, and other collector’s items filled the cup holders. In the cracks between the seats I found a wide assortment of archeological remains. And judging by the smell, the windows had been left down during a series of heavy thunderstorms.

It was a well-used vehicle.

The Lincoln, on the other hand, appeared to have rolled off the assembly line moments before I got behind the wheel. The floor mats were not sticky with spilled soda. The rearview mirror had not been knocked off and reattached three times. The carpet didn’t ooze with some unidentifiable engine fluid. The odometer had not broken a thousand, much less a hundred thousand. And the smell—is it only guys who notice?—the smell of that new leather interior, untainted by rotten bananas and car sick-ness and all the other fragrances of a family van.

It was a beautiful car...but it was a rental car, and I treated it that way. I filled it up with low-grade gas. I accelerated fast and braked hard. I didn’t wash it, vacuum it, or change the oil. And by the time I returned it to the rental lot, those pristine floor mats were thick with dirt and sand.

My Plymouth Voyager isn’t much to look at, but it’s mine. (And it’s paid for!) I wash it, change the oil, check the tire pressure, and vacuum it out when the cracker crumbs get too deep. This morning I dropped it off at the body shop, hoping the skilled staff at Paintmasters can  unbend a fender that just got smashed. My vehicle looks worse than ever, but it’s mine.  The rental car wasn’t. And that explains why I treat an aging minivan better than I treated that mint-condition Lincoln Continental. {{RightInsert|'''Meditate on 1 Timothy 4:12-15.''' Why did Timothy need this encouragement? Do Paul’s words motivate you to contribute more actively in your group?}}

The issue is ownership. Not only does ownership affect the way we care for our cars and homes and lawns, but it determines how much—or how little—we invest in our small groups. 

Do you think of your group as ''your'' group? 

Do you ''own'' your group and its vision? 

Or do you simply rent a chair on Thursday evenings? 

As a group leader, I usually don’t have to think about these questions. Of course I’m an owner. I’m supposed to lead by example in worship, in prayer, in discussion, and in fellowship. If I simply show up and smile, there’s a good chance the meeting will be a flop. (Though God is gracious enough to spare even the most incompetent leader!) 

Recently, though, my friend Jim has been leading our discussions. This has given him a great opportunity to grow in leadership...and given me a great opportunity to fine-tune my laziness. Suddenly it doesn’t seem so essential that I study the book in advance. The pressure isn’t on me to think up questions that will help others apply what we are learning. During this season, Jim is the one having to discern where the Spirit is leading our discussion—not I. So guess who has tried skimming the material 30 minutes before the meeting? That’s right. As a result, I not only neglect to feed my own soul, but I lower the quality of my contributions to group discussion. 

If you see yourself as an owner of your group, you will take the assignments seriously. You will show up on time. You will work to make the group a success. But if you’re only renting space you won’t be motivated to invest yourself. You may go along for the ride, but when the group hits a pothole or some maintenance is required, you may choose to look for a new group rather than get under the hood and help make repairs.  {{LeftInsert|'''PLEASE LOOK AT THE CURTAINS'''<br>
'''A Testimony'''<br>When my husband Scott and I attended our first small-group meeting five years ago, the leader asked each person to express thankfulness for something. When I had to speak, I asked everyone to please look at the curtains instead of at me. I kept attending but I usually kept quiet, especially if there were people I didn’t know. I thought my lack of participation was due to “insecurity.” (I now know the biblical definition is “fear of man,” which is sin.) Last Thursday there were more than a dozen at our women’s meeting, including several I didn’t know well. And I thought, “I’m not afraid to speak any more!” I’ve thoroughly changed. I believe I John 4:18 describes what I have experienced: “Perfect love drives out fear.” My fear was driven out by the love of the people in our group. We encourage one another. We serve each other in practical ways. Just last week, as I shared a trial my husband and I were going through, people cried with me and prayed for us. Recently, my pastor asked me to speak to the whole church about overcoming the fear of man. I told the people I was facing my fear even as I spoke to them—and that God has set me free! Later that afternoon, I went door-to-door in our neighborhood letting people know about an upcoming Christian event. I feel so free! I want to do this again!'''<br> — Lisa Adams (Indiana, PA)'''}}

Your group may not be a new Lincoln Continental. It may be an ’86 Ford Escort with bald tires and a leaky radiator. But it’s yours! And you’re responsible for taking care of it. Look closely at Paul’s words to the church in Ephesus: “From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as ''each part does its work''”(Eph 4:16). 

A small group doesn’t belong to the leader. It belongs to God—and to each member. Each member is an owner. Each member is equally responsible for insuring that the group glorifies God. And unless God calls you to a different group, you have the privilege of making this one run as well as it can.

=== Everybody Has a Job ===

My next-door neighbor has the nicest lawn on our street. He has owned his property for over 30 years, and now that he’s retired, he spends a lot of his time making it beautiful. The guy who lives across the street, however, is a different story. When his wife’s car is blocking the driveway, he simply drives his truck across the yard. The big ruts in the lawn don’t bother him. Why? Because he’s a renter and knows he’ll eventually be moving out. Someone else will have the responsibility of re-seeding the lawn. It’s not his job.

In a small group, everybody has a job. That’s why the pastors in my church have written a “Small-Group Member Job Description” (see page 37). It explains what is expected of each member. As you read, notice that it assumes a high degree of ownership. {{RightInsert|'''Meditate on 1 Corinthians 12:7.'''
Why does God give you the “manifestation of the Spirit”?}}Did you realize your job was so big? It’s critical! “No member of the church should be isolated or uninvolved,” writes Brent Detwiler. “Only through your enthusiastic involvement will the church be able to do everything God has called you to.”

===  '''What Makes a Group Successful?''' ===

Suppose R.C. Sproul taught your small group, Larnelle Harris led worship, Billy Graham oversaw evangelistic out- reach, and Mother Teresa coordinated your service projects. Wouldn’t that be fantastic? Can you imagine the potential your group would have? {{RightInsert|'''1''' What is the greatest need for improvement in your group right now? How can you help?}}

Actually, by my definition, the group would almost certainly fail. For in the shadow of such gifted leaders, you would be tempted to leave ministry to the “experts” and neglect your own responsibility. And small groups don’t succeed unless the entire group is working together.

It doesn’t take a highly gifted leader to build a great group. But it does take men and women who are devoted to applying Scripture, to practicing fellowship, to serving their church, and to sharing the Gospel.

Peter expresses the essence of Christian community— and of small groups—in these compelling verses:
<blockquote>The end of all things is near. Therefore be clearminded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. (1Pe 4:7-10) </blockquote>
{{LeftInsert|'''For Further Study:''' Read 1 Corinthians 12:14-20. God has given us all unique parts to play in our groups. Do you know what yourpart is?}}

For more than seven years I’ve enjoyed the privilege of leading a group who live by the principles in this passage. These men and women discipline themselves to pray. They love each other deeply. They freely extend hospitality. Best of all, they serve each other with the gifts and grace God has given them. Not perfectly, of course—we all have plenty of room to grow. But through their faithful and creative service in the church and community, they are bringing much praise to God.

Your small-group leader may never teach at the seminary level. Your worship leader probably won’t release his
own CD anytime soon. But in God’s eyes, your group can be a total success...here’s how.

'''Hunger to know God.''' The single greatest contribution you can make to a group is your own passionate pursuit of God. This is true for two reasons.

{{LeftInsert|'''"'''In a typical church, 20 percent of the people do 80 percent of the work. Thankfully, this has not been my experience. What a joy it is to serve with people who are giving their lives away in service—people who are committed to using their gifts and graces in the context of the local church.'''"''''''— Brent Detwile'''}}

As you diligently study God's Word, pray, worship, confess sin, witness to non-Christians, and cultivate the various expressions of a healthy Christian faith, your zeal will influence the entire group. Your passion will spur others on "toward love and good dees" (Heb. 10:24). Do you realize that your example can accomplish more than a month's worth of teaching and exhortations from the leader? You are the proof that a passionate life is possible...and not just for leaders.

Secondly, as you press in to a deeper knowledge of God, he will reveal himself to you. He will give you fresh insights about his fatherly love, or understanding of his holiness. But these aren’t just for your benefit. They are also for the group. As you mine the riches of God’s grace and kindness and share your discoveries with the group, you’ll find they are enriched as well.

'''Love the church.''' Sooner or later, your group leader (or another member) will do something you don’t like. Probably it will be minor—an unpleasant assignment or inconvenient request. But if it’s major, what’s going to keep you from seeking “greener pastures”?

{{LeftInsert|'''Meditate on Ephesians 5:25-27.''' What does this passage tell you about God's love for the church?}}

Suppose your leader asks you to reach out to a new member of the group-someone from another culture with a thick accent and different customs. Suppose he challenges you to fast for a couple of days, or participate in a pro-life march, or spend a Saturday helping with a church service project. What if another member of the group confronts you (and not very tactfully) about that way your children behaved at the group picnic?

You will find it easier to respond if you genuinely love the church, its leaders, and the priority they place on small groups. Jesus gladly laid down his life for the church. To make your group a success, be prepared to lay down some things as well. It may be uncomfortable; it may force you to do something you've never done. But for

Why Small Groups?/Take This Group and Own It!

2008-04-16T02:23:01Z

Sweetlybroken:

Why Small Groups?/Take This Group and Own It!

2008-04-10T02:23:04Z

Sweetlybroken:

<div><br></div><div>
== Chapter Three: <span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"></span>Take This Group and Own It! <span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"></span> ==

Greg Somerville<span style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;" class="Apple-style-span"></span>

<span style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;" class="Apple-style-span"></span>We begin with a tale of two cars: an aging Plymouth Voyager and a sleek new Lincoln Continental. I had the opportunity to drive them both last year, but I treated them quite differently.

The Plymouth minivan looked as if it had been owned and operated by a second-rate day care center. There were footprints on the vinyl and nose prints on the windows. Cracker crumbs littered the floor. Acorns, rocks, chewing-gum wrappers, and other collector’s items filled the cup holders. In the cracks between the seats I found a wide assortment of archeological remains. And judging by the smell, the windows had been left down during a series of heavy thunderstorms.

It was a well-used vehicle.

The Lincoln, on the other hand, appeared to have rolled off the assembly line moments before I got behind the wheel. The floor mats were notsticky with spilled soda. The rearview mirror had notbeen knocked off and reattached three times. The carpet didn’t ooze with some unidentifiable engine fluid. The odometer had not broken a thousand, much less a hundred thousand. And the smell—is it only guys who notice?—the smell of that new leather interior, untainted by rotten bananas and car sick-ness and all the other fragrances of a family van.

It was a beautiful car...but it was a rental car, and I treated it that way. I filled it up with low-grade gas. I accelerated fast and braked hard. I didn’t wash it, vacuum it, or change the oil. And by the time I returned it to the rental lot, those pristine floor mats were thick with dirt 

and sand.
<div>My Plymouth Voyager isn’t much to look at, but it’s mine. (And it’s paid for!) I wash it, change the oil, check the tire pressure, and vacuum it out when the cracker crumbs get too deep. This morning I dropped it off at the</div>
</div>

<span style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;" class="Apple-style-span"></span>body shop, hoping the skilled staff at Paintmasters can  unbend a fender that just got smashed. My vehicle looks worse than ever, but it’s mine.  The rental car wasn’t. And that explains why I treat an aging minivan better than I treated that mint-condition Lincoln Continental. 
<div class="rcall">'''Meditate on <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">1 Timothy 4:12-15. Why did Timothy need </span>'''this encouragement? Do Paul’s words motivate you to contribute more actively in your group?</div>
The issue is ownership. Not only does ownership affect the way we care for our cars and homes and lawns, but it determines how much—or how little—we invest in our small groups. 

Do you think of your group as yourgroup? 

Do you ownyour group and its vision? 

Or do you simply rent a chair on Thursday evenings? 

As a group leader, I usually don’t have to think about these questions. Of course I’m an owner. I’m supposed to lead by example in

worship, in prayer, in discussion, and in fellowship. If I simply show up and smile, there’s a good chance the meeting will be a flop.

(Though God is gracious enough to spare even the most incompetent leader!) 

Recently, though, my friend Jim has been leading our discussions. This has given him a great opportunity to grow in leadership...and given

me a great opportunity to fine-tune my laziness. Suddenly it doesn’t seem so essential that I study the book in advance. The pressure isn’t

on me to think up questions that will help others apply what we are learning. During this season, Jim is the one having to discern where the

Spirit is leading our discussion—not I. So guess who has tried skimming the material 30 minutes before the meeting? That’s right. As a

result, I not only neglect to feed my own soul, but I lower the quality of my contributions to group discussion. 

If you see yourself as an owner of your group, you will take the assignments seriously. You will show up on time. You will work to make

the group a success. But if you’re only renting space you won’t be motivated to invest yourself. You may go along for the ride, but when

the group hits a pothole or some maintenance is required, you may choose to look for a new group rather than get under the 

hood and help make repairs. 

Your group may not be a new Lincoln Continental. It may be an ’86 Ford Escort with bald tires and a leaky radiator. But it’s yours! And

you’re responsible for taking care of it. Look closely at Paul’s words to the church in Ephesus: “From him the whole body, joined and held 

together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as ''each part does its work''”(Eph 4:16). 

A small group doesn’t belong to the leader. It belongs<span style="font: 12.0px Helvetica"> </span>

<span style="font: 12.0px Helvetica"></span>

</div><br> {{LeftInsert|'''PLEASE LOOK AT THE CURTAINS'''
'''A Testimony'''
When my husband Scott and I attended our first small-group meeting five years ago, the leader asked each person to express thankfulness for something. When I had to speak, I asked everyone to please look at the curtains instead of at me. I kept attending but I usually kept quiet, especially if there were people I didn’t know. I thought my lack of participation was due to “insecurity.” (I now know the biblical definition is “fear of man,” which is sin.) Last Thursday there were more than a dozen at our women’s meeting, including several I didn’t know well. And I thought, “I’m not afraid to speak any more!” I’ve thoroughly changed. I believe I John 4:18 describes what I have experienced: “Perfect love drives out fear.” My fear was driven out by the love of the people in our group. We encourage one another. We serve each other in practical ways. Just last week, as I shared a trial my husband and I were going through, people cried with me and prayed for us. Recently, my pastor asked me to speak to the whole church about overcoming the fear of man. I told the people I was facing my fear even as I spoke to them—and that God has set me free! Later that afternoon, I went door-to-door in our neighborhood letting people know about an upcoming Christian event. I feel so free! I want to do this again!
'''— Lisa Adams (Indiana, PA)'''}}to God—and to each member. Each member is an owner. Each member is equally responsible for insuring that the group glorifies God. And unless God calls you to a different group, you have the privilege of making this one run as well as it can.
'''Everybody Has a Job'''
My next-door neighbor has the nicest lawn on our street. He has owned his property for over 30 years, and now that he’s retired, he spends a lot of his time making it beautiful. The guy who lives across the street, however, is a different story. When his wife’s car is blocking the driveway, he simply drives his truck across the yard. The big ruts in the lawn don’t bother him. Why? Because he’s a renter and knows he’ll eventually be moving out. Someone else will have the responsibility of re-seeding the lawn. It’s not his job. In a small group, everybody has a job. That’s why the pastors in my church have written a “Small-Group Member Job Description” (see page 37). It explains what is expectedof each member. As you read, notice that it assumes a high degree of ownership.
{{LeftInsert|'''Meditate on 1 Corinthians 12:7.'''
Why does God give you the “manifestation of the Spirit”?}}Did you realize your job was so big? It’s critical! “No member of the church should be isolated or uninvolved,” writes Brent Detwiler. “Only through your enthusiastic involvement will the church be able to do everything God has called you to.”
<div>

Why Small Groups?/Take This Group and Own It!

2008-04-10T02:03:27Z

Sweetlybroken:

<div><br></div><div>
== Chapter Three: <span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"></span>Take This Group and Own It! <span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;"></span> ==

Greg Somerville<span style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;" class="Apple-style-span"></span>

<span style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;" class="Apple-style-span"></span>We begin with a tale of two cars: an aging Plymouth Voyager and a sleek new Lincoln Continental. I had the opportunity to drive them both last year, but I treated them quite differently.

The Plymouth minivan looked as if it had been owned and operated by a second-rate day care center. There were footprints on the vinyl and nose prints on the windows. Cracker crumbs littered the floor. Acorns, rocks, chewing-gum wrappers, and other collector’s items filled the cup holders. In the cracks between the seats I found a wide assortment of archeological remains. And judging by the smell, the windows had been left down during a series of heavy thunderstorms.

It was a well-used vehicle.

The Lincoln, on the other hand, appeared to have rolled off the assembly line moments before I got behind the wheel. The floor mats were notsticky with spilled soda. The rearview mirror had notbeen knocked off and reattached three times. The carpet didn’t ooze with some unidentifiable engine fluid. The odometer had not broken a thousand, much less a hundred thousand. And the smell—is it only guys who notice?—the smell of that new leather interior, untainted by rotten bananas and car sick-ness and all the other fragrances of a family van.

It was a beautiful car...but it was a rental car, and I treated it that way. I filled it up with low-grade gas. I accelerated fast and braked hard. I didn’t wash it, vacuum it, or change the oil. And by the time I returned it to the rental lot, those pristine floor mats were thick with dirt 

and sand.
<div>My Plymouth Voyager isn’t much to look at, but it’s mine. (And it’s paid for!) I wash it, change the oil, check the tire pressure, and vacuum it out when the cracker crumbs get too deep. This morning I dropped it off at the</div>
</div>

<span style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;" class="Apple-style-span"></span>body shop, hoping the skilled staff at Paintmasters can  unbend a fender that just got smashed. My vehicle looks worse than ever, but it’s mine.  The rental car wasn’t. And that explains why I treat an aging minivan better than I treated that mint-condition Lincoln Continental. 
<div class="rcall">'''Meditate on <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">1 Timothy 4:12-15. Why did Timothy need </span>'''this encouragement? Do Paul’s words motivate you to contribute more actively in your group?</div>
The issue is ownership. Not only does ownership affect the way we care for our cars and homes and lawns, but it determines how much—or how little—we invest in our small groups. 

Do you think of your group as yourgroup? 

Do you ownyour group and its vision? 

Or do you simply rent a chair on Thursday evenings? 

As a group leader, I usually don’t have to think about these questions. Of course I’m an owner. I’m supposed to lead by example in

worship, in prayer, in discussion, and in fellowship. If I simply show up and smile, there’s a good chance the meeting will be a flop.

(Though God is gracious enough to spare even the most incompetent leader!) 

Recently, though, my friend Jim has been leading our discussions. This has given him a great opportunity to grow in leadership...and given

me a great opportunity to fine-tune my laziness. Suddenly it doesn’t seem so essential that I study the book in advance. The pressure isn’t

on me to think up questions that will help others apply what we are learning. During this season, Jim is the one having to discern where the

Spirit is leading our discussion—not I. So guess who has tried skimming the material 30 minutes before the meeting? That’s right. As a

result, I not only neglect to feed my own soul, but I lower the quality of my contributions to group discussion. 

If you see yourself as an owner of your group, you will take the assignments seriously. You will show up on time. You will work to make

the group a success. But if you’re only renting space you won’t be motivated to invest yourself. You may go along for the ride, but when

the group hits a pothole or some maintenance is required, you may choose to look for a new group rather than get under the 

hood and help make repairs. 

Your group may not be a new Lincoln Continental. It may be an ’86 Ford Escort with bald tires and a leaky radiator. But it’s yours! And

you’re responsible for taking care of it. Look closely at Paul’s words to the church in Ephesus: “From him the whole body, joined and held 

together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as ''each part does its work''”(Eph 4:16). 

A small group doesn’t belong to the leader. It belongs<span style="font: 12.0px Helvetica"> </span>

<span style="font: 12.0px Helvetica"></span>

</div><br> {{LeftInsert|'''PLEASE LOOK AT THE CURTAINS'''fckLR'''A Testimony'''fckLRWhen my husband Scott and I attended our first small-group meeting five years ago, the leader asked each person to express thankfulness for something. When I had to speak, I asked everyone to please look at the curtains instead of at me. I kept attending but I usually kept quiet, especially if there were people I didn’t know. I thought my lack of participation was due to “insecurity.” (I now know the biblical definition is “fear of man,” which is sin.) Last Thursday there were more than a dozen at our women’s meeting, including several I didn’t know well. And I thought, “I’m not afraid to speak any more!” I’ve thoroughly changed. I believe I John 4:18 describes what I have experienced: “Perfect love drives out fear.” My fear was driven out by the love of the people in our group. We encourage one another. We serve each other in practical ways. Just last week, as I shared a trial my husband and I were going through, people cried with me and prayed for us. Recently, my pastor asked me to speak to the whole church about overcoming the fear of man. I told the people I was facing my fear even as I spoke to them—and that God has set me free! Later that afternoon, I went door-to-door in our neighborhood letting people know about an upcoming Christian event. I feel so free! I want to do this again! fckLR'''— Lisa Adams (Indiana, PA)'''}}

Why Small Groups?/Take This Group and Own It!

2008-04-09T18:33:46Z

Sweetlybroken:

Why Small Groups?/Take This Group and Own It!

2008-04-08T01:55:18Z

Sweetlybroken:

Why Small Groups?/Take This Group and Own It!

2008-04-04T18:38:23Z

Sweetlybroken:

<div><br></div><div>
CHAPTER THREE<span style="font: 12.0px Helvetica"> </span>

TAKE THIS GROUP 

AND OWN IT!<span style="font: 12.0px Helvetica"> </span>

GREG SOMERVILLE<span style="font: 12.0px Helvetica"> </span>
<div><br></div><div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: -webkit-sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">W</span>e begin with a tale of two cars: an aging Plymouth 

Voyager and a sleek new Lincoln Continental. I had 

the opportunity to drive them both last year, but I treated 

them quite differently. 

The Plymouth minivan looked as if it had been owned 

and operated by a second-rate day care center. There were 

footprints on the vinyl and nose prints on the windows. 

Cracker crumbs littered the floor. Acorns, rocks, chewing- 

gum wrappers, and other collector’s items filled the cup 

holders. In the cracks between the seats I found a wide 

assortment of archeological remains. And judging by the 

smell, the windows had been left down during a series of 

heavy thunderstorms. 

It was a well-used vehicle. 

The Lincoln, on the other hand, appeared to have 

rolled off the assembly line moments before I got behind 

the wheel. The floor mats were notsticky with spilled 

soda. The rearview mirror had notbeen knocked off and 

reattached three times. The carpet didn’t ooze with some 

unidentifiable engine fluid. The odometer had not broken 

a thousand, much less a hundred thousand. And the 

smell—is it only guys who notice?—the smell of that new 

leather interior, untainted by rotten bananas and car sick- 

ness and all the other fragrances of a family van. 

It was a beautiful car...but it was a rental car, and I 

treated it that way. I filled it up with low-grade gas. I 

accelerated fast and braked hard. I didn’t wash it, vacuum 

it, or change the oil. And by the time I returned it to the 

rental lot, those pristine floor mats were thick with dirt 

and sand. 

My Plymouth Voyager isn’t much to look at, but it’s 

mine. (And it’s paid for!) I wash it, change the oil, check 

the tire pressure, and vacuum it out when the cracker 

crumbs get too deep. This morning I dropped it off at the<span style="font: 12.0px Helvetica"> </span>

                                                                                                                                                                                               31 

From Why Small Groups?, part of the Pursuit of Godliness series from Sovereign Grace Ministries, 

7505 Muncaster Mill Road, Gaithersburg, MD 20877.  www.sovereigngraceministries.org 

© 1996 Sovereign Grace Ministries. All rights reserved. 

This book is made available free of charge by Sovereign Grace Ministries for use by individuals, churches, or other groups. 

Reproduction and distribution of up to 100 copies of this material free of charge is encouraged; under no circumstances may a 

charge be rendered to the recipient. For permission to reproduce more than 100 copies, please contact Sovereign Grace 

Ministries. The Pursuit of Godliness books are available for purchase at www.sovereigngraceministries.org

<br>

<br>
</div>
<span style="font: 12.0px Helvetica"></span>
</div>