Prayer & Mission

Jim Leffel
Colossians 4:2-4

Prayer is a crucial part of our spiritual lives. When we are devoted to prayer we see that it transforms us, making us more alert to God's Will, and turns our focus outward instead of inward. As we pray, with gratitude and devotion, God speaks and we see incredible things happen. \r\n\r\n

Priorities in Prayer

Jim Leffel
Colossians 1:9-14

Paul assures the Colossians that he and Timothy have not stopped praying for them. These prayers include knowing God's will, pleasing God, producing good fruit, knowing God better through pursuing Him, and gaining stamina for the long haul. Paul prays that the Colossians would also be full of joy and prayer that stem from gratitude.

Two Indicatives and Five Imperatives

Dennis McCallum
Hebrews 10:26-31

After thoroughly explaining how the cross was more than sufficient, the author now moves on in his argument to results of the cross. These results benefit humanity immensely. People can now: 1) come to God in prayer with confidence, 2) have assurance of the future, 3) think of others before themselves, 4) fellowship with one another, and 5) give and receive encouragement.

Admonish One Another (Part 2)

Jim Leffel
Ephesians 5:21

The second part of a two-part series on admonishing one another with the focus on how to properly give admonishment. We must spend time in reflection and prayer thinking about the other person rather than react out of anger or hurt. Relational closeness, encouraging rapport, humility, and grace are all key when addressing someone's hurtful behaviors. It is an unpopular task because it is difficult to do well, but an important task that can change someone's life. It is also a practical way that we can love one another.\r\n

8 Habits of Effective Small Group Leaders

Dave Earley
Ephesians 5:21

There are eight habits you can cultivate to become an effective small group leader. They include: dreaming and casting vision; praying for growth; inviting people to come out to Bible studies; following up with people; preparing for your meeting; discipleship; planning fun group activities; and being committed to your own personal growth.

Supporting Those Who Serve Others

Joel Comiskey
Ephesians 5:21

Coaching home group leaders is one of the most important factors in establishing successful home groups. Quality coaching involves six principles: 1) helping people receive from God; 2) helping people be willing to make mistakes; 3) listening to people; 4) serving through encouragement; 5) serving by being a good friend; 6) serving by challenging. We're all works in progress and need coached to keep following God. Coaching is essential and makes a difference in the long haul of ministry.\r\n

Spiritual Attitudes that Transform

Jim Leffel
1 Thessalonians 5:16-24

Paul explains key attitudes that reflect and foster God's sanctifying work in a Christians life. The five attitudes he mentions are: 1) rejoicing; 2) prayerfulness; 3) gratitude; 4) sensitivity to the Spirit; 5) forth telling-giving God's perspective. God is involved in this lie long process of transformation.\r\n

Aspects of Godly Influence

Jim Leffel
1 Thessalonians 1:1-10

Paul writes to the church in Thessalonica to teach them aspects of Godly influence. He calls on them to imitate his life as he has imitated Jesus' life. He explains five ways to be influential: 1) lead by example; 2) be persuasive; 3) pray for others; 4) communicate gratitude; and 5) give concrete encouragement.

Christian Community

Jim Leffel
1 Peter 4:7-11

Peter is writing to folks dealing with a lot of suffering encouraging them to find refuge and sustenance in Christian community. This is an important passage on what is the church and a look at its core values. Would you like to have a growing circle of friends united by a clear conviction of purpose, strengthened by other-centered love and service and where honest, truthful, trusted words prevail?