New Blog Address

I have incorporated the Assurance Church blog right into the Assurance Church website.  Check it out here – www.assurancechurch.com.

 

 

The Cross

The Cross

What did you think about the last time you looked at a cross?  What Scriptures came to mind?  What images did you think about?

If you are like me, you are so used to looking at crosses.  They have become mere decoration on our walls and have lost their true meaning.

We have a wall of crosses hanging in the living room.  A wall of crosses…clean, artful, aligned just right and nicely displayed for all.  Someone recently commented that we had more crosses than they did.  We collect them?

People in Jesus’ day new exactly what the cross meant.  It wasn’t a nice wall decoration?  It was the cruelest type of torture that you can imagine….suffocating to death as you pushed up on your legs for a breath only to eventually have your legs give out.  And you can’t forget the beating that was given before someone was put up on the cross.  It was a death for the worst of people.

That’s what Jesus experienced…pain, humiliation, suffering, death

Where is all that in today’s Christianity?

That stuff doesn’t sell!  We want the good stuff of Christianity…the blessings, the fellowship of Christ, the peace, forgiveness, joy and eternal life.  But the minute we start feeling a little bit of pressure….a little bit of discomfort….we want to cut and run or give up or take a break.  I don’t see that in the disciples.  I don’t see Peter giving up for a while or Paul taking some time off because the shipwrecks, stonings and floggings are starting to take their toll on him.

Hebrews 12:1-3 (NIV) – Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

I’m not saying that if we aren’t suffering we aren’t living for God.  But when Jesus said, “Whoever does not take up their cross and follow me is not worthy of me,” (Matt. 10:38) He wasn’t painting a picture of  good ol’ American ease.  He was implying that the Christian life was going to have its challenges.

Have you been challenged lately?  Really challenged?

Family Day – November 14, 2010

This is a Family Day you don’t want to miss.  We will have a traditional turkey dinner with all the fixin’s….

Basic

You have to check out this video featuring Francis Chan called Follow Jesus.  It is part of the Basic video series.  http://www.relevantmagazine.com/basic

Free Christian Audiobook Download – Don’t Waste Your Life – John Piper

If you are not taking advantage of Christian Audio’s free audio book every month, you are missing out.  This month (Nov.), you can download John Piper’s book, Don’t Waste Your Life.  You can also download the study guide in pdf.  http://goo.gl/eqRgs

Small Group Questions* – Acts 6:8 – 8:1

Stephen could not keep the Good News of salvation a secret. He spoke of it to anyone who would listen. Some listened intently, while others took offense. Finally he was dragged before the Jewish religious leaders. Even while on trial, he did not shrink from proclaiming the exciting news that Jesus is the promised Messiah. Jesus is alive, interceding before the Father for all who believe in him. It was Stephen’s courage to proclaim this truth that finally led to his death as a martyr for his faith in Christ.

OPEN

1. Why do people feel the need to defend themselves when they are falsely accused?

EXPLORE

2. In what ways did God bless Stephen? (6:8, 10, 15, 55-56)

3. Why did some Jewish people oppose Stephen? (6:8-14)

4. How did Stephen defend himself against their accusations? (7:2-53)

5. What price did Stephen pay for preaching the gospel? (7:54-60)

GET IT

6. What does this passage reveal about Stephen’s character?

7. In what ways would you like to be more like Stephen?

8. When have you been tempted to hide the truth about your faith in Jesus? Why?

9. How can you demonstrate that you care more about pleasing God than impressing people?

APPLY

10. How can you depend on God to help you speak the truth this week?

*taken from Ilumina Bible Software

Sunday Sharing

Do you want to read Acts 6 in a different version?  You can go here -  http://www.biblegateway.com/ If you want to look at Greek and Hebrew words, you can go here -  http://www.studylight.org/

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How you doin? Er…I mean livin?

Matthew 28:19 says, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,”

Jesus didn’t say go and save souls.  He said “go and make disciples.”  In the Oct. 27^th entry of My Utmost for His Highest, Chambers says, “Yet you cannot make disciples unless you are a disciple yourself.”

How much time and effort do we put into becoming a disciple of Jesus Christ?  How does it compare to your TV watching or your favorite hobby?  I don’t think that putting in your hour on Sunday morning and/or an occasional Bible Study counts for true discipleship.  This post isn’t about giving you the formula for becoming a disciple though.

The real issue is that when we don’t live the life of a disciple, we don’t make very good disciples.  You can’t get away with a do as I say thing here.  People are looking at the way you live and they are counting on you to point the way to Jesus.  He’ll take care of the rest.

Reading in Romans today made this even more clear.

How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?  And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” Romans 10:14-15

There is a process that people go through to become “right with God.”  But it starts with us being obedient just to go…and share what we know about living the life of faith… Hopefully it is a true life of faith that we are putting out there and not a life of “whatever” sprinkled with a little of Jesus and a “get out of hell” free card.

Family Day – November 14, 2010

This is a Family Day you don’t want to miss.  We will have a traditional turkey dinner with all the fixin’s….

 

Bible History

If you like Bible History, this site will seem like heaven to you.  Check it out – http://www.bible-history.com/

 

Small Group Questions* – Acts 5

The disciples had gained the respect of the people; their authority was confirmed by miraculous signs; and hundreds were being added to the church. This was the time that Satan chose to strike. He tempted Ananias and Sapphira to lie. The Holy Spirit recognized the challenge this small deception was to the purity of the church and responded appropriately.

OPEN

1. When have you felt especially vulnerable to temptation?

EXPLORE

2. How did Ananias and Sapphira try to deceive the church? (5:1-2)

3. Who did Peter identify as the source of this wicked plan? (5:3)

4. How did God demonstrate the seriousness of Ananias and Sapphira’s sin? (5:5-6, 10)

5. How did this event impact the early church? (5:5-6, 10-11, 13)

GET IT

6. When have you been disappointed by news that a fellow believer has stumbled in his or her faith?

7. Why is it dangerous to ignore or downplay Satan’s power?

8. In what areas of your life are you most susceptible to sin?

9. How does it help you to know your own weak spots?

APPLY

10. What steps can you take this week to strengthen your defenses against Satan’s attacks?

*taken from Ilumina Bible Software

Sunday Sharing

Do you want to read Acts 5 in a different version?  You can go here -  http://www.biblegateway.com/ If you want to look at Greek and Hebrew words, you can go here -  http://www.studylight.org/

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A Tale of Two Coaches

This story is based on real life experiences…the names are changed to protect the $*#*&^$ (I’m not really using names).

This is a tale of two football coaches.  One coach survived the season, the other inspired his players to become champions.

One coach tied everything to football: grades, manners and behaviors.  Players earned helmet stickers for great plays during the game.  The circle up time after the game was a great time of celebration for hard work.  But on report card day, students lined up and received helmet stickers for good grades.  During interactions with coaches and parents, players were expected to use manners and be respectful to adults.  The coach always reminded his players to be respectful to their parents and teachers.  The other coach survived the season.

One coach was tough on his players, but he always honored their relationship.  He built them up and made them feel confident in who they were and what kind of person they were becoming.  The other coach survived the season.

One coach drilled and practiced like mad. He prepared his players.  On game day, he trusted his players to know their place and held them accountable for what they had learned.  The other coach survived the season.

One coach started with a vision and a purpose.  He kept the Superbowl in front of his players.  Games were just the hurdle to get to the big game.  He kept the vision fresh in the players mind everyday.  When the big game was over and his players walked away as champions, they all knew in their hearts that they deserved it.  The other coach and the other players, just survived the season.

When we walk in a real relationship with Jesus, when we allow Him to coach us in our game, we will always walk away as champions.  No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. Romans 8:37

Family Day – Sunday, November 14, 2010

We are doing a traditional Thanksgiving dinner!  We’re are going to have to cast the fat demons out of the pumpkin pie… I’m just sayin’!

Biography Shelf

Do you want to check out a website where you can read a short bio. on a famous person?  Check this out. – http://www.biographyshelf.com/browse_biographies.html

Christian Cartoons

Funny, Bible humor – http://www.kevinfrank.net/bible5.asp

Small Group Questions* – Acts 4

The Jewish religious leaders felt their authority was being challenged by Peter and John’s message. So they arrested these disciples and demanded that they keep quiet about their beliefs. Peter and John wisely chose to obey God rather than people. The next day, they continued to preach the Good News of salvation.

OPEN

1. What variety of reactions have you observed people have to the preaching of the gospel message?

EXPLORE

2. Why did the priests and religious leaders arrest Peter and John? (4:1-2)

3. What did the Jewish leaders find so amazing about the apostles? (4:5-14)

4. Why did the religious leaders hesitate to speak against Jesus’ disciples? (4:14-16)

5. How did Peter and John respond to the threats of the religious leaders? (4:17-21)

GET IT

6. What risks do we take when we try to witness to people about Christ?

7. When, if ever, have you been challenged or threatened because of your beliefs?

8. What steps can you take to better prepare yourself to explain the gospel to unbelievers?

9. When has the testimony of another believer strengthened or encouraged you to boldly witness for Christ?

APPLY

10. Who is one person you can tell about Jesus’ offer of salvation this week?

*taken from Ilumina Bible Software

Sunday Sharing

Do you want to read Acts 4 in a different version?  You can go here -  http://www.biblegateway.com/ If you want to look at Greek and Hebrew words, you can go here -  http://www.studylight.org/

Old Tibits?

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Christian Crazy

Christian Crazy

I had dinner at the nastiest restaurant last week.  I was on my way to meet with a couple to discuss their wedding ceremony and decided to stop at a buffet  that I’ve always passed by, but never visited.  I pretty much keep to a low-carb diet, so I like to find places that I can eat meat and salad.  This wasn’t a buffet run by a restaurant chain.  As far as I know, it’s the only one of its kind in the Houston area.

The restaurant was decorated well.  I was greeted by the manager at the cash register as soon as I walked in.  I asked him if I could take a look at the food.  He motioned to go ahead and I was off to the steaming counters of all sorts of food.  I have to say that the food looked great!  There was plenty of different types of meat and plenty of salad and salad stuff to go around!

I went to my table and started eating……  I wasn’t impressed.  I went back to try some other meats….disappointed….  I tried a third time and wanted to barf.   It seemed that every time I tried a different meat, it got worse!  Even the broccoli and cheese and green beans sucked.  It didn’t matter what amount of salt and pepper I poured over the food….it didn’t help.

The thing is that the food “looked” so good!

Have you ever been in that situation?  It “looked” so good…but turned out to be so bad!  We soon are dealing with feelings of disappointment and disgust.  You can encounter it in a new job opportunity, a friendship, a new purchase, a (fill-in-the-blank).  We all get there eventually…some more often than we want.

But there is only one “sure thing” that is good in this life.  Psalms 100:5 says, “For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.”  Good, love, forever, faithfulness….these are words that you can hold on to!  Actually, this is a promise that you can hold on to!  (see the last post)

What would happen in your everyday attitude, if when you encountered disappointment, disgust and barfing…you instead started to dwell on His goodness, love and faithfulness?  It’s hard to do it in the middle of the nastiness….  But if we practice and train our minds and hearts to go there…it will become instinctive.  Then, well you better watch out you might become a Christian Crazy!

Family Day – Sunday, October 17, 2010

We are doing hamburgers and hotdogs as we fellowship together after the service.  Bring a friend!

Online Bible

Check out this cool online Bible.  It comes complete with tags that allow you to jump to other helpful/related Scripture – http://www.just1word.com/bible

Stacey Kramer: The best gift I ever survived

Check out this TED video – http://www.ted.com/talks/stacey_kramer_the_best_gift_i_ever_survived.html?utm_source=newsletter_weekly_2010-10-12

Small Group Questions* – Acts 3

Through Jesus’ power, Peter was able to heal a crippled man. When a crowd of curious onlookers gathered to see what had happened, Peter seized the opportunity to preach the gospel. His message was simple: Repent of your sins and obey Jesus as your Savior.

OPEN

1. When, if ever, has a chance meeting or circumstance turned out to be a great opportunity?

EXPLORE

2. How did Peter explain his ability to heal the lame man? (3:6, 12, 16)

3. How did the people who saw and heard about this miracle react? (3:9-11)

4. What accusations did Peter make about certain Jews and their religious leaders? (3:13-15)

5. What did Peter challenge his listeners to do? (3:19)

GET IT

6. What fears do some Christians have about sharing their faith?

7. What personal responsibility do you feel to challenge people to accept Jesus?

8. When has God given you courage or the right words to tell someone about your faith in Jesus?

9. What principles of evangelism can we glean from Peter’s example?

APPLY

10. How can you better prepare yourself for the opportunities God gives you to witness?

*taken from Ilumina Bible Software

Sunday Sharing

Do you want to read Acts 3 in a different version?  You can go here -  http://www.biblegateway.com/ If you want to look at Greek and Hebrew words, you can go here -  http://www.studylight.org/

Old Tibits?

Newer Older Tidbits can be found on this blog.  Older Older Tidbits can be found by visiting  – http://groups.yahoo.com/group/assurancechurch/

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Promises

In this TIDBIT: Promises, Survey Finds Lots of Spiritual Dialogue But Not Much Change, Small Group Questions – Acts 1

Promises

I’m an iffy person when someone promises me something.  In fact, you could say that I might be pessimistic sometimes.  I’ve been on the other side of promises that were unkept.  Does everyone break their promise? No!  But still…hearing the words, “I promise,” sometimes doesn’t mean to much!

However, I’m not ALWAYS wary of promises.  Actually, I ALWAYS trust in God’s promises!  His promises are found in His Word.  The problem though is knowing what the Bible says.  I mean, if you are unaware of a promise, and don’t ever miss it, does it matter?  If you are trusting in Psalms 32:8 – I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.  Yeah!  Or what about Joshua 1:8 – Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Or what about Psalms 37:4 – Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart.

The key is to know the promises of God and make them part of who you are everyday!  The promises of God are not just on Sundays or when the chips are down.  They are EVERYDAY!!!!

There is something to believing, claiming, confessing, trusting in the Word of God.  HEAR ME – I’m not talking Name it Claim it theology.  But there is something to knowing that the Words of God are true and the Creator of the Universe is powerful enough to make those promises come to pass.

Just think about the advice you give your kids or what you hear from self help or leadership gurus, hang around the people you want to become.  They are saying your environment (people, places, etc..) have an influence in your life.  Doesn’t this apply with the Word of God as well?

If you surround yourself with the promises of God….won’t they influence your life?  Oh Yeah Baby!  What you put in your mind is very powerful!  Maybe that’s why Davis said…

I challenge you to start a Scripture Journal on Scriptures that have personal meaning to you.  Take time to memorize them and make them a part of who you are.  Not just something that happens once a week….or something that happens when times are tough!

Survey Finds Lots of Spiritual Dialogue But Not Much Change

The Barna Group put out a recent survey.  Check it out here – http://www.barna.org/

Small Group Questions* – Acts 1

“You will be my witnesses.” Jesus’ last words to his followers began a ministry that Christians throughout the centuries have taken on. Although the task of spreading the gospel around the world is daunting, Jesus promises that he will give his followers enough courage and strength to fulfill their mission.

OPEN

1. Who shared the gospel message with you for the first time?

EXPLORE

2. Why did Jesus tell his disciples to wait in Jerusalem? (1:4-5)

3. What special instructions did Jesus give to his followers before he returned to heaven? (1:8)

4. What does the Holy Spirit equip people to do? (1:8)

5. Why did the early church decide to choose another man to take Judas’ place? (1:21)

GET IT

6. How do some Christians rationalize their lack of involvement in evangelism and missions?

7. How does the promise of Christ’s return motivate you to get involved in missions?

8. What sacrifices must God’s people make to take the gospel to the ends of the earth?

9. What can you do to get personally involved in spreading the gospel into unreached areas of the world?

APPLY

10. How can you depend on the Holy Spirit to help you share the gospel with a unbelieving friend this week?

*taken from Ilumina Bible Software

Sunday Sharing

Do you want to read Acts 1 in a different version?  You can go here -  http://www.biblegateway.com/ If you want to look at Greek and Hebrew words, you can go here -  http://www.studylight.org/

Old Tibits?

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Famous Last Words

In this TIDBIT: Famous Last Words, Forgotten God, Blog: Some Good Reading, National Concerns & Christians, Small Group Questions – Ruth 3

Famous Last Words

I love the 2002 movie, The Count of Monte Cristo.  I love the last few lines of the movie…  “All that was used for vengeance will now be used for good.”  Check out the video below.

I chose that video because it was the end of a good movie and it had a good message.  However, I could have chosen many videos on Youtube of actual last words by individuals on their death beds.  Apparently, people have something to say, even on their deathbeds.

What would you say if you knew the words you spoke were going to be the last words that the people around you heard?  Would you come up with something witty?  What about sarcastic?  Would you be purposeful and say something that you wish would make an impact on the lives around you?

What about Jesus’ last words?  Was He just making conversation or was He saying something that He wanted his disciples to remember?  Acts1:7-8 records Jesus’ last words, right before He ascended to Heaven.  Communication after that was spiritual: dreams, visions and prayer.  There wasn’t another time when He would be face to face with His disciples.

And what does Acts 1:8 say?  Let’s look at Acts1:7-8 – He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

So the last thing that Jesus says face to face before He ascends to Heaven is “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you…”  Are you living in the power of the Holy Spirit?  Have you ever?  If the Holy Spirit bit you on the butt, would you know it?

I truly believe that Christians have totally missed living in the power of the Holy Spirit.  Especially here in America, we have everything we need.  If we can’t figure it out ourselves, we can ask for advice, throw some money at it, drug it or Google it!  We’ve learned how to live our faith without the power of the Holy Spirit.

Can you imagine what our lives could be like if we allowed “God” living inside of us to have the ability to lead us?  Christians would most definitely look a lot different!

Forgotten God

Chpt. 2 this week!  If you would like some questions for thought, you can visit this site – http://smuckerfamily.wordpress.com/tag/holy-spirit/

Blog: Some Good Reading

Here is a blog worth looking at – http://johnortberg.com/

National Concerns & Christians

There is new research by the Barna Group on current National Concerns among Christians.  Check it out here – http://www.barna.org/culture-articles/422-diverse-set-of-national-concerns-topped-by-widespread-economic-worries

Small Group Questions* – Ruth 3

Naomi understood the laws of her people much better than Ruth, the Moabite. Ruth benefited from Naomi’s wisdom and insight. Because of Ruth’s willingness to listen and learn, she found the path to marrying a good and faithful man.

OPEN

1. What about your reputation do you value most and want to protect at all costs?

EXPLORE

2. What motivated Naomi to tell Ruth to go to Boaz? (3:1-2)

3. What specific instructions did Naomi give to Ruth? (3:1-4)

4. How did Naomi refer to Boaz, and how is this significant? (3:2)

5. How did Ruth respond to Naomi’s unusual request? (3:5)

6. What reputation did Ruth have in the town? (3:11)

GET IT

7. When have you ever found yourself in an “impossible” situation like Ruth?

8. What positive character traits stand out in this story?

9. Judging from this passage, what does God want you to do when you cannot see the solution to a problem in your life?

APPLY

10. What is one specific step you can take this week to benefit from the wisdom and insight of a more mature Christian?

*taken from Ilumina Bible Software

Sunday Sharing

Do you want to read Ruth 3 in a different version?  You can go here -  http://www.biblegateway.com/ If you want to look at Greek and Hebrew words, you can go here -  http://www.studylight.org/

Old Tibits?

Newer Older Tidbits can be found on this blog.  Older Older Tidbits can be found by visiting  – http://groups.yahoo.com/group/assurancechurch/

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Growing Up Xian

Growing Up Xian

I was listening to a podcast/sermon earlier today when the preacher mentioned that he has been serving the Lord for over 30 years.  When I started to add up the years I consider serving the Lord, it came up to 1 month shy of 21 years.  I was still in high school and I feel my life kind of changed dramatically.  A question popped into my head that I would like to ask my parents as a result of my reflection, “What went through your mind as I started willingly going to church, reading my Bible and trying to live a life for God?”

That question can also be asked on a continual basis, what pops into our neighbors, co-workers, family and friends’ mind as we try to live out the faith right in front of them?  Does anything?  Or is it always business as usual, the same-ol’-same-ol’ person?

Shouldn’t there be a continual “like Him” process that we are going through on a regular basis?  I’m not saying that we become perfect or anything, but shouldn’t we look more and more like Jesus every day?  2 Corinthians 7:1 says, “Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.

I’m hoping that after 20+ years of living for Jesus that I would be at a place where I’m “perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.”  Again, it’s not about being perfect, but it looks like that Paul is talking about something we should be making an effort towards.  I’m afraid though, that I haven’t put 20+ years effort into my relationship with God.

Again, I hope you don’t get this wrong.  I’m not talking about a salvation by works or earning my way into the kingdom.  But I would like something to show for my time following God.  Maybe the changes are so subtle over time that you don’t notice them….kind of like looking at a picture of yourself when you were fat or younger or something.  Maybe you’re supposed to do a  20 year stretch of cruising and then turn the “spiritual” heat up again.  Or maybe we just become so accepting of a mediocre life that we don’t hunger and thirst for the things of God like we should.

Can you see growth in your walk with God?  Is it decent growth, kind of like what you would expect your child to make year from year, or a tree to make when you water it or your investments to make when the stock market is booming?  If yes, YEAH!  If not, then what or who is the problem?

See – http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians%202:5-18&version=NIV

Family Day

Family Day is Sunday, September 12, 2010.  Bring your appetite and swimsuit!

Forgotten God

On Sunday, September 12, 2010, we will start the video/book Forgotten God by Francis Chan.  Checkout http://www.forgottengod.com/ and maybe even search Youtube for some cool videos

Small Group Questions* – Ruth 2

Ruth was a hard worker. She did not shrink from manual labor when it came to supporting her mother-in-law. Through the years, she had developed her character so that she could face difficult situations with a wholehearted trust in God. People noticed her. They even respected and trusted her because of her depth of character.

OPEN

1. How does the praise of an employer or friend usually affect you?

EXPLORE

2. Who was Boaz, and what kind of man was he? (2:1, 4-5)

3. How did Ruth provide for her mother-in-law? (2:2-3)

4. How did Boaz’s foreman describe Ruth? (2:6-7)

5. How was Ruth treated on her first day of work? (2:8-9, 14-16)

6. What danger did Ruth face in gleaning the fields? (2:9-22)

GET IT

7. How did God show his faithfulness to Ruth and Naomi?

8. What character traits of Ruth stand out to you?

9. Judging from the events in this story, what character traits does God honor in his people?

APPLY

10. What is a step you can take this week toward developing your character?

*taken from Ilumina Bible Software

Sunday Sharing

Do you want to read Ruth 2 in a different version?  You can go here -  http://www.biblegateway.com/ If you want to look at Greek and Hebrew words, you can go here -  http://www.studylight.org/

Old Tibits?

Newer Older Tidbits can be found on this blog.  Older Older Tidbits can be found by visiting  – http://groups.yahoo.com/group/assurancechurch/

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Intersting Conversation

In this TIDBIT: Interesting Conversation, Family Day, Forgotten God, Small Group Questions – Ruth 1

Interesting Conversation

I had an interesting conversation this weekend.  While I was waiting for my blower motor to be replaced, I started chatting with another customer about current events.  After a while of talking about politics, immigration and other such topics, the conversation turned to religion.

As we spoke, he revealed that he was a Catholic.  However, he had a lot of questions and was unclear about a lot of things. He was more of a Catholic out of family tradition than faith practice.

He told me that he appreciated me answering his questions and not really pressuring him.  I told him that I learned early on, because I made the mistake of being a “spiritual pusher” when I was first “saved.”  My excuse for those pushy Christians is – If you had the answer to someone’s happiness…or peace…or eternal life… or if you had the answer everyone was looking for, wouldn’t you be very matter of fact and “excited” about what your answer could mean for their life?  That’s why Christians are pushy!

Anyway, I realized later that although this guy was my age, he had a lot of questions and was never really presented with the “Good News” that would really be “Good News” to him.  Could this really be…in Houston, Texas in 2010?  Don’t we send missionaries to other parts of the world for that?  How could someone in our own backyard not really hear the message of Jesus in a coherent and relevant way?  The fact is, that there are a lot of people out there just like this new friend.

That’s one reason I like do weddings.  I get to be the first “religious” contact of a lot of people when they are getting married.  This doesn’t usually turn into a commitment to walk in the ways of the Lord….but it leaves an impression and a point of contact for someone when they start asking spiritual questions.

But you don’t have to have “divine encounters” at the auto shop or meet with couples to discuss their wedding day.  Every Christian is a point of contact for someone.  It is so important to remember that when we are out there living life.

Would knowing that someone’s eternal life was hinging on your example or lifestyle?  That one chance meeting could make a difference in someone’s life?  Would you approach your faith differently?

Family Day

Family Day is Sunday, September 12, 2010.

Forgotten God

On Sunday, September 12, 2010, we will start the video/book Forgotten God by Francis Chan.

Small Group Questions* – Ruth 1

Naomi had come to Moab with three men she loved—her husband and two sons. They had all died in Moab. Now she intended to leave her daughters-in-law behind and return home alone. While Orpah sadly said good-bye, Ruth reaffirmed her devotion to Naomi and to Naomi’s God by traveling with her to Bethlehem.

OPEN

1. What characteristics do you think are most important in a friend?

EXPLORE

2. What do Naomi’s wishes for Ruth and Orpah reveal about their character? (1:8-9)

3. What kind of relationship did Naomi have with her daughters-in-law? (1:8-10)

4. Why did Naomi feel that God was against her? (1:13)

5. Why did Ruth decide to stay with her mother-in-law, Naomi? (1:16)

6. How did Ruth reveal her commitment to Naomi’s God? (1:17)

GET IT

7. What does Ruth’s speech reveal about her desires and character?

8. What is one characteristic you see in the life of Ruth that you want to have?

9. In what specific ways can we demonstrate loyalty or devotion to God?

APPLY

10. How could you develop or reaffirm your devotion to God this week?

*taken from Ilumina Bible Software

Sunday Sharing

Do you want to read Ruth 1 in a different version?  You can go here -  http://www.biblegateway.com/ If you want to look at Greek and Hebrew words, you can go here -  http://www.studylight.org/

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Long long week

It’s been a long week… The article that I wanted to put out there isn’t fully put together (in my head). But I wanted to post the audio book link to Francis Chan’s book, Forgotten God. The bad news is that it went up $2 from what I mentioned earlier. The audio book is now $6.98. But still well worth it. Here is the link – http://christianaudio.com/product_info.php?products_id=1589

You can also listen or watch some of his sermons here – http://cornerstonesimi.com/special/media_player.html
You will have to scroll down a little.

James 4
This week we are reading James 4. I’m looking forward to the discussion.

Around the Track?
Rick has the “inside-track” to Track 21. We are planning a guy’s afternoon on an upcoming Sunday!

Beginning of School
Please keep all students and teachers in your prayers as school starts up in Cyfair and the Houston Area! Watch those School Zones!