Thursday, October 10, 2024

Guidelines to Discussion

I've used the following guidelines for our Small Group Discussion on our study with Intentional Churches  and looking at our own church its good and bad.


1. Criticism is Good. A way to look at one's self and improve.


2. Critic the policy, not the person. Personal attacks are not helpful. Politics needs to learn this value.


3. Revisit the past, don't live in it. We like to think the past was the greatest thing and to relive the "Golden Years." The problem is the past is behind us and we have to strive for the future.


4.  Remember the Golden Rule. Treat others as you'd like to be treated. In discussion and heated debate, respect goes a long ways.


Others you might add?

Guidelines


 

Monday, October 07, 2024

From Open Network - 3 Tips to preaching on Sexual Sin.

3 Tips for Preaching on Porn and Other Sexual Sin

 

58% of Americans have watched porn online. This is why it's so important that we talk about overcoming pornography from the stage, and we want to help you feel ready.

 

Use sermon outlines available for free on Open Network, then follow these three tips for preaching on porn at your church.

  1. Be Direct
    For many attenders, your sermon may be the first time they've heard a biblical perspective on overcoming pornography.

    Those who are struggling need you to clearly share the hope and guidance that God's Word offers.

  2. Give Attenders a Heads Up
    Communicate early to help them prepare their hearts and make plans to take their kids to children's church. 

    In addition to communicating throughout the week, you can use this free slide to remind attenders before the service starts. 

  3. Prepare Next Steps
    Overcoming an addiction to pornography usually takes time.

    While your message will help attenders start seeking freedom, they will need support along the way.

    Identify helpful tools and next steps like finding an accountability partner, downloading content-filtering software, devotionals, etc., and have them ready.

    You can find the four next steps we recommend in this post.

Planning to speak on this topic soon? Use these sermon outlines, graphics, videos, social media posts, and more to help you prepare your message.


Attenders aren't the only ones who struggle.

 

Pornography is a serious problem for pastors, too. 57% of pastors are struggling or have struggled with a porn addiction.

 

If this is you, we're praying for you and trusting God to help you overcome temptation and walk in freedom

Mission Statements for Churches

 How to Create a New Mission Statement for Your Church (With Examples) - CareyNieuwhof.com

Open Network Resources

 Messages | Free Church Resources from Life.Church

Bonnie Brae A1 page

 Bonnie Brae (pastors.ai)

Bonnie Brae prayers1 page

 Bonnie Brae Church of Christ, 7610 Staples Mill Road, Richmond, VA (2024) (prayers1.com)

Guidelines to Discussion

I've used the following guidelines for our Small Group Discussion on our study with Intentional Churches  and looking at our own church ...