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Going Deeper Leaders' Notes 1 |
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Section 1: Encountering God
Our images of God influence the whole of our Christian life. This section
looks at the greatness of God in creation, the love of God in Jesus and the power of God in the Holy Spirit, and how to discover this
God in the Bible.
Play the tape of the talk if group members have not heard it.
Session 1: Discovering the Greatness of God
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| Aim |
To reflect on the greatness of God in creation, show how we fit
into God's purpose and how we should respond. |
Bible
Readings |
| Old Testament |
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Genesis 1:1-5 and 1:26 - 2:1 |
| Psalm |
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19:1-6 |
| New Testament |
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Colossians 2:15-20 |
| Gospel |
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Luke 12:22-28 |
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| Welcome |
If you could choose to be transported to one place anywhere in
the world - where would you go and why? |
| Word |
Introduction
A framework for belief:
| either |
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God in the beginning leading to purpose |
| or |
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chance that leads to ultimate meaninglessness each requires faith |
Creation (Genesis 1:1-5 and 1:26 - 2:1)
Answers the question Why? not how?
- an expression of God - light, life and love flow from Him
- created through Christ (Colossians 1:16)
- God present in all creation (Hebrews 1:3)
- inherently good - evil came later.
- people have a special place as children of God, and stewards of creation.
Discussion
If the world was made for loving communion with its maker, how does that affect our attitude and values? eg use of resources.
Creation & evolution
Need not be in conflict - Creation is continuous, dynamic, living - a complete yet an unfolding story.
Discussion
Can theories of creation and evolution be held together? Where are the differences? (This is a huge question - don’t get bogged down
- if requested we will plan a special session on the topic and will bring in some expert to help!)
What do we see of God in Creation?
- greatness - the amazing size, variety and wonder leaves us speechless.
- harmony & balance - the universe is delicately balanced - treat with
care
- beauty - we sense God’s glory
- unity - we are at one with the created order.
What is our response?
- consider & learn - Luke 12:22 consider the flowers - Lessons from
nature eg ants & birds, - rocks & trees
- listen - ‘be still and know’ Psalm 46:80 - soak up the presence
of God eg walk in countryside
- co-operate - use your creativity at work, at home in the garden &
so co-operate with God’s purpose.
Discussion
Split into two’s or three’s and share how and what you have learned about God from creation.
Share together what you have discovered.
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Prayer
Time |
- Come into God's presence - play some animal/bird sounds
- Have a variety of flowers, candles, wood, stone, water etc as focal point
for meditation
- Read Psalm 8
- From what we have shared offer prayers of thanks and praise
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| Link |
During next week look at creation and reflect on what it tells
you about God. Make a note of some of the key words that come to mind. |
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