Jesus' disciples were ordinary lay people, just like us. He trained them to be the leaders who would carry out His ministry after He returned to His Father. These disciples made other disciples and before the end of the first century, this small group had turned the world upside down (Acts 17:6).

Small groups have a rich heritage in Methodist history. The "class meeting" was organized by the Wesleys to meet the needs of people who were hungry for God. They were places where people were transformed into disciples through love and study. The small group setting provided a vehicle for nurture and accountability for Christians seeking to grow as disciples.

Small groups today, by their size and informal nature, still have unique opportunities for leading people to commit their lives to Christ and to grow deeper in their faith and discipleship. Small groups help us not only to "grow up" but to "grow deep."

"Throughout the ages God has called disciples to train other disciples so that the Word, like a seed, would root and bloom in the lives of those who called themselves his children. This is your generation; now it is your turn. Will you do it? . . ."
- Grace Bradford, "Guide for Class Leaders", Discipleship Resources

Schedule

Monday Mornings - On-going

9 AM Prayer Group with Beth O'Neal. (New Hope Room)

Tuesday Nights Starting Sept 20

7 PM "Men Mentoring Men."

A study designed to assist Christian men fulfill Christ's great commission. Deals with foundational Christian principles and practices: how to pray, study the Bible, be led by the Holy Spirit, how to share one's faith. (J.R. Kiel, Young Adult Room, appx. $25).

7 PM "Experiencing God" by Henry Blackaby.

Knowing God does not come through a program, a study, or a method. Knowing God comes through a relationship with a Person. This study challenges Christians to experience the fullness of a life lived in fellowship with a loving, personal God. A good, basic study for learning how to discern the will of God (Linda Thomas, last room on left, new north wing, appx. $15).

Wednesday

6:15 AM

Study the New Testament based on the chronological order in which some experts believe the books were written.

9 AM "When to Say Yes, When to Say No, To Take Control of Your Life" by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend.

Learn how to set reasonable boundaries. Book is available at Heaven & Earth Lynnhaven, appx. $13. (Young Adult Classroom, Lois Grubb).

10 AM.

Bible study on Psalms, led by Beth O'Neal (New Hope Room).

2:30 PM

Youth Bible study on the Acts of the Apostles in the Oasis.

7 PM "Bible Survey Course" - An overview of the Bible starting with the Book of Genesis.

In this study, participants will be looking at the who's, what's, when's, where's and why's of each book. The course is not intended to give final answers as much as it is to raise questions that will hopefully bring about deeper thought and understanding. Bring to class a readable Bible, pen, notepad and a mind and heart that will be open to the presence and leadership of the Holy Spirit. Repeated on Sunday mornings. (Barry Roberts, New Corinthians Room, new educational wing).

Thursday

6:15 AM Bible study with Dane Mills.

Going into their 16th year, this group is finishing up Galatians and will soon begin the Old Testament Book of Judges. Everyone is welcome. (Small Hall).

"Patriarchs" by Beth Moore.

Beth's studies are always a favorite among women. In this latest study, participants will explore concepts such as "blessing," "covenant" and "promise," and the bearing each has on a New Testament believer's life today. This is a 10-week video series with workbook, appx $15. (Laura Bradley).

To register, please call the church office, 340-5015, or email thalia@tumc.hrcoxmail.com