The Gathering Church - TX Welcome to The Gathering Church, a new Anglican Church sharing the gospel with Katy, Fulshear, Cypress, Richmond, and Sugar Land. https://gatherwithus.church Mon, 13 Nov 2023 09:26:31 +0000 Mon, 13 Nov 2023 09:26:31 +0000 hourly 1 3600 SnapPages.com The Real Jesus: The Beattitudes - Week 8 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/05/05/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-8 Mon, 05 May 2025 10:40:56 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/05/05/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-8
Week of May 4th
Matthew 5:10-12

This year in House Church we will be reading and discussing the Gospel of Matthew to better understand who Jesus is and what he has done.

Matthew was one of Jesus’ 12 disciples and he left his profession as a tax collector to follow Him. The purpose of his gospel was to give evidence to his Jewish brothers that Jesus was the one they had been looking for. He wanted them (and us) to see that Jesus was the long awaited messiah and King.  He would be the one to make all things right, and restore the broken relationship between God and man. Matthew’s life was radically transformed by an encounter with Jesus, and our prayer is that through this study you will encounter The Real  Jesus through His word, and be transformed just like Matthew.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Question(s):
  1. Do you feel like you have ever experienced persecution for your faith? Share  a few stories with the group. 
  2. Looking back, do you think any of the criticism or persecution you faced was because of your own fault or actions? 
  3. What are some stories of persecution of Christians that you've seen or heard recently?

Read and Reflect: Read Matthew 5:10-12
  1. As you read this, what stands out to you in the passage? Jesus qualifies the type of persecution that results in "Blessing". What does it mean to be persecuted "For righteousness sake"? How is that different from anything else we may experience in the way of persecution?
  2. These verses bookend "The Beatitudes" along with the first verse, "Blessed are the poor in spirit". Both remind us that believers will belong to the Kingdom of Heaven. As you look at the preceding verses, why do you think Jesus makes a point to come back to "the Kingdom". 
  3. As we wrap up our study on the beatitudes, do you think these remarks by Jesus are prescriptive (something we must do to become a Christian) or descriptive (Something that describes a Christian)? 
  4. Does this mean we shouldn't strive to follow these principles in our daily life?
  5. Take some time to pray for Christians around the world who are truly being persecuted for their faith. 

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your top 5 cards.


]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/05/05/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-8#comments 0 The Real Jesus: The Beattitudes - Week 7 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/04/30/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-7 Wed, 30 Apr 2025 10:16:35 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/04/30/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-7
Week of April 27th
Matthew 5:9

This year in House Church we will be reading and discussing the Gospel of Matthew to better understand who Jesus is and what he has done.

Matthew was one of Jesus’ 12 disciples and he left his profession as a tax collector to follow Him. The purpose of his gospel was to give evidence to his Jewish brothers that Jesus was the one they had been looking for. He wanted them (and us) to see that Jesus was the long awaited messiah and King.  He would be the one to make all things right, and restore the broken relationship between God and man. Matthew’s life was radically transformed by an encounter with Jesus, and our prayer is that through this study you will encounter The Real  Jesus through His word, and be transformed just like Matthew.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Question(s):
  1. What are some ways that you have seen or experienced to be helpful in conflict resolution? Share examples with the group.
  2. Do you think there is a  difference between being a peacemaker and a peacekeeper?

Read and Reflect: Read Matthew 5:9
  1. Do you think this passage (in light of the first 8 verses) is saying that you can become a child of God by being a peacemaker, or is being a peacemaker a product of being a child of God? 
  2. Read Romans 12:16-18. With so much hostility and division in the world, how can we live peaceably with everyone? is it something we can conjure up from inside, or is it something external?
  3. Theologian Martin Lloyd Jones says that, "being a peacemaker in this culture is as difficult as a salmon trying to swim upstream". Do you relate to this? 
  4. Read Colossians 1:15-20. Jesus made peace by his sacrifice on the cross. What does that tell us about living as peacemakers in His kingdom?
  5. If we are looking to Christ first instead of thinking more highly of ourselves and our rights, then we will be more prepared to be a peacemaker in the world around us. What are some ways we can focus ourselves on Jesus, and "die to self" instead of giving into the ideas of the world?

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your top 5 cards.


]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/04/30/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-7#comments 0 The Real Jesus: The Beattitudes - Week 6 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/04/01/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-6 Tue, 01 Apr 2025 11:29:21 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/04/01/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-6
Week of March 30th
Matthew 5:8

This year in House Church we will be reading and discussing the Gospel of Matthew to better understand who Jesus is and what he has done.

Matthew was one of Jesus’ 12 disciples and he left his profession as a tax collector to follow Him. The purpose of his gospel was to give evidence to his Jewish brothers that Jesus was the one they had been looking for. He wanted them (and us) to see that Jesus was the long awaited messiah and King.  He would be the one to make all things right, and restore the broken relationship between God and man. Matthew’s life was radically transformed by an encounter with Jesus, and our prayer is that through this study you will encounter The Real  Jesus through His word, and be transformed just like Matthew.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Question(s):
  1. Is there a person in your life, or even a character from a movie or TV show that you would classify as pure, or that exhibits purity of heart? What qualities do these people have that make them a good example of purity?
  2. Do you believe that people are mostly good? Why or why not?

Read and Reflect: Read Matthew 5:8
  1. How do you think someone can become "pure in heart"? 
  2. Read Jeremiah 17:9 and Matthew 15:18-19. What do these passages (Along with many others in scripture) tell us about the condition of our hearts? How do these passages compare to your answer to number 2 above? 
  3. Is there anything we can do to change the condition of our heart? 
  4. In Psalm 51 we see King David mourning his sin just like in this chapter of Matthew: "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted". Read Psalm 51:10-12. According to David, how can his heart be cleansed?
  5. Theologian, Martin Lloyd Jones says that, "You and I are meant for the audience chamber of God". What do you think he means by this?
  6. Read Ezekiel 36:25-27. what does this passage tell us about our heart. 
  7. If you saw God, face to face, what do you think would change about your life? 
  8. Give God thanks that because he has given us new hearts, we will see Him, and know Him. 

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your top 5 cards.


]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/04/01/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-6#comments 0 The Real Jesus: The Beattitudes - Week 5 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/03/17/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-5 Mon, 17 Mar 2025 12:47:39 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/03/17/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-5
Week of March 16th
Matthew 5:7

This year in House Church we will be reading and discussing the Gospel of Matthew to better understand who Jesus is and what he has done.

Matthew was one of Jesus’ 12 disciples and he left his profession as a tax collector to follow Him. The purpose of his gospel was to give evidence to his Jewish brothers that Jesus was the one they had been looking for. He wanted them (and us) to see that Jesus was the long awaited messiah and King.  He would be the one to make all things right, and restore the broken relationship between God and man. Matthew’s life was radically transformed by an encounter with Jesus, and our prayer is that through this study you will encounter The Real  Jesus through His word, and be transformed just like Matthew.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Question(s):
  1. Have you seen an example of someone showing mercy recently? What happened?
  2. How would you define mercy?  

Read and Reflect: Read Matthew 5:7
  1. How do we show mercy to others?
  2. Do you think showing mercy means to disregard the law, or to not care about consequences?  
  3. How has God shown mercy to us? Was the law disregarded?
  4. What is the difference between grace and mercy?
  5. Do you think this verse really means that we are forgiven only as we forgive? 
  6. What else could this statement mean? 
  7. Martin Lloyd Jones reminds us that the grace of God, when it enters our hearts, makes us merciful. As Christians we will be merciful because our hearts have been changed, but our salvation is not dependent on our action of forgiving others. Take a moment to pray and thank God that he has shown us mercy, and given us new hearts to show mercy to others. 

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your top 5 cards.


]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/03/17/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-5#comments 1 The Real Jesus: The Beattitudes - Week 4 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/02/24/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-4 Mon, 24 Feb 2025 23:09:30 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/02/24/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-4
Week of February 23
Matthew 5:6

This year in House Church we will be reading and discussing the Gospel of Matthew to better understand who Jesus is and what he has done.

Matthew was one of Jesus’ 12 disciples and he left his profession as a tax collector to follow Him. The purpose of his gospel was to give evidence to his Jewish brothers that Jesus was the one they had been looking for. He wanted them (and us) to see that Jesus was the long awaited messiah and King.  He would be the one to make all things right, and restore the broken relationship between God and man. Matthew’s life was radically transformed by an encounter with Jesus, and our prayer is that through this study you will encounter The Real  Jesus through His word, and be transformed just like Matthew.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Question(s):
  1. What is the most satisfying meal you've ever had? 
  2. What is your favorite meal to prepare for you / your family? 
  3. What are some things that most people hunger for in life?  

Read and Reflect: Read Matthew 5:6
  1. How do we hunger and thirst for righteousness? What do you think Jesus is saying here?
  2. Martin Lloyd Jones points out that this verse is the first of the Beatitudes that gives us a more positive element, of looking for a solution, while the others so far are asking us to be more introspective, and examine our lives in comparison to God's standard. Why do you think Jesus led with examination over a solution? 
  3. In the western world most people are far more "hungry" for happiness rather than righteousness, and they seldom find it. Why do you think that is? How can seeking righteousness lead to happiness? (Some versions of scripture say, "Happy are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness...)
  4. Righteousness means simply, "To be right with God". What does that mean to you? 
  5. How does the Bible express what it means to be right with God? Read Philippians 3:8-14.
  6. What's one step you can take this week to move toward righteousness, or right standing with God?   

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your top 5 cards.


]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/02/24/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-4#comments 0 The Real Jesus: The Beattitudes - Week 3 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/02/10/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-3 Mon, 10 Feb 2025 11:49:18 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/02/10/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-3
Week of February 9
Matthew 5:5

This year in House Church we will be reading and discussing the Gospel of Matthew to better understand who Jesus is and what he has done.

Matthew was one of Jesus’ 12 disciples and he left his profession as a tax collector to follow Him. The purpose of his gospel was to give evidence to his Jewish brothers that Jesus was the one they had been looking for. He wanted them (and us) to see that Jesus was the long awaited messiah and King.  He would be the one to make all things right, and restore the broken relationship between God and man. Matthew’s life was radically transformed by an encounter with Jesus, and our prayer is that through this study you will encounter The Real  Jesus through His word, and be transformed just like Matthew.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Question(s):
  1. Is there a time in your life where you feel like you "made it", or had an achievement that you are extremely proud of? 
  2. Who is someone in your life that models success for you? 
  3. How do you define success?  

Read and Reflect: Read Matthew 5:5
  1. How do you define meekness? Do you feel like the world values this quality? 
  2. In our last few meetings we've seen that attributes that are not always celebrated in the world are highly valued in God's kingdom. Why do you think that is?  
  3. Theologian, Martin Lloyd-Jones' teaching on this passage reminds us that the Jews at the time of Jesus were looking for a conquering King to come in militarily, and lead a conquest of the world. This beattitude suggests something else entirely. How do you think an attitude of Meekness might result in conquest? 
  4.  Read Matthew 18:1-4. Jesus reiterates the point about humility, and how those who consider themselves as less, will be great in the Kingdom of heaven. How can we demonstrate this idea of meekness in our daily lives and work? 
  5. A great example of this trait is Moses. Read Exodus 14:13-14. If God is fighting for us, where should our focus be, and what actions can we take? 
  6. What's an area of your life where you can exhibit meekness, where you've been striving to be on top or assert your own dominance? 
RECAP: Being poor in spirit results in understanding that we are not deserving of God's love, yet He gives it freely - Leads to Mourning our sin that we have in our lives - Leads to Meekness  as we humble ourselves and realize that God is the one working out His great plan for our lives.  

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your top 5 cards.


]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/02/10/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-3#comments 0 The Real Jesus: The Beattitudes - Week 2 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/01/27/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-2 Mon, 27 Jan 2025 12:52:14 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/01/27/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-2
Week of January 26
Matthew 5:4

This year in House Church we will be reading and discussing the Gospel of Matthew to better understand who Jesus is and what he has done.

Matthew was one of Jesus’ 12 disciples and he left his profession as a tax collector to follow Him. The purpose of his gospel was to give evidence to his Jewish brothers that Jesus was the one they had been looking for. He wanted them (and us) to see that Jesus was the long awaited messiah and King.  He would be the one to make all things right, and restore the broken relationship between God and man. Matthew’s life was radically transformed by an encounter with Jesus, and our prayer is that through this study you will encounter The Real  Jesus through His word, and be transformed just like Matthew.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Question(s):
  1. Does pineapple belong on pizza, and if yes, what is wrong with you?
  2. Do you have a story of a time where you were comforted in a time of sadness, and it changed your outlook?  
  3. In America, we are constantly pushed to "do what makes you happy". Do you think this is good advice?  Why or why not?

Read and Reflect: Read Matthew 5:4
  1. What kind of mourning do you think Jesus is taking about here? 
  2. Read the 2nd part of Luke 6:21. Do you see a pattern? (We see the negative follows by the positive). 
  3. Martin Lloyd-Jones' teaching on this passage shows us that Jesus is not talking about mourning a dead relative or friend, but rather, our own sins and shortcomings. How might someone mourning their sin find comfort? 
  4. A lot of times we put on a mask of happiness, and even try to fool ourselves by using distractions like social media or staying busy. Why do you think we put up so many roadblocks when it comes to being honest with ourselves about sin?
  5. Read Romans 7:18-20, 24. Compare this with the very next chapter, Romans 8:1-2. What do these passages tell us about where our comfort lies? 
  6. What's one step you might take this week to confront your own sin, and by God's grace, be comforted?

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your top 5 cards.


]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/01/27/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-2#comments 0 The Real Jesus: The Beattitudes - Week 1 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/01/13/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-1 Mon, 13 Jan 2025 10:33:13 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/01/13/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-1
Week of January 12
Matthew 5:1-3

This year in House Church we will be reading and discussing the Gospel of Matthew to better understand who Jesus is and what he has done.

Matthew was one of Jesus’ 12 disciples and he left his profession as a tax collector to follow Him. The purpose of his gospel was to give evidence to his Jewish brothers that Jesus was the one they had been looking for. He wanted them (and us) to see that Jesus was the long awaited messiah and King.  He would be the one to make all things right, and restore the broken relationship between God and man. Matthew’s life was radically transformed by an encounter with Jesus, and our prayer is that through this study you will encounter The Real  Jesus through His word, and be transformed just like Matthew.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Question(s):
  1. Who was your favorite teacher (school or otherwise) growing up?  
  2. What made them so special or memorable? 
  3. Is there a certain lesson they taught that sticks with you today?

Read and Reflect: Read Matthew 5:1-4
  1. Big crowds were following Jesus all the time, and in this moment he stops and teaches them from a high location, so this section of scripture is called the, "Sermon on the Mount"; The most famous sermon in the Bible.
  2. What do you think Jesus means by, "Poor in Spirit"? How do we exhibit being "poor in spirit" with our families, friends, and neighbors? 
  3. A great teacher and theologian, Martin Lloyd-Jones, talks about being poor in spirit as an emptying of ourselves so that we can be filled. He also says it's our attitude towards ourselves, or rather, our humility that makes us poor in spirit. Does this change your idea about Question 2? 
  4. When you think of the Kingdom of Heaven, what comes to mind? 
  5. How does humility tie in with the kingdom of heaven? Why do you think Jesus pairs these 2 things? 

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your top 5 cards.


]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2025/01/13/the-real-jesus-the-beattitudes-week-1#comments 0 The Real Jesus: Matthew 4:12-22 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/11/12/the-real-jesus-matthew-4-12-22 Tue, 12 Nov 2024 11:19:40 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/11/12/the-real-jesus-matthew-4-12-22
11-13-24
Jesus Begins His Ministry
Matthew 4:12-22

This year in House Church we will be reading and discussing the Gospel of Matthew to better understand who Jesus is and what he has done.

Matthew was one of Jesus’ 12 disciples and he left his profession as a tax collector to follow Him. The purpose of his gospel was to give evidence to his Jewish brothers that Jesus was the one they had been looking for. He wanted them (and us) to see that Jesus was the long awaited messiah and King.  He would be the one to make all things right, and restore the broken relationship between God and man. Matthew’s life was radically transformed by an encounter with Jesus, and our prayer is that through this study you will encounter The Real  Jesus through His word, and be transformed just like Matthew.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Question(s):
  1. Have you ever had a boss or a leader that you were compelled to follow? 
  2. What attributes made them a good leader and made it easy to follow their lead? Or… What is a boss horror story that you’ve had to endure?

Read and Reflect: Read Matthew 4:12-22
  1. Matthew quotes Isaiah 9 in this passage. How has Jesus fulfilled this prophecy?
  2. In vs. 17 we hear the same message from Jesus that we initially heard from John the Baptist. Why do you think “the Kingdom” is such an important part of the language in scripture?
  3. Why do you think Jesus chose to call regular guys, fishermen, like Peter, Andrew, James, and John instead of more educated or men of higher status?
  4. How might we become “fishers of men”?
  5. What do you think made these men just stop and leave everything behind to follow Jesus?

Go Deeper
  1. What’s keeping you from following Jesus with all you have?
  2. What’s one way you can begin to be a fisher of men this week?

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your top 5 cards.


Announcements:
Friendsgiving - Friday Nov. 22nd. 

]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/11/12/the-real-jesus-matthew-4-12-22#comments 0 The Real Jesus: Matthew 4:1-11 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/11/02/the-real-jesus-matthew-4-1-11 Sat, 02 Nov 2024 12:04:46 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/11/02/the-real-jesus-matthew-4-1-11
11-6-24
The Temptation of Jesus
Matthew 4:1-11

This year in House Church we will be reading and discussing the Gospel of Matthew to better understand who Jesus is and what he has done.

Matthew was one of Jesus’ 12 disciples and he left his profession as a tax collector to follow Him. The purpose of his gospel was to give evidence to his Jewish brothers that Jesus was the one they had been looking for. He wanted them (and us) to see that Jesus was the long awaited messiah and King.  He would be the one to make all things right, and restore the broken relationship between God and man. Matthew’s life was radically transformed by an encounter with Jesus, and our prayer is that through this study you will encounter The Real  Jesus through His word, and be transformed just like Matthew.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Question(s):
  1. Have you ever been to the desert? 
  2. Do you think you could make it for 40 days out there with no food?
  3. We’ve all been in difficult situations in life where we’ve been tempted and done the wrong thing. Has there been a time where you stood firm and didn’t give in to temptation? 
  4. What helped you to overcome it?

Read and Reflect: Read Matthew 4:1-11
  1. What do you notice that Jesus does to avoid giving in to temptation in this passage? What did he respond with every time?
  2. What did the devil use in order to tempt Jesus in verse 6?
  3. What does this tell us about the importance of knowing (and understanding) scripture?
  4. Why do you think Jesus went into the wilderness in the first place?

Go Deeper
  1. How might prayer and fasting help us connect with God?
  2. Do you take time to be alone with God weekly? 
  3. What kind of impact does spending time with The Lord have on your daily life?

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your top 5 cards.


Announcements:
Friendsgiving - Friday Nov. 22nd. 

]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/11/02/the-real-jesus-matthew-4-1-11#comments 0 The Real Jesus: Matthew 3:13-17 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/10/14/the-real-jesus-matthew-3-13-17 Mon, 14 Oct 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/10/14/the-real-jesus-matthew-3-13-17
10-16-24
Baptism of Jesus
Matthew 3:13-17

This year in House Church we will be reading and discussing the Gospel of Matthew to better understand who Jesus is and what he has done.

Matthew was one of Jesus’ 12 disciples and he left his profession as a tax collector to follow Him. The purpose of his gospel was to give evidence to his Jewish brothers that Jesus was the one they had been looking for. He wanted them (and us) to see that Jesus was the long awaited messiah and King.  He would be the one to make all things right, and restore the broken relationship between God and man. Matthew’s life was radically transformed by an encounter with Jesus, and our prayer is that through this study you will encounter The Real  Jesus through His word, and be transformed just like Matthew.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Question(s):
  1. If you remember your baptism (Or someone else's), what stuck out to you as a meaningful moment?
  2. Have you ever felt unworthy to do a job or a task that was requested of you?

Read and Reflect: Read Matthew 3:13-17
  1. Why do you think John the Baptist didn’t feel comfortable baptizing Jesus?
  2. What do you think Jesus meant when he told John, the baptism was “to fulfill all righteousness.”?
  3. What do you think is happening in verses 16-17? Do you think everyone in attendance saw and heard what was described?
  4. Do you think Jesus needed to be baptized? Why or why not?
  5. What do you think Jesus is trying to teach us in this passage?

Go Deeper
  1. In your opinion, do we need to do anything for The Father to be pleased with us?
  2. “The Trinity” is never used as a description for God in the scriptures, but how might this passage be used as evidence to support that doctrine?

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your top 5 cards.


Announcements:

]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/10/14/the-real-jesus-matthew-3-13-17#comments 0 The Real Jesus: Matthew 3:1-12 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/09/22/the-real-jesus-matthew-3-1-12 Sun, 22 Sep 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/09/22/the-real-jesus-matthew-3-1-12
9-25-24
Prepare the Way
Matthew 3:1-12
This year in House Church we will be reading and discussing the Gospel of Matthew to better understand who Jesus is and what he has done.

Matthew was one of Jesus’ 12 disciples and he left his profession as a tax collector to follow Him. The purpose of his gospel was to give evidence to his Jewish brothers that Jesus was the one they had been looking for. He wanted them (and us) to see that Jesus was the long awaited messiah and King.  He would be the one to make all things right, and restore the broken relationship between God and man. Matthew’s life was radically transformed by an encounter with Jesus, and our prayer is that through this study you will encounter The Real  Jesus through His word, and be transformed just like Matthew.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.


Opening Questions:
  1. What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever eaten or seen someone eat?
  2. What are some things you would do to prepare if you knew a famous person was coming to your house for dinner? What would be different?

Read and Reflect: Read Matthew 3:1-12
  1. What stands out to you in this passage?
  2. What does it mean to “repent”, and how do you practice this in your own life?
  3. Why do you think John was so harsh to the Pharisees and Sadducees who came to him for baptism?
  4. What do you think John means in verse 9? Who are Abraham’s children?
  5. Do you think this baptism is the same as the one we practice today? Why or why not?

Go Deeper:
  1. Why do you think Matthew uses passages from Isaiah and other Old Testament prophets throughout his gospel? How would this encourage or challenge his readers?
  2. How might you “prepare the way” for Jesus in your own life this week?

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your top 5 cards.

Announcements:


]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/09/22/the-real-jesus-matthew-3-1-12#comments 0 The Real Jesus: Matthew 1:18-25 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/09/09/the-real-jesus-matthew-1-18-25 Mon, 09 Sep 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/09/09/the-real-jesus-matthew-1-18-25
Christmas in September
Matthew 1:18-25
This year in House Church we will be reading and discussing the Gospel of Matthew to better understand who Jesus is and what he has done.

Matthew was one of Jesus' 12 disciples and he left his profession as a tax collector to follow Him. The purpose of his gospel was to give evidence to his Jewish brothers that Jesus was the one they had been looking for. He wanted them (and us) to see that Jesus was the long awaited messiah and King.  He would be the one to make all things right, and restore the broken relationship between God and man. Matthew's life was radically transformed by an encounter with Jesus, and our prayer is that through this study you will encounter Jesus through His word, and be transformed just like Matthew.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Questions:
  1. What is a story you've either heard about your own birth, or about one of your kids' births that is still memorable today?
What was something that you either looked forward to about being a parent, or something that scared(s) you?

Read and Reflect: Read Matthew 1:18-25
  1. What stands out to you in this passage?
  2. Why do you think it was important for Jesus to be born of a virgin?
  3. In those days, Joseph could have put Mary on public display, shamed her, and possibly even put her to death for being pregnant out of wedlock. How do you think you would have reacted if you were in Joseph's shoes?
  4. Both Mary and Joseph were visited by angels telling them God's plan for them. With all the voices around us, including our own, how do you discern which voice is right?
  5. "God with us" - Immanuel. The prophet Isaiah wrote this about 600 years before Jesus' birth. What do you think it says about God, that he would come down in this most vulnerable state to be with His people?

Go Deeper: 
  1. What are some ways you can better discern, or listen for, God's voice in your own life? 
  2. Are there moments in your life where you've felt The Lord speaking to you? How did you react?

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your top 5 cards.

Announcements:
  • Gathering Kids Training: All current volunteers and anyone interested in helping serve our kids' ministry is invited to attend. Sunday, September 15th from 8:30-9:30AM in the Library at Westlake.
]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/09/09/the-real-jesus-matthew-1-18-25#comments 0 The Real Jesus: Matthew 1:1-17 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/08/26/the-real-jesus-matthew-1-1-17 Mon, 26 Aug 2024 12:19:16 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/08/26/the-real-jesus-matthew-1-1-17
What’s in a Name?
Matthew 1:1-17
This year in House Church we will be reading and discussing the Gospel of Matthew to better understand who Jesus is and what he has done.

Matthew was one of Jesus’ 12 disciples and he left his profession as a tax collector to follow Him. The purpose of his gospel was to give evidence to his Jewish brothers that Jesus was the one they had been looking for. He wanted them (and us) to see that Jesus was the long awaited messiah and King.  He would be the one to make all things right, and restore the broken relationship between God and man. Matthew’s life was radically transformed by an encounter with Jesus, and our prayer is that through this study you will encounter The Real  Jesus through His word, and be transformed just like Matthew.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Questions:
  1. What’s in a name? Do you know the meaning of your own name or the name of your kids?
  2. What’s a name in your family that’s been passed down / a distant relative whose name has come up in stories from your family’s history?

    Read and Reflect: Read Matthew 1:1-17
  3. What stands out to you in this passage?
  4. Which names stand out to you in this list? 
  5. Why do you think Matthew is including ALL of these names?
  6. It was extremely uncommon in those days for women to be mentioned in writings like these. Why do you think Matthew included the 4 women here in this passage?
  7. Some of the people listed here did not live lives that we would want to emulate. Do you find it odd that they are included in Jesus’ genealogy? Why or why not?
  8. What do you think the significance is of the 14 year increments between generations?

    Go Deeper:
  9. Why is it important that we connect Jesus to Abraham, David, and other characters   from the Old Testament?

    Prayer:
    Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your top 5 cards.

    Announcements:
  • September 8 is Baptism Sunday! We'll be having lunch as a church family afterward to celebrate. Check with your House Church leader about bringing a side to share with everyone. 
  • Gathering Kids Training: All current volunteers and anyone interested in helping serve our kids' ministry is invited to attend. Sunday, September 15th from 8:30-9:30AM in the Library at Westlake.
]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/08/26/the-real-jesus-matthew-1-1-17#comments 0 The Life of Jesus: Luke 18:35-43 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/05/27/the-life-of-jesus-luke-18-35-43 Mon, 27 May 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/05/27/the-life-of-jesus-luke-18-35-43
During this semester, we are going to be walking through Luke's gospel to gain a better understanding of Jesus, who he is and what he has done. In the app, under House Church, there is a tab labeled Luke resources that has additional resources for Luke and we will continue to add as time goes on.

** This gospel is written by Luke. Luke was an associate of the Apostle Paul who was likely a medical doctor, possibly from Antioch of  Syria, who is not Jewish. Luke is distinct in that it is the longest gospel and that it has a sequel, Acts. Luke introduces Jesus and his ministry as well as how his ministry relates to the early church. His gospel highlights the activity of a powerful and faithful God through Jesus, the promised savior.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Questions: 
1. What stories have you seen or heard of miraculous healings? What do you think about those stories?

Read and Reflect: Read Luke 18:35-43
Take a moment to get your bearings; look at the surrounding stories by reading the subtitles around this week’s passage. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification or definitions for new words and ideas. Listening to other translations of the Bible can both clarify and enrich the meanings of these readings.

Discussion:
1. What stands out to you in this passage?
2. What does the blind beggar do as Jesus approaches Jericho?
3. How did people in the crowd following Jesus react to the blind beggar?  What did the beggar do in the face of opposition?
4. What is the beggar's response to the healing?
5. If you witnessed this, what would your reaction be?
6. What is difficult or encouraging about this passage? 


Go Deeper: (optional for the group or to reflect on personally at home)
  1. What do we learn about God’s responsibility vs. man’s responsibility in regard to salvation from these two parables?

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your Top Five cards.

Announcements:
  • Summer Sessions begin next Wednesday at 630PM!! All House Churches gather together in the Library at Westlake for dinner and study. This year we will focus on The Holy Spirit. Each week a different House Church will be providing dinner for the whole group.
    • Week 1 - June 5 - Richmond
    • Week 2 - June 12 - Sugar Land
    • Week 3 - June 19 - North Katy
    • Week 4 - June 26 - West Katy
  • All youth and their friends currently in 5th-12th grade are invited to take part in our first ever Gather2Go July 10-14. This is a time filled with serving our community, gathering together for prayer, worship, and great times!! Sign up in the app under the Gather2Go tab!! contact Hannah, hannah@gatherwithus.church for more information.
]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/05/27/the-life-of-jesus-luke-18-35-43#comments 0 The Life of Jesus: Luke 15:1-10 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/05/13/the-life-of-jesus-luke-15-1-10 Mon, 13 May 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/05/13/the-life-of-jesus-luke-15-1-10
During this semester, we are going to be walking through Luke's gospel to gain a better understanding of Jesus, who he is and what he has done. In the app, under House Church, there is a tab labeled Luke resources that has additional resources for Luke and we will continue to add as time goes on.

** This gospel is written by Luke. Luke was an associate of the Apostle Paul who was likely a medical doctor, possibly from Antioch of  Syria, who is not Jewish. Luke is distinct in that it is the longest gospel and that it has a sequel, Acts. Luke introduces Jesus and his ministry as well as how his ministry relates to the early church. His gospel highlights the activity of a powerful and faithful God through Jesus, the promised savior.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Questions: 
1. What are situations that cause you anxiety or to worry?
2. Do you consider yourself an anxious person or a worry wart? Why or why not?

Read and Reflect: Read Luke 15:1-10
Take a moment to get your bearings; look at the surrounding stories by reading the subtitles around this week’s passage. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification or definitions for new words and ideas. Listening to other translations of the Bible can both clarify and enrich the meanings of these readings.

Discussion:
1. What stands out to you in this passage?
2. Jesus told the grumbling Pharisees a parable about a lost sheep and another about a lost coin.  What is God concerned about?  What do we learn about His heart for people?
3. How are the Pharisees just as lost as the sinners they despised?
4. What is the joy experienced in being found and what is the joy experienced in the finding of the lost?
5. What is difficult or encouraging about this passage? 


Go Deeper: (optional for the group or to reflect on personally at home)
  1. What do we learn about God’s responsibility vs. man’s responsibility in regard to salvation from these two parables?

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your Top Five cards.

Announcements:

]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/05/13/the-life-of-jesus-luke-15-1-10#comments 0 The Life of Jesus: Luke 12:22-34 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/04/29/the-life-of-jesus-luke-12-22-34 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/04/29/the-life-of-jesus-luke-12-22-34
During this semester, we are going to be walking through Luke's gospel to gain a better understanding of Jesus, who he is and what he has done. In the app, under House Church, there is a tab labeled Luke resources that has additional resources for Luke and we will continue to add as time goes on.

** This gospel is written by Luke. Luke was an associate of the Apostle Paul who was likely a medical doctor, possibly from Antioch of  Syria, who is not Jewish. Luke is distinct in that it is the longest gospel and that it has a sequel, Acts. Luke introduces Jesus and his ministry as well as how his ministry relates to the early church. His gospel highlights the activity of a powerful and faithful God through Jesus, the promised savior.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Questions: 
1. What are situations that cause you anxiety or to worry?
2. Do you consider yourself an anxious person or a worry wart? Why or why not?

Read and Reflect: Read Luke 12:22-34
Take a moment to get your bearings; look at the surrounding stories by reading the subtitles around this week’s passage. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification or definitions for new words and ideas. Listening to other translations of the Bible can both clarify and enrich the meanings of these readings.

Discussion:
1. What stands out to you in this passage?
2. What does Jesus tell us about worry and anxiety?
3. What does Jesus say about himself?
4. What is the connection between worry/anxiety and trust/faith?
5. What is difficult or encouraging about this passage? 


Go Deeper: (optional for the group or to reflect on personally at home)
  1. What do you think it means to live as a reflection of Jesus’ words in 12:34?
  2. What is one way that God is speaking to you personally through this study? If you’re on your own, write it down and share it with someone later. If you are with a small group, discuss this together.

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your Top Five cards.

Announcements:
  • Part 2 of our Communion Class is this Sunday at 9:00am in the Library at Westlake.
  • Next week is Community Dinner. Continue to pray for who God has placed in your life to invite.
  • Friday, May 10 at 630 is our Women's Board and Board. Bring your favorite food board (get creative and ask your House Church Leaders for suggestions) and board game. The Henson's are hosting at 1015 Vidalia Onion Dr, Richmond TX 77406.
  • Sunday, May 19 is a baptism Sunday and we will have information for our lunch celebration soon.
]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/04/29/the-life-of-jesus-luke-12-22-34#comments 0 The Life of Jesus: Luke 9:10-20 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/04/09/the-life-of-jesus-luke-8-22-25-copy Tue, 09 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/04/09/the-life-of-jesus-luke-8-22-25-copy
During this semester, we are going to be walking through Luke's gospel to gain a better understanding of Jesus, who he is and what he has done. In the app, under House Church, there is a tab labeled Luke resources that has additional resources for Luke and we will continue to add as time goes on.

** This gospel is written by Luke. Luke was an associate of the Apostle Paul who was likely a medical doctor, possibly from Antioch of  Syria, who is not Jewish. Luke is distinct in that it is the longest gospel and that it has a sequel, Acts. Luke introduces Jesus and his ministry as well as how his ministry relates to the early church. His gospel highlights the activity of a powerful and faithful God through Jesus, the promised savior.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Questions: 
1. In what situations do you really want to be alone?
2. How do people react when given an overwhelming responsibility?

Read and Reflect: Read Luke 9:10-20
Take a moment to get your bearings; look at the surrounding stories by reading the subtitles around this week’s passage. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification or definitions for new words and ideas. Listening to other translations of the Bible can both clarify and enrich the meanings of these readings.

Jesus has just sent out the twelve apostles and they are now returning and re-gathering together.

Discussion:
1. What takes place as the apostles re-gather together?
2. How did their plans change?
3. What did the apostles want to do with the crowd? What would you do?
4. What does Jesus propose to do about the crowd? How would you have responded?
5. What is difficult or encouraging about this passage? 


Go Deeper: (optional for the group or to reflect on personally at home)
1. What does this passage about the way Jesus sees and reacts to people?
2. How might Jesus' reaction shape the way we see our family, friends, and neighbors?


Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your Top Five cards.

Announcements:
  • Next Wednesday all House Churches will gather together for our Night of Worship at 630pm in the Library at Westlake.
]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/04/09/the-life-of-jesus-luke-8-22-25-copy#comments 0 The Life of Jesus: Luke 8:22-25 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/03/18/the-life-of-jesus-luke-8-22-25 Mon, 18 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/03/18/the-life-of-jesus-luke-8-22-25
During this semester, we are going to be walking through Luke's gospel to gain a better understanding of Jesus, who he is and what he has done. In the app, under House Church, there is a tab labeled Luke resources that has additional resources for Luke and we will continue to add as time goes on.

** This gospel is written by Luke. Luke was an associate of the Apostle Paul who was likely a medical doctor, possibly from Antioch of  Syria, who is not Jewish. Luke is distinct in that it is the longest gospel and that it has a sequel, Acts. Luke introduces Jesus and his ministry as well as how his ministry relates to the early church. His gospel highlights the activity of a powerful and faithful God through Jesus, the promised savior.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Questions: 
1. What is something or a time where you have struggled to believe or trust someone will follow through with what they say?

Read and Reflect: Read Luke 8:22-25
Take a moment to get your bearings; look at the surrounding stories by reading the subtitles around this week’s passage. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification or definitions for new words and ideas. Listening to other translations of the Bible can both clarify and enrich the meanings of these readings.

Discussion:
1. What stands out to you in this passage?
2. What is the reaction of the disciples to the storm?
3. What does this tell us about Jesus
4. What do the disciples learn about Jesus’s authority and power in this situation and what were their reactions to seeing this miracle?
5. What is difficult or encouraging about this passage? 


Go Deeper: (optional for the group or to reflect on personally at home)
1. What is the difference between believing in spite of circumstances, and obeying in spite of feelings and consequences?
2. What can I trust about God’s character even when my own character falters?


Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your Top Five cards.

Announcements:
  • Next week is Holy Week. We have our Maundy Thursday service at 7pm and Good Friday Service at 7pm.
  • Check the app and the H2O for Holy Week section for more information on our Holy Week fast and support of Living Water International.
  • Easter is Sunday, March 31 at 10am and we have 5 baptisms that day! We will send out a push notification next week to signup for our lunch celebration after the service!!
]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/03/18/the-life-of-jesus-luke-8-22-25#comments 0 The Life of Jesus: Luke 7:36-50 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/02/26/the-life-of-jesus-luke-7-36-50 Mon, 26 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/02/26/the-life-of-jesus-luke-7-36-50
During this semester, we are going to be walking through Luke's gospel to gain a better understanding of Jesus, who he is and what he has done. In the app, under House Church, there is a tab labeled Luke resources that has additional resources for Luke and we will continue to add as time goes on.

** This gospel is written by Luke. Luke was an associate of the Apostle Paul who was likely a medical doctor, possibly from Antioch of  Syria, who is not Jewish. Luke is distinct in that it is the longest gospel and that it has a sequel, Acts. Luke introduces Jesus and his ministry as well as how his ministry relates to the early church. His gospel highlights the activity of a powerful and faithful God through Jesus, the promised savior.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Questions: 
1. When has someone shown grace and love to you when you didn't deserve it? How did that impact you and your relationship with them?

Read and Reflect: Read Luke 6:27-36
Take a moment to get your bearings; look at the surrounding stories by reading the subtitles around this week’s passage. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification or definitions for new words and ideas. Listening to other translations of the Bible can both clarify and enrich the meanings of these readings.

Discussion:
1. What stands out to you in this passage?
2. What does this passage tell us about Jesus? The Pharisees, disciples, and the woman? 
3. How did the other guests react to Jesus’ forgiveness of the woman?
4. What is difficult to grasp or understand in this passage?
5. What is powerful and encouraging about this passage?

Go Deeper: (optional for the group or to reflect on personally at home)
1. Which of the woman’s actions do you find most compelling and why?
2. Why was it necessary for the guests to ask about Jesus’ identity?

Announcements:
  • Invite your family, friends, and neighbors because next week all House Churches will gather together for Community Dinner. Ask your House Church leaders what the plan is.
  • Next week is Community Dinner, invite someone you know, someone on your Top 5 that you are praying for.

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your Top Five cards.

]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/02/26/the-life-of-jesus-luke-7-36-50#comments 0 The Life of Jesus: Luke 6:27-36 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/02/19/the-life-of-jesus-luke-6-27-36 Mon, 19 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/02/19/the-life-of-jesus-luke-6-27-36
During this semester, we are going to be walking through Luke's gospel to gain a better understanding of Jesus, who he is and what he has done. In the app, under House Church, there is a tab labeled Luke resources that has additional resources for Luke and we will continue to add as time goes on.

** This gospel is written by Luke. Luke was an associate of the Apostle Paul who was likely a medical doctor, possibly from Antioch of  Syria, who is not Jewish. Luke is distinct in that it is the longest gospel and that it has a sequel, Acts. Luke introduces Jesus and his ministry as well as how his ministry relates to the early church. His gospel highlights the activity of a powerful and faithful God through Jesus, the promised savior.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Questions: 
1. Why do people often call revenge “sweet”?
2. If you took a public opinion poll on the meaning of the Golden Rule, what would you expect to hear?

Read and Reflect: Read Luke 6:27-36
Take a moment to get your bearings; look at the surrounding stories by reading the subtitles around this week’s passage. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification or definitions for new words and ideas. Listening to other translations of the Bible can both clarify and enrich the meanings of these readings.

Discussion:
1. What stands out to you in this passage?
3. What is difficult to grasp or understand in this passage?
4. What is powerful and encouraging about this passage?
5. What statement best summarizes what Jesus said about responding to enemies? 
6. What does this tell us about Jesus? About love?

Go Deeper: (optional for the group or to reflect on personally at home)
1. What does it mean to “bless those who curse you”?
2. How does this impact our understanding of blessings?
3. Why was Jesus so critical of conditional love?
4. What does it take for a person to live the way Jesus describes here?

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your Top Five cards.

Announcements:
  • Next week is a Dinner and Discussion week where we will continue to explore who Jesus is.
  • Mark you calendars for Holy Week which begins with Palm Sunday on March 24. We have our Maundy Thursday service March 28 and Good Friday service March 29 at 7pm. Holy Week and Lent wrap up Easter Sunday, March 31.
  • Easter Sunday is a Baptism Sunday with lunch celebration following the service.
]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/02/19/the-life-of-jesus-luke-6-27-36#comments 0 The Life of Jesus: Luke 5:17-26 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/01/29/the-life-of-jesus-luke-5-17-26 Mon, 29 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/01/29/the-life-of-jesus-luke-5-17-26
During this semester, we are going to be walking through Luke's gospel to gain a better understanding of Jesus, who he is and what he has done. In the app, under House Church, there is a tab labeled Luke resources that has additional resources for Luke and we will continue to add as time goes on.

** This gospel is written by Luke. Luke was an associate of the Apostle Paul who was likely a medical doctor, possibly from Antioch of  Syria, who is not Jewish. Luke is distinct in that it is the longest gospel and that it has a sequel, Acts. Luke introduces Jesus and his ministry as well as how his ministry relates to the early church. His gospel highlights the activity of a powerful and faithful God through Jesus, the promised savior.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Questions: 
1. When was a time you went out of your way to help a friend?
2. In what ways have you seen that “a friend in need is a friend indeed”?

Read and Reflect: Read Luke 5:17-26
Take a moment to get your bearings; look at the surrounding stories by reading the subtitles around this week’s passage. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification or definitions for new words and ideas. Listening to other translations of the Bible can both clarify and enrich the meanings of these readings.

Discussion:
1. What stands out to you in this passage?
2. What does this passage tell us about Jesus? The Pharisees and teachers? The paralytic's friends?
3. What is difficult to grasp or understand in this passage?
4. What is powerful and encouraging about this passage?
5. How might this story build up your faith and trust in Jesus?

Go Deeper: (optional for the group or to reflect on personally at home)
1. In what ways did the paralytic and his friends demonstrate faith in Christ?
2. In what ways might it be easier to say, “Your sins are forgiven” than to say to a paralyzed person, “You are healed”?

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your Top Five cards.

Announcements:
  • Invite your family, friends, and neighbors as next week all House Churches will gather together for Community Dinner. Ask your House Church Leaders what your plan is!
  • ** Mark your calendars. We begin the season of Lent with our Ash Wednesday service. We will gather together at Westlake on 2/14 at 7pm. 
]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/01/29/the-life-of-jesus-luke-5-17-26#comments 0 The Life of Jesus: Luke 5:1-11 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/01/16/the-life-of-jesus-luke-5-1-11 Tue, 16 Jan 2024 14:15:05 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/01/16/the-life-of-jesus-luke-5-1-11
During this semester, we are going to be walking through Luke's gospel to gain a better understanding of Jesus, who he is and what he has done. In the app, under House Church, there is a tab labeled Luke resources that has additional resources for Luke and we will continue to add as time goes on.

** This gospel is written by Luke. Luke was an associate of the Apostle Paul who was likely a medical doctor, possibly from Antioch of  Syria, who is not Jewish. Luke is distinct in that it is the longest gospel and that it has a sequel, Acts. Luke introduces Jesus and his ministry as well as how his ministry relates to the early church. His gospel highlights the activity of a powerful and faithful God through Jesus, the promised savior.

These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Questions: 
1. When you think of following someone, what does that mean to you?

Read and Reflect: Read Luke 5:1-11
Take a moment to get your bearings; look at the surrounding stories by reading the subtitles around this week’s passage. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification or definitions for new words and ideas. Listening to other translations of the Bible can both clarify and enrich the meanings of these readings.

Discussion:
1. What stands out to you in this passage?
2. What does this passage tell us about Jesus? The crowds? Simon Peter?
3. What is striking about Peter's response to Jesus' actions?
4. How is discipleship, the following and becoming more like Jesus, seen in this story?
5. How might this story build up your faith and trust in Jesus?

Go Deeper: (optional for the group or to reflect on personally at home)
1. How hard do you find it to submit your greatest area of competence to Jesus’ authority?
2. Describe a time when Jesus showed you he was far greater than your greatest competence. How did this build your faith?

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your Top Five cards.

Announcements:
  • Next week all House Churches will gathering together for our Night of Worship from 630-730pm at Westlake. We will sing, pray, and learn more about what it means to worship the Lord. Childcare is available for kids in 2nd grade and younger.
  • Sunday, January 28 at 9am is our first Church Family Meeting and Anniversary to celebrate 1 year in the school and all that God is doing. Breakfast and childcare provided.
]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2024/01/16/the-life-of-jesus-luke-5-1-11#comments 0 The Church Family Week 2 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2023/11/27/the-church-family-week-2 Mon, 27 Nov 2023 15:08:57 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2023/11/27/the-church-family-week-2
These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Opening Questions: 
1. What are your favorite traditions and routines that you do with your family?

Read and Reflect: Read Acts 2:42-47
Take a moment to get your bearings; look at the surrounding stories by reading the subtitles around this week’s passage. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification or definitions for new words and ideas. Listening to other translations of the Bible can both clarify and enrich the meanings of these readings.

Discussion:
1. How is the church, the family of God, described in this passage?
2. What does the church family do together?
3. What makes this description of the church family so powerful?
4. Are there certain parts of this description that come more naturally in your life and rhythms? Are there some that are more difficult to practice? Explain how and why it may be this way.

Go Deeper: (optional for the group or to reflect on personally at home)
How might this description and function shape how our families and lives are at home?

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your Top Five cards.

Announcements:
  • Next week is our first ever Lessons and Carols for whole the family at 630pm at Westlake Prep. Childcare is available for children 4 years old and younger
  • Sign up in the app to help provide Christmas for the foster family we have adopted this Advent through our partnership with The Sanctuary. Bring the gifts this Sunday!
  • This coming Sunday is the first Sunday or Advent. Join us as we take a deeper look at some of our favorite Christmas carols.
  • We have 1 service on Christmas Eve at 4 PM at Westlake Prep.
]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2023/11/27/the-church-family-week-2#comments 0 The Church Family Week 1 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2023/11/13/the-church-family-week-1 Mon, 13 Nov 2023 09:26:31 +0000 https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2023/11/13/the-church-family-week-1
These questions are written to be used during our house church meetings. If you find yourself unable or attend a gathering this week we encourage you to use these questions at home to sink more deeply into this series.

Background Information:  

Opening Questions: 
1. How would you define family? What makes a family a "family?
2. What thoughts come to mind when you think of family?

Read and Reflect: Read Matthew 12:46-50
Take a moment to get your bearings; look at the surrounding stories by reading the subtitles around this week’s passage. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification or definitions for new words and ideas. Listening to other translations of the Bible can both clarify and enrich the meanings of these readings.

Discussion:
1. What is your initial reaction to what is happening in this passage(s)? What questions do you have?
2. What does Jesus say about those who do the will of God and their relationship to himself?
3. How does this impact our understanding of our relationship  to one another? 
4. How does this compare and contrast with what we discussed about family earlier?

Go Deeper: (optional for the group or to reflect on personally at home)
How does this redefinition of family and followers of Jesus change the the we see Jesus and us, the church?

Prayer:
Pray for the families in your house church and the people on your Top Five cards.

Announcements:
  • Sign up in the App to help provide Christmas for the foster family we have adopted.
  • Next week is a Sabbath to spend with our families for Thanksgiving.
  • Mark your calendars for a special evening on Wednesday, December 6 at 6:30 PM for our first ever Lessons and Carols at Westlake Prep!
]]> https://gatherwithus.church/blog/2023/11/13/the-church-family-week-1#comments 0