C7 Magazine | Volume 6 | June 2021

ENGAGE

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LOVE, DATING & A WEDDING An interview with Extreme Youth Leaders Joel and Paige Cask RAISING TEENS Pastor Jason and Dr Dermot share their wisdom, experience and knowledge of raising teenagers in the ways of God THE POWER OF THE SPOKEN WORD Pastor Grace unpacks how science is now discovering the truth of the Scriptures

CONTENTS June 2021 | Volume 6

GET TOGETHER THIS SUMMER C7 Connect Groups

08

FERVENCY AND FAITH Praying with expectation THE POWER OF THE SPOKEN WORD Pastor Grace unpacks how science is now discovering the truth of the Scriptures

09

14

LOVE PASSIONATELY A look at our Stronger series A PASSION FOR OUR CRAFT Suzie explores how we're made by a creative God for creative works 41

17

19

05

FAMILY NEWS!

Engagements, Weddings, Births and other great news stories in the life of Church!

C7 KIDS What's been happening, what's ahead, puzzle fun and meet the team!

THE STRENGTH OF GODLY FRIENDSHIPS The 26-35s of C7 LOVE, DATING & A WEDDING An interview with Joel and Paige Cask

21

26

33

WHY I LOVE 37 SERVING C7 Media Leader, Emma, unpacks her passion for serving in Church

MEET THE TEAM

An interview with Andre Baramille, one of our great bass players in the C7 Worship Team

EXTREME YOUTH A look at what's been happening with C7 Extreme Youth

28

39

C7 ENGAGE | Volume 6 Page 02

RAISING TEENS

Pastor Jason and Dr Dermot share their wisdom, experience and knowledge of raising teenagers in the ways of God KINGDOM CURRENCY TNG look at what it means to put God first

43

HOW JESUS WON AND INFLUENCED 4 6 PEOPLE Simple ways to love your world

A MESSAGE FROM PASTOR JASON

W

ell, here we are, half way through the year... can you believe it? At the beginning of the year we declared it to be a year to get stronger in every area of life; faith, family, fitness, finances and future.

Growing in strength doesn't happen overnight. It's something that takes time, and purposeful investment. If we want to get physically stronger we'd need to look at a number of things including; regular training and exercise, eating and drinking the right things, and ensuring your body has enough rest time. The same is true if we want to grow spiritually stronger. So here are some questions to ask ourselves: Are we training for full body-strength?

An athlete will train every muscle group for full body-strength and it's this same principle we follow as we look at our five F's. If one area is strong but another is weak it can make us lopsided and more prone to injury.

What are we consuming?

I'm being stirred more and more about the power of God's Word. The Bible is more than just pages in a book, or even a manual for life, it's the very Word of God, written by the Holy Spirit Himself. To grow stronger, we must be people who consume His Word on a daily basis.

Are we resting?

The Bible is so big on the principle of rest; God has a whole seventh of the week (the Sabbath) dedicated to rest! If you exercise without proper rest you run the risk of doing damage to your body.

If we aren't resting in and waiting on the Lord it limits our spirit and soul's ability to grow stronger.

Are we increasing as we grow in strength?

A number of years ago, over the course of 18 months, we took our Church on a journey through

2 Peter 1:5-8. As we taught on each of the attributes within this scripture, what was key was that we made 'every effort to add' to what we had learnt, not just replace it with the next new theme.

I believe the same is key for our Stronger Teaching this year. Since the start of the year our preaching has followed, what I believe, is a God-given plan and pattern to strengthen us as individuals and as a church.

So far we've taught on Praise Victoriously, Pray Continuously, Confess Powerfully and Love Passionately. Each series has been uniquely important but just because we move onto the next one doesn't mean we leave those already studied just as scribbles in a note or a nice little post on social media. Instead we should be continually increasing; adding to our praise prayer, adding to our prayer confession and adding to our confession love... and so on. The results as we do this, I believe, is that we will all get stronger.

Jason Cask C7 Senior Pastor

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C7 CONFERENCE CENTRE

MEETINGS: CONFERENCES: EVENTS City-centre event spaces with everything you need to create the right impression without breaking the budget

We are now open for bookings!

Our Covid-secure venue is ready for your meeting, conference or event and will create the right impression without breaking the budget.

• Great spaces for up to 100 people with 2m social distancing • Room prices start from £90/day for a small meeting room • Free tea & coffee for up to 30 people • Hybrid & Virtual event packages from £180 • Free cancellation for any event affected by Covid-restrictions in 2021 We can't wait to host you soon!

Check out our brand new website at:

C7CONFERENCECENTRE.COM

FAMILY NEWS!

"REJOICE WITH THOSE WHO REJOICE" - ROMANS 12:15 The body of Christ is a family so we wanted to share and celebrate with those in our Church family who have had some great moments in their lives over the last few months...

GREAT NEWS STORIES We became permanent UK residents!

"For the past 10 years God has shown us favour to be in Scotland. He provided us an incredible Church family, education, jobs, a house and now permanent residence!

We are so thankful for every answered prayer through our journey!"

DAVE & IVONNE HERNANDEZ

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NEW BABIES! OLGA CURIEL CORDEIRO “We’re so delighted with the arrival of our baby girl. God truly does do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think. We are so grateful for His faithfulness throughout our pregnancy and delivery, and now to see her flourish is just the greatest gift there could ever be.”

- VINNIE & LUISA

AUTUMN YIKONIKO "We asked God for a miracle and He gave us Autumn... God is faithful."

- THELMA & MYKE

AVERY STORM HOOPER “We are so thankful for this beautiful gift from God; she’s gorgeous and her big brothers are so delighted!”

- DAMIEN AND ANKE

JESSICA ISABELLA JACK "Jessica was born 24th August 2020, she is just the sweetest and biggest blessing we could have asked for. She is a testament to God's goodness and we cant wait to see the girl she's going to become. We are so happy with our little family of three."

- GRANT & KATE

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ENGAGEMENTS We are getting married!

"We can’t wait for our future together. We are so excited to see all God has in store for us. We got engaged on May 7th and we have a date for our wedding in April next year! God has been so good to us and we just can’t wait to walk through this exciting season with each other!"

AJAY LAL & CARYS HAIG

WEDDINGS We tied the knot!

"We got married! God is so good! We are so excited to start this new chapter together.

We believe that God has a great future ahead for us and we can't wait to see what God does in and through our lives to see this nation impacted! The best is truly yet to come."

JOEL & PAIGE CASK

Read the full interview with Joel and Paige on page 33

If you've got a good news story share it with us at c7church.com/praise

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get together this summer SUMMER SOCIALS WITH C7 CONNECT GROUPS

C7CHURCH.COM/GROUPS

Life is better lived together.

C7 CONNECT GROUPS Get together this summer.

Our Connect Groups are here to help you to: Grow in God Meet new people Make friends Support you Encourage you Pray together Unpack the Word This year in our Connect Groups we’ve unpacked messages from our Stronger teaching series, taken communion together, given to our Missions work, prayed together, laughed together and so much more.

Over summer our Connect Groups will be continuing to meet up in parks, cafes and homes across the city, as well as online, to grow together in community.

If you’re not part of a Connect Group yet we’d encourage you to try one out! We’ve got them for every age and stage in life, so whether you’re a mum of a toddler looking for an online group after your kid goes to bed, or a student wanting to get to know other students, a young professional looking for a relaxing atmosphere to unwind after work, or anywhere in between, there’s a group that’s perfect for you!

Check them all out at c7church.com/groups today.

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FERVENCY AND FAITH

by Vanessa Gilpin, Prayer Team Over the last few years, I have been finding more enjoyment in prayer as I have deepened my understanding of its power.

Whilst reading a Bible commentary recently, I found several quotes from a preacher called Charles Spurgeon, a prominent preacher from the 19th Century, which were so powerful. One of his teachings was based around Mark 11:24 and it reminded me of the importance of being fervent and faithful in prayer. It said:

‘I HAVE TRUSTED MAN AND BEEN DECEIVED BUT MY GOD HAS NEVER DENIED A REQUEST I HAVE MADE TO HIM WHEN I HAVE BACKED UP THE REQUEST WITH BELIEF IN HIS WILLINGNESS TO HEAR AND THE ASSURANCES OF HIS PROMISES’ - CHARLES SPURGEON

The scripture is very clear regarding the application of faith when we pray and the importance of having confidence and trust in God as we bring our desires, needs and intercessions to Him. God asks us to pray with an expectation that our prayers will be heard and answered, according to His will and timing. Not only does this highlight the faith substance of prayers, but it also highlights the need to be in regular communication with God. As mentioned in James 4:2, we often do not get because we have simply failed to ask.

The verse also highlights the importance of trusting in God's promises. I love that the Bible is filled with promises from God that we can use to stand firm and support our faith. Something I have found extremely powerful is simply praying God's promises back to Him and being still in knowing that He has heard me.

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As mentioned in Isaiah 55:11, His promises do not return void. As we bring our fervency and faith, He promises to answer us. God always hears our prayers and once we have communicated with Him, we can have an expectation that what we need or desire is on its way, according to His will.

Prayer is a most powerful tool. It moves things only God can move and brings the breakthrough only God can bring. God has given us the ability to pray, and with faith and expectancy, we must use it.

Let's be people who pray!

“THEREFORE, I TELL YOU, WHATEVER YOU ASK FOR IN PRAYER, BELIEVE THAT YOU HAVE RECEIVED IT, AND IT WILL BE YOURS.” - MARK 11:24

WAYS TO GET INVOLVED IN GROUP PRAYER - Submit a Prayer Request (at c7church.com/prayer) - Come to a 30 min slot on Wednesday Night Prayer (between 6pm and 9pm on Zoom) - Join or start a Prayer Group (at c7church.com/prayergroups) - Join a Connect Group (at c7church.com/groups)

"TRULY, I SAY TO YOU, WHOEVER SAYS TO THIS MOUNTAIN, 'BE TAKEN UP AND THROWN INTO THE SEA', AND DOES NOT DOUBT IN HIS HEART, BUT BELIEVES THAT WHAT HE SAYS WILL COME TO PASS, IT WILL BE DONE FOR HIM." MARK

11:23

ANSWER TO PRAYER At C7 we are passionate about prayer. We have groups and teams that meet regularly each week for 15 minutes to 1 hour to pray over our Church, our city and nation. Whenever someone submits a prayer request on our website or on Sundays, our Pastors and team are committed to praying for it until it becomes a praise report.

OVER THE LAST FEW MONTHS WE’VE SEEN COUNTLESS ANSWERS TO YOUR PRAYERS, INCLUDING: Passed my final year of medical school. Came close to quitting last year but God brought me through.

My dad's lung function tests came back normal!

Praise God for a good report from my daughter's MRI. Great friendships with people in church who have stood by me through a really difficult time.

I got a new job.

God has been opening new doors for my business to expand.

Seeing more Christians elected into government positions.

Friends giving their lives to Christ.

I got a scholarship to study at Strathclyde University.

My mortgage was approved!

My wife's health and general wellbeing is the best it has been for over 18 months. Praise God! God provided the most amazing premises for my business - it really was a miracle provision!

My friend returned to Church!

My daughter got into the Secondary school of choice - the appeal was accepted!

I passed my exams for my MSc in Medical Physics.

After being told my grandson would have a hip brace for 6-12 weeks with a possible operation afterwards, it is off after only 3 weeks and his hip is now fully repaired!

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THE POWER OF THE SPOKEN WORD

BY PASTOR GRACE LEWIS, COGNITIVE BEAHVIOUR THERAPIST “So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.” Isaiah 55:11 The spoken word is powerful.

Words and language and how we interpret their meaning are based on our understanding, our experience and our faith and belief in the Word of God. “For the Word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12.

The Word of God is given to everyone to help us lead the best life possible. Each of us are changed by hearing and applying the Word to our lives on a daily basis. As a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, I am passionate about educating individuals about the power they have at their disposal when they believe.

Neurons that fire together, wire together.

Our brains are incredible, but what is even more incredible is the ability to rewire our brain by choosing what we listen to, what beliefs we hold and what we repeat both in action and in word. Our language shapes our identity and even our physical brain structure, therefore, it is vital to be conscious of what we speak and hear.

Negative words can be more toxic to you than the person who spoke them to you! When words are spoken our mind forms the thought which we meditate on which in turn reinforces it and hard-wires it as a reaction in your mind.

"Our language shapes our thoughts."

Practice makes permanent.

The good news is that we can control our brain by choosing what we think about! Our brains look for patterns and these are established by repetition. They are accessed by words, memory, experience or triggers from each of our five senses.

Our language shapes our thoughts and our behaviours and ultimately our lives and the lives of those around us.

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“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” - Romans 12:2.

Science is discovering the truth of scripture.

Recent scientific studies are showing what scripture has been saying for years... that negative language, such as harsh, hasty, aggressive, accusing, insulting or threatening words, all trigger the ‘fear centre’ in the brain - the amygdala. The amygdala then releases adrenaline to get us away from what it perceives as a physical danger.

The results are that our heart beats faster, our breathing becomes rapid, our mouth dries, our head pounds, we can't think straight, we can sweat, shiver, our stomach churns, we feel sick... ever experienced any of those? I know I have!

However, this can be quickly turned around by changing what we think and choosing what to believe, or to put it another way, to renew our mind.

We can have different outcomes when we choose to affirm what God says, when we speak positively, encourage and speak words of love, gratitude and faith.

By reading the Bible regularly, we engage with what God says about us. This is then reinforced when we choose to make an audible confession as we speak it out and pray the Bible back to God. Our repetitive reading, hearing and applying, in turn, changes our brain and our understanding of self, and the world around us.

This is positive confession in its purest form.

Over the last number of years, scientists have gained a much better understanding of our brain’s ability and how it is affected by conversations and meditations (we can even see these effects on brain scans and MRIs!).

We can alter our outcomes with our choice of confession!

Your life is moving in the direction of your strongest thought and your negative or positive self-talk so choose wisely and confess powerfully.

Be curious.

If you want to learn more about how your words impact your brain I can highly recommend the following books: ‘Switch your brain on’ - Dr Caroline Leaf ‘The brain is always listening’ - Dr Daniel Amen ‘Words can change your brain’ - Dr Andrew Newberg, Mark Robert Waldberg ‘Winning the war in your mind’ - Craig Groeschel

When we do this our prefrontal cortex is stimulated for reward and motivation, values and personality to name but a few. Our brain releases oxytocin and dopamine, which enhances connection and feel-good factors. This is a simple, and not exhaustive, explanation of the good that comes to our physical brain when we choose to confess powerful positive things.

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Above all, be loving. This ties everything together perfectly.

COLOSSIANS 3:14

LOVE PASSIONATELY C7 Stronger Series

We are progressing through our Stronger teaching series; we’ve looked at 01 Praise Victoriously 02 Pray Continuously 03 Confess Powerfully and we’re now in the middle of our series on ‘Love Passionately’.

(Don’t forget you can catch up on previous series messages, read the series summaries - these are great to print off and stick on your fridge or anywhere you can use as a reminder - and refresh yourself with the Connect Group studies at c7church.com/stronger-series) The Bible is HUGE on love... after all God is love (1 John 4:16) so there is so much we can learn about love through the Word of God. As we unpack “Love Passionately” we’re covering four key areas: How God loves us How we love God How we love ourselves How we love others It all starts with our understanding of God's love for us. One of the scriptures I like to meditate on when it comes to God's love for me is John 15:9 "As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you." How mind blowing to think that Jesus loves us the way God loves Him. How great a love is this! As we begin to grasp, even just a tiny hint of understanding of God's love for us it's from here that we can begin to love God, love ourselves and love others.

The Bible says that God's love for us surpasses all knowledge (Ephesians 3:18-19). God loves us so much that it's impossible, other than through the revelation of the Holy Spirit, to even begin to understand the width, depth, height and all round extent of His great love for us. Praise God that He has given us His Holy Spirit to help us and guide us!

I don't know about you, but I can't wait to begin to learn even more about love! To get us started we checked in with some of our amazing team and see some things in life that they love passionately...

- Pastor Heather Pomphrett

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I LOVE TO WORSHIP GOD I'm so passionate about worshipping God through song as it's a key that God taught me as a young believer to overcome depression!

Whenever anxiety or a spirit of heaviness comes I know I can be free if I focus on God. He gives me beauty for ashes and the oil of joy for mourning.

In His presence I am comforted by being reminded that God is so much bigger than my problems and totally able to turn it around.

- JULIE MCKENZIE

I LOVE HELPING YOUNG PEOPLE I grew up attending youth groups and clubs and have always appreciated the work and time that was invested into me at these groups. It's been a great blessing to be able to now be on the other end of this and be able to pour time, work and the love of God into the next generation!

I choose to serve on the youth team in Church as this is the best way for me to outwork this passion in my life. It has been a joy to help the youth on their walk with God and help them dive deeper into who God has called them to be!

- ROSS GEARY

I LOVE THE WORD 'I love the Bible. It is God's Word, the expression of His heart toward us and a firm foundation for our lives. For me, the Bible is packed with encouragement and there is always something new to learn, no matter how many times I read it. It uplifts me when I'm down, brings me back on track when I'm lost and fills me with confidence in God and His purpose for my life. I've made it my goal to regularly engage with God's Word daily by reading, listening, praying, declaring it aloud and teaching it.'

- LUIPA LWAMBANO

"As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you.

Now remain in my love." - John 15:9 C7 ENGAGE | Volume 6 | Page 18

A PASSION FOR OUR CRAFT Made by a creative God for creative works

by Suzie Murphy The love of God blows me away. To think that the Creator of the universe knitted me together in my mother’s womb and He carefully designed and created me exactly as He wanted down to the smallest detail, it’s mind-blowing.

Ephesians 2 explains that “we are God’s workmanship. He is a creative God who loves His creation passionately. We are His creation.

We are what He has laboured over. In the same way that a skilful potter carefully turns a piece of clay to create a work of art, God has intentionally and delicately moulded us and formed you and me into His prized works of art.

We need to look no further than the death and resurrection of Jesus to see just how passionately God loves humanity… His creation.

"God has given us the ability to create and produce something beautiful out of whatever is in our hands" We know that we have also been created in His image and likeness. I believe this means that God has given us the ability to create and produce something beautiful out of whatever is in our hands, just like a potter works with a piece of clay. Just as God looked upon all that He created in Genesis and saw that it was good,

we can also take the same pleasure from creating something beautiful and truly enjoying and loving what we have laboured over.

As a Creative Team, we are continually stirring ourselves up to create something new, hone our craft, commit to it, devote ourselves to developing it, and love what we do passionately. To love your craft is to be dedicated to it. When we dedicate ourselves to creating something beautiful or growing in an area and perfecting a skill we have, it cultivates a spirit of excellence in us, which God loves! A spirit of excellence doesn’t settle until the product is of the very best standard that we can make it. God is a God of excellence and order, and I think he loves seeing His kids being “excellent” with what He has trusted to them.

It honours God when we’re diligent with developing the gifts He has given us. Therefore, by passionately loving our craft on a practical level and devoting ourselves to excelling in it, it feeds into our worship lifestyle because we

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always want to bring our very best to God. He is worthy of the very best offerings we can bring!

For our Worship Team, for example, music is their craft. Music has an incredible ability to minister to people’s hearts. Just like when David played his harp for King Saul and the evil spirits left him, music can soften our hearts and open us up emotionally and spiritually. This softening that takes place allows God to move in and through us, and it prepares our hearts to receive the word that is about to be brought.

This is what we want our church to experience each Sunday; an openness and readiness in their spirit and a softening of their hearts where they can tangibly feel the presence of God and His love embracing them.

"Let’s become masters of our craft, not just because we love what we get to do, but most importantly because we love who we do it all for."

We believe that the music we create can help facilitate that and create an atmosphere of praise and thanksgiving towards God that paves the way for Him and allows Him to move. We know this because, in Psalm 22:3, we see that God inhabits - rests in, sits upon, dwells within - His people’s songs of worship and adoration.

When you begin to see the impact of your craft and the people it blesses, the lives it touches, it stirs you up to keep going, to keep creating, to keep moulding. Like a potter who carefully and skilfully turns a piece of clay into a work of art, let’s be people who diligently work at what God has placed on our lives. Let’s become masters of our craft, not just because we love what we get to do, but most importantly because we love who we do it all for.

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C7 KIDS

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Growing in God - tips to encourage prayer and Bible reading / Confess Powerfully Crossword / Summer at C7 Kids / Meet the Team with Madeline Liu

Growing in God with C7 Kids

Since the last magazine, we have had a lot of fun in C7 Kids learning about praying continuously, confessing powerfully and now we are learning about loving passionately.

Every week we gather with the amazing C7 Kids on Sundays for a programme packed full of fun, activities, growing in God’s Word, powerful conversations, and of course lots of questions and lots of laughter! Safe to say there is never a dull moment in C7 Kids and we love it!

As a Kids Team, we are so honoured to have the opportunity every week to sow into the mighty generation of kids and partner with every parent and guardian in raising every child in faith! We are constantly inspired and in awe of every child and all they bring to every Kids Connect Group and Sunday Kids programme. From encouraging others to making each other laugh to having fun to praying so powerfully to being so hungry for more of God to so much more!

Every Thursday, we have Kids Connect Groups where we explore more of what we’re learning on Sundays and encourage the kids to keep growing in their relationship with God. Here are some of the tips we give the kids to encourage them to pray and grow in God’s Word:

1. Find a quiet area or build a prayer fort 2. Spend some time talking to God about what’s on your heart and asking Him to help you understand his Word 3. Check out the Bible passage from C7 Kids daily devotional diary 4. When reading the Bible ask these questions - What’s one thing I’ve learnt from this story?

- What does it teach me about who God is?

- How can I apply this to my week?

5. Pray and ask God to help you apply what you’ve learnt in your life and continue to love others unconditionally and passionately

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Confess Powerfully Crossword with C7 Kids We're at the end of our Confess Powerfully'series! Here's a fun crossword with words relating to what we've done in May. All the best and have fun!

DOWN ACROSS 1. Something that we have in our life because of Jesus. It helps us in our dark days, because we know His promises. (4) 4. Something that is shown towards us even though we didn't do anything to deserve it. (5) 8. This is something we do when we change from living one way to living another way that now pleases God (10) 10. This is one of the things that God is! Another word for it is 'Jehovah Rapha'. (6)

2. There is _____ in the name of Jesus! (5) 3. The first Fruit of the Spirit. This is something that God is, and something we are called to do to one another. (4) 5. This is what you do when you declare something. Hint: it's in May's theme. (7) 6. This is an action that Jesus does when we repent. We are also called to do the same to those who hurt us. (7) 7. The One who saves, redeems, and renews us. (5) 9. When we talk to Jesus. (4)

Summer at C7 Kids

We are also so excited for all that’s coming up in the life of C7 Kids including C7 Kids Summer! Check out some of our keys dates below and sign your kids up today at c7church.com/kids.

Kids Programme at C7 Wednesday 30th June, 7th July and 14th July

Kids Day Trips Friday 2nd July - Blair Drummond Safari Park Friday 9th July - Glasgow Science Centre Friday 16th July - Almond Valley Centre

Meet The Team! - Madeline 1. Introduce yourself I’m Madeline and I’m a uni student here studying psychology. But no, I cannot read minds!

2. What’s a fun fact that no one knows about you?

I can move my ears! Sometimes if my hands aren’t free to push my glasses up I move my ears instead!

3. What led you to start serving in C7 Kids?

A bit of an interesting story…so last year I was at a ‘Church search’ Zoom event to find a Church here in Glasgow to get plugged into. I heard Abby talk about C7, and I was very interested. At the Church back in Hong Kong (where I am from) I served in kids and loved it, so I then asked Abby about the kids ministry in C7 without knowing she was the one leading it! It was quite a funny and well-timed encounter, but you just got to love how God brings certain people together in certain situations. Long story short, here I am, and I absolutely love being on the team!

4. What do you enjoy most about serving our kids?

First of all I love the kids themselves. I love the conversations I get to have with them, I love being able to listen to the wisdom they hold in their thoughts. The bond I get to create with them is something special I treasure a lot. Seeing them grow stronger in their walk with the Lord is something very beautiful.

5. What inspires you about the generation of kids?

I think what inspires me the most is being able to walk with them in their faith. Being on the team doesn’t just mean I have the honour to help sow into their lives, but it also means that they equally sow into mine.

The moments I see Jesus in these children are some of the most inspiring times - witnessing them love Jesus is one of the holiest moments for me. The simple faith that they have is something we can all learn from.

6. What’s been some of the highlights about being part of Dream Team?

The prayer and praise groups the Kids Team have on Mondays and Fridays are awesome because we get to build each other up, thank God for all that He’s been doing in C7, and praise Him for all the more that He will do. The bonds you make with people while doing Kingdom’s work is very special.

THE STRENGTH OF GODLY FRIENDSHIPS Things we can begin to do to build Godly friendships after a year of life on Zoom!

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another— and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” - Hebrews 10:24-25 The Bible instructs us to gather more and more as believers. This has been challenging during lockdown, but with restrictions beginning to ease there are

new ways to sharpen, encourage, build each other up, and do life with people as we walk out our journey with God together. We spoke to some of the 26-35 age group in church to see what they have been doing (in line with the guidelines!) to get together.

FRANKIE “In this season I’ve really been catching up with people in my world by going on nature walks and hikes outdoors. We get to discuss our faith and Church life as well as encourage each other by discussing our goals, all while working on our fitness.

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VINI & LUISA “Our Connect Group had the idea of a monthly get together to catch up, share some food, conversation and music in a very chilled atmosphere. As things continue to ease, and when we feel like everyone is ready, we’ll gather in our homes and have times of worship and prayer, where we will allow the Holy Spirit to lead us to wherever He wants to. We did this for the first time last week and it was amazing, we could really feel God’s presence.

SHEONAGH “I’ve enjoyed ditching screens for face-toface catch ups by meeting up with friends for coffee walks outdoors, hill walks, picnics in the garden and BBQs in the sun! I love catching up with like-minded Christians who I can laugh with, make memories with, be real with and encourage, whilst building each other up, praying for each other and cheering each other on.

No matter the challenge of the season, we are called to gather regularly as believers to encourage one another. It is with our friends in the faith that we are able to share our tribulations and triumphs, strengthen each other with Godly wisdom, confess God’s word powerfully and pray for each other to see the promises of God come to fruition in our lives.

What could be better than having the strength of such friends, willing to stand side by side with us as we walk out this incredible journey with God! Why not begin to catch up with friends to encourage one another by doing some of the easy activities below!

Hill walking Coffee walks Picnics BBQs Dinners at home Fitness

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” - 1 Thessalonians 5:11 NIV

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by PASTOR HELEN RATCLIFFE with PASTOR JASON CASK & DR DERMOT MURPHY

Raising Teens “I just changed my wifi password, so my teenage son has to come out of his room and speak to me…” Wendy Aaron, comedian. .

The teenage years are something that we all have in common; you are either about to start it, are in it or have been through it. For some, it holds fond memories; you loved school, had great friends and had lots of fun. But for others, this may not be the case; maybe the school corridors were more about survival than socialising, or home life was tumultuous with fragile relationships.

Behind every teenager is a parent or a guardian who is also going through an experience: parenting a teenager.

Even if you are not experienced in this department, it is commonly understood that this role carries as much of a challenge as walking through the teenage years themselves.

Any parent who loves God wants to see their children have their own relationship with God, and as a mum of a little one who will one day step into the teenage years himself, I wanted to find out some common principles that set up our teenagers to win in life, have healthy family relationships and make this discovery of relationship with Jesus for themselves.

To do this, I went on a search, reading content from councillors and parenting authors and also speaking to two dads who have brought great kids through their teenage years to become great young adults who love the Lord - Ps Jason Cask and Dr Dermot Murphy. >>> continued on next page >>>

C7 ENGAGE | Volume 6 | Page 28

Relationship above the situation.

God is so patient with us! We so often go our own way, make poor decisions and have attitudes that are less than “Christ-like”,; but yet one thing we know is that He is our Father, and He loves us no matter what.

So is the same with parenting a teen; a major common theme running over every piece of advice out there is that a parent’s relationship with their teenager is the number one priority.

"This was a safe space and nothing they could ever say to us could stop us from loving them."

Eliza Huie, the author of “Raising Teens in a HyperSexualised World”, says “When you disagree with what you are seeing or hearing, elevate the relationship above the situation. This doesn’t mean that correction or consequences are ignored. It means that the issue is an opportunity to find a way to convey the value of the relationship.”

“It’s about showing grace in the way Christ shows grace”, Dr Dermot said. “No matter what, we wanted our girls to know they could come to us. It didn’t matter what their actions were - they could come to us with anything. Yes, we could be disappointed, but they would never have guilt or condemnation put on them. This was a safe place, and nothing they could ever say to us could stop us from loving them, and we wanted them to know that.”

You can’t force faith When we love someone, we want them to know the love that we have found in God for themselves. The idea of our most precious people in the world not knowing this relationship with God is heartbreaking for so many. Yet one consistent piece of advice when it comes to raising teens; we can’t force it.

“You can’t force faith”, Ps Jason says; “you can’t make anyone adopt a belief system or force it upon them. It’s personal, and it’s got to be personal to them.

You’ve got to let your kids have freedom of expression in their own faith and be careful as a parent to not put religion on them. Just because that's what we do, doesn’t mean that's what our kids' expression of faith will look like. The biggest put-off for any person is religion - the religious rulers were the only people Jesus criticised because they even put Him off! But for teenagers, religion is even more of a put-off. As parents, we can lead - we can example personal relationships - how much we love God and how he’s changed our lives, but keep it away from being religious.”

Make it fun Church, prayer, conversations about faith as a part of family life can be amazing, but as parents, we need to work hard on keeping it fun for our kids. “We want to make Church and Extreme (C7’s Youth Programme) as fun and relatable as possible for all youth, but parents play a massive role in making the Church experience fun for their kids,” said Ps Jason. “Get creative and have fun with your kids; we would do some crazy things on and around Sundays. My kids loved this and now talk about it as some of their fondest memories.”

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“You’ve got to get creative and make the environment around faith-activity fun as a family,” said Dr Dermot; “if it stops being fun, it can have a serious effect. Every child is completely unique and will have their own interests and passions; nurture them and encourage them to get creative using this as part of their faith walk.”

Trust and Power “The absolute biggest factor when it comes to leading our kids to go for God is: do they trust you?” Ps Jason said. “Just because they're your child, it doesn’t mean they trust you completely; as a parent, you need to work on building trust - sow it and example it. Be trustworthy, consistent and always for them.

Then equally important is remembering that you are graced for this. God has chosen you to be this child's parent, and he has graced you for it. He has given you authority - parental authority as well as the power in the name of Jesus. Use this - pray powerfully for your children; pray in the parental authority God has given you. Declare God’s promises over them. You’ve got what it takes to raise your kid, and God has graced you for it.”

"You've got what it takes to raise your kid and God has graced you for it."

Invest. Invest. Invest.

Joe White, author of over 20 books on parenting, says, “Teens are daring, willing to play and explore life; they’re often enthused, outrageous, crazy, insightful. They can be great companions when you’re running a quick errand; your relationship with them can be like getting to know a close friend. Try not to lose sight of that, even when you don’t think you could love this kid one more second.”

We all know for something to grow, it needs to be nurtured. The kids we have are relationships given to us by God to nurture and grow, and this doesn't change with a teenager - it broadens.

"We wanted to create space for our girls to have fun and invest into our relationship, so for us, we made Saturday night family night. We laugh, have fun and spend time together.” said Dr Dermot, “but also it was more than just time as a family unit; it was also time one-to-one. Schedules can be busy, but to make time for quality time together talking and discussing has been essential.”

from the editor C7 ENGAGE | Volume 6 | Page 30

GET STRONGER WITH

ACCE LERA TE Find out more and apply at

C7CHURCH.COM/ACCELERATE

The Bible is amazing and filled with so much wisdom for our lives. It’s packed with stories of great men and women of faith, encouraging promises from God and ultimately communicates God’s heart and purpose for humanity.

When we study and apply it to our lives, we grow in our relationship with God and attract success (Joshua 1:7).

Sometimes, the Bible can be challenging to read on our own, so it requires time, discipline, and consistency to understand it better.

That’s the reason why we have C7 Accelerate. Accelerate is a purposefully designed course to invest Biblical knowledge into your life in an accelerated time frame.

Through this course, you will grow in your personal knowledge, theological understanding of the Bible and wisdom.

If your goal is to get stronger in the Word, with C7 Accelerate, this can be achieved.

Grow your knowledge and grow your future - sign up for our September intake online at c7church.com/accelerate NOMADIC

|

24

PSALM 52:8

BUT I AM LIKE AN OLIVE TREE FLOURISHING IN THE HOUSE OF GOD; I TRUST IN GOD'S UNFAILING LOVE FOR EVER AND EVER.

LOVE

DATING &

A WEDDING

Photos by The Whole Picture

"TIME GAVE

WITH JOEL & PAIGE Our Extreme Youth Leaders, Joel and Paige, got married in May of this year so we thought we’d put them in the hot seat and chat about all things love and marriage!

How did you first start dating?

How long have you been together?

Paige - Then Joel asked me to go to the gym with him!

Joel - We met at Church and then from there we started properly talking at a New Year's Party!

US THE

OPPORTUNITY

TO SEE THAT

WE WERE

BOTH ON THE

Joel - We've been together now for 5 years!

Paige - We got engaged in September, so we were engaged for about 9 months.

Joel - I knew doing something together that we both enjoyed would be a good way to start connecting.

After the gym we got something to eat and the rest is history!

C7 ENGAGE | Volume 6 | Page 33

SAME PATH

AND WANTED

TO BE

TOGETHER."

Why did you wait 5 years to get married?

Joel - Age was a major factor for us! We started going out when I was only 16 so I was pretty young!

Paige - We also wanted to make sure we were in a good position first; knowing that we were both on the same path, making sure we definitely want to be with each other through all seasons of life. Time gave us the opportunity to see that.

What did you enjoy in the lead up to your wedding?

Paige - We planned our wedding during the pandemic so we weren't sure what it was going to look like but once we started getting our heads around it, it became super exciting!

Joel - We loved picking the venue and inviting people, even though it was tough because we didn't know how many people we were going to be able to invite even right to the last minute!

Paige - I loved getting my dress but a major highlight was when we found out that Joel's sister Rachel was able to come over from America for it!

What were some of the things you loved most about your wedding day?

Joel - The whole ceremony was just really special. We loved being able to have people there to witness it, especially after the year we've had, just having the ability to gather people for it was so great!

Paige - Seeing everyone there was so special... that and the biscoff cake!!

What are some things you love about each other?

Paige - I love Joel's discipline and drive to do what's right!

Living with someone you see how they are in the morning - I see his consistency in getting up and going to the Word of God at the beginning of the day. I love that he is so passionate about progressing his life forward in the things of God. Joel - I love that Paige is always encouraging! She's always there to help put things into order and is always uplifting and happy. When I don't feel like doing something she'll help motivate me to do it!

What powerful confessions marriage?

have you spoken over your

Paige - We've really been speaking over our marriage that whatever doors God opens no one can shut. We've been praying together over our future and believing we'll walk on God's path and that His will will be done in and through us.

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You talked about seeking counsel, who do you go to for relationship counsel or wisdom on how to do life together?

Paige - When we first started dating we spent a lot of time with other couples who were further down the line than us, reaching out to people who had done a bit of the journey. We spent time with great Godly couples like Dr Dermot and Eleanor and Pastor John and Pastor Helen.

Joel - We also did pre-marriage counselling before we got married.

What benefits did you get from pre-marriage counselling?

Joel - It was so helpful to discuss where we both wanted to go in life, talk about finances as a family and look at what we wanted to achieve together!

Any advice for young couples thinking about dating or marriage?

Joel - Take your time with it. You don't have to rush into any relationship.

Depending on what stage of life you're at, if you're thinking about getting married make sure you've been through some of the seasons of life with each other before you take that step. Take your time and ask God first if it's the right move. Make sure you both have the same beliefs and both love God! Paige - There's no rush, especially if you're young. Seek counsel and make sure you're connected to other believers. There can be a great desire to isolate (always wanting to be with that person and them alone!) but it's so important to surround yourself with great, Godly people.

Paige - It was so great to help us talk about the standards and principles that we want to live by as a married couple and get a better understanding of our roles as a wife and as a husband and knowing how to stay in our own lane.

In the first few months of marriage what's one thing you've learnt?

Paige - I think we've really learnt that we are a team. We are working together and not against each other. Tough moments might come but when we make sure we are rooted in the right stuff it makes it easier to go through. Also, it seems simple but we've learnt that if you need help it's ok to ask for it! Speak up and get wisdom from others!

If you want to talk about dating, marriage or look into pre-marriage counselling email the team at pastoralcare@c7church.com

DREAM TEAM

"BE STRONG AND STEADFAST, ALWAYS ABOUNDING IN THE LORD'S WORK." - 1 Corinthians 15:58

NEEDS YOU

C7 PRODUCTION

WHY I LOVE SERVING IN THE HOUSE OF GOD

By Emma McLean C7 Media Team Leader

Production is more than clicking buttons, more than putting lights on a platform, turning speakers on or holding a camera. It’s about attracting people into the House of God. That’s why I love leading the media team; we are paving the way to see people reached with the gospel.

God uses us to not only make someone’s experience in our Church building the best we can, but also someone watching from home.

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Our team have a heart to serve, they have a heart to see people saved and they have a heart to worship.

Over the last year, we’ve seen every single team member step up, week in and week out. Every week it felt like we had a new skill to learn to enable us to bring Church into peoples’ homes. Not just for them to watch, but for them to experience, for them to feel like they are in the room. >>>> continued on next page

Watching how the team have grown even in the last 6 months is amazing. Watching how they love God passionately and watching them say yes to the call is inspiring.

In the last few months, we have seen a number of new youth getting involved and wanting to serve. This is no small thing! I think back to when I was 12 years old... the last thing I think I could have done is joined a team and held some responsibility for a Church service. But seeing the willingness and that heart of ‘I want to serve’ coming from the youth is incredible! Then seeing our current team passing on their knowledge to the younger generation is phenomenal.

Each Wednesday we have rehearsals to train and prepare us for the weekend, and then it’s game-day on Sunday. We start our morning early and full of faith, expectant for what God is going to do throughout our services.

Technology is great when it works… but sometimes technical issues arise and it doesn’t go quite as smoothly as we had planned and rehearsed! In these moments the natural response is to get frustrated or stressed, but even just recently, since our Confess Powerfully series started, I’ve found myself reacting differently. I will take time to stop, take a breath, remind myself why I do what I do, declare what it says in Romans that I am ‘more than a conqueror’ and then thank Him. When I looked up what another word for ‘conqueror’ is I found the word ‘overcomer’ and I instantly loved that because it reminds me that we can overcome any issue that may arise. If we just have that positive mindset and confess powerfully, then step by step work it through.

"We come together as a team on Sunday not to do a job or tick a box, but to worship, to attract people to God’s House and lead people to Christ" Our team are great. We encourage one another, help one another not just with things on Sunday but throughout the week. We come together as a team on Sunday not to do a job or tick a box, but to worship, to attract people to God’s House and lead people to Christ.

Whether you’re the most or least technical person on the planet, the production team is looking for people like you who just want to give what they can to God, a heart of worship and a passion to see people meet Jesus. Find out more by speaking to the team on Sundays or signing up at c7church.com/dreamteam.

C7 ENGAGE | Volume 6 | Page 38

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See what the Youth have been up to on Fridays

Q: How have you benefited from being part of the team?

A: Being on the Extreme Team has really impacted me as it’s helped me to engage with the younger generation and understand them in a way I didn’t before.

Cheryl shares her experience of being part of C7 Dream Team

Q: Why do you love being part of the Youth Team?

A: I am passionate about our youth getting on fire for God. I love seeing young people grow and develop in their faith and see them grow in confidence in who they are. I love that I get to be a part of seeing that happen.

An interview with Extreme Leader Sarah Cask

Q: What do you do as a leader within Extreme?

A: I am a Connect Group leader so I lead a Connect Group every Tuesday night. I also help out with the Extreme programme on Friday nights, engaging and connecting with the youth.

FRIDAY NIGHTS

Q: How long have you been involved in the Extreme Team?

A: I have been serving on the youth team for just over 2 years.

PLAYING MY PART

Q&A WITH THE EXTREME TEAM - SARAH CASK

Q&A WITH EXTREME

Youth!

Playing my part - Cheryl

“I started serving 2 months ago on the Media Team at Church. In the service I control the graphics for the screen, this means putting up the song lyrics and Bible verses. I have grown in my skills since joining the team.

I have learned since then that communication is important and key. I love being able to help out and help people by serving in Church.”

FRIDAY NIGHTS at YOUTH We are so excited that we can gather again on Friday nights for Extreme!

Extreme Youth meet every Friday evening at Church from 6:30pm - 7:45pm.

Recently we’ve had so much fun competing in tribal wars, rounders and a treasure hunt! Extreme is the best place for 11-17 year olds to build community and have the best time while doing it!

MEET THE TEAM: ANDRÉ BARAMILI We love seeing new people step into their gifting and calling on team! We thought you’d love to meet one of the newest additions to the C7 Worship Team: André, who is an incredible bassist and guitarist! Read his interview with our Worship Leader, Suzie, below:

Suzie: How long have you been playing musical instruments, and when did you first discover that music was a passion of yours?

André: I first started learning guitar when I was 12 years old and two years later I was playing the electric guitar in a “pre-teenagers” group we had in Church, back home in Brazil.

Since then, the worship environment has become such an important element of my relationship with God and His Church that I can hardly imagine how life would have been without it!

Suzie: What have you loved so far about serving on our worship team at C7 and why is it important to you to be able to use your gifts to worship God? André: I believe that each individual brings a unique contribution to the worship and I love to see how all these different elements come together beautifully to praise The Lord. I’m just genuinely happy to be part of this.

Suzie. Do you have a favourite style of music or a favourite band/artist?

André: I’m quite easy when it comes to musical styles. I listen to all things Indie Rock/Alternative, but I’m still a fan of the classics! When it comes to worship, my main influences are groups such as Hillsong and Jesus Culture, but there are also amazing Christian bands from Brazil!

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Suzie: We love that great friendships are formed in our teams in Church and we love seeing people find an amazing community of like-minded people with similar passions! Do you think serving on Dream Team has helped you to feel more connected in Church?

André: Something incredible happens when a group of God-loving people share a selfless purpose and strive for a common goal in the service of The Lord! It’s like going on a long and challenging walk with someone; deep bonds are created as you share the difficulties along the way, as well as the joy of completing the journey. The camaraderie and fellowship among team members at C7 are definitely some of the highlights of serving on the Dream Team.

"Something incredible happens when a group of God-loving people share a selfless purpose and strive for a common goal in the service of The Lord!"

Suzie: What would you say to encourage someone who is thinking about signing up for Dream Team at C7?

André: There is nothing more rewarding than serving our community and contributing to the Kingdom of God with our time and gifts. I believe that this is inherent to the way in which God created us and is certainly part of His design for our lives. If you are looking to make new friends, grow as a Christian and have a positive impact on the people around you, the Dream Team is the right place for you.

C7 ENGAGE | Volume 6 | Page 42

THE POWER OF KINGDOM C URREN C Y

BY MARK IRWIN TNG TEAM

O

ften on my social media, I'm seeing something about Cryptocurrency. Apparently it’s the next big thing that some of my friends are getting into. Not trying to sound like I know what I’m talking about here - because I don’t - but there’s definitely a trend brewing for getting your bünsen into dogecoin, catcoin, giraffecoin etc. It got me thinking about the verse in Matthew that says “where your treasure is, your heart will be also.”

Well do I have a story to tell about that!

Last year I had arranged to head out for a walk with a friend on a Friday morning. Friday came, I phoned my friend in the morning to see when he’d be round; no answer.

Thought to myself, “wonder if he’s just panned it. The weather was looking a bit bleak.

He phoned me later that night and said: “Sorry mate, I was asleep when you called this morning, any chance we can do the walk tomorrow if you're free? I never slept at all last night.”

“No problem mate, is everything okay?” I asked. >>>continued on next page>>

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I WONDER IF THAT'S HOW GOD FEELS WHEN WE MAKE CHOICES THAT PUT HIM SECOND PERHAPS INADVERTENTLY. ““Aye, everything’s fine. I invested a bit of cash into some stocks last night as there’s a business on the incline. Was up all night watching it increase.”

Then it hit me. I’d been patched for an opportunity to watch pound signs multiply through the night. I don’t blame him. I might have done the same if I had the same savvy.

But I did feel like a bit of an afterthought.

I wonder if that's how God feels when we make choices that put Him second - perhaps inadvertently.

There’s a great rivalry between money and God. “Woah! Slow down Mark!

Money ain’t my God” I hear you say.. and I appreciate the sentiment, but let's be honest here. How can you know it's not. Like how can you really know?

Well, like my friend, what keeps you up at night?

Are you dreaming about millions of people coming to Christ?

Obsessing over how many new believers made decisions on Sunday?

I don’t imagine He likes to have second place in your heart.

Excited about how much of an impact our church can make to the poor or vulnerable in the city, watching for answers to Wednesday night prayers?

So when Jesus said store up riches in heaven for where treasure is, your heart will be I’ve come to experience meaning behind it.

Dreaming of much larger marketing, and getting the name of Jesus out there?

your your also, the

Does this keep you up at night?

Money means a lot to people. It makes many decisions. It decides what clothes you buy, what food you eat, where you live, the jobs that you are willing to work, the holidays you go on - I think you get the point.

Here’s what I believe Jesus was getting at. Invest in the Kingdom first.

Start your month on the right foot.

Bring the tithe. Why? Well I believe there’s two major ways in how it benefits you:

C7 ENGAGE | Volume 6 | Page 44

First thing is, it deals with your heart.

As you give, you're honouring God and placing something you already value (money) into an area (the Kingdom) that if you take an interest in will grow you. A healthy heart affects your whole body.

I genuinely believe that getting excited and passionate about the Kingdom is good for you.

I don’t know about you, but I want a constant spring in my step. It’s my belief that as you’re obedient in this area, your heart will be blessed.

Secondly, it finances the Kingdom.

If you want something to grow you do have to finance it. Imagine you had the power to cause whatever you wanted in life to gain influence and popularity. Well you do have that power.

You vote with your wallet. In fact anything you contribute towards financially you are helping keep alive. The more you give the more it thrives. However, unlike some investments which don’t always go well, the Kingdom investment is rock solid as it comes with a reassurance that your treasure in heaven won't rust, or get destroyed and no thief breaks in to steal. God is taking note.

So, before you invest in Crypto or anything else, I would say invest in the Kingdom first, because if God can get your first, He can get all of you, and it's there you’ll find everything you’ve always wanted.

"Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." - Psalm 37:4

TNG SUMMER-VIBES SUMMER SOCIALS: JUNE 2021 - AUGUST 2021

Dinner parties Movie nights Games nights Sunday lunches - small groups Hill walks Bonfire nights BBQs DM us on social media for all the info! @c7tng SAVE THE DATE: TNG TAKE GROUND - FRIDAY 20TH AUGUST

C7 ENGAGE | Volume 6 | Page 45

HOW JESUS WON AND INFLUENCED PEOPLE “...and I will show you how to fish for people.” Jesus (Matthew 4:19) I don’t know much about fishing, but I know you need bait.

In a world where the perceptions of our pre-saved friends, family about Christianity or Church are often skewed, we have a unique opportunity to show them the truth of who God is and what relationship with Him means.

When we read throughout the gospels of the life of Christ, how He related with people and engaged with them, there is something that stands out more than anything else: people wanted to be around him.

He was magnetic, He related, He understood, He engaged, He laughed, He included, He welcomed, He smashed preconceived notions, and He stood out. There was something about Him that attracted crowds - yes, the powerful teaching but also the fact that He met the need of the people who were so starving for answers.

Jesus healed them if they were sick, He taught them that their lives had hope and purpose, and He showed them that they were loved no matter what.

When it comes to our friends and family, we don’t need to reinvent the wheel to reach them with the message of Christ; Christ himself has exampled it for us - He is relatable to them, so we don’t need to “try and make Jesus relate”; rather show them the truth of who He is and find out how we can meet their needs.

Offer to pray.

You will be amazed how when people are in need; they are hungry for prayer. The “I’ll pray for you” comment said in a throwaway moment isn’t going to meet their needs; it's when you have quality time with friends sharing their

C7 ENGAGE | Volume 6 | Page 46

challenges you can bring this. When we say we will pray, what we’re saying is we know this works. We aren’t praying like a lucky charm; we’re saying we believe this will work, and my prayer for you will help you.

Love unconditionally.

People come with baggage… yes, even you! But when we choose to stand out and love our friends unconditionally, even through their baggage, it stands out. Mark 10:21 says, “Jesus looked on him and loved him….” - his first response is love, even though the man had baggage. No one needs a judge or jury; sometimes, people don’t even need words. But when we show love, it shines out and will stand out from the world.

Listen.

We all have so much to say but what we see in Christ is He listened (really listened) and said much less than He listened to. Listen to your friends, your family. Pay attention to what they’re saying. The Holy Spirit is trying to show you something in what they’re saying - behind their conversation could be hidden pain, stress or anxiety, and we don’t hear it if we aren’t listening properly. Pause before you speak and be present with your friend.

Pray. Pray. Pray. Then pray again.

I love the story of DL Moody; he prayed for 100 of his friends to come to Christ. When he died, 96 of the 100 had received Jesus as their Saviour.

The final 4 became Christians at his funeral. Your prayer for your friends and family is a lifetime commitment. It’s a decision to say, ‘I am committing to you not just for now - but for your eternity.’

Meet need.

What is the greatest need of your friend today? Do you know it? Jesus knew the need of people. He saw the hurting and the lame, and He healed them. He saw the hungry, and He fed them, the downcast He lifted up.

Recently on doing the Daughters Programme, one of the women in the group attended with her friend and commented: “despite the fact we’ve known each other for so long, we didn’t know we were going through what we’ve shared in this programme. We never told each other what was going on with each other!” As believers, we’ve got the opportunity to be different - find the need and meet the need.

As we enter into summer, why don’t we make a conscious effort to be more like Christ with our friends and family? We are, after all, ‘the light of the world’ (Matthew 5:14).

- Pastor Helen Ratcliffe

C7 ENGAGE | Volume 6 | Page 47

"Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand— shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.”

Matthew 5:14-16

"The people who know their God will be strong and carry out great exploits."

- Daniel 11: 32

C7 Church 100 High Craighall Road Glasgow G4 9UD info@c7church.com www.c7church.com