Rock Church SD - Miles McPherson - All In - Print Curriculum by Lifetogether Ministries

PASTOR MILES MCPHERSON

STUDY GUIDE

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA

CONTENTS

Published by Rock Church No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means -- electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise -- except for brief quotations in printed reviews, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

04 Welcome from Pastor Miles McPherson History of Rock Church 06 Ministry Milestones Happening Now Vision of ALL IN 07 08 One Fund 08 Giving Chart 09 Commitment Card Sample 10 How to Use This Study Guide 11 Outline of Each Session

Copyright and use of the curriculum template is retained by Brett Eastman. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotes are taken from the New King James Version. Copyright© 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. ISBN: 978-1-940077-67-3 Printed in the United States of America

12 26 40 54 68 82 APPENDICES

SESSION 1 ALL IN IS ABOUT LEGACY

SESSION 2 ALL IN REQUIRES TRUST

SESSION 3 ALL IN IS ABOUT HONOR

SESSION 4 ALL IN EQUALS COMMITMENT

SESSION 5 ALL IN REQUIRES TRANSFORMATION

SESSION 6 ALL IN REQUIRES SURRENDER

98 FAQs about ALL IN Giving FAQs about LIFE Groups 100 101 LIFE Group Agreement 102 LIFE Group Calendar 103 Memory Verse Cards (Clip and Review) 104 Prayer and Praise Reports

What’s happening, Rock Church! You’re holding in your hands the results of a lot of blood, sweat, and prayers by people in and around the Rock Church. I invite you to engage this book thoroughly and use it as a tool to develop and grow in your walk with God. If you haven’t already, join a LIFE Group and go through this curriculum in a community of believers. Be ALL IN! Exciting days are ahead for us. Fifteen years ago Rock Church began an extraordinary journey to establish Pervasive Hope in San Diego County and around the world. Our mission was (and still is) simple: to SAVE, EQUIP, and SEND. While God has blessed our church immensely, I believe He is ushering us into a season of opportunity that will challenge us to take even greater steps of faith than we have ever taken. For this reason, we are starting a new 2-year initiative called “ALL IN.”

I’ve been praying for us and what the next two years could hold if we’re ALL IN:

WELCOME

- If we’re ALL IN, we are going to see an increase in saving, equipping, and sending in ways that we have never seen before. - If we’re ALL IN, we are going to see a rising spirit of generous giving that will amaze us and drive us to worship the One who generously gives every good thing. - If we’re ALL IN, we’ll discover in a new way that Pervasive Hope starts in us and with us. - If we’re ALL IN, we are going to rejoice and give thanks to “Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us”

And these are just the fringes of my prayers for us. I’m asking God the Father for unity among us that will shine through everything we do and say—a unity in the Lord Jesus Christ, inspired by the Holy Spirit. I long to see God do His amazing work in and through Rock Church in an unmistakable and evident way these next two years. That ultimately is our Pervasive Hope; not what we can do, but what God can do!

Don’t miss this. We’re ALL IN it together.

Pastor Miles

HISTORY OF THE ROCK CHURCH MINISTRY MILESTONES 2000 Rock Church holds its first service at SDSU with more than 3300 in attendance 2001 First Rock Outreach Ministries are launched 2003 Attendance at the Rock Church grows to require 5 weekend service times 2006 Rock Church moves 33 times before relocating to a permanent home 2007 Liberty Station in Pt. Loma becomes the new home of Rock Church 2009 First Rock Your City Event takes place in Balboa Park 2010 First Rock Church multisite is launched in North County 2012 Pervasive Hope Campaign generates $20M in pledges Toys For Joy hosts over 10,000 people 2013 East County Campus opens with more than 2700 in attendance Microsites launch with over 20 locations around San Diego County Hopestart Children’s Home in Haiti is established 2014 San Ysidro Campus opens bringing Rock Church to the South Bay

HAPPENING NOW 2015 The Rock turns 15! City Heights – our fifth campus – opens in the most diverse neighborhood in California Sunday attendance grows to nearly 20,000/week (including 4,600 watching live online) Outreach Ministries surpass 200 in number LIFE Groups grow to more than 450 weekly meetings Over 80,000 salvations in 15 years 3.2 million volunteer hours have been given to San Diego communities with an estimated value of $22 million

VISION OF ALL IN ALL IN is a defining moment in the history of our church. It is our all-out effort to have an even greater impact than we’ve ever had before. It is an opportunity like no other – to love more people, impact more lives, and see His Kingdom come to the earth.

ALL IN is also a personal expression of commitment coupled with a group expectation. When somebody says, “I’m all in,” they are making the choice to fully engage. That person is not withholding anything from the task or relationship ahead. And when a group says, “We’re all in,” there’s an additional sense of unity that pulls individuals who are ALL IN into a team that can accomplish a lot.

Our primary goal in the ALL IN Initiative is 100% participation. We believe that if each person at the Rock decides to go deeper with God, amazing things will happen. LIFE groups will explode, ministries will excel, outreaches will increase, and giving will multiply exponentially. As a result, the lost will be found, the hurting will be comforted, the addicted will be set free and God’s love will shine throughout our city. Through God’s strength, we will be able to SAVE, EQUIP, and SEND like never before! Over the next 2 years the Rock Church has set the financial goal of investing $75 million to establish Pervasive Hope. This goal encompasses all giving to the Rock as general offerings and the Pervasive Hope campaign will be rolled in to One Fund (see the next page). Here is a summary of what we believe God has called us to accomplish through the ALL IN Initiative:

SAVE

EQUIP

SEND

Expand to 7 campuses, preaching the gospel to 25,000 each Sunday.

Provide additional opportunities for discipleship and spiritual growth.

Expand our Outreach Ministries to serve the hurting, addicted, and poor in our city.

Increase the number of microsites to reach every corner of our county and beyond.

Boost our community by doubling the number of LIFE Groups within Rock Church.

Use innovative technology to reach the lost like never before.

Practice wise stewardship by reducing the Point Loma mortgage and preparing for the future.

Global Outreach to orphans in Haiti, schools of discipleship in Mexico, India, and beyond. Grow Toys for Joy, Rock Your City, and other volunteer opportunities.

ANTICIPATED 2-YEAR FINANCIAL BLESSING: $75M 6

ONE FUND EXPLANATION You may have taken part in church campaigns in the past to which you were invited to give a second gift “over and above” your usual gift in order to make special initiatives like new buildings and new ministries possible. There was a “general fund” for ongoing ministries, and a separate “building fund,” or “campaign fund” designated for capital projects and other specific needs. While this approach has served us well, we also recognize the potential for confusion; it required an explanation to make clear which “fund” did what and not everyone was able to participate. It’s time for a change! ALL IN will be our unifying commitment as a church to generosity. For the next two years, everything we do will be a part of ALL IN. Everyone can get on board and participate.

FAITH COMMITMENT CARD $

We are all on ONE MISSION – the mission to SAVE, EQUIP, and SEND that Pervasive Hope may be established on every street, for every person in San Diego and beyond. And we are excited to introduce ONE FUND, a single fund, that will unify the generosity of everyone at Rock Church. Over the coming weeks you will be invited to make ONE COMMITMENT. We are trusting that God will reveal what that ONE number is that will represent your total, radical, sacrificial generosity to the Kingdom over the next two years. “But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.” 2 Corinthians 8:7 (NIV)

$ =

“…nor will I offer burnt offerings to the Lord my God with that which costs me nothing.” 2 Samuel 24:24

GIVING CHART

$ =

2-year GIFT CHART. As you pray and discern how God would ask you to give during this time, allow this gift chart to be a tool for you. Allow it to be something that inspires and challenges you towards greater generosity to fulfill our mission to SAVE, EQUIP, and SEND for God’s Kingdom!

HOW TO USE THIS STUDY GUIDE

OUTLINE OF EACH SESSION

Tools to Help You Have a Great LIFE Group Experience!

A typical group session for the ALL IN study will include the following sections: INTRODUCTION. Each lesson opens with a brief thought that will help you prepare for the session and get you thinking about the particular subject you will explore with your group. Make it a practice to read these before the session. COME TOGETHER. The foundation for spiritual growth is an intimate connection with God and God’s family. You build that connection by sharing your experience with a few people who really know you and who earn your trust. This is helpful preparation for being able to share what Christ has done in your life with anyone you meet—which is what a disciple is ready to do. This section includes some simple questions to get you talking—letting you share as much or as little of your story as you feel comfortable doing. Each session typically offers you 2 options. You can get to know your whole group by using the icebreaker question(s), or you can check in with 1 or 2 group members for a deeper connection and encouragement in your spiritual journey.

in the Table of Contents there are three sections: (1) Front Matter; (2) Sessions; and (3) Appendices. 1 Notice Familiarize yourself with these sections. Some of the Appendices will be used in the sessions themselves. is much more than a LIFE Group workbook. It has been designed as a constant companion for the ALL 2 This IN Initiative. What we do in worship, the messages we hear, and every aspect of our life together as Rock Church family will be guided by this Study Guide during the coming weeks.

you are Hosting or co-hosting a LIFE Group, check out sdrockgroups.com and you will find some 3 Ifencouragement and help so you can avoid common obstacles to effective group meetings.

WATCH THE VIDEO. When the study directs you to, you’ll start the video and watch a short teaching segment. Each session’s teaching will include biblical insights from Pastor Miles, interaction with brothers and sisters about aspects of the ALL IN life, and powerful worship music to lead us into God’s presence. Space is provided in this study guide to take notes you can use in the discussion to follow. LEARN TOGETHER. In this section, you’ll have an opportunity to read a passage of Scripture and discuss both the teaching and the text. You won’t focus on accumulating information but on how you should live in light of the Word of God. We want to help you apply the insights from Scripture practically and creatively, from your heart as well as your head. At the end of the day, allowing the timeless truths from God’s Word to transform our lives in Christ should be your greatest aim. STUDY NOTES. This brief section provides additional commentary, background, or insights on the passage you’ll study in the Learn Together section.

5 Enjoy your LIFE Group experience. Have fun.

GROW TOGETHER. God wants you to be a part of His Kingdom—to weave your story into His. That will mean change. It will require you to go His way rather than your own. This won’t happen overnight, but it should happen steadily. By making small, simple choices, we can begin to change our direction. This is where the Bible’s instructions to “be doers of the Word, not just hearers” (James 1:22) comes into play. Many people skip over this aspect of the Christian life because it’s scary, relationally awkward, or simply too much work for their busy schedules. But Jesus wanted all of His disciples to know Him personally, carry out His commands, and help outsiders connect with Him. This doesn’t necessarily mean preaching on street corners. It could mean welcoming newcomers, hosting a short-term group in your home, or walking through this study with a friend. In this study, you’ll have an opportunity to go beyond Bible study to biblical living.

6 Pray before each session—for your group members, for your time together, and for wisdom and insights.

SHARE AND WORSHIP TOGETHER. This section will have a question or two that will challenge you to live out your faith by serving others, sharing your faith, and worshiping God.

Use this Study Guide as an advisor. If the group responds to the lesson in an unexpected but honest way, go with that. If you think of a better question than the next one in the lesson, ask it.

Read the outline for each session on the next pages so that you understand how the sessions will flow.

SERMON NOTES. Bring your study guide with you each Sunday and take notes during the sermon in the provided blanks. DAILY DEVOTIONS. Each week on the Daily Devotions pages we provide Scriptures to read and reflect on between sessions—a month’s worth of reflections to keep God’s Word near your heart. This provides you with a chance to slow down, read just a small portion of Scripture each day, and reflect and pray through it. You’ll then have a chance to journal your response to what you’ve read. Use this section to seek God on your own throughout the week. This time at home should begin and end with prayer. Don’t get in a hurry; take enough time to hear God’s direction.

1 ALL IN is about

LEGACY 12

By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going.

Hebrews 11:8 (NKJV)

INTRODUCTION You are someone’s legacy.

You are someone’s legacy. In fact, many people have stepped out in ways they didn’t have to that have resulted in…you. Start with your parents and grandparents and think for a moment about all the people who have spoken into and impacted your life. No, it hasn’t always been in positive ways, but even negative stuff can end up affecting you in good ways. Life’s hurts can help us become healers; and hardships can push us toward hope and character. The best way to be grateful for the legacy we’ve received is to decide and practice the legacy we want to leave those who come after us. The question we want to answer is, “Knowing what I have received, how will I provide the same for others?”

During the next 6 weeks we’re going to be thinking about Abraham. Though he lived over four thousand years ago, his legacy is still touching people around the world. He was a man of faith and of failures. In other words, he was someone we can identify with if we let ourselves. Abraham had to make a decision about what kind of legacy he was going to leave behind: a stay put, “same old, same old” legacy of never following where God led or a “step out in faith,” obedient kind of legacy that God could bless in many ways. Abraham decided to go for it, even though he didn’t know where he would end up.

Each of us has a story. The events of our life—good, bad, wonderful, or challenging—have shaped who we are. God knows your story, and He intends to redeem it—to use every struggle and every joy to ultimately bring you to Himself. When we share our stories with others, we give them the opportunity to see God at work.

But our journey will be more than 6 weeks— we’re embarking on a 2-year adventure called ALL IN: Pervasive Hope Starts with Me. We are trusting God to do a great work in bringing us together in ways we have never experienced before.

We are going to discover the ways the Lord wants to use each of us and all of us together to accomplish great things for Him.

COME TOGETHER

Open your group with prayer. This should be a brief, simple prayer, in which you invite God to be with you as you meet. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion.

As part of “getting to know one another,” pass around a sheet of paper to collect names and contact information, giving all present an opportunity to fill it out. Have everyone introduce themselves, then write down their contact information. Ask someone to make copies or type up a list with everyone’s information and email it to the group this week.

drew you here to this group? 1 What How are you anticipating God will grow you through this season of ALL IN?

your group is new, welcome 2 Ifnewcomers. Introduce everyone—you may even want to have name tags for your first meeting.

hether your group is new or ongoing, it’s W always important to reflect on and review your values together. On page 101 there is a LIFE Group Agreement with the values we’ve found most useful in sustaining healthy, balanced groups. We recommend that you choose 1 or 2 values—and perhaps ones you haven’t previously focused on or have room to grow in—so that they can be emphasized during this study. We’ve come to realize that healthy groups rotate responsibilities. This helps to develop every member’s ability to shepherd a few people in a safe environment. Even Jesus gave others the opportunity to serve alongside Him (Mark 6:30–44). Look at the FAQs in the Appendix for additional information about hosting the group. se the LIFE Group Calendar on page 102 U to plan who will host each meeting. Take a few minutes to plan hosts for your remaining meetings. Don’t pass this up! It will revolutionize your group.

WATCH THE VIDEO You can watch the video online at sdrock.com/ ALLIN or on the ALL IN DVD. This first session video will give the group a sense of the tone for ALL IN. Included are not only Pastor Miles’ teachings, but also some worship opportunities and recorded interaction with others from the Rock Church. Use the space provided to record any key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video, have someone read the Scripture passage and questions in the Read section and direct the discussion among the group. As you go through each of the subsequent sections, ask someone else to read the questions and direct the discussion.

READ: GENESIS 12:1-8 Now the Lord had said to Abram: “Get out of your country, From your family And from your father’s house, To a land that I will show you. 2 I will make you a great nation; I will bless you And make your name great; And you shall be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, And I will curse him who curses you; And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” 4 So Abram departed as the Lord had spoken to him, and Lot went with him. And Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran. 5 Then Abram took Sarai his wife and Lot his brother’s son, and all their possessions that they had gathered, and the people whom they had acquired in Haran, and they departed to go to the land of Canaan. So they came to the land of Canaan. 6 Abram passed through the land to the place of Shechem, as far as the terebinth tree of Moreh. And the Canaanites were then in the land. 7 Then the Lord appeared to Abram and said, “To your descendants I will give this land.” And there he built an altar to the Lord, who had appeared to him. 8 And he moved from there to the mountain east of Bethel, and he pitched his tent with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east; there he built an altar to the Lord and called on the name of the Lord. (NKJV) 1

for a moment about being a member of 3 Think Abram’s household. He announces at breakfast one morning, “Last night the Lord spoke to me. Today we’re packing up and hitting the road.” What would be some of your questions?

on the passage from Genesis for this 4 Based session, what kind of legacy was Abram creating by his actions in Genesis 12:1-8?

the video we heard a number of people share 5 Inabout the legacy impact others had on their lives. What example(s) come to your mind about ways people have built a legacy into you?

LEARN TOGETHER God uses stories to guide us. In fact, the Bible is His story! When we read the true stories of Scripture, we learn what God is like and we see His plan unfolding. And we also learn principles for our own lives. How can we become a part of God’s story? By aligning our stories with His; not just understanding what it means to follow Him, but actually doing it—changing our attitudes and actions to live as He would live.

Use the following questions to guide your discussion of the teaching and stories you just experienced, and the Bible passage on the next page. You may also want to refer to the study notes on page 20 to guide your reading and discussion.

STUDY NOTES The Lord said to Abram (v.1). Before God changed his name to Abraham (father of many) the patriarch of Israel was Abram (exalted father). When we see the title “Lord” (Large cap/ small caps), it indicates God’s name Yahweh, which won’t be explained until Exodus 3. But since Moses was writing these chapters, he used the title for God that was most familiar to him. I will bless (v.2, 3). We bless when we speak or deliver good into someone’s life. God not only promised to do good for Abram, He also promised to make Abram’s life into something good for others. In you all the families of the earth shall be blessed (v.3). The idea of legacy has a lot to do with understanding that the blessings of God aren’t supposed to stop with us. Blessings flow through us to others. We can’t even imagine how much God might bless others through us. There he built an altar to the Lord and called on the name of the Lord (v.7). Abram was aware of God’s company and leading. But it was more than knowing He was there; he responded in worship. He acknowledged the Lord and expressed his confidence in Him.

GROW TOGETHER Our Creator is certainly after more from us than a grudging acknowledgment that He exists. There are plenty of people who are willing to admit there’s a God, but they still don’t want to have anything to do with Him. God wants you to be a part of His Kingdom—to weave your story into his. That will mean change—to go His way rather than your own. This won’t happen overnight, but it should happen steadily. By starting with small, simple choices, we begin to change our direction. We can build a legacy that will please God. The Holy Spirit helps us along the way—giving us gifts to serve the body, offering us insights into Scripture, and challenging us to love not only those around us but those far from God. In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you’ve learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you’ve learned.

do you put into practice your belief 6 How in the mission of Rock Church: to Save, Equip, and Send? Do you believe it’s worth sacrificing for? Why?

what ways do you feel that God is 7 Incalling you out from something, away from something, so that He can leave a legacy through you, as He did with Abram? What has been your response so far?

does the challenge to leave a legacy 8 How change your perspective on how you’re living right now?

it comes to stewardship and 9 When generosity, would you say that God

If stewardship is a new term in your Christian experience, it has long been used to refer to God’s entrusting us with the management of the resources He gives us: time, talents, and treasure. These things may seem to be ours, but they ultimately belong to Him. Even what we earn, we have earned using time, strength, and skill God has provided to us.

wants something FOR you or FROM you? What’s the difference between those two perspectives?

SERMON NOTES SHARE AND WORSHIP TOGETHER To close your time together, spend some time worshiping God together—praying, singing, and reading Scripture.

this week’s worship set on your 1 Select DVD or online video (sdrock.com/ALLIN). everyone to share: “How can we 2 Ask pray for you this week?” Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 104.

3 Close your meeting with prayer. 22

DAY 1

DAY 4

By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going.

...that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ through the gospel.

Reflect:

DAY 2

DAY 5

Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen.

And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Read Hebrews 11:8

It’s easy to think, “if God told me to go, I’d go—but have you?” Under what circumstances have you responded to God the way Abram did?

Read Matthew 28:19-20

DAILY DEVOTIONALS Use these daily devotions to go deeper into this week’s topic. Each day, read the verse given. Take your time. Ask God to speak to you through His Word. Notice which word or phrase stands out to you. Then take some time to journal your response back to him. You can write whatever is on your heart. Answer the “Reflect” question only if it’s helpful. Feel free to go another direction, if you sense God leading you. On the first day, you may want to read over all the verses for the week to get the “big picture” of the passage. But then walk slowly, verse by verse. Listen to what God wants to say to you through His Word, and respond to Him as you meditate on the truths of Scripture.

There are six days of devotions. On the last day, read back over your responses and let that guide a final time of reflection.

After Day 3 of each week, you will have an opportunity to take what you have learned and put it into practice. These “Action Steps” will challenge you to respond to these truths in your daily life.

Reflect:

In what ways are you personally ALL IN to Rock Church’s mission of Save, Equip, Send? What do each of those terms mean to you?

DAY 3

Read Proverbs 3:35 The wise shall inherit glory, But shame shall be the legacy of fools.

Read Ephesians 3:6

What you have in Christ you have not in any way earned. As you begin to engage with the ALL IN study, in what areas of life are you wanting to be more active in sharing the inheritance you have in Christ?

Read Philippians 4:19

Reflect:

How can we know the truth of this promise unless we are willing to stop gripping on to the things of this life as if they were our true security? What do you need to release into God’s hands as you seek to be ALL IN to what He wants to do in you and in us?

DAY 6

Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your reflection time this week.

Reflect:

Note that legacy parallels inheritance. What would you say are the 3 main examples of the faith legacy you have created to leave behind at this point in your life? What would you change?

Action Steps:

During this week spend some time thinking about 2 things : - What do you feel you are known for now? - What do you want to be known for towards the end of your life?

2 ALL IN is requires

TRUST 26

Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.

Philippians 2:4 NKJV

INTRODUCTION When the Bible talks about faith it means more than believing something other people don’t think is true. Biblical faith isn’t just on the inside; it affects everything. In fact, the faith commended in God’s Word is about trust and letting go; it’s about being ALL IN. Trusting God is easy when it doesn’t really matter, when there’s nothing at stake. But what about when trusting God comes with a price tag? What about when having everything that God longs to give us requires that we let go of

things we also want to hang on to? In one of Jesus’ shortest parables He said, “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field” (Matthew 13:44 NKJV). There’s a lot in this little story, but the main point is that in order to get the priceless treasure of the kingdom of heaven for free, the man has to sell everything just to buy the farm. He has to go ALL IN on the farm and then he gets the treasure.

As we continue our journey with Abram, we’re going to see that he’s holding even the Promised Land loosely. He doesn’t own it yet but he’s not trying to hoard it in the meantime. He’s ALL IN for God’s plan, God’s timing, and God’s way of doing things. He’s trusting God even when the next step isn’t clear.

COME TOGETHER LIFE Group Host Note: Open your group with prayer. This should be a brief, simple prayer, in which you invite God to be with you as you meet. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion.

Since this is only your second session, you may still be in the “getting to know one another” phase, so pass around a sheet of paper. Have everyone introduce themselves again, and write down the contact information for any new people. Ask someone to make copies or type up a list with everyone’s information and email it to the group this week. Then, begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking.

you think of the expression “ALL 1 When IN,” what are some of the inspiring or

funny pictures that come to your mind?

a time when someone trusted 2 Describe you and it made a big difference in your life.

is one of the core values of 3 Trust healthy LIFE Groups. It’s normal to see our sense of trust in the rest of the group grow from week to week as we get to know each other better and better. Last week you may have looked at the LIFE Group Agreement on page 101 but if there are several new people this week it would be worth reviewing those basic agreements.

- Take care of any housekeeping matters at this point, making sure the locations for upcoming meetings are clear and talking about any other specific assignments. - Give newcomers an opportunity to ask any questions they might have for the group.

WATCH THE VIDEO You can watch the video online at sdrock. com/ALLIN or on the ALL IN DVD. This second session video will take us more deeply into the experience of Abram as Pastor Miles teaches us about the trust factors in Abram’s life. The group should also enjoy the worship opportunities and recorded interaction with others from Rock Church. Use the space provided to record any key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video, have someone read the Scripture passage and questions in the Read section and direct the discussion among the group. As you go through each of the subsequent sections, ask someone else to read the questions and direct the discussion.

READ: GENESIS 13:1-9 Then Abram went up from Egypt, he and his wife and all that he had, and Lot with him, to the South. 2 Abram was very rich in livestock, in silver, and in gold. 3 And he went on his journey from the South as far as Bethel, to the place where his tent had been at the beginning, between Bethel and Ai, 4 to the place of the altar which he had made there at first. And there Abram called on the name of the LORD. 5 Lot also, who went with Abram, had flocks and herds and tents. 6 Now the land was not able to support them that they might dwell together, for their possessions were so great that they could not dwell together. 7 And there was strife between the herdsmen of Abram’s livestock and the herdsmen of Lot’s livestock. The Canaanites and the Perizzites then dwelt in the land. 8 So Abram said to Lot, “Please let there be no strife between you and me, and between my herdsmen and your herdsmen; for we are brethren. 9 Is not the whole land before you? Please separate from me. If you take the left, then I will go to the right; or, if you go to the right, then I will go to the left.” (NKJV) 1

Miles used a question to draw our 4 Pastor attention to the heart of trust: is God reliable? Is

He trustworthy? As you think about what you’ve heard from the video and God’s Word just now, what examples of God’s trustworthiness jump out at you?

on verses 8-9, why did Abram give Lot the 5 Based first choice of lands on which to settle? In what ways was this trusting God?

Lot didn’t care what God thought about 6 Clearly, his choice of location; he was interested in what appeared to be the better choice. How does Genesis 13:10 indicate he was about to make a bad choice?

LEARN TOGETHER A LIFE Group is the optimum learning environment, where there are enough people to create a variety of perspectives but few enough not to be overly intimidating. When Jesus wanted to create an atmosphere for training and passing on His key message to the world He began by forming a LIFE Group of sorts. We expect that much of the success and effectiveness of the ALL IN Initiative over the next two years will be traced to the way in which the LIFE Groups have encouraged one another, worked through the questions, cheered the new commitments, and let God speak to us.

Use the following questions to guide your discussion of the teaching and stories you just experienced and the Bible passage on the next page. You may also want to refer to the Study Notes on page 34 to guide your reading and discussion.

STUDY NOTES Where his tent had been at the beginning (v.3). Returning from his time in Egypt, Abram set up camp near Bethel. God had told him this was the heart of all the land that would eventually be his. Their possessions were so great that they could not dwell together (v.6). Both Abram and Lot had prospered on their travels and their livestock herds were so numerous that they couldn’t graze on the same lands, which caused strife between the herdsmen. Let there be no strife between you and me (v.8). Abram valued his family ties. He and Sarai had no children of their own yet and he was determined to keep peace in his extended household. If this meant creating some distance for practical reasons, he was willing.

GROW TOGETHER One of the keys to healthy application is realizing that when God teaches us something, living out that lesson will almost always involve other people. Note how the following questions move you in that direction. In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you’ve learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you’ve learned.

does trusting God look like in your 7 What life right now? kinds of baggage from your past or 8 What barriers in the present might be hindering your ability and willingness to trust God and the body of Christ?

wrong with this statement: “I want 9 What’s to be known as a follower of Jesus, but I don’t want to have to trust Him in any meaningful way?”

SERMON NOTES SHARE AND WORSHIP TOGETHER To close your time together, spend some time worshiping God together—praying, singing, and reading Scripture.

3 Close your meeting with prayer. 36

DAY 1

DAY 4

Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Reflect:

In what ways is your heart involved in your responses to the ALL IN Initiative?

Read Philippians 2:4

How does trusting God translate into less concern about self and more interest in helping others and the Body of Christ?

DAY 2

Read Matthew 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.

There are six days of devotions. On the last day, read back over your responses and let that guide a final time of reflection.

Reflect:

This is the alternative to worry Jesus offers in the extended passage of Matthew 6:25-34. In what ways is worry a clue that we’re not trusting God?

DAY 3

Read Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.

Read Matthew 6:21

Reflect:

DAY 5

Read Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

Reflect:

If faith and trust are closely related in our relationship with God, what evidence is apparent in your life that you believe “that He is” and you believe “that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him?”

DAY 6

Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your reflection time this week.

Reflect:

How do these verses describe the way you’re approaching your participation in the ALL IN Initiative?

Action Steps:

During this week think about areas where you’ve struggled to really trust God. Every day this week as you begin your day, pray that God will give you the strength to trust him.

3 ALL IN is about

HONOR 40

He answered and said to them, “Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written: ‘This people honors Me with their lips, But their heart is far from Me.’”

Mark 7:6 NKJV

INTRODUCTION Honor is not a word or an action that shows up regularly in life today. The concept may be mentioned in military settings or in discussions about what it means to honor one’s parents, but honor is seldom part of our daily routine. When we begin our morning, we probably don’t think, “today I want to live an honorable life.” The absence of honor has a lot to do with the shallowness of our relationship with God and with other people. So, what is honor? The word summarizes appropriate respect and actions toward someone’s character, role, or position. The more someone’s character, role, and position harmonize, the easier it should be to honor them. This is true of no one more than it is true of God. And yet, as we will see in this session, we often struggle with honoring God in consistent ways.

One of the passages we looked at last week included the phrase “In all your ways acknowledge Him” (Proverbs 3:6, ESV). Honoring God is not only acknowledging Him, but acknowledging Him in all our ways. Jesus was quoting Isaiah who was taking a direct quote from God when He said, “This people honors Me with their lips but their heart is far from Me.” We want to be a people who do a lot more than give lip service to the idea of honoring God.

COME TOGETHER LIFE Group Leader Note: Open the time with prayer. Then use the following questions and activities to get people talking.

who have you run across 1 Inthatyouryoulife,would say was easy to honor? What was it about them that caused that response in you?

has this series caused you to re2 How evaluate how you use your resources?

WATCH THE VIDEO You can watch the video online at sdrock.com/ ALLIN or on the ALL IN DVD. Use the space to record any key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video, have someone read the Scripture passage and questions in the Read section and direct the discussion among the group. As you go through each of the subsequent sections, ask someone else to read the questions and direct the discussion.

READ: GENESIS 14:14-24 Now when Abram heard that his brother was taken captive, he armed his three hundred and eighteen trained servants who were born in his own house, and went in pursuit as far as Dan. 15 He divided his forces against them by night, and he and his servants attacked them and pursued them as far as Hobah, which is north of Damascus. 16 So he brought back all the goods, and also brought back his brother Lot and his goods, as well as the women and the people. 17 And the king of Sodom went out to meet him at the Valley of Shaveh (that is, the King’s Valley), after his return from the defeat of Chedorlaomer and the kings who were with him. 18 Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine; he was the priest of God Most High. 19 And he blessed him and said: “Blessed be Abram of God Most High, Possessor of heaven and earth; 20 And blessed be God Most High, Who has delivered your enemies into your hand.” And he gave him a tithe of all. 21 Now the king of Sodom said to Abram, “Give me the persons, and take the goods for yourself.” 22 But Abram said to the king of Sodom, “I have raised my hand to the LORD, God Most High, the Possessor of heaven 14

and earth, 23 that I will take nothing, from a thread to a sandal strap, and that I will not take anything that is yours, lest you should say, ‘I have made Abram rich’ 24 except only what the young men have eaten, and the portion of the men who went with me: Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre; let them take their portion.” (NKJV)

Why is it important to honor God?

was giving a tithe to Melchizedek 4 How actually honoring God? What’s the parallel for us today?

about Pastor Miles’ teaching and 5 Thinking the Scripture we just read, what different ways did Abram honor God?

Pastor Miles was interacting 6 When with the crowd after his teaching, what stood out to you in the comments and questions?

LEARN TOGETHER When we as a LIFE Group come together, we each have our own observations and responses to what we’re hearing, but it often takes the impact of a group’s response to help us see what we’ve overlooked or missed. God uses us in each other’s lives for good in this way.

STUDY NOTES Now when Abram heard that his brother was taken captive (v.14). Abram honored his relationship with Lot by “having his back” when he could have stayed at a distance. He was ALL IN when he went after Lot’s captors. God calls us to live out our relationships with honor. So he brought back all the goods (v.16). Abram routed the raiders and recaptured everything and everyone that had been taken. Every aspect of this episode has God’s fingerprints all over it. Melchizedek king of Salem (v.19). This figure appears without any introduction or background. He is mentioned again in Psalm 110 and in Hebrews 7:1-22 in discussing the unique role of Jesus who is both our king and priest, much as Melchizedek served both those roles. It is clear that Abram and Melchizedek recognized in one another an allegiance to the God above all gods. And he (Abram) gave him (Melchizedek) a tithe of all (v.20). When God blessed Abram with a victory, his first thought was “how can I honor God in return for this great blessing?” (vs. 17-24). I have raised my hand to the Lord, God Most High, the Possessor or heaven and earth (v.22). Abram understood that accepting bounty from the king of Salem would make him indebted to him and he insisted on giving credit for his abundance to God Himself and no other.

GROW TOGETHER Like the people who were talking with Pastor Miles, we want our LIFE Groups to be safe places where we can ask questions and get biblical answers. The ALL IN Initiative is a special season to help us realize how much we need each other and discover the joy of helping one another. Each of us has a part, but we’re in this together—all in.

is a way that you are honoring God 7 What currently with your resources? Share with the group as a means for inspiring others.

the ALL IN Initiative, what 8 During changes have you made or considered making about the way you honor God with your time, your resources, or your relationships?

you were to truly ask yourself the 9 Ifquestion, “What am I NOT giving and

why?” how would you answer that as it relates to honoring God with ALL that you have and ALL that you are?

SERMON NOTES SHARE AND WORSHIP TOGETHER To close your time together, spend some time worshiping God together—praying, singing, and reading Scripture.

3 Close your meeting with prayer. 50

DAY 1

DAY 4

He answered and said to them, “Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written: ‘This people honors Me with their lips, But their heart is far from Me.’”

Then Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord, I give half of my goods to the poor; and if I have taken anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore fourfold.”

Read Mark 7:6

Reflect:

In the solitude of your heart’s thoughts, how ALL IN are you to this challenge of honoring God with everything?

DAY 2

Read Revelation 4:11

Read Luke 19:8

Reflect:

What happened in Zacchaeus that would cause him to honor God with 100%?

DAY 5

Read 1 Samuel 2:29-30 You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; For You created all things, And by Your will they exist and were created.”

There are six days of devotions. On the last day, read back over your responses and let that guide a final time of reflection.

Reflect:

How does this verse make the case for making everything we are and everything we have available to God 24/7?

DAY 3

Read Matthew 8:8-9 The centurion answered and said, “Lord, I am not worthy that You should come under my roof. But only speak a word, and my servant will be healed. For I also am a man under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”

Reflect:

“Why do you kick at My sacrifice and My offering which I have commanded in My dwelling place, and honor your sons more than Me, to make yourselves fat with the best of all the offerings of Israel My people?” Therefore the Lord God of Israel says: “I said indeed that your house and the house of your father would walk before Me forever.” But now the Lord says: “Far be it from Me; for those who honor Me I will honor, and those who despise Me shall be lightly esteemed.”

Reflect:

God let Eli know that he was honoring his sons more than he was honoring the Lord. What promise did God also give that we can count on?

DAY 6

Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your reflection time this week.

How did this centurion combine faith with honor to acknowledge Jesus’ power?

Action Steps:

Each day this week pick one person you can show honor to—someone from work, your family, etc.

4 ALL IN equals

COMMITMENT

To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.

Revelation 3:21 NKJV

INTRODUCTION The first 3 sessions in this ALL IN study have focused on the components of a great decision: legacy, trust, and honor. In our case, God is at the center of each of these aspects of the 2-year commitment we’re making. Knowing that God is at work to build a great legacy and inviting us to join Him; trusting Him as an expression of the relationship He wants to have with us; and honoring Him because we realize that as much as He has done for us up until now, there is more and even better ahead. Now we want to make sure that we’re not being distracted or diverted from God’s best. This session we want to think about the waiting part of commitments and the dangers offered by the shortcuts that will present themselves. As Pastor Miles puts it, we don’t want to let the dead space tempt us into a way other than God’s best. And His plan is to change us. When Jesus took the aging apostle John aside and told him to write the 7 memos to churches that make up the first three chapters

of Revelation, one of His repeated promises to believers in any of the churches was directed to those who stayed the course, who made the commitment and then did not falter or wander from the way before them. He called them “overcomers.” In our case, trusting and waiting on God presents an obstacle. We want the trusting to be easy and the waiting to be short. Instant and simple is the way we like it; but it is seldom God’s way. While He wants us to overcome head-on, we are looking all around for a shortcut or a detour. The way forward looks hard or even impossible—and it is. Real commitment isn’t easy. It can make us nervous. But when we’ve run the course called ALL IN for the next two years, the great things that will happen will not be because we found a shortcut or a detour around the challenge but because we discovered God made a way where there seemed to be no way. To Him will be the glory… as it always is.

COME TOGETHER LIFE Group Host Note: Open your group with prayer. Then, begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking.

does commitment mean to you? 1 What To what are you committed? is the most “committed” 2 Who person you know? To what are they committed?

To Him will be the glory… as it always is.

WATCH THE VIDEO You can watch the video online at sdrock.com/ ALLIN or on the ALL IN DVD. This fourth session video will cover another significant aspect of ALL IN. The video discussion cuts to the heart of how we approach commitments and how we often get off track. After watching the video, have someone read the Scripture passage and questions in the Read section and direct the discussion among the group. As you go through each of the subsequent sections, ask someone else to read the questions and direct the discussion.

READ: GENESIS 15:1-6 After these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, saying, “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward.” 2 But Abram said, “Lord GOD, what will You give me, seeing I go childless, and the heir of my house is Eliezer of Damascus?” 3 Then Abram said, “Look, You have given me no offspring; indeed one born in my house is my heir!” 4 And behold, the word of the Lord came to him, saying, “This one shall not be your heir, but one who will come from your own body shall be your heir.” 5 Then He brought him outside and said, “Look now toward heaven, and count the stars if you are able to number them.” And He said to him, “So shall your descendants be.” 6 And he believed in the Lord, and He accounted it to him for righteousness. (NKJV) 1

READ: GENESIS 16:1-3 Now Sarai, Abram’s wife, had borne him no children. And she had an Egyptian maidservant

whose name was Hagar. 2 So Sarai said to Abram, “See now, the Lord has restrained me from bearing children. Please, go in to my maid; perhaps I shall obtain children by her.” And Abram heeded the voice of Sarai. 3 Then Sarai, Abram’s wife, took Hagar her maid, the Egyptian, and gave her to her husband Abram to be his wife, after Abram had dwelt ten years in the land of Canaan.

shortcuts did Abram and Sarai each 3 What come up with? Why? Abram’s case, the shortcut was 4 Indiscussed between him and God; in

Sarai’s case, the plan was hatched between Abram and her. How did this make a difference in the outcome?

Miles discussed shortcuts with 5 AsthePastor group in the video, what were some of the concerns or insights that stood out for you?

LEARN TOGETHER This week is about confronting real, actual barriers that people have to giving and overcoming them.

STUDY NOTES I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward (15:1). As Pastor Miles has said, “God doesn’t need our money; He wants our hearts.” Whatever blessings He pours into our lives, nothing compares with the gift of His presence and His love for us. Abram was a little stuck on measuring things from this world’s limitations.

GROW TOGETHER

You have given me no offspring (15:3). Any time we leave out the word “yet” in a statement we make to God we are revealing a lack of trust or an attitude of impatience. God not only renewed His covenant with Abram, He gave him a glimpse of the future captivity of his heirs in Egypt only to be made into a nation to inherit the Promised Land (15:9-14).

In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you’ve learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you’ve learned.

He believed in the Lord, and He accounted it to him for righteousness (15:6). The New Testament (Rom. 4:3, 9, 22; Gal. 3:6) points to this passage as evidence of God’s saving people by faith, not by works.

has been your personal experience 6 What with considering or trying shortcuts? it comes to thinking about our 7 When finances, some people struggle with

God has restrained me from bearing children (16:2). Basically, Sarai was saying, “God put a road block in front of me, but I think I see a shortcut around it.” As illustrated by Pastor Miles and others who share on the video, God may allow us to pursue our detours, but the consequences and costs are high.

spending too much, and other people struggle with saving too much. Both are indicators of our desire to want to live the “American Dream” and control our situations rather than to turn them over to God. Does this resonate with you? Where do you struggle? And why?

Both these chapters in Genesis (15 & 16) include fascinating details about God’s dealings with Abram and Sarai.

Miles reminded us that God’s 8 Pastor objective is ultimately a changed us.

We’re a little like Abram in Genesis 15, who was nervous about what was going to happen with his stuff. Could you truly say that you are giving in a way that is changing you? Or has it become comfortable, routine, or stale? How does this question challenge you?

makes you nervous as you 9 What think about making a 2-year ALL

IN commitment? Where does this nervousness come from? How might this actually be a good thing?

Real commitment: if it was easy, everybody would be doing it. In this fourth session of ALL IN, everyone should be feeling the weight of the challenge. And no one can carry that weight alone. That’s why ALL IN is not just an individual or couples’ challenge, but one before the entire church. We’re ALL IN this together. And since God is with us, we need to faithfully acknowledge Him when we think and talk about the commitments He wants us to make.

SERMON NOTES SHARE AND WORSHIP TOGETHER To close your time together, spend some time worshiping God together—praying, singing, and reading Scripture.

3 Close your meeting with prayer. 64

DAY 1

DAY 4

But Jesus said to him, “No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.”

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.

Read Luke 9:62

Reflect:

How will you keep from getting distracted or looking back during the next two years?

Read Romans 12:1

Reflect:

As someone once said, “The only problem with a living sacrifice is that it keeps crawling off the altar.” This verse is Paul’s invitation to “ALL IN” commitment. What is keeping you from being a living sacrifice?

DAY 2

Read Revelation 3:21 To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.

DAILY DEVOTIONALS

Reflect:

As the One who overcame, what help does Jesus offer to us as we seek to be overcomers?

There are six days of devotions. On the last day, read back over your responses and let that guide a final time of reflection.

Read Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Reflect:

DAY 3

Read John 16:33 Use these daily devotions to go deeper into this week’s topic. Each day, read the verse given. Take your time. Ask God to speak to you through His Word. Notice which word or phrase stands out to you. Then take some time to journal your response back to him. You can write whatever is on your heart. Answer the “Reflect” question only if it’s helpful. Feel free to go another direction, if you sense God leading you. On the first day, you may want to read over all the verses for the week to get the “big picture” of the passage. But then walk slowly, verse by verse. Listen to what God wants to say to you through His Word, and respond to Him as you meditate on the truths of Scripture.

DAY 5

These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.

Reflect:

If yesterday’s verse was overwhelming, how does this one settle things a bit?

How might the next two years be the most transformative work of God in your life since you became a follower of Jesus? How does that possibility influence your willingness to be ALL IN?

DAY 6

Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your reflection time this week.

Action Steps:

Think about an area where you are tempted to take a shortcut. Pray for God’s strength to wait on His promises.

ALL IN requires TRANSFORMATION

...for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.

Philippians 2:13 NKJV

INTRODUCTION It’s ALL IN time. This will be our last session together before we make our ALL IN commitment when we gather this Sunday. We will meet next week to celebrate and continue to grow, but what happens between now and then will mark a significant change in many people’s lives. We trust this LIFE Group will be able to look back on these days as a time when God worked in unexpected ways to bring about far more than we asked or thought. For many of us, the ALL IN Initiative has been a defining moment in which God worked on the

process of transformation in our lives. As we will see in this session, God never stops working on us. Even someone who was all in, like the apostle Paul was, could write, “For I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day” (2 Timothy 1:12). We are continuing to trust this has been and will continue to be a time of remarkable spiritual growth for the entire Rock family. We’re ALL IN this together, and God is going to do a great thing.

Then, begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking.

We are continuing to trust this has been and will continue to be a time of remarkable spiritual growth for the entire Rock family. We’re ALL IN this together, and God is going to do a great thing.

has stood out to you the most 1 What over the past five weeks that we’ve been doing the ALL IN series?

we’re going to talk a lot about 2 Since transformation in this session, let’s talk about what we mean when we use the word “transformed.” What are the differences between an appearance or surface transformation (getting made up to play a part) and core transformation (what happens to a caterpillar on the way to becoming a butterfly)? Why would one be more desirable (or more difficult) than the other?

WATCH THE VIDEO You can watch the video online at sdrock.com/ ALLIN or on the ALL IN DVD. This fifth session video will set up our discussion and will lead us towards our commitment in the ALL IN Initiative. Pastor Miles is teaching on transformation and interacting with others from the Rock Church about the way God wants to transform us. Use the space to record any key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video, have someone read the Scripture passage and questions in the Read section and direct the discussion among the group. As you go through each of the subsequent sections, ask someone else to read the questions and direct the discussion.

READ: GENESIS 17:1-8 When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to Abram and said to him, “I am Almighty God; walk before Me and be blameless. 2 And I will make My covenant between Me and you, and will multiply you exceedingly.” 3 Then Abram fell on his face, and God talked with him, saying: 4 “As for Me, behold, My covenant is with you, and you shall be a father of many nations. 5 No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham; for I have made you a father of many nations. 6 I will make you exceedingly fruitful; and I will make nations of you, and kings shall come from you. 7 And I will establish My covenant between Me and you and your descendants after you in their generations, for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and your descendants after you. 8 Also I give to you and your descendants after you the land in which you are a stranger, all the land of Canaan, as an everlasting possession; and I will be their God.” (NKJV) 1

did God change Abram’s name? 3 Why Does acceptance of a name like

“Christian” or “Christ-follower” make a difference in a person’s life?

Abraham as an example, how 4 Using would you describe God’s transformation plan?

was the most memorable thing 5 What Pastor Miles or one of the participants

in the circle said during the video about change?

areas of life does God want to 6 What transform in each of us?

STUDY NOTES I am Almighty God; walk before Me and be blameless (v.1). Cause, action, result—God was pointing Abram to a transformed way of living. The order is significant. We often try to reverse it: once I’m blameless, maybe I can walk before Almighty God. Our approach is impossible; God’s approach is possible because He makes it so. No longer shall your name be called Abram (v.5). In Abram’s case, God takes some beginning-of-life stuff (like getting a name and the act of circumcision) and makes it muchlater-in-life stuff. God changed his name from Abram (exalted father) to Abraham (father of a multitude) and established a practice for each generation of sons of the covenant before the first of those sons was born. As you read this passage about Abraham, notice how God’s move in his life affected everything—name, property, offspring, and possessions. God was declaring His right to all of it.

GROW TOGETHER The idea of transformation (change under God’s hands) sometimes seems rather intimidating – as if God needs to radically change who we currently are in order for us to be more like Him. The truth is that our experiences of transformation often come through multiple small transformations within us. The instant “radical” transformation is still possible, but does not happen as frequently as transformation by process. Since God designed you originally, it’s His plan to complete your “formation” into the likeness of His Son.

a significant past experience where 7 Share God shaped you more into the image of Jesus.

is the next step in your 8 What transformation process? What is God

asking you to do to make you more like Christ?

SERMON NOTES SHARE AND WORSHIP TOGETHER To close your time together, spend some time worshiping God together—praying, singing, and reading Scripture.

3 Close your meeting with prayer. 78

DAY 1

DAY 4

For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.

...for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.

Read 2 Timothy 1:12

Reflect:

Read Philippians 2:13

Reflect:

As the ALL IN study has unfolded, how have you experienced this verse to be true in your own life?

How is God going to be involved in the making and the keeping of your commitment next Sunday?

DAY 2

Read 2 Corinthians 5:17

There are six days of devotions. On the last day, read back over your responses and let that guide a final time of reflection.

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

Reflect:

How does this verse describe the work of transformation Christ is currently carrying out in your life?

DAY 3

Read John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

DAY 5

Read Romans 8:31-32 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?

Reflect:

How do these verses confirm your confidence as you prepare for the ALL IN commitment moment this Sunday?

DAY 6

Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your reflection time this week.

Reflect:

As you prepare for next Sunday, are there any ways you are letting your heart be troubled or afraid? How might making the commitment before you take you into the peace Christ has for you?

Action Steps:

This week practice being grateful to God for His transforming work in your life. Simply thank God each time you identify how your life has been transformed. Ideas may include: new passions, new memories, old habits, new friends, or health.

ALL IN requires

SURRENDER

But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ...

Philippians 3:7-8 NKJV

INTRODUCTION Last Sunday, many of us came out of the stands, suited up and got into the game. It’s not too late to be a part of the team. God has great things ahead for all of us. At times in our lives we want to have it both ways; ours and God’s. It is not surprising that when we try to live this way the results are a mess. As we will discover with this last look at Abraham, sometimes we need to be reminded that God’s way is ultimately the best, even when it looks like it will cost us everything.

The life of surrender is choosing God before anyone or anything else.

COME TOGETHER LIFE Group Leader Note: Open your group with prayer. Then, begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking.

you have already committed 1 Whether this past weekend or whether you will

commit this next weekend, would you share your story about what God has done in your life over these last several weeks to cause you to fully surrender to Him?

in three words or less what 2 Describe you are feeling about the next two years. How can others in this group support you and pray for you during this journey?

a few minutes to decide what’s 3 Take next for your LIFE Group. Choose an

opportunity to serve together (i.e. Toys for Joy). Choose a time to meet during the break for fellowship and reconnection.

more ideas and resources about 4 For continuing your LIFE Group, go to sdrockgroups.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO You can watch the video online at sdrock. com/ALLIN or on the ALL IN DVD. After you enjoy watching the video, have someone read the Scripture passage and questions in the Read section and direct the discussion among the group. As you go through each of the subsequent sections, ask someone else to read the questions and direct the discussion.

READ: GENESIS 22:1-8 Now it came to pass after these things that God tested Abraham, and said to him, “Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” 2 Then He said, “Take now your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you.” 3 So Abraham rose early in the morning and saddled his donkey, and took two of his young men with him, and Isaac his son; and he split the wood for the burnt offering, and arose and went to the place of which God had told him. 4 Then on the third day Abraham lifted his eyes and saw the place afar off. 5 And Abraham said to his young men, “Stay here with the donkey; the lad and I will go yonder and worship, and we will come back to you.” 6 So Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering and laid it on Isaac his son; and he took the fire in his hand, and a knife, and the two of them went together. 7 But Isaac spoke to Abraham his father and said, “My father!” And he said, “Here I am, my son.” Then he said, “Look, the fire and the wood, but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?” 8 And Abraham said, “My son, God will provide for Himself the lamb for a burnt offering.” So the two of them went together. (NKJV) 1

is the meaning of the word “offer” 5 What in verse 2 and how important is it in

understanding the way God wants us to see everything in our possession?

did surrendering Isaac do for 6 What Abraham? listening to Pastor Miles and the 7 After group, what does “surrender” mean in our relationship with Christ?

Is the value of surrender (like worship, 8 trust, and honor) wrapped up in what

these things do for God or in what these things accomplish in us?

STUDY NOTES Offer him there as a burnt offering (v.2). God asked Abraham to sacrifice his only son, the fulfillment of God’s promise, not because He wanted to kill Isaac, but because He wanted Abraham to experience as deeply as possible the truth that life is about doing it God’s way, even when it appears it will be too hard. We don’t really know what it’s like to “let God” until we are willing to “let go.” For a disciple, a follower of Jesus, every area of our lives is in some stage of surrender, including the resources we have…and He has a right to it all.

GROW TOGETHER God is asking us to live our lives and give in a way that CHANGES us, give in a way that COSTS us something, and live in a way that truly honors WHO GOD IS in our lives. In essence, these actions prove that we are surrendering our lives to Him and His plan for us. We are ALL IN. In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you’ve learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you’ve learned.

Miles described the heart of 9 Pastor surrender as “committing everything

you know about self to everything you know about God.” What are the effects of having a “heart of surrender?”

SHARE AND WORSHIP TOGETHER

SERMON NOTES

To close your time together, spend some time worshiping God together—praying, singing, and reading Scripture.

this week’s worship set on your 1 Select DVD or online video (sdrock.com/ALLIN). you haven’t decided on a follow-up 2 Ifmeeting or time for your LIFE Group, do so now.

everyone to share: “How can we 3 Ask pray for you this week?” Be sure to write

prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page 104.

4 Close your meeting with prayer. 92

DAY 1

DAY 4

Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain.

Read Philippians 3:7-8

Reflect:

Read John 12:24

Reflect:

What are some aspects of your life that you still need to surrender to God for His plans?

How is this a picture of joyful surrender for a good reason?

DAY 2

Read Hebrews 11:6

There are six days of devotions. On the last day, read back over your responses and let that guide a final time of reflection.

But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

Reflect:

In what ways does this verse describe basic surrender to God on our part?

DAY 3

Read Galatians 2:20-21

DAY 5

Read John 8:36 Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.

Reflect:

How has your commitment to the ALL IN Initiative affected the sense of freedom that you have in Christ?

DAY 6

Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your reflection time this week.

I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain.

Reflect:

How do you identify with Paul’s description of the surrendered life in these verses?

Action Steps:

This week take time to praise and thank God for helping you surrender yourself to Him. Let God know the things you’re struggling to still surrender. Then ask God to help you surrender your fears to Him and believe He is able.

APPENDICES

FAQs

What if I don’t have a job right now? What does that mean for my ALL IN commitment?

About ALL IN Giving Take a few minutes to review the following questions about Rock Church and our ALL IN Initiative. You may discover you have a question or two you didn’t know you had! We want everyone to be as informed as possible about the two exciting years we have ahead of us. The answers you find here may also help you respond to questions others have as the challenges unfold in the months to come.

If we are committing to ALL IN, how does this change my giving to the general fund, to the Pervasive Hope campaign, or to other Rock initiatives? During this 2-year period, every contribution to God through Rock Church will be a contribution to our ALL IN Initiative. Every aspect of the ministry vision God is calling us to for the next two years will be funded through ALL IN. There will not be a separate Pervasive Hope fund. Every gift made will be counted towards ALL IN. Therefore, every weekend becomes a time to celebrate and contribute towards what God is doing in us and through us to SAVE, EQUIP, and SEND! What are you asking me to do? First and foremost we are asking that you pray and seek God’s leading on what He is asking of you. Prepare your heart to hear Him, and then listen to what He says. Engage in a LIFE Group during this season—doing LIFE together is better! Make time to engage in personal reflection with God in this ALL IN Study Guide. Talk with your spouse, your family, or others about what this commitment will mean for this next exciting season of your life. We are asking that you make a sacrificial commitment to radical generosity – whatever it is that God leads you to do. Follow His leading.

Finally, we ask that you prepare to be amazed. It is an awesome God that we serve and He is going to show up in huge ways and we anticipate a huge impact from our collective ALL IN commitments. Please mark your calendar for Commitment Sunday, November 15, and prepare to experience a life-changing worship service! We are trusting this will be a defining moment for our church and for our faith. Are there additional ways to give more towards ALL IN? Be creative as you explore ways you and your family can give towards ALL IN. You might have some stock, property, or other items of that nature. Or you may have some stored resources that God has blessed you with in the past that He may be calling you to give out of during this time. Please let us know if you need assistance with facilitating gifts of property or stock, and we can assist you with that. What about designated gifts to specific ministries? Gifts to a specific Rock ministry or initiative will count towards your ALL IN commitment. How long is my commitment? We are asking that everyone make a 2-year commitment, totaling twenty-four months. The fulfillment period for your commitment will begin with our First Big Give Sunday on December 6 and will culminate in December of 2017.

ALL IN is about your total, radical, sacrificial generosity to God’s mission at Rock Church. We believe that God calls us to action in times of hardship just as much as He does in times of abundance, and that looks different for every person. We believe God will use ALL IN to bring about a heart change in many as they surrender their lives completely over to God in the area of giving. So that may mean that you are being challenged to sell things, to pick up odd jobs, or even to trust God in faith by making a commitment that you don’t quite know how to fulfill right now, but that you believe God will provide for, as you seek. We would like everyone to be a part of ALL IN so that we can all be supporting, loving, encouraging, and praying for one another through this spiritually stretching season at Rock Church. What if I am severely in debt right now? Am I still supposed to give? If you are currently seeking to make payments to pay off debt right now, we commend you for making progress on that. And you should continue to do so. We would encourage you to go through the Rock Financial Life course classes. (Please log on to sdrock.com/rfl to find out dates and times for upcoming classes.) Being in debt does not, however, make someone “excused” from giving. Giving isn’t about what God wants from you; rather, it’s about what God wants for you. So it should be our joy and privilege to give at all times. Please contact us if you need assistance or if you would like to speak with a budgeting counselor; we would be honored to help. What if I have never even given to Rock Church before? ALL IN was crafted specifically with you in mind. ALL IN is a “one fund” generosity initiative; it’s different from a traditional capital campaign where you are called to give an extra gift above and beyond your normal giving. ALL IN is a call to radical, sacrificial generosity for absolutely everyone at Rock Church. If you have never given before, this is your chance to get in the game with a radical sacrifice. What if I am new around here? If you are new, welcome to the Rock Church family! We want to encourage you to sign up soon for our LIFE Growth Track series of classes that unpack our unique discipleship pathway for personal transformation in relationships, ministry, stewardship, and evangelism. You’ll learn about our mission and vision, learn how God uniquely designed you, and become a member of Rock Church. Log on to sdrock.com/lifegrowth for more information. We would also encourage you to join a LIFE Group. We believe that real life change happens best in the context of authentic relationships. Our LIFE Groups are small groups that meet weekly in locations all around our county and provide a place for you to connect, grow, and share life with others. Log on to sdrock.com/lifegroups to find your LIFE Group today! ALL IN is about the vision for our church. We believe that the local church is one of the most compelling missions to give towards, and we would really love for you to make the Rock Church your home church and join us for ALL IN. If you are ready for it, this is a perfect time for you to put a stake in the ground and make this your church. We need you on the team!

FAQs

About LIFE Groups What do we do on the first night of our group? Like all fun things in life–have a party! A “get to know you” coffee, dinner, or dessert is a great way to launch a new study. You may want to review the Group Agreement (page 101) and share the names of a few friends you can invite to join you. But most importantly, have fun before your study time begins. Where do we find new members for our group? The best way to grow your group is through personal invitation! Make a list of friends, coworkers, and family members, etc. that you can invite. And then make it a point to talk to at least five people every Sunday, asking if they’re in a LIFE Group, and then invite them to your group if they’re not already involved. No matter how you find members, it’s vital that you stay on the lookout for new people to join your group. All groups tend to go through healthy attrition—the result of moves, releasing new hosts, ministry opportunities, and so forth—and if the group gets too small, it could be at risk of shutting down. If you and your group stay open, you’ll be amazed at the people God sends your way. The next person just might become a friend for life. You never know! How long will this group meet? The ALL IN Study lasts for 6 weeks, but we’d encourage you to prayerfully consider continuing your group after ALL IN is complete! At the end of this study, each group member may decide if he or she wants to continue on; some groups launch relationships for years to come and others are stepping stones into another group experience. Either way, enjoy the journey. Can we do this study on our own? Absolutely! This may sound crazy, but one of the best ways to do this study is not with a full house but with a few friends. You may choose to gather with another couple who would enjoy some relational time (perhaps going to the movies or having a quiet dinner) and then walking through this study. Jesus will be with you even if there are only two of you (Matthew 18:20).

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What if this group is not working for us? You’re not alone! This could be the result of a personality conflict, life stage difference, geographical distance, level of spiritual maturity, or any number of things. Relax. Pray for God’s direction, and at the end of this 6-week study, decide whether to continue with this group or find another. You don’t typically buy the first car you look at or marry the first person you date, and the same goes with a group. However, don’t bail out before the 6 weeks are up—God might have something to teach you. Also, don’t run from conflict or prejudge people before you have given them a chance. God is still working in your life, too!

LIFE GROUP AGREEMENT Our purpose is to talk about what it means to live a God-first life with a few friends.

Who is the host? Most groups have an official host who facilitates the group. But ideally, the group will mature and members will rotate the leadership of meetings. We have discovered that healthy groups rotate hosts/leaders, on a regular basis. This model ensures that all members grow, give their unique contribution, and develop their gifts. This study guide and the Holy Spirit can keep things on track even when you rotate hosts. Christ has promised to be in your midst as you gather. Ultimately, God is your leader each step of the way. How do we handle the childcare needs in our group? Very carefully. Seriously, this can be a sensitive issue. We suggest that you empower the group to openly brainstorm solutions. You may try one option that works for a while and then adjust over time. Our favorite approach is for adults to meet in the living room or dining room and to share the cost of a babysitter (or two) who can watch the kids in a different part of the house. This way, parents don’t have to be away from their children all evening when their children are too young to be left at home. A second option is to use one home for the kids and a second home (close by or a phone call away) for the adults. A third idea is to rotate the responsibility of providing a lesson or care for the children either in the same home or in another home nearby. This can be an incredible blessing for kids. Finally, the most common solution is to decide that you need to have a night to invest in your spiritual lives individually or as a couple and to make your own arrangements for childcare. No matter what decision the group makes, the best approach is to dialogue openly about both the problem and the solution.

Group Attendance

To give priority to the group meeting. We will call or email if we will be late or absent. (Completing the Group Calendar on page 102 will minimize this issue.)

Safe Environment

To help create a safe place where people can be heard and feel loved.

Respect Differences

To be gentle and gracious toward people with different spiritual maturity, personal opinions, temperaments, or “imperfections.” We are all a work in progress.

Confidentiality

To keep anything that is shared strictly confidential and within the group, and to avoid sharing improper information about those outside the group.

Encouragement for Growth

Accept one another as we are while encouraging one another to grow.

Shared Ownership

To remember that every member is a minister and to ensure that each attender will share a small team role or responsibility over time.

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LIFE GROUP CALENDAR

MEMORY VERSES SESSION ONE

By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. Planning and setting dates can help ensure the greatest participation at every meeting. At the end of each meeting, review this calendar. Consider rotating the host, and don’t forget birthdays, socials, church events, holidays, and outreach/ ministry projects.

(Hebrews 11:8 NKJV)

SESSION TWO

Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. (Philippians 2:4 NKJV)

DATE

LESSON

HOST

REFRESHMENTS

HOST

Monday Jan 15

Bill

Joe

Bill

SESSION THREE

He answered and said to them, “Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written: ‘This people honors Me with their lips, But their heart is far from Me’” (Mark 7:6 NKJV)

SESSION FOUR

To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. (Revelation 3:21 NKJV)

SESSION FIVE

...for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. (Philippians 2:13 NKJV)

SESSION SIX

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PRAYER & PRAISE REPORTS

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