Passion

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Passion Secrets of a Vibrant Life

Phil Munsey

LIFE CHURCH - Irvine, California

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Copyright 2011 Copyright © for ”Passion: Secrets to a Vibrant Life” is owned by Phil Munsey and

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Permission for use is given to Life Church in all forms of distribution.

Dedication - Frank Munsey Foreword by Joel Osteen Endorsements Acknowledgements Introduction

Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotes are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW

OUTLINE FOR EACH SESSION

INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. Copyright 1973, 1978, and 1984 by International

SESSION ONE – Passion: The Secrets of a Vibrant Life SESSION TWO – Commitment: The Pathway to Your Dreams SESSION THREE – Attitude: The Force That Overcomes Your Circumstances SESSION FOUR – Evaluation: The Beginning of Any Good Thing SESSION FIVE – Uniqueness: The Gift God Wants You to Embrace SESSION SIX – Team: The Power to Become the Best You Can Be SESSION SEVEN – Character: The Strength to Stand for what Really Matters

Lifesource Ministries.

Copyright and use of the curriculum template is retained by Brett Eastman.

Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishing House. All rights reserved.

Scripture quotations noted (NLT) are from THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW LIVING TRANSLATION®. Copyright 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc, Wheaton, IL 60189. All rights reserved.

Scripture quotations noted (ESV) are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, ENGLISH

APPENDIX Daily Devotional Readings 30-Day Bible Reading Plan

STANDARD VERSION®. Copyright 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. All rights reserved.

Graphic Design by Tommy Owen Photograhy by Scott Tokar and Rachel Antoun Production by Jeremy Gant

SMALL GROUP LEADERS Hosting an Open House Leading for the First Time Leadership Training

GROUP RESOURCES Small Group Agreement Small Group Calendar Prayer and Praise Report Small Group Roster

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Phil Munsey Biography

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In Loving Dedication to Frank Munsey Loving Husband, Father, Friend and faithful Soldier for the Kingdom August 11, 1930 -- February 5, 2011

FOREWORD

Frank Munsey is the father of Pastor Phil Munsey, lovingly passed from this life to eternity on February 5, 2011 surrounded by his family at his bedside. The husband of Ruth and father to Steve, Joe, Phillip and Sheila, Frank Munsey was a fighter until the end.

“Staying passionate about life is key to embracing God’s best life for you now! In this insightful series by my friend Phil Munsey, entitled Passion: Secrets to a Vibrant Life, you’ll be greatly blessed by discovering these secrets to living a more dynamic life.

Frank could lovingly be remembered as the mayor of anyplace he went. Whether a restaurant, grocery story, business and of course church, Frank would make the rounds in shaking hands, greeting people with a loving word and always sharing the love of Christ.

He was a stranger to no one and a lover of anyone he met.

He grew up attending church with his mother in Oklahoma. It’s there where his dream of becoming pastor began. With that dream in his heart and “never give up” attitude Frank met his beautiful wife Ruth and started the Evangelist Temple Church in Hammond, Indiana.

Frank was always known for welcoming ministers and missionaries into his church and home. His spirit of generosity and strong leadership earned him a great reputation inside and outside of his denomination. After 30 years of being a senior pastor Frank and Ruth placed the leadership of the church into the hands of their eldest son Steve. But by no means did he retire. In fact, after giving the church to their son, he started a new work oversees in the country of Bulgaria. Seeing the torn apart country by Communism Frank and Ruth dedicated themselves to that country and built a Christian school.

Now with over 300 students from different countries and religious backgrounds the American English Academy is one of the top rated schools in Bulgaria. He believed that education and God went hand in hand and knew that it could change the country. Just last year they purchased a 50,000 sq. foot building to expand and paid cash for it. His last trip to Bulgaria was in December just a month before his death.

Phil and Jeannie Munsey have been our close friends for over 10 years.

When we first met, Victoria and I knew it was a relationship of destiny.

They became not only our friends, but advisers, as we began our adventure as pastors of Lakewood. With their experience as pastors and connections with so many other great leaders, our relationship became vital to our ministry. Just as we have learned from and been inspired by Phil’s ability to bring fresh understanding to God’s Word, we believe you will too.

In and throughout this series Phil will help you discover a more joyful, fulfilling and energized life, building on the eternal truths of the Word of God as found in Romans 12. In addition, you’ll hear several encouraging testimonies, and be uplifted by Jeannie Munsey’s inspiring worship.

I encourage you to gather with your friends or group and to use this series to find fresh and creative possibilities for your own life and community. I believe God has put seeds of greatness in you that are just waiting to unfold and blossom in new and exciting ways. I also believe that God wants you to live an abundant life, enriched with purpose, a life beyond your wildest dreams... and passion will pave the way forward. I know your life will never be the same! God bless you.”

Frank Munsey will be remembered for his tenacious spirit and determination. He was funny man that would leave you a message saying it was urgent, then when you would call he would joke that it was the only way you would call him back.

Great man, great legacy.

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ENDORSEMENTS “Phil Munsey is a godly man, a great pastor, and a dear friend. His life has impacted our community and me personally.”

- Rick Warren, Senior Pastor, Saddleback Church “Phil Munsey is a brilliant pastor and a good friend to my family and to me.”

- Dodie Osteen, Cofounder, Lakewood Church “I am honored to call Phil Munsey a friend. His life and ministry have advanced the kingdom of God in tremendous ways. Phil is the real deal. He lives what he writes, teaches, and preaches, just as Jesus did.”

- Dr. Walt Kallestad, Senior Pastor, Community Church of Joy “Phil is one of our greatest friends in all the world. Full of passion and driven to reach the lost, he is a rare gift to the kingdom of God.” - Matthew Barnett, Cofounder of Dream Center Los Angeles “Phil Munsey and I serve on the board of a major national ministry. Phil stays on the cutting edge of today’s world.”

- John H Moon Sr. President, Moon Credit Corp.

“I have known Phil Munsey for many years, and I am always amazed at the delivery of each subject he teaches with both life experience and divine revelation. I am always inspired by his unique, God-given ability to communicate old ideas and ideals with fresh insight.”

- David T. Demola, Pastor, Faith Fellowship Ministries “Phil Munsey is, in my opinion, one of “God’s generals.” He has not only a heart for the lost but also compassion and love for youth.”

- Don Colbert, MD, Author, Toxic Relief and the Seven Pillars of Health “Phil Munsey has the unique ability to encourage and challenge, entertain and educate, make us laugh and cry - all at the same time! He is one of the most creative thinkers I know - often reexamining long-held notions and assumptions.”

- Dr. Jim Reeve, Senior Pastor, Faith Community Church

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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Jeannie Munsey: To my husband Phil, our family, our team, its been an amazing journey thus far and I sincerely look forward to the days ahead. May God continue to grant us grace and favor as we serve him together.

Phil Munsey: I’d like to thank my wife, Jeannie, and the rest of my family for their love, patience and support in standing 25+ excellent years as a church together. I eagerly look forward to what’s next. To all my friends who have helped make this possible, thank you! Your sacrifice will forever be embedded in the fabric of who we are.

Special Thanks to Life Church members, both near and far, for always believing in us as your pastors and co-laborers in the field of ministry. May the many contributions you’ve made into our lives and our church through your time, talent and treasure be truly honored and blessed by God.

INTRODUCTION Welcome to Passion!

The videos have been recorded, the lessons have been written, and some amazing people have offered their stories—now we need YOU! We need your Passion.

Let me tell you here right at the start—the Passion is already in you. God put it there. If you haven’t found it yet, I hope this series of sessions will help you unleash the Passion that I know is in you to meet the purposes God has in mind.

Everyone longs to live a life of Passion. We don’t always call it Passion, but the desires to “find meaning” or to “make a difference” are just other ways of saying, “I want to live a vibrant, passionate life!” That is definitely a life you can live. You can start now. What do you think Jesus meant when he said, “I have come that you might have life—abundant life?” He was talking about Passion!

Don’t go alone on this adventure to discover passion. Pick up the phone and call a couple of people to join you. Tell them what you’re doing and that you would love to have them along for the ride!

As I sit here praying over these materials, I find it hard to imagine what an amazing tidal wave of Passion could be unleashed in your life and in other lives as you meet together.

But I know it can happen! Jesus said he came to make it happen! That’s his passion for you.

Passionately praying for you, Phil Munsey

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OUTLINE OF EACH SESSION Most people want to live a passionate spiritual life, but few achieve this by themselves. And most small groups struggle to balance all of God’s purposes in their meetings. Groups tend to overemphasize one of the various reasons for meeting. Rarely is there a healthy balance that includes teaching, evangelism, ministry, practical exercises, and worship. That’s why we’ve included all of these elements in this study so you can live a healthy, balanced spiritual life over time.

A typical group session for Passion will include the following:

STORY

The lessons we will learn during Passion are best illustrated in the lives of real people. Each session will begin with a video summary of someone’s story and the video presentation during the session will capture firsthand that person telling their story.

LISTEN

As in Listen to God and Each Other’s Lives. The foundation for spiritual growth is an intimate connection with God and his family. A few people who really know you and who earn your trust provide a place to experience the life Jesus invites you to live. This section of each session typically offers you two options. You can get to know your whole group by using the icebreaker question(s), or you can check in with one or two group members—your spiritual partner(s)—for a deeper connection and encouragement in your spiritual journey.

DVD TEACHING SEGMENT

Serving as a companion to the Passion small group discussion book is the Passion Video teaching. This DVD is designed to combine teaching segments from Pastor Phil along with leadership insights and personal stories of life change. Helping moderate the Passion DVD curriculum is []. Using the teaching video will add value to this 7 week commitment of doing life together and discovering our passion pulse and making sure it’s in the vibrant range.

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LEARN

As in Learn from God’s Word and Each Other. Here is where you come face to face with Scripture. In core passages you’ll explore what the Bible teaches about the topic of the study. The focus won’t be on accumulating information but on how we should live in light of the Word of God. We want to help you apply the Scriptures practically, creatively, and 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 is our greatest aim.

LIVE

As in Live Out the Truth You Just Learned. Here is where James urging us 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 help outsiders connect with him, to know him personally, and to carry out his commands. This doesn’t necessarily mean preaching on street corners. It could mean welcoming a few newcomers into your group, 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.

LOVE

As in Love the Lord Your God and Your Neighbor, Too. We have Jesus affirmation that every aspect of life can ultimately be measured as a way of fulfilling one or both of the “bottom line” commandment: “The most important is, ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these” (Mark 12:29–31 ESV). The group sessions will close with time for personal response to God and group prayer, seeking to keep this crucial commandment before us at all times.

FOR DEEPER STUDY

If you want to dig deeper into more Bible passages about the topic at hand, we’ve provided additional passages and questions. Your group may choose to do study homework ahead of each meeting in order to cover more biblical material. If you prefer not to do study homework, the Deepening section will provide you with plenty to discuss within the group. These options allow individuals or the whole group to go deeper in their study, while still accommodating those who can’t do homework or are new to your group.

These options allow individuals or the whole group to go deeper in their 13

A P P EN D I X

study, while still accommodating those who can’t do homework or are new to your group.

BIBLE STUDY NOTES

This section provides background notes on the Bible passage(s) you examine in the Deepening section. You may want to refer to these notes during your group meeting or as a reference for those doing additional study.

DAILY DEVOTIONALS

Each week on the Daily Devotionals pages we provide scriptures to read and reflect on between group meetings. We suggest you use this section to seek God on your arm 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.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSES

For each session we have provided a Memory Verse that emphasizes an important truth from the session. This is an optional exercise, but we believe that memorizing Scripture can be a vital part of filling our minds with God’s will for our lives. We encourage you to give this important habit a try.

SMALL GROUP HOST

Doug Bisel And Jason Chatham will serve as your personal small group host throughout the series. He will open each session and proceed to walk your group through each step of the study. After his opening remarks your group will have a time to reconnect followed by a time to watch the testimony and the teaching session by Phil Munsey. Then will come back and launch your group into their final discussion. Whether you are a group leader or member having

WORSHIP TOGETHER

Jeannie Munsey will serve as you home group worship leader. She has produced a series of short worships sets depending on your song preference, time availability, worship style and familiarity with each of the songs.

Each song will be accompanied by the lyrics at the bottom of the page so anyone could sing along even if they aren’t familiar with the songs.

SESSION ONE PASSION: SECRETS TO A VIBRANT LIFE

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This session introduces our theme for the seven sessions and highlights why Passion is such a key to understanding the way God has made us. Phil closes with an overview of the six components of the passionate life God wants to give us. There are some very good reasons why followers of Jesus can live significantly vibrant lives. We’re going to find out what those reasons are so we can enthusiastically pursue a life of Passion.

Sometimes, as Julie Prendez has discovered, passion emerges from an unexpected challenge— the daunting challenge of a grandchild struck and then killed by a merciless disease. She knows that passion, in one way or another is connected with hope. Passion pushes at boundaries, limitations, and obstacles—to create something new. And genuine passion taps into something God has planned that can make even Spinal Muscle Atrophy a catalyst from which comes great good.

LISTEN Whether your small group is brand new or an established gathering of old friends, you’re starting something fresh with this study. You’re going to connect with each other at a deeper level. As you’ll learn in the video sessions, the picture here is that you’re all on a journey together. You’re also going to think about life at its deepest level. God is going to be a subject of conversation and a participant in the sessions. To get the most out of this experience, it’s worth taking some time to check in with one another. It’s time to listen...

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What brings you to this group today? If you’re new, share what motivated you to come. If you’ve been with these people for a long time, what are you looking forward to from these particular sessions?

It’s important for a small group to agree on a set of shared values. On page [00] you’ll find a sample agreement with the values we’ve found most useful in sustaining healthy, balanced groups. We recommend that you choose one or two values to emphasize during this study.

Choose ones that will take your group to the next stage of intimacy and fruitfulness.

For new groups: You might want to focus on a “Safe Environment.” If a group isn’t a safe place for people to share themselves, nothing else happens.

For established groups: We recommend that you try “Rotating Leaders” during this study. People grow so much when they have a chance to lead just one group meeting! Using the small group calendar on page 00, take a few minutes to decide who will host and lead each meeting.

Get comfortable: Have each person introduce themselves by telling the rest of the group the name of one character from a movie or book that they would most like to join on a life changing adventure. Why did you choose that person, and what adventure do you imagine sharing with them?

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TEACHING SESSION ONE: PASSION

This first video will introduce our series and explain some of the terms and ideas to which we will return frequently.

Use the open spaces to track the key points in Phil’s teaching. Note your reactions, reflections, and responses to the content, recording places where truth is intersecting with your life.

Briefly write your reflections and responses to Julie’s Story: _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Write down your notes and any personal applications to Phil Munsey’s teaching: _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man, nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything. And he made from one man every nation of mankind

REVIEW THESE KEY PASSAGES

to live on all the face of the earth, having determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their dwelling place, that they should seek God, in the hope that they might feel their way toward him and find him. Yet he is actually not far from each one of us, for “ ‘In him we live and move and have our being’; as even some of your own poets have said, “ ‘For we are indeed his offspring.’ Being then God’s offspring, we ought not to think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and imagination of man. The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent, because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed; and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead.” (Acts 17:24–31 ESV) “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:1-2 ESV)

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LEARN Use the following questions to consider the teaching video as well as to further explore the Bible background of the theme—Passion.

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How did Julie Quintez discover her passion? What other people do you know whose passion is easy to identify?

Reflecting on Phil’s presentation, what do you find most intriguing about a life of passion? In what ways have you already experienced what you could describe as a hint of passion or clues to passion in your own life?

Have someone read the quotation from Acts 17 in the Bible that’s been printed in the section above (or read it from their own Bible).

If you were in the audience that day, what would you take away from Paul comments?

How does Paul not only describe but illustrate the passionate life?

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Comment on this statement: What bothers you and has brought you pain also holds the vital signs that connect with purpose/ passion. How does difficulty point us or drive us toward passion?

(Refer back to Julie Quintez’ extremely painful experience) Which of the following views of life do you hold and why?

a. Life is what happens to you.

b. Life works for you.

How do you respond to Phil’s assertion that God wouldn’t give you a passion if he didn’t also give you the gift to match it?

DEEPER STUDY Use the following passage is you have extra time, or if the group desires to delve at greater length into the theme for this session.

Phil offered two key questions for discovering passion. Talk about what each one of these questions means to you.

a. What make you tick?

b. What makes you ticked?

Phil also referred to Psalm 37:4—“Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart” (NIV). How would you equate passion with having the desires of your heart?

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Ex o dus 3 : 1 – 1 2 o

You might say that Moses spent 40 years in the desert learning how to lead sheep around so he would be ready to lead a nation around the same desert for the next 40 years! So, what do you think was his passion?

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God could have gotten Moses’ attention any number of ways. Why do you think he chose a burning bush?

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People talk about “burn-out” but that’s not what passion is about.

How does the unquenchable burning bush talk to you about passion?

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Acts 17:24–31 o

How did Paul know what to say to the Athenians? Check the context.

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In what ways would you say Paul tried to convey to his audience that he was introducing them to a passionate God?

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What is it about the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ that puts the Gospel in a different category from every other message?

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Where do you see passion lived out in these verses?

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What must a godly passionate person avoid in life?

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How do we avoid the effect without necessarily avoiding the people?

LIVE Ultimately, passion in our lives will involve action, outflow, application, and obedience. That’s why “therefore” is a crucial trigger-word in a letter like Romans. It alerts us to the shift from explanation to application. It invites us to face the facts. If what we’ve just read is really true, then the way we live will have to be affected by those truths. In this case, if we have a new identity in Christ, then we have to develop a lifestyle that matches that identity. That’s what we will look at in the five sessions to come. Here we want to settle into our identity in Christ. The Christian life is a mindset as well as a lifestyle.

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What your solution to the humorous observation that “the only problem with a living sacrifice is that it keeps crawling off the altar?”

Is there any part of your life that is not affected by your passion to live for God? What would it take for that surrender to take place?

LOVE Sharing our experience of Christ with outsiders is another of his essential life purposes. One of the clearest ways we love God is by actively loving others for God’s sake. Loving them for our sake is always limited; loving them for God’s sake will tend to stretch us quite a bit farther. We want to be people who passionately apply the Great Commandment— we don’t try to separate Loving God and Loving Neighbor, but realize that if we really love God, we will love our neighbor. God’s Word is stunningly explicit: “We love because he first loved us. If anyone says, ‘I love God,’ yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen” (1 John 4:19–20).

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How do you respond to the idea that a sacrificial life like the one urged in Romans 12:1 is the essence of a passionate lifestyle?

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If you have a new life in Christ, you have two kinds of neighbors: those who share that new life and those who are still dead in sin. What does passionate, Christ like love demand that you do for each kind of neighbor?

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Most of us need help in developing the notice factor when it comes to our neighbors. We easily fall into self-centered living.

What is your plan to intentionally respond to those people who most clearly fit in the category of neighbors in your life? Note below the Circles of Influence illustration that you can use to think about the various relationships that God wants to use you to be channel of his grace. Who are the key people in each of those circles?

Here are several practical steps you can take to start identifying passion in your life.

DAILY DEVOTIONALS Below are listed some key Bible passages that will supplement the scriptures in the session along with brief devotionals that will help you meditate on God’s Word. Some of these will review passages mentioned in the session and some will expand your Biblical awareness of the themes.

Day 1 – Romans 12:1 | Therefore

STUDY NOTES

Reflection Question: Why does Paul start out this chapter with “therefore”?

What’s he referring to? _______________________________________________________________

These notes relate to some of the phrases in the main Bible passages for this lesson, giving some background or possible explanations:

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By the mercies of God (Romans 12:1).

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To bless means to speak or deliver good into someone else’s life. Through Christ God delivered into our lives the maximum good He could give us.

Your spiritual worship. (Romans 12:2).

This phrase is a chilling reminder that we are as-good-as-dead apart from Christ. It is grace, applying Christ’s sacrifice to our debt or offense that brings us to life. Sin isn’t just a small set-back or an insignificant human handicap; sin is the terminal disease with which we are all infected. Without God’s grace we have no hope.

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Day 2 – Romans 12:1 | Mercy Motivation

Reflection Question: What is it about God’s mercy that would drive us to place our lives in God’s hands? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us (Romans 12:6).

The moment we trust in Christ we are not physically transported into eternity, but we might as well be. The great thing about grace is that sin had sealed our fate in death but God in Christ graciously shattered that seal and replaced it with the seal of hope and a future with Christ.

Day 3 – Romans 12:1 | Passion

Reflection Question: What single word in this verse is most connected with Passion for you? Why? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

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Day 4 – Romans 12:2 | The Big Squeeze

Reflection Question: Are we “fitting in” to the world or is the world trying to shove us in a mold? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Day 5 – Romans 12:2 | Mind Games

Reflection Question: What do you think it would be like to have the mind of Christ? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--this is your spiritual act of worship.

(Romans 12:1)

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SESSION TWO COMMITMENT: THE PATHWAY TO YOUR DREAMS27

Most of us like the word commitment; we just don’t like what commitment requires. We want the results of commitment without going through the wringer of commitment. Our passion often starts out as something easy and interesting, but it never becomes a real passion without commitment.

Without commitment, our passion is our hobby.

When commitment kicks in, passion becomes life.

When commitment rolls in, we discover that one level of passion is a means or platform for a deeper level.

TEACHING SESSION TWO: COMMITMENT

This video will continue our series and look at the first aspect or requirement for living a life of passion.

Use the space provided to track the key points in Phil’s teaching and initial conversations. Note your personal reactions, reflections, and responses to what is being shared.

These are the kind of intersections that God will use to transform your life

Noel Salas understand commitment moments like popping up on the front edge of a wave that can crush you and he also knows about a commitment life that takes you back to the waves even when they have crushed you! Along the way he’s learned that the practice of commitment takes its noblest location when it becomes about people.

LISTEN As you gather, take note whether there are new people joining the group for this session. If you know their names, greet them; if you don’t, introduce yourself. One of the best gifts you can give another person is remembering their name.

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and the life of your group over time.

Reflections on the story of Noel Solis: _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

When you hear the word “commitment” what comes to mind? What are some example of long commitment?

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New people are exempt from this question. Last time we talked about a vibrant life as part of the definition of Passion. What thoughts have you had this week about living a vibrant life?

Write down your notes and any personal applications to Phil Munsey’s teaching:

If there are one or more new participants in the group, take a moment to review the set of shared values that you considered last time (see page [00]). Perhaps talk a little about the fact that these values are intended to make your sessions a safe and fun place to connect with other people’s lives.

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REVIEW THESE KEY PASSAGES Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--this is your spiritual act of worship.

(Romans 12:1 NIV) “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.

But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” (Matthew 7:13-14 NIV) Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this: (Psalms 37:5 NIV)

LEARN Use the following questions to consider the teaching video as well as to further explore the Bible background of the theme—Commitment in Passion.

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What are some examples of “serious commitment” the way you see it?

Why do you think that “talkin’ commitment” is easier than “walkin’ commitment”? Why does this problem make us avoid commitments in the first place?

Since Phil mentioned he plans to use these terms repeatedly, how do you think that what makes you tick and what makes you ticked are two good clues to your passion?

Based on what you heard from Phil, what’s the basic connection between Passion and Commitment?

Phil used Jesus statement about the broad way and the narrow way (see Matthew 7:13–14) to talk about a key to commitment. How does focus affect commitment?

How would you explain Phil’s illustration of equity as the result of commitment in the same way that buying a home involves equity that can’t be gained through a lease?

Respond to this statement: When it comes to your life, God isn’t interested in a lease arrangement or a month-to-month contract—God wants commitment?

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Why is it important to remember (and count on) the fact that God will give us the power to commit if we will let him? How does a verse like Mark 9:24 help you understand God’s role in the commitment process? “Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, ‘I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!’” (Mark 9:24 NIV)

o According to Paul, how does commitment help us when the going gets tough and hard? o

Phil said, “If you serve God hard, it will be easy; if you serve God easy, it will be hard.” What did he mean?

DEEPER STUDY

2 Corinthians 5:16–19

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How does verse 17 describe the results of our most basic commitment to God?

Use the following passages if you have extra time, or if the group desires to delve at greater length into the theme for this session.

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How does being a “new creation” give you the freedom to pursue your passion?

Proverbs 3:5–6 o

What does trust have to do with commitment?

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“Heart,” “understanding,” and “acknowledge” are different expressions of commitment. How does each of these affect your passion and relationship with God?

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Why, according the last line of these verses, do you want God’s participation when you are pursuing your passion?

2 T i m o t hy 1 : 1 2 o

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Some versions have “entrusted;” some have “committed” to describe the action Paul says he has taken with God regarding his life and future. How does verse one describe our new life in Christ and the basic attitude we should now have?

When we talk about commitment in our relationship with God, how does that go two ways?

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o

When it comes to passion, we need to remember that God also commits. How does verse 19 spell this out?

LIVE Ultimately, living in a committed way for Christ is a continual combination of personal challenge and response alongside of group interaction. The passionate life has to be personally intentional, even as we are involved with others. God deals with us internally, but the results always affect our external lives. This first characteristic of Passionate living sets the stage for all the others. Until we are committed, the rest of Passion is tentative and short-lived.

11 12 13

Our relationship with one another as Christians is very important to God. Why do you think God puts so much emphasis on trusting commitment with him as we live in relationship with others?

Because Passion affects everything (and everyone), what role does your relationship with other people have in your making and living a commitment to God? What areas of life are you already realizing are going to be deeply affected by your pursuit of passion?

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LOVE Because Jesus said it was the central, bottom line command, passionate living for a Christian can ultimately be summarized as loving God and loving our neighbors. We live in a culture that tries to make a person’s spiritual life so private that it becomes highly individualized and isolated. Whatever you might call that kind of spirituality, it certainly isn’t Biblical or godly. Nor is it committed, because commitment affects everything.

The Great Commandment comes to us as individuals but it immediately involves us in responding to God and others.

14 15 16 34

How does commitment reflect our priority to love God and love our neighbor?

What do you need to change in your thinking, in your feeling, and in your doing regarding your relationships with others in order to live in a committed manner?

STUDY NOTES These notes relate to some of the phrases in the main Bible passages for this lesson, giving some background or possible explanations:

Broad...narrow (Matthew 7:13–14).

Jesus told us in the Sermon on the Mount in several ways that commitment and focus would be required of us. The Christian life isn’t haphazard; it has the quality that Paul described this way: “Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead” (Philippians 3:13). Now, that’s focused commitment that unleashes passionate living.

Offer your bodies (Romans 12:1).

This is not the kind of offer you make at lunch with someone to pay the tab when you’re really hoping they will cover it. This is the no-holds-barred, “I’m all in, Lord” offer that God always accepts. If you make the offer, he will take you up on it.

Commit (Psalm 37:5).

The way this verse refers to is life, future, and everything. The passionate adventure in living is no longer thinking that God goes with us as much as thinking I’m going with God; he’s leading the way; he’s going to determine the outcome as only he can.

So, what is one specific habit, attitude, problem, or challenge that you need to upgrade to passion this week?

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DAILY DEVOTIONALS

Day 9 – Worthy before the World

On the Life Church Website you will also find video devotions to go with each of the daily passages listed below. Some of these will review passages mentioned in the session and some will expand your Biblical awareness of the themes.

_______________________________________________________________

Day 6 – Psalms 37:5 | Commitment Results

Day 10 – Romans 12:1 | Sacrifice

Reflection Question: Why does God want us buckled before the adventure ride leaves? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Reflection Question: How is the loving one another an example of livin’ worthily? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

Reflection Question: ?

_______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Day 7 – Proverbs 3:5–6 | Commitment in Trust

Reflection Question: What are three aspects of commitment mentioned in these verses? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Day 8 – Matthew 7:13–14 | Grace in Action

Reflection Question: How do your “tick” and your “ticked” points help you create focus in your life?

Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--this is your spiritual act of worship. (Romans 12:1 NIV)

_______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ 36

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When the world hears us talking about Passionate Living, they have a certain idea of what that means—living beyond your means: spending more, wasting more, owning more, doing more—and doing most of this on credit. For a Christian, living passionately is also living beyond our means— living fully on what God has provided in Christ.

That means that our attitude changes. They are also very different than anything the world dreams up when it tells people to live large.

For motor-cross racer and coach Tyler Klesiak, the test of passionate living attitude came when he could not longer do the thing! Repeated accidents made it impossible to pursue riding fast, jumping high, and push the limits of what bike and human can do! Tyler shows us that genuine passion can be expressed in some obvious ways, but remains true—sometimes even more true when the obvious ways are closed. And it has a lot to do with attitude!

LISTEN

SESSION THREE THE FORCE THAT OVERCOMES YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES 38

This is your third session together. For longstanding small groups, this may be another in a series of encounters. Note that every time we meet, we’re a new group. The experiences we have had since our last session may have changed some of us forever. These experiences may have been exhilarating or devastating, but they have definitely changed us. If we’ve been walkin’ commitment instead of just talkin’ it, that kind of passion has begun to change things. As we gather, we can be attentive to ways in which our individual changes may provide opportunities to encourage and pray for each other. As we will discover in this session, we’re in a fight together!

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1 2

In the first two sessions, we established the big picture of Passion and the starting point of Commitment. What are some of the lifealtering ideas you’ve thought about as a result of those sessions?

TEACHING SESSION THREE: ATTITUDE

If someone in your group didn’t attend the first two sessions, take a few minutes as a group and fill them in on the main themes. Use your notes in this booklet as you scan those sessions.

This third video includes a short review of the Passion objective of this series.

Then you will hear Phil’s teaching on Attitude as a significant component of Passion. Use the spaces to note the key points.

Reflections on Tyler Kresiak’s story: _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Write down your notes and any personal applications to Phil Munsey’s teaching: _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

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“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will” (Romans 12:2 NIV)

REVIEW THESE KEY PASSAGES

“For all that is in the world--the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life--is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever” (1 John 2:16-17 NKJV) “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28 NIV) “I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:10-13 NIV) Take a moment to finish jotting down any points you want to remember from Phil’s teaching.

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LEARN Use the following questions to consider the teaching video as well as to further explore the Bible background of the theme, Attitude, the force the overcomes your circumstances.

3 4 5 6 7 8

What impressed you the most about Tyler’s attitude in dealing with repeated disappointments?

You’ve had a couple of weeks to start picking up on your “passion pulse.” What are you discovering about what makes you tick and what makes you ticked?

How would you explain the following statement from Phil, using your own life experiences as an example: “Attitude determines your effectiveness and your enjoyment?”

When the Bible talks about “the world” as in Romans 12:2 what does that term mean?

How exactly does the world try to make us “conform” to its pattern?

Phil pointed out that going negative is the default setting on the world’s outlook.

What examples of the tendency come to mind?

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What does the need to have our minds “renewed” say about us? In what ways does transformation follow when we renew our minds? o When it comes to a healthy spiritual attitude, what have you found to be good attitude reinforcements?

DEEPER STUDY Use the following passages if you have extra time, or if the group desires to delve at greater length into the theme for this session.

P h i l i pp i a n s 2 : 5 – 1 1 o

Paul is the amazing details of Jesus’ decision to commit to our salvation. He decided on the attitude, and everything else ran its course. What area of Christ’s attitude have you been working on recently?

o

How have you seen this attitude of servant humility as you’ve studied the life of Jesus?

o

What do you think your attitude is going to be when every knee bows and every tongue confesses who Jesus is?

1 John 2:15–17 o

o

in the world that John warns us about?

John 3:16 tells us God loves the world, but John warns us here not to love the world; why can’t we do what God does? What attitude should we have toward the world?

How do you think that attitude makes the difference in overcoming these temptations from the world?

Acts 17:22–34 o

What kind of attitude do you sense from Paul throughout this speech in the high place in Athens?

o

If that speech from Paul had been your first introduction to the God of the Bible, what would you have known about the creator at that point?

o

What do you think was most compelling about Paul’s message?

LIVE Every session in this study comes down to attitude. If the commitment that we looked at last time is the underlying foundation related to faith; then attitude is that day-by-day confidence that the life of passion we’re pursuing has God’s blessing. Meeting with brothers and sisters in Christ to learn about these matters is crucial, but the learning falls flat if it never impacts our living! At this point is when James 1:22–25 kicks in big time. If you want to experience the full effect of all of God’s blessings, then put the Word you are learning into action.

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Phil summarized the persistent attitude that should permeate a Christian’s living: o Learning to see God at work in every aspect of my life. o Learning to see good in all the things in my life. o Learning to see the goal throughout each part of my life (the end results) How does Romans 8:28 summarize that three part attitude?

What are some specific examples of each of the three danger points 44

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As you look at those three levels of learning listed in the last question, which one do you think needs your attention the most these days?

LOVE These sessions remind us that attitude has to be seen in the ultimate context of loving God and loving our neighbor. Our desire is not to deliberately antagonize or dismiss our neighbor in choosing to live for God. This is not attitude is the sense the word is sometimes used (pride, haughtiness), but a genuine and humble attitude to trust in God. Our prayer is always that in the way we treat our neighbor even while not living like him or her, they will be persuaded to consider Who makes such a difference in our lives.

13

When Paul says that we can learn to see God, the good, and the goal in all things, what keeps us from projecting superiority over others? (How does immediately welcoming others and persistently refusing to take credit for what God has done fit into the picture?)

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What message does the world get from Christians who are “negaholics” according to Phil?

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How much attitude do you think is involved when we set out to love our neighbor?

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STUDY NOTES These notes relate to some of the phrases in the main Bible passages for this lesson, giving some background or possible explanations:

Do not conform...be transformed. (Romans 12:2).

These two terms capture the contrast between living for God with passion and living under the control of the world. Note that conforming is what we do, which transforming is what’s done to us by God. He’s the one doing the work in us.

Renewing of your mind (Romans 12:2).

The mind is not left behind when we talk about the matters of faith; it’s front and center. Passion involves thinking as well as acting. In fact, part of the Great Commandment can be expressed as “passionately love the Lord your God with your mind.”

All things (Romans 8:28).

Too many people assume that this verse tries to claim that “all things are good,” but it doesn’t. That attitude God wants us to maintain is that even the bad things and downright evil that occurs to us God can bring around to something good in our lives. He is the ultimate creative adaptor!

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DAILY DEVOTIONALS

Day 14 – Romans 12:2 | Mental Renovation

On the Life Church Website you will also find video devotions to go with each of the daily passages listed below. Some of these will review passages mentioned in the session and some will expand your Biblical awareness of the themes.

_______________________________________________________________

Day 11 – Philippians 2:5 | Christ’s Attitude

Day 15 – Psalm 1:1–2 | Delightful Renewal

Reflection Question: How would you summarize Christ’s attitude in one sentence? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Reflection Question: Describe one way in which the Word of God has helped you think in a radically different way about something? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

Reflection Question: Psalm 1:1 describes three ways to avoid being conformed to the world; verse two give you the alternative—delight in the law of the Lord. How are you doing that these days? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Day 12 – Romans 8:28 | Attitude in the Valley

Reflection Question: When bad things are happening, how do we “see the good” that’s up ahead? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Day 13 – Romans 12:2 | Pressure

Reflection Question: The command not to conform implies there will be pressure to conform. Where are you feeling that? _______________________________________________________________

2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:2 NIV)

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SESSION FOUR

The busier we get, the less likely we are to know where we are and where we’re going. We can move at the speed of light—but we’re not getting anywhere if we’re running in circles. Life demands that we stop and check our bearings. Passion needs the GPS of evaluation. This is because passion doesn’t necessarily direct itself. It is energy, sometimes amazing energy, but it needs wisdom at the controls.

Walt Ybarra has been in the school of passion for over thirty years. He knows in a deep and intimate way that passion left uncontrolled can accomplish much that is not ultimately beneficial. He has learned that the kind of guidance God provides to passion allows for evaluation, change of direction, and a deeper contentment than passion alone can provide.

LISTEN Because it’s so easy to talk ourselves into what we want to do rather than the wise thing to do, evaluation requires the component called others. Effective evaluation means that we learn to listen to others. We learn to give them an honest sense of who we are so they can give us the best counsel possible. This is why the regular practice of simple listening that we are pursuing in each session is important.

1 EVALUATION: THE BEGINNING OF ANY GOOD THING 50

2

If we’ve been paying attention the last three weeks, we’ve got Passion on our minds. Let’s take a few minutes and tell each other what examples we have observed of someone living a vibrant life and what efforts we have made to live passionately ourselves.

Before God takes you to heaven, what is one of the wildest, most outside-your-comfort zone experiences that you can imagine doing as a Christian? In other words, what’s the most fantastic example you can think of where someone is pursuing their passion out on the edge?

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TEACHING SESSION ONE: PASSION

This video will continue our journey through Romans 12, examining yet another aspect of what it means to live a passionate life. This session will help us think about how evaluation, particularly of ourselves under God’s guidance is an ongoing essential part of passion.

Use the space provided to track the key points in Walt Debora’s story and in Phil’s teaching. Note your reactions, reflections, and responses to what is being shared. God will use these interactions to transform your life and the life of your group over time.

Reflections on Walt DeBora’s story: _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

“For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you” (Romans 12:3 NIV) But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. Ephesians 4:7 NIV)

REVIEW THESE KEY PASSAGES

“We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise. We, however, will not boast beyond proper limits, but will confine our boasting to the field God has assigned to us, a field that reaches even to you. We are not going too far in our boasting, as would be the case if we had not come to you, for we did get as far as you with the gospel of Christ. Neither do we go beyond our limits by boasting of work done by others. Our hope is that, as your faith continues to grow, our area of activity among you will greatly expand, so that we can preach the gospel in the regions beyond you. For we do not want to boast about work already done in another man’s territory. But, ‘Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.’ For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends” (2 Corinthians 10:12–18 NIV)

_______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Write down your notes and any personal applications to Phil Munsey’s teaching: _______________________________________________________________

Take a few moments as a group to gather your thoughts and finish any notes you might have been making during the teaching time. Consider how you would answer if Phil stepped up and asked you pointblank, “So, what’s your latest evaluation telling you?”

_______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ 52

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LEARN

9

Have someone read 2 Corinthians 10:12–18 for the group. Phil highlighted four components to Paul’s evaluation:

• Know your sphere/passion/gift (see vs. 12–14)

• Grow your gift/passion (see v. 15)

• Sow your passion with others (see vs. 15–16)

• Show (forth) what you have to others (see vs. 16–18)

Use the following questions to consider the teaching video as well as to further explore the Bible background of the theme: Evaluation: The Beginning of Any Good Thing.

3 4 5 6

What was your take-away thought from Walt DeBora’s story?

Have someone read Romans 12:1–3. Where do you see evaluation in both verse 2 and verse 3?

What does it mean to “test and approve God’s perfect will?”

What do you see as the benefit of humble evaluation in relation to God’s will (v.2b) as well as a sober evaluation of yourself based on the “measure of faith God has given you” (v.3)?

7

How would you describe “where you are” and “who you are” at this point in our journey with Christ? What is the passionate direction from this place?

8

How does Romans 12:1 relate to Phil’s statement: “You have to ‘altar’ your ego; keep in on the cross” and Paul’s words about “living sacrifice?”

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What kind of “boasting” is Paul talking about here?

10

In what ways can God and others be involved in all four of the steps above in a confirming or affirming way?

DEEPER STUDY Use the following passages if you have extra time, or if the group desires to delve at greater length into the theme for this session.

2 Corinthians 10:12–18 o

What evidence do you see of Paul’s passion to not only spread the Gospel but also make sure that churches he had planted were healthy and growing?

o

Why is this kind of evaluation that Paul is doing also an important discipline of clarification and planning? God obviously has the final say, but how are you making plans with God’s purposes in mind?

o

In verse 18, how does Paul make it clear that the final evaluation is and always will be in God’s hands?

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Jeremiah 9:23–24 o

Paul quoted part of this passage in 2 Corinthians 10:18 you just studied above. Note the three other areas of “achievement” that tend to get special attention by world’s standard. What are they?

o

What’s the difference between knowing God and understanding God?

o

Which traits in his character did God highlight in this passage? How are they significant to you?

2 T i m o t hy 1 : 6 – 7 o Although Paul does not use the term Passion in these two verses, how would you identify this as part of Paul’s subject? o

How are you fanning into flame the gift of God in you? Who are the “Pauls” in your life to encourage your passion?

o

What significance would you see in paraphrasing verse 7 as “God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of passion? In other words, what contribution do power, love, and self-discipline make to passion?

LOVE When we think about applying the Great Commandment to love God and our neighbor, we must get beyond the fact that we are unable to love this way! If we wait until we think we can love this way, we will never love. If we acknowledge our lack of love and stop there, we will never love, either. The answer is to allow God to do the loving—to focus on what we can do and ask God to let His love seep through our efforts.

13 14

How does love motivate your efforts to Know-Grow-Sow-Show when it comes to expressing our passion?

Phil noted that dreams ultimately focus on God and others while schemes focus on us. Take a moment to evaluate your recurring dreams. Should they be re-titled schemes, or is your imagination focused on what God might accomplish in your life to the benefit of others?

LIVE It’s one thing to talk about the Body of Christ as an interesting concept in loving spiritual relationships; it’s another thing to experience God’s love in such a way that we are motivated to love others in imitation of Him.

11 12

Phil mentioned three important traits to include as we seek to clarify our gifts and engage in a passionate pursuit: humility, fearlessness, and confidence in God. How have you applied these in seeking to identify your gifts and sphere of ministry?

According to Paul (and Phil) we are not to compare ourselves to others. Comparisons are the playground of the ego. Why did Phil call comparisons the journey down a slippery road with a deep ditch on either side—one called “better” and one called “worse”? What else is wrong with comparisons with other brothers and sisters in Christ?

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STUDY NOTES These notes relate to some of the phrases in the main Bible passages for this lesson, giving some background or possible explanations:

Sober judgment (Romans 12:3).

What a great picture of the ego under control. This kind of evaluation combines honesty with humility and passion. The reason for sober judgment is because we can always do better. Passion doesn’t mean we’ve arrived—it means we’re living a vibrant life on our way to eternal life!

Measure of faith (Romans 12:3).

This is another reason to refrain from comparisons. The point of evaluation ultimately is to please God and use what he has provided to us for his glory. Ultimately we must do what we can always trusting God to “make our way straight” and direct our path. We don’t have to prove our faith; we simply have to exercise it.

DAILY DEVOTIONALS On the Life Church Website you will also find video devotions to go with each of the daily passages listed below. Some of these will review passages mentioned in the session and some will expand your Biblical awareness of the themes.

Day 16 – Romans 12:2b | Testing and Approving

Reflection Question: How does testing and approving God’s will fit with evaluating your own engagement in passion for God? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Day 17 – Luke 16:10 | Little First; Much Later

Reflection Question: Why does God start us out with “small” things in life? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Day 18 – Matthew 16:15 | Who Am I

Reflection Question: Jesus didn’t hesitate to seek the evaluation of those closest to him. It wasn’t that he didn’t know himself, so why did he do it? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

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Day 19 – Galatians 2:20–21 | Ego Under Control

Reflection Question: How did Paul demonstrate in this passage the reality of an ego under control? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Day 20 – 2 Corinthians 10:17 | Boasting

Reflection Question: When was the last time you boasted in the Lord with someone? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

“For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you” (Romans 12:3 NIV)

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SESSION FIVE UNIQUENESS: THE GIFTS GOD WANTS YOU TO EMBRACE61

The world celebrates uniqueness—as long as it isn’t too different, or as long as it fits into certain categories. The world has a way of making a lot of unique people feel their uniqueness is worthless and unnecessary. God insists otherwise. The one thing never heard during the process God uses in creating each one of us is “Oops.” We are unique for a good reason—God’s reason.

Michelle Eastman has discovered that her uniqueness is her doorway to passion—and her all-access pass. She advocates for people with Cerebral Palsy because she speaks as an authority by experience. And her experience gives her passion authenticity that can’t be denied.

LISTEN One of the skills of vibrant Christians is the practice of listening. We’ve started each of the sessions with listening exercises, taking the time to discover each other in the simple responses to life.

These are great warm-ups for our later discussions, but they also serve to train us in the fine art of approaching one another’s heart and soul, seeking to serve, seeking to represent Jesus always for each other. Passionate people are encouraged by the passion on others.

1 2

Let’s begin by taking turns sharing what we remember as our most vivid experience of a night sky or solar eclipse. Where were you and how did that experience of God’s gift of light affect you?

Of the four previous Passion sessions we’ve had (Passion, Commitment, Attitude, and Evaluation), which one has created the biggest changes in your life? Why?

TEACHING SESSION FIVE: UNIQUENESS

In this fifth teaching, Phil will tackle the challenges we face living passionately for God in a world that instinctively resists that life. While the previous sessions have focused on the shared principles of passionate living, this session zeroes in on the way we have been uniquely gifted by God for a vibrant life. Use the spaces below to track the key points in Phil’s teaching.

Reflections on Michelle’s story: _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Responses to Phil’s teaching on Uniqueness: The Gifts God Wants You to Embrace _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

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“Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is

REVIEW THESE KEY PASSAGES prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully” (Romans 12:4-8 NIV) “‘The most important one,’ answered Jesus, ‘is this: “Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.”

The second is this: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” There is no commandment greater than these’” (Mark 12:29-31 NIV) “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all--how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:32 NIV)

LEARN Use the following questions to consider the teaching video as well as to further explore the Bible background of the theme, Uniqueness.

3 4 5 6 7

In thinking about Michelle’s story, would you say she discovered her passion through what made her tick or through what made her ticked? How? What experiences have you had in the past several weeks that you could call, in Phil’s terminology, “finding your passion pulse” for living?

Have someone read Romans 12:4–8? How are the twin themes of Uniqueness and Teamwork (next session’s theme) woven together?

How do you respond to the principle Phil explained this way: “You have to own yourself (and the message) before you can give yourself away”?

The next questions will all relate to the seven passions that Phil explained briefly in the teaching: a. Declaring Truth – Prophesying (v.6): Inspired, persuasive speech. b. Serving – Ministries (v.7): Detecting and meeting the needs of others. c. Teaching – Instruction (v.7): Search out and validate truth with application d. Exhorting – Encourage (v.8): Stimulate others to higher goals.

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e. Giving – Contributing (v.8): Create/make/ manage assets and resources. f. Leading – Ruling (v.8): Motivate people toward goals and objectives. g. Showing Mercy (v.8): Problem-solving; addressing injustice.

Which two or three of these got your attention?

8 9 10

Next to each of the seven passions, write the word “tick” or “ticked,” depending on how that particular passion strikes you? In other words, which of these tend to turn your crank and which ones do you most notice when they are lacking?

DEEPER STUDY Use the following passages if you have extra time, or if the group desires to delve at greater length into the theme for this session.

1 Corinthians 12:1–31 o

Romans 12 is not the only place in the New Testament where gifts are discussed or even listed, though the Romans passage seems to offer a summary of passion gifts. This passage includes more on gifts and their use within the body of Christ. How do verses 20 and 27 emphasize the purpose of the gifts?

For the two or three you identified as your possible areas of passion, how are you presently engaged in each of them in some (perhaps unusual) way?

o

The Romans passage emphasizes the use of the gifts; what does this passage say about the source of the gifts?

o

Given the message of this entire chapter, what would Paul say is our primary motivation for discovering our gifts and passion?

Each of the passions above are areas we can function in, and sometimes have to function in even if they are not our passion.

For example, we’re all called to give to a certain degree. We can’t be passionate about everything!

But when we are operating in an area of passion, we are energized rather than tapping into resources we’ve gotten elsewhere. Take a moment and read through the list above again, writing a “E” next to each one you feel energized just thinking about or a “T” next to each one that immediately starts to drain energy. If it’s in-between put an ET. How does this help you narrow down the possibilities for your area of passion?

Mark 12:29–31

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o

When Jesus quoted for this man the familiar verses about God’s ultimate requirement of us, he presented 3 specific candidates who should receive our love. Who are they? Would you say they are presented in descending (greatest to smallest) order or ascending (smallest to greatest) order?

o

If you were hearing this command for the first time and decided you needed to apply it to your life, where would you actually start: loving God, loving neighbor, or loving your self? (Remember that this entire passage assumes the reality that God already and has always loved us first—he doesn’t wait to start loving us until we love him).

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o

How does this passage underscore the importance of owning yourself before you give yourself away?

Romans 8:32

14

Besides your small group, list below at least three names of people whose lives you intend to impact with your passion this next week.

o

How does this verse give you a sense of the degree to which you are valued by God?

STUDY NOTES

o

Based on this verse, how would God want to be involved in your process of discovering your passion?

These notes relate to some of the phrases in the main Bible passages for this lesson, giving some background or possible explanations:

o

How does this verse, along with verse 28 above emphasize one of Phil’s repeated statements that “Life doesn’t happen to you; it happens for you”?

LOVE Passion is, after all, another word for love. Passion is not only what we love, what we’re wired to do; it’s also the means God has given us to express love. When we are functioning out of our passion-pulse, we are in the best place to pour love, God’s kind of love, into the lives of other people. Passion is not ultimately going to be about how we feel, but about what God can do through us with the gifts he’s given us.

13 14

As a group or individual exercise, go back through the list of passions in question 7 and brainstorm several ways each of those passions could be used to express love. Again, note which ones get your pulse rate up!

Do not have the same function. (Romans 12:4).

Even if you have a passion very similar to someone else, that doesn’t make one of you unnecessary. When Paul was writing, the general idea of “members of the body”—arms, legs, eyes—was enough to get the idea across.

Now that we understand the cellular structure of bodies, we need to think that our passion makes us a certain kind of cell in the body of Christ. We’re not the only cell of that kind, but we function as that cell in a certain time and place, and God has a certain purpose for all those factors. God has plenty for all of us to do, whatever our passion!

Each member belongs to all the others.

(Romans 12:5).

God’s Word breaks through our “consumer” mindset and reminds us that the body of Christ doesn’t exist to meet our needs or for our purposes.

Being part of the body of Christ means everyone else owns you—and you own them. You’re in this together; fellows in the same ship. You’re an integral, participating part of living organism and the rest of the body needs you. The motivation behind passion cannot be selfishness or the passion will be purposeless. Passion allows us to best opportunity to be in the place God intended for us, doing the very thing he had in mind for us to do.

How would you like the rest of your group to pray for you as you seek to clarify and pursue your passion?

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DAILY DEVOTIONALS

Day 24 – Romans 12:6 | Amazing Grace

On the Life Church Website you will also find video devotions to go with each of the daily passages listed below. Some of these will review passages mentioned in the session and some will expand your Biblical awareness of the themes.

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Day 21 – Romans 8:32 | You Are Valued

Day 25 – Romans 12:3 | Paul’s Passion

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Reflection Question: What does it mean to you that God valued you long before you had done anything to deserve it and nothing you can do will make God love you more?

Reflection Question: In what sense do we need to remember that gifts are evidence in our lives of God’s grace? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

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Reflection Question: “For by the grace given to me I say to every one of you...” How does this entire passage capture Paul functioning in the sweet spot of his passion-gifts?

Day 22 – Mark 12:29–30 | Loving God Passionately Reflection Question: How are you applying your passion to loving God?

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So in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. Romans 12:5

Day 23 – Mark 12:31 | Being Your Own Neighbor

Reflection Question: How does a healthy self-love start with an understanding of God’s love? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ 70

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Coming right after uniqueness as a trait for passion, teamwork seems a little like an disconnect—how do these two go together? Do we give up our uniqueness if we combine our efforts with others?

Not of we realize that our uniqueness is a special part of a larger puzzle and that the whole picture will never come to be if others don’t get involved.

Genuine passion is both personal and dependent on others. Otherwise, it is severely limited.

Evelyn Komuntale has discovered that the delight of teamwork in passion is to find that others share a similar passion. Or they share a passion that comes alongside ours and deepens, widens, and lengthens its impact. Two and more together accomplish more than two and more alone.

LISTEN

SESSION SIX TEAMORK: ALL FOR ONE AND ONE FOR ALL 72

Since we will be talking about teamwork in this session, we might as well start by recognizing that listening requires teamwork. Listening doesn’t mean much if there’s no one speaking to us. We can listen to God, listen to others, but we can’t listen to nothing. So listening is a team sport. And it’s best done with people who practice the truth that God gave us one mouth and two ears for a reason. If we listen twice as much as we speak we will probably discover that we could benefit from listening even more!

1 2

What would you say has been one of the best team experiences of your life and why would you describe it that way?

Name three people you would love to have a conversation with, not because of what you could say to them but because you know you would appreciate what they had to say to you. Why did you chose those particular people?

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TEACHING SESSION SIX: TEAMWORK

In this sixth teaching, Phil will quickly review how we’ve arrived where we are and then talk about the crucial theme of teamwork as an essential component in passionate living. Use the spaces below to track the key points in Phil’s teaching.

Reflections on Evelyn Komunteli’s story:

“Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying,

REVIEW THESE KEY PASSAGES let him use it in proportion to his faith” (Romans 12:4-6 NIV) “As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:1-3 NIV)

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Responses to Phil’s teaching on Teamwork: All for One and One for All _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

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LEARN Use the following questions to consider the teaching video as well as to further explore the Bible background of the theme, Teamwork.

3 4 5 6 7 8

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Evelyn tied the current expression of her passion directly with her experiences of suffering as a child. How are you finding that your past experiences offer clues to identifying your passion?

Have someone read Romans 12:4–6. The last time we talked about how team and uniqueness are woven together in this chapter of scripture. What does it tell us about teamwork?

In identifying our “dream team” Phil urges us to start with the four “p” so that we end up with at least four peas in our pod: partner/wife, parents, peers, pastor.

Discuss what each of these persons bring to create your connections with the body of Christ. Are any of them optional? Why or why not?

In Ephesians 4:1–3, Paul includes five examples of what he means by living in a manner worthy of our calling from God (into the body of Christ). What are they, and how do they fit with the crucial idea of teamwork?

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Phil included several pictures of healthy teamwork mindset in his presentation. Discuss what each of these means to you: o Give your heart to people by listening, and when you need it they’ll return the favor. o Treat everyone like they’re the gatekeeper to your destiny; one day you’ll be right.

When you picture in your mind examples of the body of Christ functioning as a team, what specific experiences do you remember?

What do you think of Phil’s definition of a personal dream-team: Having people around you who bring out the best in you and from whom you bring out the best?

“If the disease of me” and the “you bug” is worse than the “flu bug,” how do we maintain unity? (See Ephesians 4:1–3 again).

o It’s hard for a man to be what he ought to be unless he has to be.

DEEPER STUDY Use the following passages if you have extra time, or if the group desires to delve at greater length into the theme for this session

Eph e s i a n s 4 : 1 – 3 o

In these verses, how many of the specific worthy tasks can be done alone?

o

What is the “unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (v.3)?

o

Based on this passage, how do calling and passion go together?

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Acts 17:22–31 o

How does Paul, even in talking to an audience of not-yet-believers, emphasize that the gospel calls us into a body not a individualize walk with God?

o

What’s the clue to connectedness that is built right into human history?

John 17:20–26 o

In this passage, Jesus prayed for us, even today. Where do you find yourself represented in Jesus’ prayer?

o

How does Jesus pray for our teamwork and unity?

o

If Jesus prayed for it, what level of priority should it be for us?

LIVE In much of the New Testament, particularly the Epistles (Letters), when the word “you” is used, it’s most often plural. Our Southern brothers and sisters capture the sense of plural use of the “you” when they say, “y’all.” This means Paul note in Ephesians 4:1 could be paraphrased, “I urge y’all to live a life worthy of the calling y’all have received.” If the commands about our lives are issued in the plural, that God has every intention of treating us and growing as a body. God’s plan for us includes teamwork.

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Phil mentioned “Our Father” as a prayer reminder of teamwork.

That same prayer later asks God to “forgive our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.” How crucial do you think forgiveness is in keeping a team functioning for maximum passion?

Are there any cases of forgiveness withheld or forgiveness not sought that might be preventing your dream team from supporting your passion? What can you do about that?

LOVE If forgiveness is the main tool we have to repair the breaches in unity and the wounds that come up in the team, then love is the primary maintenance tool that keeps the team functioning like a well-oiled machine—only more beautiful! Where there is genuine and effective teamwork, love is also working.

15

When was the last time you told the people you consider to be members of your dream team that you love them?

How have you shown them that, too?

16

How is your pursuit of passion affecting the way that you love other people?

What changes, if any, have others remarked about in you since you began this study?

Who’s on your dream team right now?

On whose dream team are you currently a member?

Are there any of the 4 P’s discussed earlier that aren’t or can’t be on your dream team? Why? What would it take to remedy that situation?

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STUDY NOTES These notes relate to some of the phrases in the main Bible passages for this lesson, giving some background or possible explanations:

In Christ we who are many form one body. (Romans 12:5).

The point of this phrase is to remind us that the connection between is has been created in Christ and by Christ.

Our basic connection with other Christians always comes back to what we share in Christ. He brings and binds us together. A dream team may involve some issues of compatibility, availability, and proximity, but these relationships should never cause us to ignore the links we have with the body of Christ at large.

DAILY DEVOTIONALS On the Life Church Website you will also find video devotions to go with each of the daily passages listed below. Some of these will review passages mentioned in the session and some will expand your Biblical awareness of the themes.

Day 26 – Philippians 2:20–22 | Like-minded

Reflection Question: How important is it to you to be like-minded with the members of your dream team? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Day 27 – Romans 12:4 | Strength

Bond of peace.

(Ephesians 4:3).

On his last night on earth, Jesus talked about a particular kind of peace that only he can provide. The world may clamor for peace, but it’s often the sham of peace that holds out the idea that everyone ought to be able to have, be, and do whatever they want without complications. In a fallen world, that can never happen. And that’s not God’s peace. The bond of peace in Christ means, first that we give up our will to have, be, and do whatever we want and set our sights instead on seeing God’s

Reflection Question: What kind of comfort do you take that you are surrounded in the body of Christ by many members? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Day 28 – Colossians 4:5–6 | Huddle

Reflection Question: How do you let your team know your needs? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

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Day 29 – Colossians 1:28 | Wisdom’s Goal

Reflection Question: Beyond your dream team, how are you caring for the larger team that is the body of Christ? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Day 30 – Philippians 2:3–4 | Looking Out

Reflection Question: What people in your life would say that “you’ve got their back” no matter what happens? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.

(Romans 12:4–5)

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SESSION SEVEN CHARACTER: THE STRENGTH TO STAND FOR WHAT REALLY83MATTERS IN LIFE

The last chapters on character get written when the main story is done. That’s why there’s hope to the end. But character that permeates passion is what leaves a lasting impression on people. Like it or not, the main thing people will talk about when you’re gone is your character.

TEACHING SESSION SIX: TEAMWORK

In this seventh teaching, Phil will cover the last element taken from Romans 12 that is essential for the sustained passionate life. Here we will learn that passion without character is heat without light, action without depth or purpose.

Use the spaces below to track the key points in Phil’s teaching.

Reggie Woolridge will be missed. Some people exude character. Your first impression of them is only confirmed and deepened by years of impression. What on the inside turns out to be the same stuff that shows on the outside: integrity, depth, loyalty, love—all shot through with gentle humor. Passion without genuine character leaves less to remember.

LISTEN As we have pointed out frequently, we serve each other just by listening. When we give people our heart, 3/5 of that has to be ear! By now you’re probably getting used to Phil’s plays on words. That may well be part of his passion!

1 2

This is our last official session in the Passion series. Let’s take a few minutes and share highlights: what are some of the ways you now think about living a vibrant life that are new and life-changing for you?

Reflections on the conversation between Greg and Doug: _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Responses to Phil’s teaching on Character:

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One of the underlying themes in this series has been the importance of transparency between Christ followers. As you have integrated the teachings from these sessions into your life, what have emerged as some of the challenges that the rest of this group can pray about on your behalf?

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“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.

Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

REVIEW THESE KEY PASSAGES Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord. On the contrary: ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:9–21)

LEARN 3 4 5

Use the following questions to consider the teaching video as well as to further explore the Bible background of the theme, Character.

That was quite a conversation about someone named Reggie. If you died this next week, what would be one or two things you hope people would mention about you that were character traits? What three people would you like to overhear having a conversation about you after you’re gone?

Phil pointed out that “passion allows us to obtain success; character will help us sustain success.” Why do you think that’s the case?

Phil has combined the list of Passion gifts from Romans 12:6–8 with the character traits Paul appeals to in Romans 12:9–21:

PaSSIon GIFT

CHaRaCTER RooTS

Declare Truth

Let love be without hypocrisy. abhor evil, cling to what is good (v.9

Serve

Be kind, affectionate, have brotherly love, honor and prefer one another (v.10)

Teach

Don’t lag in diligence, be fervent in spirit, serving the Lord (v.11)

Encourage

Rejoice in hope, be patient, strong in prayer (v.12)

Give

Give to the needs of the saints, be hospitable (v.13)

Lead

Bless people, rejoice with people, have empathy, be honest (vs. 14–17)

Showing Mercy

Be peaceable, love your enemies, overcome evil with good (vs. 18–21

Talk about each of the Passion gifts and their character traits. How do they fit together?

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6 7 8 9

In the list above, look at the items that you are targeting as your passion pulse. How well do the accompanying characteristics describe your character traits?

What do you think a person should do when it becomes clear to them that they have some deficiencies in their character?

Can character be changed? If so, how?

DEEPER STUDY Use the following passages if you have extra time, or if the group desires to delve at greater length into the theme for this session

In what ways is the regular study of God’s Word and participation with other believers in studies together like this one at least part of the training program for character?

If we go back to the beginning and look at Romans 12:1–2, how does that sacrificial and renewal process impact character?

Matthew 7:24–27 o

What was identical about these two men’s lives? What was radically different?

o

Why is exposure to God’s Word so much less than obedience to God’s Word?

o

How did each of these men actually experience the truth of life happening for them?

James 1:22–25

10

This might be a good time for a personal exercise in evaluation that we learned about previously. It’s important to understand where we are before we decide where to go next.

Phil spent a significant amount of time talking about secrets and dealing with secrets. How are you doing in the area of secrets and spending time in the darkness where Satan still has power?

What do you want to do about your situation?

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o

How is James’ counsel strikingly similar to the words of his big halfbrother Jesus you just looked at above?

o

In what ways does a “law” give freedom (v.25)?

o

Based on this passage, what would James advise someone seeking to deepen their character?

Romans 5:1-5 •

How would you describe that status of the people Paul is describing here regarding their relationship with God?

•

Suffering, perseverance, character, hope—what examples can you find in your life where God used this training plan on you?

•

Why is perseverance the link between suffering and character?

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LIVE

LOVE

We may be coming to the close of this study, but the Passionate living goes on.

In one sense we have arrived at an end but in another we have simply made one more step toward the vibrant life in Christ that God intends for us to have. Every one of these sessions has stressed the Biblical principle that the ultimate proof to truth is in life application. We trust the lessons have seeped down to the roots of your character, where they can do the most good. Here again, we want to translate the principles of living passionately into the practice of living passionately!

11 12 13

We touched on the issue of secrets back in question 10.

Why do secrets have such a destructive effect in our lives and on our character?

If you did have a secret that needed to be lanced and exposed, to whom would you go to share that secret? How does the teamwork we talked about last session become crucial in helping us deal with secrets and holding us accountable for integrity?

What was it about this session’s passage in Romans 12:9–21 that pushed Phil to focus so clearly on secrets and their destructive nature? In what ways does this passage address secrets or the content of secrets?

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Love longs to see character develop. That’s why God loves us and puts us in character training, as we saw in Romans 5:1–5. That’s why love is mentioned in several ways in the character actions Paul mentioned in Romans 12:9–21.

Love has to be involved because we don’t naturally gravitate towards character development. One way we love each other is to encourage each other to persevere in whatever God has allowed in our lives, because the good results will be character!

14 15

Have someone read Romans 12:9–21 again for the group. After each verse, stop for a moment and have people suggest two or three loving ways that verse could be applied in the days to come.

What is the most significant decision about passionate living that you have made and begun to live out during this study? How would you like the rest of the group to pray for you?

STUDY NOTES These notes relate to some of the phrases in the main Bible passages for this lesson, giving some background or possible explanations:

Suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. (Romans 5:3).

The word perseverance translates a Greek that means “remain under a weight or burden.” What a great description of the wise and mature response to suffering—we hang in there, stay under, and stand firm. This is learned; it doesn’t come naturally. We instinctively want to dodge, fold, run. But character is the result when we let God work his will in our lives, even when the process is uncomfortable.

Never lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor.

(Romans 12:11).

Zeal and fervor are both words that capture aspects of passion. What ever that single-minded passion that God has built into us, the purpose was to serve the Lord.

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DAILY DEVOTIONALS

Day 34 – Romans 12:13 | Practicing

On the Life Church Website you will also find video devotions to go with each of the daily passages listed below. Some of these will review passages mentioned in the session and some will expand your Biblical awareness of the themes.

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Day 31 – Philippians 3:13 | Forgetting

Day 35 – Romans 12:1–2 | Full Circle

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Reflection Question: How is “forgetting” a significant part of character development?

Reflection Question: How often do you practice hospitality? Is the practice making perfect? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

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Reflection Question: How does our first passage emphasize the point that godly passionate living involves daily living sacrifice?

Day 32 – Matthew 7:24–27 | Building Character

Reflection Question: How can you tell the difference between a life built on sand and a life built on the Rock? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Day 33 – Romans 5:1–5 | Character Training

Reflection Question: What has to happen on the way to character development?

Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.

Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.

(Romans 12:10–11)

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A P P EN D I X

A P P EN D I X

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READINGS We’ve experienced so many life changes as a result of reading the Bible daily. People tell us that the number one contributor to their growth was the deeper walk with God that came as a result of the daily devotions. We strongly encourage you to have everyone set a realistic goal. Pair people into same-gender spiritual (accountability) partners.

This will improve your results tenfold. Then we encourage everyone to take a few minutes each day to READ the verse for the day, REFLECT on what God is saying to you through the verse, and RESPOND to God in prayer in a personal journal. Each of these verses was selected to align with the week’s study. After you complete the reading, simply put a check mark next to the verse. Enjoy the journey!

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A P P EN D I X

S M A L L G RO U P L EA D ER S

30-DAY BIBLE READING PLAN Imagine sitting at the feet of Jesus himself: the Teacher who knows how to live life well, the Savior who died for you, the Lord who commands the universe. Like his first disciples, you can follow him around, watch what he does, listen to what he says and pattern your life after his.

Luke had a heart for outsiders. He was fascinated by the way Jesus treated women, the poor, non-Jews and persons of disreputable character.

Find a quiet place, and have ready a notebook or journal in which you can write what you learn and what you want to say back to God. It’s helpful to have one or two simple questions in mind to focus your reading. Here are some suggestions: • What do I learn from the life of Christ (his identity, personality, priorities)?

• How does he want me to live differently?

• How did Jesus treat people?

• How does he want me to respond to what he said and did?

When we’ve sat at the Master’s feet like this ourselves, the sense of a real, alive, present Jesus has been breathtaking. We pray you’ll have the same experience.

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1. Romans 12:1 2. Romans 12:1 3. Romans 12:1 4. Romans 12:2 5. Romans 12:2 6. Psalms 37:5 7. Proverbs 3:5–6 8. Matthew 7:13–14 9. Worthy before the World 10. Romans 12:1 11. Philippians 2:5 12. Romans 8:28 13. Romans 12:2 14. Romans 12:2 15. Psalm 1:1–2 16. Romans 12:2b 17. Luke 16:10 18. Matthew 16:15 19. Galatians 2:20–21 20. 2 Corinthians 10:17 21. Romans 8:32 22. Mark 12:29–30 23. Mark 12:31 24. Romans 12:6 25. Romans 12:3 26. Philippians 2:20–22 27. Romans 12:4 28. Colossians 4:5–6 29. Colossians 1:28 30. Philippians 2:3–4 31. Philippians 3:13 32. Matthew 7:24–27 33. Romans 5:1–5 34. Romans 12:13 35. Romans 12:1–2

HOSTING AN OPEN HOUSE If you’re starting a new group, try planning an “open house” before your first formal group meeting. Even if you only have two to four core members, it’s a great way to break the ice and to consider prayerfully who else might be open to join you over the next few weeks. You can also use this kick-off meeting to hand out study guides, spend some time getting to know each other, discuss each person’s expectations for the group and briefly pray for each other.

A simple meal or good desserts always make a kick-off meeting more fun. After people introduce themselves and share how they ended up being at the meeting (you can play a game to see who has the wildest story!), have everyone respond to a few icebreaker questions: “What is your favorite family vacation?” or “What is one thing you love about your church/our community?” or “What are three things about your life growing up that most people here don’t know?” Next, ask everyone to tell what he or she hopes to get out of the study. You might want to review the Small Group Agreement and talk about each person’s expectations and priorities.

Finally, set an open chair (maybe two) in the center of your group and explain that it represents someone who would enjoy or benefit from this group but who isn’t here yet. Ask people to pray about whom they could invite to join the group over the next few weeks.

Hand out postcards and have everyone write an invitation or two.

Don’t worry about ending up with too many people; you can always have one discussion circle in the living room and another in the dining room after you watch the lesson. Each group could then report prayer requests and progress at the end of the session.

You can skip this kick-off meeting if your time is limited, but you’ll experience a huge benefit if you take the time to connect with each other in this way.

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S M A L L G RO U P L EA D ER S

S M A L L G RO U P L EA D ER S

LEADING FOR THE FIRST TIME

LEADING FOR THE FIRST TIME

• Sweaty palms are a healthy sign. The Bible says God is gracious to the humble. Remember who is in control; the time to worry is when you’re not worried. Those who are soft in heart (and sweaty palmed) are those whom God is sure to speak through.

Congratulations! You have responded to the call to help shepherd

• Seek support. Ask your leader, co-leader or close friend to pray for you and prepare with you before the session. Walking through the study will help you anticipate potentially difficult questions and discussion topics.

to keep in mind. We encourage you to read these and review them

• Bring your uniqueness to the study. Lean into who you are and how God wants you to uniquely lead the study.

you, and He knew that you would be asked to lead your group.

• Prepare. Prepare. Prepare. Go through the session several times.

If you are using the DVD, listen to the teaching segment and Leadership Lifter. Consider writing in a journal or fasting for a day to prepare yourself for what God wants to do.

• Ask for feedback so you can grow. Perhaps in an e-mail or on cards handed out at the study, have everyone write down three things you did well and one thing you could improve on. Don’t get defensive, but show an openness to learn and grow.

Jesus’ flock. There are a few other tasks in the family of God that surpass the contribution you will be making. As you prepare to lead, whether it is one session or the entire series, here are a few thoughts with each new discussion leader before he or she leads.

1. Remember that you are not alone. God knows everything about Remember that it is common for all good leaders to feel that they are not ready to lead. Moses, Solomon, Jeremiah and Timothy - they all were reluctant to lead. God promises, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). Whether you are leading for one evening, for several weeks, or for a lifetime, you will be blessed as you serve.

2. Don’t try to do it alone. Pray right now for God to help you build a healthy leadership team. If you can enlist a co-leader to help you lead the group, you will find your experience to be much richer.

• Prayerfully consider launching a new group. This doesn’t need to happen overnight, but God’s heart is for this to happen over time.

Not all Christians are called to be leaders or teachers, but we are all called to be “shepherds” of a few.

This is your chance to involve as many people as you can in build-

• Share with your group what God is doing in your heart. God is searching for those whose hearts are fully His. Share your trials and victories. We promise that people will relate.

3. Just be yourself. If you won’t be you, who will? God wants you

• Prayerfully consider whom you would like to pass the baton to next week. It’s only fair. God is ready for the next member of your group to go on the faith journey you just traveled.

it when you don’t have an answer, and apologize when you make

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ing a healthy group. All you have to do is call and ask people to help, you’ll be surprised at the response.

to use your unique gifts and temperament. Don’t try to do things exactly like another leader; do them in a way that fits you! Just admit a mistake. Your group will love you for it, and you’ll sleep better at night!

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S M A L L G RO U P L EA D ER S

S M A L L G RO U P L EA D ER S

4. Prepare for your meeting ahead of time. Review the session and

sion, always read aloud the transitional paragraphs and the

the leader’s notes, and write down your responses to each ques-

questions. Ask the group if anyone would like to read the paragraph

tion. Pay special attention to exercises that ask group members to

or Bible passage. Don’t call on anyone, but ask for a volunteer, and

do something other than engage in discussion. These exercises

then be patient until someone begins. Be sure to thank the person

will help your group live what the Bible teaches, not just talk about

who reads aloud.

it. Be sure you understand how an exercise works, and bring any necessary supplies (such as paper and pens) to your meeting. If the

8. Break up into small groups each week, or they won’t stay. If your

exercise employs one of the items in the appendix, be sure to look

group has more than seven people, we strongly encourage you to

over that item so you’ll know how it works. Finally, review “Read

have the group gather in discussion circles of three or four people

Me First” so you’ll remember the purpose of each section in the

during the DEEPENING or HONORING sections of the study. With

study.

a greater opportunity to talk in a small circle, people will connect more with the study, apply more quickly what they’re learning and

5. Pray for your group members by name. Before you begin your

ultimately get more out of it. A small circle also encourages a quiet

session, go around the room in your mind and pray for each mem-

person to participate and tends to minimize the effects of a more

ber by name. You may want to review the prayer list at least once a

vocal or dominant member. It can also help people feel more loved

week. Ask God to use your time together to touch the heart of every

in your group. When you gather again at the end of the section, you

person uniquely. Expect God to lead you to whomever he wants

can have one person summarize the highlights from each circle.

you to encourage or challenge in a special way. If you listen, God

Small circles are also helpful during prayer time. People who are

will surely lead!

unaccustomed to praying aloud will feel more comfortable trying it with just two or three others. Also, prayer requests won’t take as

6. When you ask a question, be patient. Someone will eventually

much time, so circles will have more time to actually pray. When

respond. Sometimes people need a moment or two of silence to

you gather back with the whole group, you can have one person

think about the question, and if silence doesn’t bother you, it won’t

from each circle briefly update everyone on the prayer requests.

bother anyone else. After someone responds, affirm the response

People are more willing to pray in small circles if they know that the

with a simple “thanks” or “good job.” Then ask, “How about some-

whole group will hear all the prayer requests.

body else?” or “Would someone who hasn’t shared like to add anything?” Be sensitive to new people or reluctant members who aren’t ready to say, pray or do anything. If you give them a safe setting, they will blossom over time.

7. Provide transitions between questions. When guiding the discus100

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G RO U P RE S O U RCE S

SMALL GROUP AGREEMENT Group Attendance

Safe Environment

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

To help create a safe place where people can be heard and feel loved. (Please, no quick answers, snap judgments or simple fixes.)

Respect Differences

To be gentle and gracious to people with different spiritual maturity, personal opinions, temperaments or imperfections. We are all works 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

To be not just takers but givers of life. We want to spiritually multiply our life by serving others with our God-given gifts.

Welcoming Newcomers

To keep an open chair and share Jesus' dream of finding a shepherd for every sheep.

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.

Rotating Hosts/Leaders and Homes

To encourage different people to host the group in their homes and to rotate the responsibility of facilitating each meeting. (See the Group Calendar)

G RO U P RE S O U RCE S

SMALL GROUP CALENDAR Date

Lesson

Host Home

Dessert/Meal

Leader

Monday January 15

1

Steve and Laura’s

Joe

Bill

Our Times Together: • Child care _______________________________________________ • Refreshments/mealtimes ___________________________________ • When we will meet (day of week) ___________________________ • Where we will meet (place) ________________________________ • We will begin at (time) ______________ and end at ____________ • We will do our best to have some or all of us attend a worship service together. Our primary worship service time will be ______ • Date of this agreement ____________________________________ • Date we will review this agreement __________________________ • Who (other than the leader) will review this agreement at the end of this study_______________________________________________

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104 254 Main Street, 92665

Bill Jones

766-2255

Phone

SESSION FIVE

bjones@aol.com

Socials

SESSION ONE

Children’s Ministry

Church Ministry

SESSION TWO

Team or Role

SESSION THREE

E-Mail Address

SESSION FOUR

PRAYER REQUESTS

Address

SESSION SIX

PRAYER AND PRAISE REPORT

Name

SESSION SEVEN

G RO U P RE S O U RCE S G RO U P RE S O U RCE S

SMALL GROUP ROSTER

PRAISE REQUESTS

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PHIL & JEANNIE MUNSEY Phil was the youngest boy in a family of 4 and grew up in the town of Hammond, In right outside the city of Chicago. Known as the “Sunshine Boy” in his family, Phil was always looking to put a smile on someone’s face with laughter and encouragement.

As a son of a preacher, his weekly routine mostly involved going to church.

Whether it was a bus route to invite kids to church, cleaning under the pews or learning to play the drums and saxophone to join the church band, church was the avenue where Phil found and expressed his gifts. As a young man he followed in his father’s footstep and began to preach. He would travel to churches across the country and become well known in his denomination for passionate preaching and a sensitive spirit to worship.

Then while preaching in a church in Michigan, Phil laid eyes on his future wife Jeannie Coffey. A California girl from Huntington Beach, Jeannie was the worship director. From their first date was at Bob’s Big boy (big spender), to letter correspondents and long distance relationship, Phil and Jeannie were engage and married within a year. They both continued to travel and speak.

Then in 1984, Phil and Jeannie move back to Jeannie’s hometown of Huntington Beach, CA, where knew they were always called to plant and pastor a church. Not long after the move they had their first church service in the living room of Odie Coffey, Jeannie’s dad. With family and friends the journey of Life Church began with Jeannie leading in songs at the piano and Phil preaching the mandate for Life Church.

Now 25 years later Life Church is still beacon of life to Orange County. The dynamic worship and passionate word is what Life Church is known for.

Weekly people gathering to hear an inspiring and encouraging word from a man who never holds back in passion.

Phil also have a passion to encourage and uplift others, particularly to Pastors. He serves in multiple capacities to ministries like- Joel Osteen’s Director of Champions Network- a network of pastors working together across the world getting people plugged into local churches, GodChasers, Integrity Leadership Ministries and more.

Phil and Jeannie currently reside in Modjeska Canyon and have three children, Kara, Phillip II, Andrew and son-in-law Doug Bisel and are Papa and Mimi to grandchildren Declan & Peyton.

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Have you taken your Passion-Pulse lately? Join Phil Munsey and explore what it takes to live the life you know you want to live. It’s time to stop letting life happen to you and start seeing life work for you. Maybe you lost your passion, or maybe you’ve never found it–it’s time to get it back in full force!

“Phil Munsey is a godly man, a great pastor, and a dear friend. His life has impacted our community and me personally.” - Rick Warren, Senior Pastor, Saddleback Church

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Phil is the senior pastor at Life Church in Irvine, California, which he and his wife Jeannie founded in 1985. Phil is passionate about developing passionate people!

He travels as a conference speaker, working with pastors and teachers. He is the president of Joel Osteen’s Church Champions Network.

Phil and Jeannie have been married for 30 years and have 3 adult children, a son-in-law and two amazing grandchildren.