Thursday, August 25, 2011

Recap Week 2: Generalizing the Questions

This week and next will focus on moving our discussions and personal thoughts into a package that could be shared with entire groups of Christians and would be adopted by them all. In other words, what are things that all Christians would agree on as far as "What's the least we can do?"

Then more specifically for the Utica church of Christ, how can we communicate the process of the past several months to the rest of the congregation that has not been coming on Wednesday nights and participating in this Bible study?

Recap Week 1: Personalizing the Questions


Through "the least we can do" study, we have focused on three main areas: the least we can do, core values and everyday practices.
The least we can do often resulted in answers that were bigger and broader concepts of how we should live this life in response to God's command and love.
For example: "be willing to give up anything that might come between me and God."
Core values look at the beliefs and ideals that are most important to us. In order to actually do, "the least we can do," what values are essential?
Example (in keeping with the example above): If I am going to be willing to give up material possessions, I must value simplicity. If I am willing to sever relationships and commit to ridding myself of bad habits, I'll have to value God's wisdom.
Everyday practices are the "least we can do" concepts broken down into "easy" assignments. So if the least we can do is eat a six foot long partysubmarine sandwich, the everyday practice might be to take one bite.
Example (in keeping with the example above): Reflection. I can read and pray Psalm 139:23-24 23 Search me, God, and know my heart; 
   test me and know my anxious thoughts. 
24 See if there is any offensive way in me, 
   and lead me in the way everlasting.
Keep in mind the everyday practice is just one "bite." It may not fully accomplish the least we can do concept but it will be a start in the direction. It will be one piece of the puzzle.


The idea here is that each individual would be able to develop a goal or two that are manageable tasks that will for them be "the least they can do"
What is it for you?

The Lost Week: Whats TLWCD to imitate God?

Ephesians 5:1-2
1 Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.