Professional Documents
Culture Documents
We are glad you have expressed an interest in Frisco Bible Church. We want to invite you to get a picture of where we are going and how you might join with us. This class will give you the opportunity to ask questions and learn all you can about Frisco Bible Church. During our time together, we will present an overview of our church, hopefully answer your questions, and assist you in finding a place to serve. Please feel free to contact me or the church office during the week if we can help you in any way. Attendance in the Starting Point class does not obligate you in any way. At the end of the class you will be given an opportunity to become a member, joining the Frisco Bible Church family. Our prayer is that you will find our time helpful and that we can assist you in finding a local church home. In His Service, Jeremy Mikeska Minister of Families and Connections 972-335-8150
Table of Contents
Connect to Christ
Welcome to the Good News...4
Connect to Community
Connect to Serving
Serving....29 Discovery .......30 **Assignment: Pray for wisdom and guidance regarding where God might have you serve.
Connect to Mission
Missionaries and Frisco Bible Church supported ministries....40
Appendices
Connect to Christ
Welcome to the Good News
THE GOSPEL:
BAD NEWS + GOOD NEWS
Two Critical Questions 1. Have you come to the place in your spiritual life where you know that you have eternal life that is, do you know for certain that if you died today that you would go to heaven? 2. If you were to die today and stand before God and He said to you, "Why should I let you into my heaven?" What would you say? Now the Bible contains both good news and bad news. The bad news is something about you and me. The good news is something about God. Let's begin with the bad news first. We are all sinners. The Bible says, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). When the Bible says that you and I have sinned, it means that we lie, we lust, we hate, we murder, etc. The word sin in the Bible actually means, "to miss the mark." In other words, God is perfect and we aren't. Suppose each of us were to pick up a rock and try to hit the North Pole. Well, you might throw farther than I or I might throw farther than you, but neither of us would hit the North Pole. Both of us would fall short. When the Bible says, "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God," it means that God has set a standard He requires every one of us to meet. That standard is God Himself. He requires us to be as holy as He is holy, as perfect as He is perfect. But it doesn't matter how religiously we live, how good we are or how hard we work, we cannot meet that standard. All of us have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. We deserve death for our sin. The Bible says, "For the wages of sin is death..." (Romans 6:23a). Suppose I had robbed a bank. Eyewitnesses identify me, I'm brought before the judge and I'm sentenced. But I say to the judge, "I'm sorry, I'll give the money back and I promise to never rob another bank." If the judge were to pardon me, he would be an unjust judge. We would never expect such a pardon from human judges. Yet, God is more just than any human judge. He doesn't weigh the good against the bad to determine whether we can have eternal life. And being just, He must punish our sin by death. Since there was no way you could come to God, the Bible says that God decided to come to you. This is the good news
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Jesus Christ died for us. The Bible says, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). The story is told of a great ruler who once declared that anyone caught stealing would lose his hand to the ax. Throughout the kingdom, as violators were discovered, each was brought to the king and their hand was cut off. One day, his guards brought an old woman before him, and when he asked her whether or not she had stolen the item, she responded that she had. He turned to her and said, "You have been found guilty as charged, and the penalty is the loss of a hand. I cannot change the verdict even though you are my mother, but my love for you is great, and I am willing to pay the price for you." And with that, he laid his hand on the chopping block and had it severed from his arm. His only choice was to substitute himself for the one he loved. The woman was guilty, and the penalty had to be paid. Had he excused her without payment, he would have no longer been a just ruler. In the same way, God has found us guilty as charged, with the penalty being death - eternal separation from God. But because of His great love for us, He came to earth as a man, Jesus Christ, the only perfect man ever to walk the face of the earth. He substituted Himself for us by dying in our place on the cross so we could live. And on the third day, He arose - proof that sin, death and Satan had been conquered.
We can receive the gift of eternal life by trusting in Christ. The Bible says, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9). The word faith means "trust." For example, you can believe a chair exists, just as you may believe God exists; you can even believe that if you sit in the chair, it will hold you up, just as you can understand that trusting Christ will save you. But just as you are not trusting the chair until you sit in it, so too, we must personally trust in Jesus Christ and his death on the cross for our sins, for us to receive the gift of eternal life. By believing that it's not on the basis of what we've done, nor our good life, our baptism or our church membership - but what Christ has done for us, we can have eternal life.
Church Membership
For just as we have many members in one body and all the members do not have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. - Romans 12:4-5 provides an opportunity for commitment Church membership is an important step that helps move each of us off the sidelines and into the game. The big difference between an attendee and a member is commitment. When you become a member, you are indicating that you agree and are committed to the beliefs and policies of Frisco Bible Church. Membership lets the church leadership know, You can count on meI am readyI am putting down my roots. Jim Elliott (Christian martyr) once said, Wherever you are, be all there. Live to the hilt of every situation you believe to be the will of God. provides a spiritual family God has given us the opportunity to have two families. We have fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, brothers and sisters who will encourage, love us and even challenge us. The values of unity, belonging, and the interdependence of believers are found throughout the New Testament. We believe these values of the body of Christ as a whole are also shared by the local church. God created a spiritual family on earth for us so we do not grow up in isolation. provides an external sign Why do married couples wear wedding rings? To symbolize their commitment to a partnership. Why to Christians get baptized? To communicate publicly our commitment to Jesus Christ. In the same way, church membership indicates that you are part of this body of believers, which grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work (Ephesians 4:16). provides accountability Unfortunately we are not immune from the temptations of Satan. Hebrews 3:13 says, Encourage one another dailyso that none of you may be hardened by sins deceitfulness. Membership at Frisco Bible Church will provide a family for accountability and a place to grow while under the spiritual direction of godly leaders. An easy way to have accountability is to first plug into a LifeGroup and then establish a discipleship relationship. The Elders will exercise church discipline (often called Elder care) in an effort to help any person caught in a pattern of sin to become restored into a right relationship with God. provides a place to exercise your spiritual gifts, experiences, passions, and abilities God has a unique role for every one of us to play in His family. This is called our ministry (another word for place of serving), and we each have a unique assignment. We believe that God gave each person unique spiritual gifts, experiences, passions, and abilities. At the end of connection process, you will have the opportunity to discover how God has uniquely wired you. Did you know that serving is one of the fastest ways to feel a sense of ownership and heighten experiences for Christian fellowship? Membership at FBC is not required for some service opportunities, but other positions do require membership.
Points of Clarity
Church membership is not a means of salvation. Becoming a member of Frisco Bible Church or any other church does not give us eternal life in heaven. Church membership is not a specific command found in Scripture. However, Scripture does speak about Christians being committed to a local gathering of believers within the body of Christ, which is found throughout the world. Many books of the New Testament were letters written to the local churches, instructing their fellowship together.
Our Mission
We are redeemed people guiding people to Christ and in Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit. Who we are: What we do: Redeemed Community Great Commission
How we do it: In the power of the Holy Spirit Why we do it: For the glory of God
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Our History
1993 1994
1990s
Wayne and Janna Braudrick begin praying about planting Frisco church Elder board of FBC formed 10 families commit to launch First public service held in the Old Church Center Met in Rogers Elementary Michael Kyomya becomes first FBC supported missionary Met in Frisco High School Planted Grace Bible Church outside San Antonio (FBCs first church plant) Begin Arise & Build Campaign for first building Launched Frisco HIS (Home Is School, now a separate ministry) Fourth of July dedication of new building Launched Legacy Christian Academy (now a separate ministry)
1995 1996
2000s
2001 2004 2005 2006 2008/09 2011 1st Fall Fest outreach event Bologna Bible Church International planted in Bologna, Italy Zone 5 preteen ministry launched Search begins for a new location (seeking easier accessibility and better visibility) The Element 20 something's ministry launched Connections ministry launched Elders decide as part of G-Fource Campaign to build at current location to maximizeopportunity for growth Opened new facilities for greater ministry expansion
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Our Leadership
In the New Testament local churches, the spiritual leaders of the church were known as elders. Elders are also called shepherds and overseers in the Scriptures. Paul and Barnabus appointed elders in every church they helped start and prayed for them (Acts 14:23). They left those churches in God's hands with the elders as His representatives. Elders are less like dictators or CEOs and more like good and loving fathers. At Frisco Bible Church we believe elders have been given special abilities to lead. In Romans 12:8, it says of the person with the gift of leadership, let them govern diligently. If a structure can be found to allow these gifted people to lead, then the church can have the impact that Christ desires for us to have. We have adapted the biblical structure called the elder led church. An elders overarching purpose is to: a.) Lead, b.) Shepherd, c.) Govern. An elders qualifications can be described in the following passages: Titus 1:5-9 The reason I left you in Crete was that you might straighten out what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you. An elder must be blameless, the husband of but one wife, a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient. Since an overseer is entrusted with Gods work, he must be blameless - not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. Rather he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it. (See also 1 Timothy 3:1-7) An elders specific functions include: Shepherd the flock - 1 Peter 5:2 Be shepherds of Gods flock that is under your care, serving as overseers - not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve Set an example - 1 Peter 5:3 not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. Teach, exhort, feed - 1 Timothy 3:2 Now the overseer must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach Titus 1:9 He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine, and refute those who oppose it. Refute error - Titus 1:9, 11 He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine, and refute those who oppose it They must be silenced because they are ruining whole households by teaching things they ought not to teach - and that for the sake of dishonest gain. Manage the church - 1 Timothy 3:5, 5:17 (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of Gods church?) The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching.
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Mankind and Sin We believe that man was created in the image of God, but in Adams sin the human race fell and incurred not only physical death, but also spiritual death, which is separation from God. Man inherited a sinful nature causing all human beings to be born with a sinful nature. (Cf., Genesis 1:26,27; Genesis 9:6; Genesis 3:1-24; Romans 5:12-14; Psalm 51:5; Romans 3:9-12,23; Romans 5:12-14; Ephesians 2:1-3) Salvation We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures as a substitutionary sacrifice acceptable by God; and that all who receive Him by grace through faith are justified on the basis of His shed blood. (Cf., Matthew 20:18; 1 Corinthians 15:3,4; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 John 2:2; Ephesians 2:8,9; 1 Peter 1:18,19; Romans 3:23-26; Romans 5:8-10) We believe that all true believers, once saved, are forever secure in their salvation; and that the abiding presence of the Holy Spirit as a seal and pledge is ones guarantee of his inheritance. (Cf., John 10:27-30; Ephesians 1:13,14; Ephesians 4:30; 1 Peter 1:3-5) Sanctification We believe that sanctification, which is a setting apart unto God, is positional, practical, and permanent. Positionally, it is already completed since the believer is in Christ. However, since he retains his sinful nature in this world, there is need for practical sanctification in his daily experience, whereby the Christian grows in grace by the power of the Holy Spirit. Permanent sanctification will occur in the presence of the Lord with the absence of the sin nature, where position and practice will be consistent. (Cf., John 17:17; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Galatians 5:16; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; Hebrews 10:10; 1 Peter 1:13-16) The Church and Ordinances We believe that the church in its invisible form is a universal and spiritual organism, the true body and bride of Christ. All who are born again are members regardless of organizational affiliation. We believe the Lord instituted and ordained water baptism and the Lords Supper. (Cf., Ephesians 1:22,23; Romans 12:4,5; 1 Corinthians 12:12-14,18,27; Colossians 1:18; Matthew 26:26-28; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26) Future Things We believe in the personal, imminent coming of the Lord Jesus Christ for His Church. We believe in a tribulation on earth which will culminate in the return of Christ to earth to set up His millennial kingdom. (Cf., 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Revelation 3:10; Matthew 24:15-31; Zechariah 14:4-11; Revelation 20:1-6) The Eternal State We believe Christians at death immediately pass into the presence of Christ, and there remain in conscious bliss until the resurrection of the body at the coming of Christ for the Church. Unbelievers remain after death in conscious misery in Hades until the final judgment at the close of Christs millennial reign, when they are cast into the lake of fire. (Cf., Luke 16:19-26; Luke 23:43; 2 Corinthians 5:8; Philippians 1:23; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9; Revelation 20:11-15)
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Water Baptism:
Five Important Questions
What is the meaning of water baptism? Water baptism is the outward expression of a subsequent inward spiritual reality. In Romans 6:3-5 Paul says, Dont you know that everyone who has been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? Therefore we have been buried with him through baptism into death, in order that just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too may live a new life. For if we have become united with him in the likeness of his death, we will certainly also be united in the likeness of his resurrection. When a person trusts Jesus as Savior, they also become an immediate participant in the death, burial, and resurrected life of the Lord. The old person they were before placing their faith in Jesus Christ has died and they have been raised as a new person with new life. The external act of water baptism pictures a spiritual baptism which occurs at the moment of salvation. At salvation, every believer is baptized by the Spirit. This joins the believer to the body of Christ. The word baptism comes from the word baptizo which means to immerse, dip, submerge. The dipping of a linen into the die causes it to change colors and therefore is a new linen. The same is true for the believer. This is a picture of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Is it necessary both to believe in Jesus personally and to receive water baptism in order to be saved? Absolutely not! The New Testament clearly teaches in over 200 instances that salvation is based on personal faith in Jesus Christ apart from any action. John 3:16 tells us what is essential to salvation, For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. Water baptism then does not contribute to personal salvation. As stated before, it represents what has already occurred at salvation. Why should a person receive water baptism? First, because Christ commands it. Following His resurrection from the dead, Jesus told the eleven disciples, And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you. (Matthew 28:18-20a) While this command was initially directed to the eleven apostles, it seems evident that Jesus intended that all who would subsequently believe in Him should receive water baptism. Clearly the apostles understood Him that way because water baptism immediately became the public sign of very believers entry into the Christian community (see Acts 2:41, for example). Second, because Christ exemplified it (He set the example). Jesus, Himself, was baptized and gave it special significance because He engaged in it. One of the basic meanings of the Greek word translated baptism is that of identification or association. Jesus own baptism served as his public identification with the Heavenly Father as well as his association with the message of John the Baptist. As we follow the example of Christ in baptism, we identify ourselves with the One in whose name it is done (Colossians 2:12). 1 John 2:6c says, the one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked.
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Third, because Christ is honored by the clear testimony of belief and submission to Him. There are many illustrations of this in the Book of Acts. After Peters sermon in Acts 2, when the 3,000 Jews believed, they were baptized (Acts 2:41) as a symbol of their new commitment to Christ. This was no small thing in their case, since it often meant disinheritance from their families and ostracism from the Jewish community. The event truly signaled a new way of life for the converted Jew. And, finally, because it has been practiced since the beginning of the church. In the early church, baptism and belief were so closely tied together that the references dont always say that converts believed, but simply say they were baptized (Acts 8:12 is an example). In that day and time there was no separation, because no one would consider being baptized unless there was a solid commitment to their belief. It should be the same today. It is an outward
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Connect to Community
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The church isn't meant to be a lone believer on a mountaintop with her Bible. But let's face it. Living life with others isn't easy. It is simpler and safer to be alone or remain with a few who already know us well. To do otherwise means letting people see our bad hair days, our mistakes, and our faults. It means being disappointed by theirs. At Frisco Bible Church, we believe it is worth the risk. We are diving into living life together with everything we have. We believe God's plan for His church has much more to do with loving one another, sharpening each other, and impacting the world than playing it safe.
What is a LifeGroup?
A LifeGroup is the small group of people with whom you naturally and intentionally live life. The LifeGroup represents one of our best expressions of biblical community. that I may be encouraged together with you while among you, each of us by the others faith, both yours and mine. (Rom. 1:12) As a redeemed community, members seek to experience authentic Christ-centered community by making intentional commitments to one another based on four core values. 1. Worshipping our God daily 2. Discipling one another toward maturity in Christ by His Spirit 3. Connecting with one another as a family of believers 22 4. Serving others beyond the group for Jesus Christ
7:00 8:15
8:30
9:00
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When is the right time for a LifeGroup to multiply and how should this be done?
There are several indications which can determine when a group may be ready to expand: When there are other people around you who need and want to become a part of a LifeGroup When the size of the group hinders relational intimacy When new members are no longer joining existing groups When group members begin growing independent from existing leaders When new leaders emerge who are prepared and have a vision to lead
There are at least three ways to multiply a group, with the third option being the one most recommended:
1. Disbanding (leaving everyone on their own to find a new group) The result can be that some get connected while others are left out This only works if everyone is highly motivated to engage in a new group 2. Splitting (dividing a group in half) The result is two new groups of roughly equal size This is often very difficult for people to handle relationally 3. Birthing (sending out a few members to start a new group) The result is that the existing group stays relatively intact while the new smaller LifeGroup plant aggressively adds new people This is easier on groups and individual members This is the most natural and recommended model of multiplication With any of these options, it is wise to be conscious of how challenging change can be to many people. Faithfully helping people through this process will encourage both personal growth and the healthy expansion of Christian community. The following page suggests some ways to help people
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Demographic Communities
Jesus said the greatest commandment is "...love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind." (Matthew 22:37 ESV). The purpose in the children's and youth ministries is to partner with parents as we teach our children and youth the Good News of Jesus, challenge them to respond to God's Word, and walk with them as they grow. Childrens Ministry Each Sunday morning, we have a loving staff of people who dedicate their time to teach our children in age specific classes from birth to 4th grade during both the 9:15 and 11:00 services. We use two different curriculums, David C. Cook at 9:15 and Gospel Light at 11:00. These tools allow us take the children through a teaching plan focused on helping the children understand the major themes, places and people in God's Word. Student Ministry Evolution Student Ministries strive to develop intentional, maturing servants of Jesus Christ. Evolve Preteen Ministry (5th and 6th grade) meets Sunday mornings at 9:15 for large group Bible study, worship, small groups, and fellowship. Emerge Middle School Ministry (7th and 8th grade) meets Sunday mornings at 11AM for worship, Bible study, and fellowship. They also meet Wednesday evenings in host homes for small groups from 6:15-8:15. Engage High School Ministry (9th thru 12th) meets Sunday mornings at 11AM for worship, Bible study, and fellowship. They also meet Wednesday evenings in host homes for small groups from 6:30-8:30. In addition to weekly meetings, monthly and annual events are held that help promote Christ in the lives of the students and their friends. Additional information can be found on the church website. . Mens Ministry The Mens team offers mens Bible studies (Top Gun) and accountability groups throughout the year that meet on a weekly basis. These groups allow men to discuss issues relevant to men and look to God for the answers to those issues. The team is also committed to offering gatherings where men can fellowship and worship together. Some of these opportunities include mens retreats, father/daughter and son camp-outs, tailgate parties, worship nights and many other events. Womens Ministry The Womens team at FBC offers weekly Bible study classes to meet the spiritual and social needs of women. They also offer events throughout the year that are geared toward women and their walk with the Lord. The women at Frisco Bible enjoy the ability to meet and socialize at different events including womens seminars, teas, craft nights, and retreats in addition to the weekly Bible studies and accountability and prayer groups.
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Connect to Serving
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Serving
What does the Bible say?
Our Motive: Love and Encouragement For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. (Galatians 5:13) For I long to see you so that I may impart some spiritual gift to you, that you may be established; that is, that I may be encouraged together with you while among you, each of us by the others faith, both yours and mine. (Romans 1:11-12) Our Example: Jesus Christ For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many. (Mark 10:45) Our Power: The Holy Spirit Whoever speaks, is to do so as one who is speaking the utterances of God; whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. (1 Peter 4:11) His Glory Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father. (Colossians 3:17) What does this look like at Frisco Bible Church? At Frisco Bible Church, we see life as a calling of servanthood, not only discovering and serving in areas of giftedness, but also helping where needs arise. Our leaders serve by equipping the Body to do the work of ministry, because all members are ministers. Every Christian has been given at least one spiritual gift. As we discover your gift and practice it, we will enjoy the fulfillment of whole-heartedly serving Christ, for His glory.
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Discovery
Would you like to discover how God has created you to serve Him best? When you became a Christian, God gave you salvation and the hope of eternity in heaven. He also gave you purpose and significance in your life now. He has given each of us the opportunity to serve others and make a real difference in someone's life. When you serve others in Jesus' name, that's called ministry. God didn't design ministry just for pastors or for those who went to bible college. At Frisco Bible Church, we believe that every member of our church is a minister. The goal of Discovery is to help you learn how God can use your Spiritual gifts, your Heart (passions), your Abilities, Personality and Experiences to minister to others in need. This is discovering your SHAPE for ministry.
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Spiritual Gifts Inventory (see next page) Directions: Honestly evaluate each of the following statements based on your interest. Assume that you have all the experience and training necessary to accomplish the task. Beside each number write the number expressing your reaction to the statement:
5= Love it! 3= Enjoy it 2= Maybe 1= Probably not 0= No way! Place your answers on the Discovery Scoring Guide section on page 33. (Please feel free to take out the Discovery Scoring Guide and place it next to each page of the Spiritual Gift Inventory for your convenience. But, for your benefit, please dont forget to place it back in the folder in order to prevent it being misplaced.)
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1. Rejoice in Gods provision even when the checkbook is in the red. 2. Clean the kitchen once a week. 3. Build sets for a drama. 4. Search the Bible to check the validity of a sermon or Bible lesson. 5. Study a demographic survey. 6. Welcome an unexpected guest inside my house. 7. Use creative ability (writing, art, drama, music) to benefit the body of Christ. 8. Find ways to make biblical content come alive for students. 9. Call to encourage a friend to stand strong in the faith. 10. Help with the emotional pain of the unemployed. 11. Give use of my car for youth retreats. 12. Plead the cause of God to people. 13. Talk about Jesus to strangers who do not know Him. 14. Motivate groups toward specific Bible objectives. 15. Recognize root problems keeping someone from growing spiritually. 16. Be responsible for the spiritual lives of Christians. 17. Organize ideas, tasks, people and time for Christian service. 18. Wait as long as needed for the right job opening. 19. Run lights for a drama. 20. Design better traffic flow for a system of classrooms. 21. Recognize when people are wearing masks. 22. Start a new ministry. 23. Make strangers feel at ease at church or in my home. 24. Express myself for God through artistic expression. 25. Earnestly desire to explain biblical principles to others. 26. Help a child ride a horse after having been thrown. 27. Sympathize with those who are experiencing hurt. 28. Organize and fund an appreciation dinner. 29. Correct wrong thinking in a friend. 30. Confront my friends and relatives to determine where they stand spiritually. 31. Lead and direct people in an important ministry. 32. Map out a plan of action for spiritual maturity in an individual. 33. Nurture and disciple people. 34. Plan things where people are involved. 35. Grow a garden from a seed. 36. Set up or take down the chairs for a church banquet. 37. Find out what is wrong with a clock and repair it. 38. Detect phony or manipulative persons and teachings. 39. Start a new business. 40. Be more aware of other peoples needs than my own. 41. Find unique ways to express truths of Scripture. 42. Through careful study, clarify ideas for learners. 43. Use scripture to give people help and courage. 44. Work with people who suffer from physical, mental, or emotional problems. 45. Give when confronted with financial needs of Gods kingdom. 46. Relate spiritual insights from the Bible to people. 47. Lead others to believe in Christ as their Savior. 48. Lead and direct others toward goals. 49. Be transparent in sharing areas of struggle.
50. Assume responsibility for a Christian being led astray. 51. Make effective plans to accomplish goals. 52. Trust God to come through when things seem to be impossible. 53. Do dishes after a small group breakfast. 54. Make a new pulpit for the new sanctuary. 55. Look beneath the surface and perceive others qualities. 56. Respond to a long-term need in a new way. 57. Make my home available to those in need of hospitality. 58. Lead the worship singing. 59. Communicate excitement for an idea to a group of people. 60. Write notes to praise someones performance. 61. Detect the emotional atmosphere of a group. 62. Look for new ways to give financially to the Lords work. 63. Proclaim timely and urgent messages from Gods Word. 64. End conversations with clear closure. 65. Preside at a meeting to chart a new course. 66. Give personal feedback. 67. Guide other believers toward spiritual maturity. 68. Coordinate the details necessary to meet a deadline. 69. Trust the safety rope while rope climbing. 70. Stamp and fill envelopes for the church secretary. 71. Wire the speaker system for the church. 72. Able to discriminate between good and evil. 73. Design a storage closet for future needs. 74. Introduce myself to a new neighbor doing yardwork. 75. Innovate. 76. Break large concepts into understandable pieces. 77. Spend some time in a counseling ministry. 78. Watch someone heal from the loss of a parent. 79. Live more simply to give to Gods work. 80. Build up, encourage, and comfort Christians by speaking to them of spiritual things. 81. Share my beliefs in a clear and meaningful way. 82. Bear the brunt of criticism for the teams failure. 83. Speak the truth in love. 84. Equip people to do ministry. 85. Delegate important tasks to the right people at the right time. 86. Take out a loan for a college education. 87. Arrive early Sunday morning to get the coffee going. 88. Help a child build a dollhouse. 89. Perceive ramifications of a new law. 90. Develop an appropriate form/function chart of company employees. 91. Have a genuine appreciation for each guest I minister to. 92. Determine feelings which Bible passages bring out. 93. Discover new ideas to share with others. 94. Help hurting people see Gods answers to lifes problems. 95. Sense when people are hurting and feel their pain. 96. Pay rent for a family whose breadwinner has been laid off. 97. Speak out on the moral issues of the day such as abortion, teen sex, and racism. 98. Listen critically and carefully to someones beliefs. 99. Sense when a group is spinning its wheels and do something about it. 100. Define key issues facing a team. 101. Work to help a group bond together. 102. Decide when to implement projects or ministries.
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Total
After answering all the questions, enter the numeric value to the right of the corresponding numbered question above. Add up the score for each row (across the page) and write the total in the space to the right of the row. Now take the total from each of the rows and place them next to the gifts listed below.
Score 1, 18, 35, 52, 69, 86 Score 2, 19, 36, 53, 70, 87 Score 3, 20, 37, 54, 71, 88 Score 4, 21, 38, 55, 72, 89 Score 5, 22, 39, 56, 73, 90 Score 6, 23, 40, 57, 74, 91 Score 7, 24, 41, 58, 75, 92 Score 8, 25, 42, 59, 76, 93 Score 9, 26, 43, 60, 77, 94 Score 10, 27, 44, 61, 78, 95 Score 11, 28, 45, 62, 79, 96 Score 12, 29, 46, 63, 80, 97 Score 13, 30, 47, 64, 81, 98 Score 14, 31, 48, 65, 82, 99 Score 15, 32, 49, 66, 83, 100 Score 16, 33, 50, 67, 84, 101 Score 17, 34, 51, 68, 85, 102
Total =_____: =_____: =_____: =_____: =_____: =_____: =_____: =_____: =_____: =_____: =_____: =_____: =_____: =_____: =_____: =_____: =_____:
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Gift Faith Service Craftsmanship Discernment Apostle Hospitality Creative Communication Teaching Encouragement Mercy Giving Prophecy Evangelism Leadership Exhortation Shepherding Administration
Here is a description of each spiritual gift, described in terms of a capacity: 1. Faith: The capacity to trust God for what cant be seen and to act on Gods promises (Romans 4:18-21, Hebrews 11). 2. Service/Helps: The capacity to take the initiative to meet the practical needs of others, freeing them to fulfill their own calling (Acts 6:1-7). 3. Craftsmanship: The capacity to facilitate ministry through the use of hands and minds by creative means (Exodus 28:3-4). 4. Discernment: The capacity to separate truth from error and perceive variance from Gods Word (James 3:13-18, 1 John 4:1-6). 5. Apostle: The capacity to start new ministries and oversee their development (Romans 15:20). 6. Hospitality: The capacity to make others feel welcomed, accepted, relaxed, and comfortable (1 Peter4:9-10). 7. Creative Communication: The capacity to communicate Gods truth through a variety of art forms (Psalm 150, 1 Corinthians 14:26). 8. Teaching: The capacity to educate by clearly explaining and applying Gods word (Romans 12:6-8, Titus 3:1-2). 9. Encouragement: The capacity to give reassurance and support (1 Thessalonians 5:11). 10. Mercy: The capacity to detect hurt and feel compassion for those who are hurting (Luke 10:30-37). 11. Giving: The capacity to cheerfully contribute material resources beyond a tithe for the work of the Lord (2 Corinthians 8:1-5). 12. Prophecy: The capacity to proclaim and apply Gods truth and expose sin (1 Corinthians 14:3-5). 13. Evangelism: The capacity to communicate the good news of Jesus so unbelievers can respond in faith (Acts 8:26-40). 14. Leadership: The capacity to instill vision, motivate and direct people to accomplish ministry (Hebrews 13:7, 17; 1 Timothy 3). 15. Exhortation: The capacity to stimulate faith and promote Christian maturity in others (Acts 11:23-24, 14:22). 16. Shepherding: The capacity to guide and nurture an individual or group to grow in faith (1 Peter 5:1-11). 17. Administration: The capacity to execute plans by managing people, resources, and time (Titus 1:5, 1 Timothy 5:4).
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Your Heart
Your passion motivates or drives you from deep within. So, youll need to let your true passions show, not the ones that someone else wants you to have. Consider these questions: At the end of my life, Id love to be able to look back and know that Id done something about: If I were to mention your name to a group of your friends, what would they say you were really interested in or passionate about? What conversation would keep you talking late into the night? Who do/would you really enjoy serving? Based on your responses to these questions, circle the words below indicating people groups and service areas you would enjoy or are passionate about. (Please choose no more than five.)
People:
Infants Toddlers Pre-school Elementary Age Jr. High Age High School College& Career Women Men Singles Newlyweds Young Marrieds Senior Adults Hospitalized Visitors
Areas of Service:
Abuse/Violence Addiction/Recovery Administration Audio/Visual Childcare Cleaning Counseling Disabled Discipleship Evangelism Event Planning Financial Planning Food Preparation Greeting Health/Fitness Homeless Missions Music Mobilizing People for Ministry Organization Parking Prayer Prison Ministry Repair Service Projects Teaching Ushering Worship
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Your Abilities
It is a wonderful truth that God always provides the means necessary to fulfill His work. For clarification, Abilities are not spiritual gifts. But both are God-given and ought to be actively used to serve Jesus Christ. Both can be developed, and vary in degree and kind. Yet they are not the same.
Natural Abilities
Require physical birth Enable the individual Given to all people Circle your dominant ability/abilities: Acting Administration Artistic Arts/Crafts Audio/Visual Auto Repair Catering Composing Computer networking Computer programming Construction Cooking Curriculum Development Dance Data entry Decorating Desktop Publishing
Spiritual Gifts
Require spiritual birth Enable the church Given to all believers
Drawing Editing Evaluating Food Preparation Graphic Design Hospitality Hosting in my Home House Repair Interviewing Landscaping Organization Painting Performing Arts Drama Performing Arts Illusionist Phone Calling Phone Receptionist Photography
Presentation Design Programming Promoting Public Speaking Research Scenery Production Set-up/Tear down Sewing Singing Sound system Sports Teaching Video Production Web Design Welcoming Writing
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Your Personality
We each have certain dominant personality traits molded by our genetics, environment, and choices which makes the expression of our SHAPE that much more special. Our role in Discovery is to get an accurate reading of your basic tendencies. Check the boxes that best describe your personality. The designation with the most checked is most likely your dominant personality. Please enter the two personality types that best describe you: _________________________________ D (Dominance/Lion) Self-confident Practical Accept challenges Great negotiator Make quick decisions Risk taker I (Influence/Otter) Relate well to others Optimistic Motivator Empathetic Influential Animated C (Conscientousness/Beaver) Orderly Wise and thoughtful Value organization Conservative Detail-oriented Quality Conscious Set standards S (Steadiness/Golden Retriever) Consistent Security-oriented Predictable Appreciates harmony Specialized skills Simplistic Enjoy stability Flexible Sympathetic Philosophical Service-oriented Calm and collected Loyal Shy Serious Cautious Analytical Dependable Theoretical Respect authority Perfectionist Outgoing Expressive Enthusiastic Popular Persuasive Demanding Adventuresome Independent Direct communicator Competitive Focused
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Our life experiences help us know how God has molded us to minister to people in our church and in our community. Take a few minutes and reflect back on your journey of life. Now look over the experiences below and consider how God has ministered through you in the past. Please circle the experiences below that match the background of your past. Accounting Addiction Recovery Administrative Work Audio-running sound Audio-musical ear; mixing live sound Audio-knowledge of computer applications Banking Budgets Childcare Worker Church Staff Discovery Exposure Evangelism Training Financial Planning Greeting Graphic Design Legal Counsel Marital Counsel Marital Mentoring Mens Ministry Missions Music-mastery of instrument Music-experience playing with groups in public Personal and/or Work Mentoring Premarital Counseling Prison Ministry Professional Auto Repair Professional Home Repair Small Group Host Small Group Leader Spiritual Mentoring Teaching the Bible Testimony Usher Video Production Volunteer Womens Ministry Worship team-Choir Director Worship team-Playing music in public Worship team-Leading music Youth Leader
Your Experiences
Congratulations!!!
You have now discovered your God-given S.H.A.P.E.! Now its up to you to use what youve learned for the good of the Body of Christ! Be encouraged to use your spiritual gifts, passion (heart), abilities, personality, and life experience for the Lord and serve Him in the special ways you alone can.
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Connect to Mission
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Good news is not meant to be kept to oneself, but is to be shared and savored with others. Before Christ ascended to heaven, He commanded the disciples to permeate the globe with the greatest message ever known to man and to make disciples of all nations. We are committed to touching as many lives as possible with the good news of Jesus Christ. To be strategic, we use Acts 1:8 as our model, ...and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Jerusalem (North Texas) Judea (U.S.) Samaria (outside U.S.) Ends of the Earth (unreached peoples) FBC Supported Missionaries John and Terry Kanter (Stephen) Serving with: The Christian Jew Foundation Ministries Link: http://www.cjfm.org/people/missionaries/johnk http://www.harvestpointbible.com/
Fred and Luci Schaphorst (Stephen and Samuel) Serving with: Gospel for Asia Link: http://www.gfa.org
Lee and Anna Robertson (Rachel, Joel) Serving with: Training Evangelistic Leadership Link: http://serve.dentonbible.org/team/team.cfm?regid=101&username=lrobertson
Michael and Florence Kyomya Serving with: Hesed Ministries Link: http://www.hesedinternational.org/Mission%20Field.htm
Will and Julie White (William and Abby) Serving with Missions Aviation Fellowship Link: http://www.maf.org/white FBC Supported Agencies
Part-time Staff
Jennifer Bryant Ryan Sweeten Justin Burns Rick Foddrill Adam Southern Scotty Farris
Womens Ministry Director Audio/Visual Connections Associate Middle School Ministry Associate Pre-Teen Ministry Associate Facilities Director
Elders
Wayne Braudrick Scott Legband Ricky Bush Bob Richardson Paul Hahn Schuyler Stuckey
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notes
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