Faith and Community Life in the United Church of Christ
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AFFIRMING FAITH
BASED ON
A CONGREGATION’S GUIDE TO CONFIRMATION
UNITED CHURCH PRESS, CLEVELAND, OHIO 44115
SECOND EDITION 2008 EDITED BY THOMAS E. DIPKO
ISBN 978-0-8298-1781-2, AND ISBN 978-0-8298-1782-9
COMMUNITY LIFE
CHAPTERS 1, 2, 3
OUR HISTORY AND HERITAGE
CHAPTERS 4, 5, 6, 7
UCC STATEMENT OF FAITH
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST STATEMENT OF
FAITH—ADAPTED BY ROBERT V. MOSS
•
We believe in God, the Eternal Spirit, who is made known to us in Jesus our brother, and to whose deeds we testify:
•
God calls the worlds into being, creates humankind in the divine image, and sets before us the ways of life and death.
•
God seeks in holy love to save all people from aimlessness and sin.
•
God judges all humanity and all nations by that will of righteousness declared through prophets and apostles.
•
In Jesus Christ, the man of Nazareth, our crucified and risen Lord, God has come to us and shared our common lot,
conquering sin and death and reconciling the whole creation to its Creator.
•
God bestows upon us the Holy Spirit, creating and renewing the church of Jesus Christ, binding in covenant faithful
people of all ages, tongues, and races.
•
God calls us into the church to accept the cost and joy of discipleship, to be servants in the service of the whole human
family, to proclaim the gospel to all the world and resist the powers of evil, to share in Christ's baptism and eat at his
table, to join him in his passion and victory.
•
God promises to all who trust in the gospel forgiveness of sins and fullness of grace, courage in the struggle for justice
and peace, the presence of the Holy Spirit in trial and rejoicing, and eternal life in that kingdom which has no end.
•
Blessing and honor, glory and power be unto God. Amen.
GOD
CHAPTERS 8, 9, 10
GOD CREATES – CHAPTER 8
•
God calls the worlds into being, creates
humankind in the divine image, and sets
before us the ways of life and death.
CREATION STORIES
•
Genesis 1:1-2:4A
•
At God’s Word, the universe and humanity are created.
•
Genesis 2:4B-25
•
God creates humankind from dust and gives the breath of life.
•
Deuteronomy 30:11-20
•
God sets before humankind the way of life and death, and calls people to choose life.
GENESIS, CHAPTERS 1-11
•
https://thebibleproject.com/explore/genesis-1-11/
GOD SEEKS AND SAVES – CHAPTER 9
•
God seeks in holy love to save all
people from aimlessness and sin.
WHAT IS SIN?
•
Sin is a state of human life in
which we are separated from
one another, from ourselves,
and from God.
SCRIPTURES
•
Romans 5:12-21
•
Righteousness and life come from God’s saving grace.
•
Mark 10:35-45
•
James and John seek honor.
•
We separate from each other.
•
Matthew 26:31-35, 69-75
•
Peter denies knowing Jesus.
•
We separate from our own best intentions.
•
Jeremiah 2:4-13
•
God, through the prophet Jeremiah, accuses the people of turning against God.
•
We separate from God.
DISCUSSION
•
Think of a promise you have made or that was made to you.
•
Was it kept or broken?
•
How does it feel to keep a promise?
•
To break a promise?
•
To get another chance?
•
Can you think of ways God has been with you in the past?
•
What is God calling or inviting you to do now in your life?
•
In what ways do you think God offers us help to live in relationships that are
whole and loving?
WHAT IS SALVATION?
•
Salvation is the gift from God’s
grace that frees us from sin, guilt,
and the powers of death.
RESPONDING
TO
GOD’S
GIFT
•
God calls us each to wholeness in our relationships
with others, ourselves, and God.
•
What is a “call”?
•
What is a covenant?
•
How would you be the same or different if you took
seriously the call to covenant with God?
GOD LOVES AND JUDGES – CHAPTER
10
•
God judges all humanity and all nations by
that will of righteousness declared through
prophets and apostles.
THEMES
•
God is a saving God who judges.
•
God judges relationships with God, one another, ourselves,
and the world by God’s righteous will.
•
There are times when we fail as individuals and as a
church to be just and loving.
OBJECTIVES
FOR THIS LESSON
•
Hear what God requires.
•
Explore the meaning of God’s unconditional love.
•
Discover God’s offer of forgiveness.
SCRIPTURES
•
Micah 6:6-8 (NRSV)
6
"With what shall I come before the
LORD
, and bow myself before God on
high? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old?
7
Will the
LORD
be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousands of
rivers of oil? Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my
body for the sin of my soul?"
8
He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the
LORD
require
of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your
God?
•
Faithfulness to God is shown in acts of justice, kindness, and humility
LIVING OUT A SCENARI
O
•
Two friends are shopping.
•
One decides to buy a new pair of sunglasses.
•
The other friend says that they are too expensive and
suggests that instead of buying them he/she should hide
them and walk out of the store.
•
A store clerk overhears the conversation.
LIVING OUT A SCENA
RIO
•
What differences were there in the two versions of this scenario?
•
What do you think contributed to those differences.
•
What would you have changed in either one?
•
How did the words from Micah 6:6-8 affect the outcome of the
role play?
•
How could those words from scripture affect your own life and the
relationships you have or the choices you make? Explain.
SCRIPTURES
•
Psalm 130:1-8 (NRSV)
1
Out of the depths I cry to you, O
LORD
.
2
Lord, hear my voice! Let your ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications!
3
If you, O
LORD
, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand?
4
But there is forgiveness with you, so that you may be revered.
5
I wait for the
LORD
, my soul waits, and in his word I hope;
6
my soul waits for the Lord more than those who watch for the morning, more than
those who watch for the morning.
7
O Israel, hope in the
LORD
! For with the
LORD
there is steadfast love, and with him
is great power to redeem.
8
It is he who will redeem Israel from all its iniquities.
•
God’s love redeems.
EXPLORE GOD’S UNCONDITIONAL
LOVE
•
If we are truly sorry (repentant), God forgives us.
•
Sometimes we have more trouble “forgiving ourselves” than God
does.
•
What would it be like to have a friend who would never stop
loving you no matter what?
•
Have you ever been in a situation where someone hurt you and
you were able to forgive him or her?
•
What was that like?
SCRIPTURES
•
Matthew 25:31-40 (NRSV)
31
"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on the throne of his glory.
32
All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd
separates the sheep from the goats,
33
and he will put the sheep at his right hand and the goats at the left.
34
Then the king will say to those at his right hand, 'Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom
prepared for you from the foundation of the world;
35
for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and
you welcomed me,
36
I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.'
37
Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and
gave you something to drink?
38
And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing?
39
And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?'
40
And the king will answer them, 'Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of
my family, you did it to me.'
•
What we do for others we do for Christ.
RELATE SCRIPTURE TO OUR LI
VES
•
What do the words judgment and repentance mean to you?
•
How are the meanings different now than they were before this
session?
•
How do you suppose one would live to show God’s righteous will?
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER
•
Where have you unexpectedly seen the face of Christ?
•
Was it at a time when you were helping or not helping
another person?
•
Why would God care if we help the sick or feed the
hungry or clothe the naked?
•
How might God expect faithful people and nations to act?
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER
•
What are some ways in which you make healthy and
loving relationships with God, with yourself, with others,
and with creation?
•
Recall a time when you hurt someone else and that person
forgave you.
•
How did it feel?
•
What have you learned about your relationship with God?
SEEKING HOPE IN GOD’S RIGHTEOUS
WILL
•
Is there a situation in your life or a situation in the world
that needs God’s healing or God’s forgiveness?
•
What is it?
•
How might God’s love and justice be known?
JESUS CHRIST
CHAPTERS 11, 12, 13
JESUS CHRIST, HUMAN AND DIVINE –
CHAPTER 11
•
In Jesus Christ, the man of Nazareth, our
crucified and risen Lord, God has come to us
and shared our common lot, conquering sin
and death and reconciling the whole creation
to its Creator.
THEMES
•
Throughout history, God has sought to relate to
human beings.
•
God become one of us in the person of Jesus
of Nazareth.
•
Jesus’ life expressed God in the world.
OBJECTIVES
FOR
THIS
SESSION
•
Discover the joys of being human.
•
Explore the meaning of the incarnation.
•
Reflect on what Jesus Christ means to us.
LOOK AT THE HUMANITY AND
DIVINITY OF JESUS
•
Name what you like about being human
SCRIPTURES
•
John 1:1-18 –
The Divine became human in Jesus Christ.
•
Luke 22:63 – 23:46 –
Jesus was physically hurt
•
Mark 4:35-38 –
Jesus slept.
•
Matthew 21:18 –
Jesus was hungry.
•
John 11:28-36 –
Jesus wept for a friend
.
•
Mark 6:30-32 –
Jesus spent time with his friends.
•
John 2:1-11 –
Jesus celebrated.
•
John 2:13-16 –
Jesus got angry
•
Luke 2:41-51 –
Jesus upset his parents
•
Matthew 15:30-38 –
Jesus felt sorry for someone else.
CONSIDER
THE MEANING OF THE
INCARNATION
•
Concept
•
“Parable of the Birds” p. 112
•
Is it important to you that Jesus is truly God?
•
Is it important to you that Jesus was truly
human?
NAME THE IMPORTANCE OF JESUS
TO US
•
When I think about God coming to us and sharing our
common lot, I….
•
When I think about Jesus Christ as a Savior I….
•
What I like best about being “a child of God”
•
What questions do you think many people have about
Jesus being both fully human and fully divine?
JESUS CHRIST, CRUCIFIED AND
RESURRECTED – CHAPTER 12
•
In Jesus Christ, the man of Nazareth, our
crucified and risen Lord, God has come to us
and shared our common lot, conquering sin
and death and reconciling the whole creation
to its Creator.
THEMES
•
Jesus lived among us.
•
Jesus was crucified and resurrected.
•
Jesus’ life and resurrection are central to the
Christian faith.
•
Jesus Christ is present today in relationship.
OBJECTIVES
FOR
THIS
SESSION
•
Explore the meaning of the Passion and
resurrection of Jesus Christ.
•
Assess beliefs about Jesus.
•
Consider Christ’s presence with believers.
THE PASSION & RESURRECTION OF JESUS
•
John 18:1-27
•
Who?
•
What?
•
Where?
•
When?
•
Why?
THE PASSION & RESURRECTION OF JESUS
•
John 18:28 - 19:16
•
Who?
•
What?
•
Where?
•
When?
•
Why?
THE PASSION & RESURRECTION OF JESUS
•
John 19:17-42
•
Who?
•
What?
•
Where?
•
When?
•
Why?
THE PASSION & RESURRECTION OF JESUS
•
John 20:1-31
•
Who?
•
What?
•
Where?
•
When?
•
Why?
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER
•
Why do you think everyone abandoned Jesus during his trial and
crucifixion?
•
Why do you think Jesus was crucified?
•
Do you feel any sympathy for Pontius Pilate, the chief priests,
scribes, Pharisees, Judas, Peter, or Thomas?
•
Why or Why not?
•
What do you think Jesus meant when he said to Thomas, “Blessed
are those who have not seen and yet believe? (John 20:29)
WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE?
•
Jesus was a human person like me.
•
Jesus was divine.
•
Jesus was a great teacher.
•
Jesus was the Son of God.
•
Jesus was a Jew.
•
Jesus knew that he was the Son of God.
•
Jesus was a spirit in human disguise.
WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE?
•
Jesus never did anything wrong.
•
Jesus felt pain.
•
Jesus always did what his parents expected.
•
Jesus liked to party.
•
Jesus was always meek and mild.
•
Jesus was never sad or depressed.
•
Jesus’ life expressed God in the world.
JESUS CHRIST, RISEN SAVIOR – CHAPTER 13
•
In Jesus Christ, the man of Nazareth, our
crucified and risen Lord, God has come to us
and shared our common lot, conquering sin
and death and reconciling the whole creation
to its Creator.
THEMES
•
Jesus Chris is Sovereign and Savior.
•
Jesus Christ delivers the world from sin, death,
and oppression.
•
Jesus Christ restores a right relationship
between humanity and God, among persons,
and with all creation.
OBJECTIVES
FOR
THIS
SESSION
•
Explore the meaning of reconciliation.
•
Discover God’s intentions for us in Christ.
•
Consider the questions asked during the rite of
confirmation.
SCRIPTURES
•
John 1:29-34
•
Jesus takes away the sin of the world.
•
2 Corinthians 5:16-21
•
God calls us to be reconcilers.
QUESTIONS
•
What does it mean to you to show reconciliation?
•
What is most difficult about reconciliation?
•
What makes reconciliation important?
•
How did Jesus show reconciliation?
•
How would you go about the process of reconciliation?
A SYMBOL OF RECONCILIATION
•
The vertical axis of the cross can symbolize
our relationship with God.
•
The horizontal axis can symbolize our
relationship with others.
•
The vertical and horizontal meet in the cross.
•
When we separate from our fellow human
beings, we have separated from God.
A SYMBOL OF RECONCILIATION
•
What things separate us from God?
•
What things separate us from others?
•
What do you believe God wants for us and
all creation?
•
How many Ministers are there in our church?
•
What contribution can you make to help bring
God’s reign to its fullness?
CONFIRMATION LITANY
THE HOLY SPIRIT
CHAPTERS 14, 15
GUIDED BY THE SPIRIT – CHAPTER 14
•
You bestow upon us your Holy Spirit, creating
and renewing the church of Jesus Christ.
THEMES - 2/9/2020
•
The Holy Spirit is a part of the great mystery
of the Trinity.
•
The Holy Spirit creates, nurtures, and helps us
use our gifts for the good of all creation.
•
The Holy Spirit works through the church.
OBJECTIVES
FOR
THIS
SESSION
•
Compare the wind and the Spirit.
•
Complete a gifts inventory.
•
Name symbols of the Spirit.
•
Experience a centering prayer.
SCRIPTURES
•
John 16:1-7
•
Jesus promises that the Advocate (Holy Spirit) will
come to the disciples.
•
John 20:19-23
•
The Risen Christ offers peace to the disciples and
gives them the gift of the Holy Spirit.
COMPARE THE WIND TO GOD’S SPIRIT
•
How does one feel God’s Spirit?
•
Experience it?
•
How is wind like the Spirit of God?
CONSIDER WHAT IT MEANS TO BE
LED BY GOD’S SPIRIT
•
Have you ever felt led by the Holy Spirit
.
•
Was it a time of crisis? Loneliness? Quiet?
Confusion?
•
What was the experience like?
IDENTIFY SYMBOLS OF THE SPIRIT
•
What are some traditional places where people
go to experience the presence of the Holy Spirit?
•
Where have you experienced the presence of the
Spirit?
•
How do you sense the Spirit moving within you?
EXPLORE THE PRESENCE OF GOD’S
SPIRIT _2/23/2020
•
Galatians 5:13-26
•
Living by the Spirit produces fruit of the Spirit.
•
1 Corinthians 12:4-11
•
There are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit is
in everyone for the common good.
EXPLORE THE PRESENCE OF GOD’S
SPIRIT
•
What are the Gifts of the Spirit?
•
What are they not?
•
What are they for?
•
How can we identify them?
•
How can we learn to use them?
EXPLORE THE PRESENCE OF GOD’S SPIRIT
•
The Spirit’s gifts in us need to be
•
Identified
•
Called forth
•
Confirmed
•
Owned
•
Accepted
•
Offered
•
Received.
•
Inventory- Confirmands Journal – p. 132
QUESTIONS
•
https://bibleproject.com/explore/holy-spirit/
QUESTIONS
•
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGbNw855ksw
THE CHURCH
CHAPTERS 16, 17, 18, 19
THE BODY OF CHRIST – CHAPTER 16
•
You call us into your church.
THEMES - 3/8/2020
•
The church is the body of Christ.
•
Christians participate in ministries of worship,
teaching, and service.
OBJECTIVES
FOR
THIS
SESSION
•
Explore the ministries of the church.
•
Discover the gifts needed by the body of
Christ.
•
Consider how the body of Christ functions.
SCRIPTURES
•
1Corinthians 12:12-27
•
The church is the body of Christ.
•
Romans 12:1-8
•
Paul outlines the way believers are to live as the body of Christ.
•
1 Timothy 4:11-16
•
Paul instructs Timothy in the way to teach about Christ.
•
Ephesians 4:1-16
•
Unity in the body of Christ is the ideal.
PARAPHRASE 1 CORINTHIANS 12:12-27
•
How do you see this scripture coming to life in
our church?
RECALL A WORSHIP EXPERIENCE
•
Review the three ministries of the church
•
Tell about an experience in worship that was
meaningful. How did it connect you with other
Christians.
•
Name at least three things that you have learned
about faith while you have been involved in a
church–sponsored activity.
RECALL A WORSHIP EXPERIENCE
•
What have you taught others about God or faith.
•
What have you taught others about God or faith
in settings other than church.
•
Name the talents or abilities church members are
encouraged to share no matter where they are
because they are followers of Christ.
CONSIDER HOW THE CHURCH IS THE
BODY OF CHRIST
•
Read Romans 12:1-8
•
Talk about the gifts
•
What do you think you have to offer to others at
this point in your life.
•
What do you need from others to help you?
RESPOND AS THE BODY OF CHRIST
•
.
AFFIRM THE GIFTS OF THE BODY OF
CHRIST
GOING
QUESTIONS
FOLLOWERS OF CHRIST – CHAPTER 17
•
You call us into your church….
…to accept the Cost and Joy of Discipleship
THEMES
•
Following Christ is a lifelong commitment.
•
Following Christ has a cost.
•
Following Christ brings great joy.
OBJECTIVES
FOR
THIS
SESSION
•
Explore the meaning of discipleship.
•
Hear the stories of the cost and joy of discipleship.
•
Consider the promises made in the rite of
confirmation.
SCRIPTURES
•
John 21:15-17
•
The risen Christ commands Peter to care for God’s people.
•
Matthew 4:18-22
•
Jesus meets two fishers and challenges them to follow.
•
Mark 8:34-35
•
Jesus gives the ultimate challenge of discipleship: take up the cross.
•
Luke 8:1-3
•
Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna follow Jesus as he proclaims
the good news of God’s reign.
MARK 8:34-35 (NRSV)
JESUS GIVES THE ULTIMATE CHALLENGE OF DISCIPLESHIP: TAKE UP THE CROSS.
•
34
He called the crowd with his disciples, and said to them, "If any want to
become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and
follow me.
35
For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their
life for my sake, and for the sake of the gospel, will save it.
36
For what will it profit them to gain the whole world and forfeit their life?
37
Indeed, what can they give in return for their life?
38
Those who are ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and
sinful generation, of them the Son of Man will also be ashamed when he
comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels."
DISCIPLESHIP
•
Deny themselves
•
Take up the cross
•
Follow me
JOHN 21:15-17 (NRSV)
THE RISEN CHRIST COMMANDS PETER TO CARE FOR GOD’S PEOPLE.
15
When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of
John, do you love me more than these?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord; you know
that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my lambs."
16
A second time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?" He said
to him, "Yes, Lord; you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Tend my
sheep."
17
He said to him the third time, "Simon son of John, do you love me?" Peter felt
hurt because he said to him the third time, "Do you love me?" And he said to
him, "Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you." Jesus said to him,
"Feed my sheep.
MATTHEW 4:18-22 (NRSV)
JESUS MEETS TWO FISHERS AND CHALLENGES THEM TO FOLLOW.
18
As he walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon,
who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea—
for they were fishermen.
19
And he said to them, "Follow me, and I will make you fish for
people."
20
Immediately they left their nets and followed him.
21
As he went from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of
Zebedee and his brother John, in the boat with their father Zebedee,
mending their nets, and he called them.
22
Immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed him.
LUKE 8:1-3 (NRSV)
MARY MAGDALENE, JOANNA, AND SUSANNA FOLLOW JESUS AS
HE PROCLAIMS THE GOOD NEWS OF GOD’S REIGN.
1
Soon afterwards he went on through cities and villages,
proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of
God. The twelve were with him,
2
as well as some women who had been cured of evil spirits
and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven
demons had gone out,
3
and Joanna, the wife of Herod's steward Chuza, and
Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their
resources.
CONSIDER THE QUESTIONS FOR
CONFIRMATION
•
Do you promise, by the grace of God, to be
Christ’s disciple, to follow in the way of our
Savior, to resist oppression and evil, to show
love and justice, and to witness to the work
and word of Jesus Christ as best you are able?
WITNESS AND SERVICE – CHAPTER 18
•
You call us into your church….
…to be your servants in the service of others,
to proclaim the Gospel to all the world, and
resist the powers of evil.
THEMES
•
A disciple of Jesus Christ is an active servant in
the world.
•
Faith is made real through one’s choices and
actions.
•
Choosing life and resisting evil are part of
discipleship.
OBJECTIVES
FOR
THIS
SESSION
•
Discover the call in Scripture to witness and
service.
•
Explore stories of modern-day servants of God.
•
Participate in a handwashing ritual.
JAMES 2:14-17 (NRSV)
FAITH AND WORKS TOGETHER BRING LIFE.
14
What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if you say you
have faith but do not have works? Can faith save you?
15
If a brother or sister is naked and lacks daily food,
16
and one of you says to them, "Go in peace; keep
warm and eat your fill," and yet you do not supply their
bodily needs, what is the good of that?
17
So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead.
JOHN 13:3-15 (NRSV)
3
Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and
was going to God,
4
got up from the table, took off his outer robe, and tied a towel around himself.
5
Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the
towel that was tied around him.
6
He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?"
7
Jesus answered, "You do not know now what I am doing, but later you will understand."
8
Peter said to him, "You will never wash my feet." Jesus answered, "Unless I wash you, you have no share
with me."
9
Simon Peter said to him, "Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!"
10
Jesus said to him, "One who has bathed does not need to wash, except for the feet, but is entirely
clean. And you are clean, though not all of you."
11
For he knew who was to betray him; for this reason he said, "Not all of you are clean."
12
After he had washed their feet, had put on his robe, and had returned to the table, he said to them,
"Do you know what I have done to you?
13
You call me Teacher and Lord—and you are right, for that is what I am.
14
So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet.
15
For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you.
MATTHEW 28:16-20 (NRSV)
16
Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to
which Jesus had directed them.
17
When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.
18
And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on
earth has been given to me.
19
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in
the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
20
and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded
you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
1 JOHN 3:17-18 (NRSV)
17
How does God's love abide in anyone who has
the world's goods and sees a brother or sister in
need and yet refuses help?
18
Little children, let us love, not in word or speech,
but in truth and action.
SERVANTHOOD
THE SACRAMENTS – CHAPTER 19
•
You call us into your church….
…To share in Christ’s Baptism and eat at his
table, to join him in his passion and victory.
THEMES
•
Our covenant with God is established in baptism.
•
Our covenant with God is remembered and renewed in
Holy Communion.
•
The sacraments of baptism and Holy Communion signify
God’s grace and identify God’s people.
•
The sacraments of baptism and Holy Communion unite us
with Christians in all times and places.
OBJECTIVES
FOR
THIS
SESSION
•
Discover the meanings of the sacraments.
•
Review your church’s practices of the
sacraments.
MATTHEW 28:16-20 (NRSV)
16
Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had
directed them.
17
When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.
18
And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has
been given to me.
19
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name
of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
20
and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And
remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
MATTHEW 3:1-17 (NRSV)
1
In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming,
2
"Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near."
3
This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke when he said, "The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the Lord,
make his paths straight.'"
4
Now John wore clothing of camel's hair with a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey.
5
Then the people of Jerusalem and all Judea were going out to him, and all the region along the Jordan,
6
and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins.
7
But when he saw many Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from
the wrath to come?
8
Bear fruit worthy of repentance.
9
Do not presume to say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our ancestor'; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to
Abraham.
10
Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.
11
"I baptize you with water for repentance, but one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He
will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.
12
His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor and will gather his wheat into the granary; but the chaff he will burn
with unquenchable fire."
13
Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him.
14
John would have prevented him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?"
15
But Jesus answered him, "Let it be so now; for it is proper for us in this way to fulfill all righteousness." Then he consented.
16
And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw the Spirit of
God descending like a dove and alighting on him.
17
And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased."
BAPTISM PRACTICES IN OUR CHURCH
•
Baptism is done in community.
•
At what age?
•
How often?
•
Sprinkle, Pouring, Immersion
•
Promises
•
Seal
THE MEANING OF BAPTISM
•
Which promises asked the candidates, parents or guardians, sponsors, and
congregation at baptism do you think are the easiest to keep? Why?
•
Which promises asked of the candidates, parents or guardians, sponsors, and
congregation at baptism are the most difficult to keep? Why?
LUKE 22:1-20 (NRSV)
1
Now the festival of Unleavened Bread, which is called the Passover, was near.
2
The chief priests and the scribes were looking for a way to put Jesus to death, for they were afraid of the people.
3
Then Satan entered into Judas called Iscariot, who was one of the twelve;
4
he went away and conferred with the chief priests and officers of the temple police about how he might betray him to them.
5
They were greatly pleased and agreed to give him money.
6
So he consented and began to look for an opportunity to betray him to them when no crowd was present.
7
Then came the day of Unleavened Bread, on which the Passover lamb had to be sacrificed.
8
So Jesus sent Peter and John, saying, "Go and prepare the Passover meal for us that we may eat it."
9
They asked him, "Where do you want us to make preparations for it?"
10
"Listen," he said to them, "when you have entered the city, a man carrying a jar of water will meet you; follow him into the
house he enters
11
and say to the owner of the house, 'The teacher asks you, "Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my
disciples?" '
12
He will show you a large room upstairs, already furnished. Make preparations for us there."
13
So they went and found everything as he had told them; and they prepared the Passover meal.
14
When the hour came, he took his place at the table, and the apostles with him.
15
He said to them, "I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer;
16
for I tell you, I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God."
17
Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he said, "Take this and divide it among yourselves;
18
for I tell you that from now on I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes."
19
Then he took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, "This is my body, which
is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me."
20
And he did the same with the cup after supper, saying, "This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.
1 CORINTHIANS 11:23-26 (NRSV)
•
23
For I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you, that the Lord
Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took a loaf of bread,
24
and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, "This is my body that
is for you. Do this in remembrance of me."
25
In the same way he took the cup also, after supper, saying, "This cup is the
new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of
me."
26
For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the
Lord's death until he comes.
CONSIDER THE MEANINGS OF HOLY COMMUNION
•
Confirmands Journal p. 165
•
How often do we celebrate Holy Communion?
•
Where does it happen in the order of worship?
•
Who is included? Why?
•
How is it served?
•
Grape juice or wine?
•
What kind of bread?
•
What is the mood in church when Communion is celebrated? Why?
•
How is it conveyed?
COMMUNION
•
Invitation
Pastor
: Jesus said: “I am the bread of life. You who come to me shall not hunger; you who believe in me shall
never thirst.”
People: In company with all who hunger for spiritual food, we come to this table to know the risen Christ in
the sharing of this life-giving bread.
•
Communion Prayer
Pastor
: God be with you.
People: And also with you.
Pastor
: Lift up your hearts.
People: We lift them to God
Pastor
: Let us give thanks to God most high.
People: It is right to give God thanks and praise.
Pastor
: Holy God, our loving Creator, we thank you for your constant love for all that you have made. We thank
you for all that sustains life, for all people of faith in every generation who have given themselves to your will, and
especially for your Son, Jesus Christ, whom you have sent from your own being as our Savior. We praise you for
Christ’s birth, life, death, and resurrection, and for the calling forth of your church for its mission in the world.
Gifted by the presence of your Holy Spirit, we offer ourselves to you as we unite our voices with the entire family
of your faithful people everywhere:
COMMUNION
•
All: Sanctus
Holy, Holy, Holy God of love and majesty, the whole universe speaks of your glory, O God Most
High. Blessed is the one who comes in the name of our God! Hosanna! Hosanna in the highest
•
Words of Institution
Pastor
: We remember that on the night of betrayal and desertion, Jesus took bread, gave you thanks,
broke the bread, and gave it to the disciples, saying: “This is my body which is broken for you. Do this in
remembrance of me.”
In the same way, Jesus also took the cup, after supper, saying: “This cup is the new covenant in my blood
which was shed for you and for all people, for the forgiveness of sins. Do this, as often as you drink it, in
remembrance of me.”
All: With thanksgiving, we take this bread and wine, gifts of the good earth, offering ourselves as a
living sacrifice dedicated to your service.
•
Prayer of Consecration
Pastor
: Send your Holy Spirit on us and these gifts of bread and wine, that we may know Christ’s presence
and be his faithful followers, showing your love for the world.
All: All glory and honor are yours, Holy God, through Christ and in the unity of the Spirit.
COMMUNION
•
Pastor
: Let us say the prayer our Savior taught us.
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it
is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And
lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory,
forever. Amen
•
Breaking of the Bread
Pastor
: The Body of Christ, given for you
•
Lifting of the Cup
Pastor: The Blood of Christ, shed for you.
•
Call to the Supper
•
Sharing of the Elements
•
Blessing:
Pastor: Holy One, now let your servants be in peace; your word has been fulfilled:
•
Prayer of Thanksgiving
All: We thank you, God, for renewing us at your table with the bread of life. May this food strengthen us in love, and in your service, so that our
daily living may more fully show our thanks and praise. We ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.
•
Benediction
GOD’S GIFTS AND OUR RESPONSE
CHAPTERS 20-22
FORGIVENESS AND GRACE – CHAPTER 20
•
You promise to all who trust You forgiveness of
sins and fullness of Grace.….
THEMES
•
Grace abounds and we have much for which to be
grateful.
•
God’s grace is sufficient; God’s forgiveness is always
available.
•
God’s grace doesn’t prevent suffering; it accompanies the
one who suffers.
OBJECTIVES
FOR
THIS
SESSION
•
Explore the meaning of God’s grace.
•
Create a visual expression of how God’s
chosen ones are called to live.
•
Give thanks to God for the gift of grace.
GATHERING
•
Name something for which you are grateful during
the past month and why?
•
In the past year…
•
Anytime in your life…
•
Do you feel you deserved those things?
•
How do you show your thanks?
EXPLORING – HEAR A MODERN PARABLE
•
The owner of an electronics store had a number of full-time workers whom she paid pretty well. One year,
because the Christmas rush was coming, she hired extra workers for the season. She promised to pay them
what was right.
•
A week later, and again two weeks later, she did the same thing. Finally, on the morning of Christmas Eve,
anticipating a frenetic day, she did the same thing. "I need you to work in the store too," she said.
•
When that last day before Christmas had finally ended, she called all her workers to her to pay them. First she
paid those she had hired that day. She paid them as if they had been there for the entire month.
•
Then she paid those who had come two weeks ago, then those who had started three weeks ago. Each of them
also got a full month's wage.
•
When the full-time workers came, they expected they would receive more. But each of them received what the
others had been given.
•
And when they looked at their paychecks, they bad-mouthed their boss, saying, "The last people you hired
worked only a day, and you have made them equal to those of us who worked so hard for the whole month."
•
But the owner said to them, "I'm not doing anything wrong to you. Didn't we agree on your pay?
•
Take what belongs to you and go. I choose to give to the ones I hired today the same as I give to you. Am I not
allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me?
•
Or are you envious because I am generous? So the last will be first, and the first will be last."
EXPLORING – HEAR A MODERN PARABLE
•
What was it like to be one of the workers who was there
from the beginning who didn’t receive any more than a
worker who arrived on the last day?
•
What was it like to work for one day and be paid so
extravagantly?
•
What was it like to be an employer who rewards so
generously?
MATTHEW 20:1-16 (NRSV)
1
"For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard.
2
After agreeing with the laborers for the usual daily wage, he sent them into his vineyard.
3
When he went out about nine o'clock, he saw others standing idle in the marketplace;
4
and he said to them, 'You also go into the vineyard, and I will pay you whatever is right.' So they went.
5
When he went out again about noon and about three o'clock, he did the same.
6
And about five o'clock he went out and found others standing around; and he said to them, 'Why are you standing
here idle all day?'
7
They said to him, 'Because no one has hired us.' He said to them, 'You also go into the vineyard.'
8
When evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his manager, 'Call the laborers and give them their pay,
beginning with the last and then going to the first.'
9
When those hired about five o'clock came, each of them received the usual daily wage.
10
Now when the first came, they thought they would receive more; but each of them also received the usual daily
wage.
11
And when they received it, they grumbled against the landowner,
12
saying, 'These last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the
day and the scorching heat.'
13
But he replied to one of them, 'Friend, I am doing you no wrong; did you not agree with me for the usual daily
wage?
14
Take what belongs to you and go; I choose to give to this last the same as I give to you.
15
Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or are you envious because I am generous?'
16
So the last will be first, and the first will be last."
COMPARE
•
How is this parable similar to the modern-day story?
•
How is it different?
•
What feelings are the same among the characters?
•
What feelings are different?
READ COLOSSIANS 3:12-17 (NRSV)
•
Take turns, one verse at a time, per person.
•
After each verse, the reader describes how our
church, community, or family currently lives out what
the verse describes.
•
Then describe how we all could do it even better….
COLOSSIANS 3:12-17 (NRSV)
12
As God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion,
kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.
13
Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive
each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.
14
Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect
harmony.
15
And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in
the one body. And be thankful.
16
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all
wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to
God.
17
And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord
Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER P. 175
•
We have all done things for which we feel truly sorry and for which we need to ask
for forgiveness.
•
On three small pieces of paper write down some things for which you seek
forgiveness based on the following three questions.
•
Then read each one and pray, "God, please forgive me."
•
Each time you pray, tear the paper into small pieces and throw it away.
•
After each one pray, "Thank you, God, for forgiving me. Help me to make a fresh
start."
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO ASK GOD'S FORGIVENESS FOR?
•
Think about something that you have done, that maybe only God knows
about.
•
Close your eyes and say to God, "God, help me to know how to ask for
forgiveness for the wrong I have done."
•
Keep still for a few minutes and see how you feel. You may want to journal
or draw pictures of how you feel.
•
Ask God for forgiveness.
WHO DO YOU NEED TO FORGIVE?
•
Think about someone you're angry with or who may have hurt you.
•
Close your eyes and say to God, "God, help me know how to forgive and
give me the strength to do it."
•
Keep still for a few minutes and see how you feel. You may want to journal
or draw pictures of how you feel. It may help to write the person a letter that
you will not send, saying how you feel and why.
•
If you find it difficult to forgive, you may want to talk to a trusted adult, like a
pastor, counselor, or teacher who can help you understand your anger or hurt
and what to do about it.
WHO DO YOU NEED TO ASK FORGIVENESS OF?
•
Now think about someone who is angry with you or who you have hurt.
•
Close your eyes and say to God, "God, help me to know how to ask for
forgiveness for the wrong I have done."
•
Keep still for a few minutes and see how you feel. You may want to journal or
draw pictures of how you feel. It may help to write the person a letter that
you will not send, saying how you feel and why.
•
Ask God for forgiveness. If it is appropriate, go to the person and ask for
forgiveness as well.
WORSHIP
Leader: Let us pray. O God, we give thanks today for your incredible blessings,
All: For the bounties of earth and sky,
Leader: For the great generosity of family, friends, teachers, and church members,
All: For the privileges that we enjoy.
Leader: We give thanks, as well, for the power of forgiveness.
All: Open our eyes and hearts, so that we may see how much
comes to us by sheer gift.
Leader: And help us to live always as grateful people. Amen.
All: Amen.
JUSTICE AND PEACE – CHAPTER 21
•
You promise to all who trust You…
Courage in the struggle for justice and peace,
your presence in trial and rejoicing.
THEMES
•
God is a God of justice and peace.
•
God has a special regard for the poor and the oppressed
and requires that we show this same regard for them.
•
God is present in times of trial and times of joy
.
OBJECTIVES
FOR
THIS
SESSION
•
Consider actions that promote justice and peace.
•
Learn about justice through hunger issues.
•
Write a psalm about God’s promises and
presence.
GATHERING
•
Name a symbol that conveys each of the following:
•
Justice
•
Peace
•
Trial
•
Rejoicing
•
Explain the meaning behind each of your symbols.
“LIZ’S STORY”
•
One summer evening a friend and I had just come out of a coffee shop and stopped to hear
this guy sing and play guitar on the street. It was obvious that he was homeless; he seemed to
have all his belongings in a backpack. Nearby a large group of other people who were
homeless were laying out blankets or very ratty-looking sleeping bags, getting ready for the
night. They too were enjoying the guitar player's music. We stood there for about five minutes
and decided to sit on the sidewalk to keep listening.
•
One of the homeless people sitting on a blanket turned to us and asked if we wanted to share
her blanket. She said it wasn't much, but it was softer than the sidewalk. We were a little timid,
but we accepted her invitation. Then the people began pulling out bags of food; most of it
looked like it had been retrieved from Dumpsters and garbage cans. They shared with one
another until it seemed everyone was fed; they even offered some to us, even though I'm sure
we looked like well-fed students. I learned a lot that night about true Christian love and
sharing. I learned that if people who have nothing can share and help each other then I can
too.
“LIZ’S STORY”
•
Read the story on p. 182 in the confirmands journal.
•
Has anything like this ever happened to you?
•
If you were Liz or one of her friends, what would
you have done?
A WORLD ECONOMY
•
Pick a product…..maybe a candy bar
•
Identify all of the components or ingredients in that product, and discuss where those
things come from.
•
What would happen to the product if political unrest prevented the export of the
ingredients?
•
What would happen to the people in the country?
•
What would happen if our demand for the product went down?
•
What would happen to the product if war, famine, pandemic, or bad weather
prevented the export of one of the ingredients?
•
If the size, ingredients, components, and cost of a candy bar could be affected so
dramatically, what would be the impact on other material needs such as land, food,
clothing, and shelter?
ISAIAH 58:6-12 (NRSV)
6
Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of injustice, to undo the thongs of the
yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke?
7
Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and bring the homeless poor into your house;
when you see the naked, to cover them, and not to hide yourself from your own kin?
8
Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up quickly;
your vindicator shall go before you, the glory of the
LORD
shall be your rear guard.
9
Then you shall call, and the
LORD
will answer; you shall cry for help, and he will say, Here
I am. If you remove the yoke from among you, the pointing of the finger, the speaking of
evil,
10
if you offer your food to the hungry and satisfy the needs of the afflicted, then your light
shall rise in the darkness and your gloom be like the noonday.
11
The
LORD
will guide you continually, and satisfy your needs in parched places, and make
your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose
waters never fail.
12
Your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; you shall raise up the foundations of many
generations; you shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to live in.
REFLECT ON ISAIAH
•
What is the good news that the prophet Isaiah announces
when justice and peace are present in relationships with
others?
•
Compare the words from Isaiah 58 with your learning
about the people / food ratio in the world.
•
What are the common themes?
•
What part do we play in the modern-day situation?
FIND PHRASES IN THE PSALMS
•
Look through the Psalms for words or phrases
that match the idea of the Statement of Faith
portion for the session:
•
What is the Psalmist saying?
•
What is God asking us to do?
PHILIPPIANS 4:4-7 (NRSV)
4
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.
5
Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near.
6
Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer
and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made
known to God.
7
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding,
will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
TOP JUSTICE AND PEACE ISSUES IN THE WORLD
•
What do you think is the top justice/peace issue in
the world today?
•
Do you think everyone thinks the same way about
that issue?
•
What could you do to raise awareness?
•
What could you do to help improve the situation?
END
ETERNAL LIFE – CHAPTER 22
•
You promise to all who trust You…
Eternal Life in your realm which has no end.
THEMES
•
Eternal Life is a gift from God.
•
Eternal life is given to believers
now, but its fullness is known after
we die.
OBJECTIVES
FOR
THIS
SESSION
•
Explore the meaning of eternal life.
•
Honor the lives of God’s saints.
•
Convey God’s eternal care through artistic
expression.
RICARDO’S STORY
•
The first year I was a counselor at church camp there was a dance at the end of the
week. The music started and I was suddenly transported back to my first year in high
school at my first school dance. It was awful. No one really danced except the people
who were already in couples, and they only danced the slow dances. The rest of us
just stood around wanting to dance, but none of us were brave enough to do it. My
mind came back to the present and I realized that this dance at camp was different.
•
People didn't wait to be asked and they didn't dance in couples. Everyone started
dancing in big circles and cheering each other on. People who probably wouldn't
even have talked to each other at school were dancing next to each other. Country
fans were teaching head bangers how to two-step and rockers were showing rappers
how to slam dance so they wouldn't get hurt. It was amazing. I remember thinking that
if heaven is the place where everyone lives in peace and harmony, then this must be
what Jesus talked about when he said, "The Reign of God is at hand!" God's love and
acceptance poured down on us that night and we shared it with each other.
GATHERING
•
What words, phrases, feelings, or images do you
associate with the idea of heaven?
•
What do you expect heaven will be like?
•
Where do you think people get their ideas about
heaven?
•
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hQh3G1dVpk
REVELATION 4:1-8 (NRSV)
1
After this I looked, and there in heaven a door stood open! And the first voice, which I had
heard speaking to me like a trumpet, said, "Come up here, and I will show you what must take
place after this."
2
At once I was in the spirit, and there in heaven stood a throne, with one seated on the throne!
3
And the one seated there looks like jasper and carnelian, and around the throne is a rainbow
that looks like an emerald.
4
Around the throne are twenty-four thrones, and seated on the thrones are twenty-four elders,
dressed in white robes, with golden crowns on their heads.
5
Coming from the throne are flashes of lightning, and rumblings and peals of thunder, and in
front of the throne burn seven flaming torches, which are the seven spirits of God;
6
and in front of the throne there is something like a sea of glass, like crystal. Around the throne,
and on each side of the throne, are four living creatures, full of eyes in front and behind:
7
the first living creature like a lion, the second living creature like an ox, the third living
creature with a face like a human face, and the fourth living creature like a flying eagle.
8
And the four living creatures, each of them with six wings, are full of eyes all around and
inside. Day and night without ceasing they sing, "Holy, holy, holy, the Lord God the Almighty,
who was and is and is to come."
IMAGINE ETERNAL LIFE
Christians believe that God continues to care for us even
after we die.
•
What do you imagine that kind of care from God is like?
•
How is that kind of care expressed by God to us here and
now?
•
How would you describe “heaven on earth”?
ROMANS 8:31-39 (NRSV)
31
What then are we to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us?
32
He who did not withhold his own Son, but gave him up for all of us, will he not with
him also give us everything else?
33
Who will bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies.
34
Who is to condemn? It is Christ Jesus, who died, yes, who was raised, who is at the
right hand of God, who indeed intercedes for us.
35
Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will hardship, or distress, or
persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
36
As it is written, "For your sake we are being killed all day long; we are accounted
as sheep to be slaughtered."
37
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.
38
For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things
present, nor things to come, nor powers,
39
nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us
from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
THE MEANING OF ETERNAL LIFE
•
What happens at death?
•
How does God continue to care for us?
•
In our secular world, what is desirable about putting our
trust in God?
•
Give examples of how we put our trust in God today.
•
What can separate you from God’s love?
•
What songs come to mind about heaven?
JOHN 5:24-29 (NRSV)
24
Very truly, I tell you, anyone who hears my word and believes him who sent me has
eternal life, and does not come under judgment, but has passed from death to life.
25
"Very truly, I tell you, the hour is coming, and is now here, when the dead will hear
the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live.
26
For just as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted the Son also to have life
in himself;
27
and he has given him authority to execute judgment, because he is the Son of Man.
28
Do not be astonished at this; for the hour is coming when all who are in their
graves will hear his voice
29
and will come out—those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and
those who have done evil, to the resurrection of condemnation.
WHO GET’S ETERNAL LIFE
•
Do only those who believe in Jesus
get to have eternal life?
•
If not, what is the difference?
JOHN 17:1-3 (NRSV)
•
1
After Jesus had spoken these words, he looked up
to heaven and said, "Father, the hour has come;
glorify your Son so that the Son may glorify you,
2
since you have given him authority over all people,
to give eternal life to all whom you have given him.
3
And this is eternal life, that they may know you,
the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have
sent.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
•
What are your questions about
death?
•
What are your fears?
•
What are your hopes?
This comprehensive guide explores affirming faith based on a congregation's guide to confirmation, delving into community life, history, heritage, the UCC statement of faith, and the United Church of Christ's beliefs. It covers topics such as God, creation stories, and Genesis, providing a deep understanding of the teachings and values of the UCC and its approach to discipleship and service.
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AFFIRMING FAITH BASED ON A CONGREGATION S GUIDE TO CONFIRMATION UNITED CHURCH PRESS, CLEVELAND, OHIO 44115 SECOND EDITION 2008 EDITED BY THOMAS E. DIPKO ISBN 978-0-8298-1781-2, AND ISBN 978-0-8298-1782-9
COMMUNITY LIFE CHAPTERS 1, 2, 3
OUR HISTORY AND HERITAGE CHAPTERS 4, 5, 6, 7
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST STATEMENT OF FAITH ADAPTED BY ROBERT V. MOSS We believe in God, the Eternal Spirit, who is made known to us in Jesus our brother, and to whose deeds we testify: God calls the worlds into being, creates humankind in the divine image, and sets before us the ways of life and death. God seeks in holy love to save all people from aimlessness and sin. God judges all humanity and all nations by that will of righteousness declared through prophets and apostles. In Jesus Christ, the man of Nazareth, our crucified and risen Lord, God has come to us and shared our common lot, conquering sin and death and reconciling the whole creation to its Creator. God bestows upon us the Holy Spirit, creating and renewing the church of Jesus Christ, binding in covenant faithful people of all ages, tongues, and races. God calls us into the church to accept the cost and joy of discipleship, to be servants in the service of the whole human family, to proclaim the gospel to all the world and resist the powers of evil, to share in Christ's baptism and eat at his table, to join him in his passion and victory. God promises to all who trust in the gospel forgiveness of sins and fullness of grace, courage in the struggle for justice and peace, the presence of the Holy Spirit in trial and rejoicing, and eternal life in that kingdom which has no end. Blessing and honor, glory and power be unto God. Amen.
GOD CHAPTERS 8, 9, 10
GOD CREATES CHAPTER 8 God calls the worlds into being, creates humankind in the divine image, and sets before us the ways of life and death.
CREATION STORIES Genesis 1:1-2:4A At God s Word, the universe and humanity are created. Genesis 2:4B-25 God creates humankind from dust and gives the breath of life. Deuteronomy 30:11-20 God sets before humankind the way of life and death, and calls people to choose life.
GENESIS, CHAPTERS 1-11 https://thebibleproject.com/explore/genesis-1-11/
GOD SEEKS AND SAVES CHAPTER 9 God seeks in holy love to save all people from aimlessness and sin.
WHAT IS SIN? Sin is a state of human life in which we are separated from one another, from ourselves, and from God.
SCRIPTURES Romans 5:12-21 Righteousness and life come from God s saving grace. Mark 10:35-45 James and John seek honor. We separate from each other. Matthew 26:31-35, 69-75 Peter denies knowing Jesus. We separate from our own best intentions. Jeremiah 2:4-13 God, through the prophet Jeremiah, accuses the people of turning against God. We separate from God.
DISCUSSION Think of a promise you have made or that was made to you. Was it kept or broken? How does it feel to keep a promise? To break a promise? To get another chance? Can you think of ways God has been with you in the past? What is God calling or inviting you to do now in your life? In what ways do you think God offers us help to live in relationships that are whole and loving?
WHAT IS SALVATION? Salvation is the gift from God s grace that frees us from sin, guilt, and the powers of death.
RESPONDING TO GODS GIFT God calls us each to wholeness in our relationships with others, ourselves, and God. What is a call ? What is a covenant? How would you be the same or different if you took seriously the call to covenant with God?
GOD LOVES AND JUDGES CHAPTER 10 God judges all humanity and all nations by that will of righteousness declared through prophets and apostles.
THEMES God is a saving God who judges. God judges relationships with God, one another, ourselves, and the world by God s righteous will. There are times when we fail as individuals and as a church to be just and loving.
OBJECTIVES FOR THIS LESSON Hear what God requires. Explore the meaning of God s unconditional love. Discover God s offer of forgiveness.
SCRIPTURES Micah 6:6-8 (NRSV) 6 "With what shall I come before the LORD, and bow myself before God on high? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old? 7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousands of rivers of oil? Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?" 8 He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? Faithfulness to God is shown in acts of justice, kindness, and humility
LIVING OUT A SCENARIO Two friends are shopping. One decides to buy a new pair of sunglasses. The other friend says that they are too expensive and suggests that instead of buying them he/she should hide them and walk out of the store. A store clerk overhears the conversation.
LIVING OUT A SCENARIO What differences were there in the two versions of this scenario? What do you think contributed to those differences. What would you have changed in either one? How did the words from Micah 6:6-8 affect the outcome of the role play? How could those words from scripture affect your own life and the relationships you have or the choices you make? Explain.
SCRIPTURES Psalm 130:1-8 (NRSV) 1 Out of the depths I cry to you, O LORD. 2 Lord, hear my voice! Let your ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications! 3 If you, O LORD, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand? 4 But there is forgiveness with you, so that you may be revered. 5 I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in his word I hope; 6 my soul waits for the Lord more than those who watch for the morning, more than those who watch for the morning. 7 O Israel, hope in the LORD! For with the LORD there is steadfast love, and with him is great power to redeem. 8 It is he who will redeem Israel from all its iniquities. God s love redeems.
EXPLORE GODS UNCONDITIONAL LOVE If we are truly sorry (repentant), God forgives us. Sometimes we have more trouble forgiving ourselves than God does. What would it be like to have a friend who would never stop loving you no matter what? Have you ever been in a situation where someone hurt you and you were able to forgive him or her? What was that like?
SCRIPTURES Matthew 25:31-40 (NRSV) 31 "When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on the throne of his glory. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats, 33 and he will put the sheep at his right hand and the goats at the left. 34 Then the king will say to those at his right hand, 'Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; 35 for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, 36 I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.' 37 Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? 38 And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? 39 And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?' 40 And the king will answer them, 'Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.' What we do for others we do for Christ.
RELATE SCRIPTURE TO OUR LIVES What do the words judgment and repentance mean to you? How are the meanings different now than they were before this session? How do you suppose one would live to show God s righteous will?
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER Where have you unexpectedly seen the face of Christ? Was it at a time when you were helping or not helping another person? Why would God care if we help the sick or feed the hungry or clothe the naked? How might God expect faithful people and nations to act?
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER What are some ways in which you make healthy and loving relationships with God, with yourself, with others, and with creation? Recall a time when you hurt someone else and that person forgave you. How did it feel? What have you learned about your relationship with God?
SEEKING HOPE IN GODS RIGHTEOUS WILL Is there a situation in your life or a situation in the world that needs God s healing or God s forgiveness? What is it? How might God s love and justice be known?
JESUS CHRIST CHAPTERS 11, 12, 13
JESUS CHRIST, HUMAN AND DIVINE CHAPTER 11 In Jesus Christ, the man of Nazareth, our crucified and risen Lord, God has come to us and shared our common lot, conquering sin and death and reconciling the whole creation to its Creator.
THEMES Throughout history, God has sought to relate to human beings. God become one of us in the person of Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus life expressed God in the world.
OBJECTIVES FOR THIS SESSION Discover the joys of being human. Explore the meaning of the incarnation. Reflect on what Jesus Christ means to us.
LOOK AT THE HUMANITY AND DIVINITY OF JESUS Name what you like about being human
SCRIPTURES John 1:1-18 The Divine became human in Jesus Christ. Luke 22:63 23:46 Jesus was physically hurt Mark 4:35-38 Jesus slept. Matthew 21:18 Jesus was hungry. John 11:28-36 Jesus wept for a friend. Mark 6:30-32 Jesus spent time with his friends. John 2:1-11 Jesus celebrated. John 2:13-16 Jesus got angry Luke 2:41-51 Jesus upset his parents Matthew 15:30-38 Jesus felt sorry for someone else.
CONSIDER THE MEANING OF THE INCARNATION Concept Parable of the Birds p. 112 Is it important to you that Jesus is truly God? Is it important to you that Jesus was truly human?
NAME THE IMPORTANCE OF JESUS TO US When I think about God coming to us and sharing our common lot, I . When I think about Jesus Christ as a Savior I . What I like best about being a child of God What questions do you think many people have about Jesus being both fully human and fully divine?
JESUS CHRIST, CRUCIFIED AND RESURRECTED CHAPTER 12 In Jesus Christ, the man of Nazareth, our crucified and risen Lord, God has come to us and shared our common lot, conquering sin and death and reconciling the whole creation to its Creator.
THEMES Jesus lived among us. Jesus was crucified and resurrected. Jesus life and resurrection are central to the Christian faith. Jesus Christ is present today in relationship.
OBJECTIVES FOR THIS SESSION Explore the meaning of the Passion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Assess beliefs about Jesus. Consider Christ s presence with believers.
THE PASSION & RESURRECTION OF JESUS John 18:1-27 Who? What? Where? When? Why?
THE PASSION & RESURRECTION OF JESUS John 18:28 - 19:16 Who? What? Where? When? Why?
THE PASSION & RESURRECTION OF JESUS John 19:17-42 Who? What? Where? When? Why?
THE PASSION & RESURRECTION OF JESUS John 20:1-31 Who? What? Where? When? Why?
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER Why do you think everyone abandoned Jesus during his trial and crucifixion? Why do you think Jesus was crucified? Do you feel any sympathy for Pontius Pilate, the chief priests, scribes, Pharisees, Judas, Peter, or Thomas? Why or Why not? What do you think Jesus meant when he said to Thomas, Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe? (John 20:29)
WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE? Jesus was a human person like me. Jesus was divine. Jesus was a great teacher. Jesus was the Son of God. Jesus was a Jew. Jesus knew that he was the Son of God. Jesus was a spirit in human disguise.
WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE? Jesus never did anything wrong. Jesus felt pain. Jesus always did what his parents expected. Jesus liked to party. Jesus was always meek and mild. Jesus was never sad or depressed. Jesus life expressed God in the world.
JESUS CHRIST, RISEN SAVIOR CHAPTER 13 In Jesus Christ, the man of Nazareth, our crucified and risen Lord, God has come to us and shared our common lot, conquering sin and death and reconciling the whole creation to its Creator.
THEMES Jesus Chris is Sovereign and Savior. Jesus Christ delivers the world from sin, death, and oppression. Jesus Christ restores a right relationship between humanity and God, among persons, and with all creation.
OBJECTIVES FOR THIS SESSION Explore the meaning of reconciliation. Discover God s intentions for us in Christ. Consider the questions asked during the rite of confirmation.
SCRIPTURES John 1:29-34 Jesus takes away the sin of the world. 2 Corinthians 5:16-21 God calls us to be reconcilers.
