Called to Discipleship

Study Guide

for facilitating discussions about the principles of discipleship
at summer reunions and other settings

• Introduction
• Options for Discussion
• Share your witness and resources.
• Allow the Spirit to fill you.
• Extend the hand of Reconciliation.
• Learn and Teach the sacred story.
• Embody Justice and proclaim Peace.
• Create diverse Communities.

This study guide will focus on six principles of discipleship for Community of Christ:

Share your witness and resources.

Allow the Spirit to fill you.

Extend the hand of Reconciliation.

Learn and Teach the sacred story.

Embody Justice and proclaim Peace.

Create diverse Communities.

The study guide is prepared specifically for use during reunions and other class/discussion settings. It contains suggestions for facilitating adult study, but it is hoped that adaptations will be made for use with youth.

Called to Discipleship booklet and Tithing: A Disciple’s Generous Response booklet, distributed to registrants at the 2002 World Conference as part of a folder titled Called to Discipleship. These two booklets are available as a combined resource from Herald House for $1.50 U.S. funds (includes shipping, regardless of quantity). Please call Herald House at 1-800-767-8181 or Herald House Canada at 1-800-373-8382.

Called to Discipleship video, distributed in May 2002 to pastors, jurisdictional administrators, and World Church ministers. This resource is available from Herald House for $14.95 U.S. funds. See phone numbers listed above.

“Called to Discipleship: Coming Home in Search of the Path,” 2002 World Conference address by President Grant McMurray, Herald, June 2002, pages 8-21; or World Conference Bulletin, April 8, 2002, pages 178-184; or on the Called to Discipleship video mentioned above; or on the Internet at www.CofChrist.org/wc2002/sermons/Grant2002.asp.

“Tithing: A Disciple’s Generous Response,” article in the Herald, May 2002, pages 14-21. This was also provided in Tithing: A Disciple’s Generous Response booklet form distributed at the 2002 World Conference; limited copies are available from the Presiding Bishopric’s office, 1-800-825-2806, ext. 2215.

This study guide contains suggestions about how to schedule discussion of the principles during reunions as well as discussion questions and activities to enable exploration of each principle.

For effective use of the time available, it is strongly suggested that the printed materials referred to above be provided to each participant. The articles from the Herald and the Internet may be photocopied and distributed.

Two basic approaches are offered, both of which provide more time for consideration of the Sharing principle.

OPTION 1: Integrate discussion of the principles into the already-scheduled adult class based on the recommended text. This is particularly appropriate if the class sessions are ninety minutes or longer in duration. If this approach is used, the following topics can be arranged together:

Day 1	reunion theme adult text chapter 1 discipleship goals	“Experience Christ” “Do You Believe in Christ?” Spirit and Learn/Teach
Day 2	reunion theme adult text chapter 2 discipleship goals	“Humble Yourself” “Humility” Communities and Justice/Peace
Day 3	reunion theme adult text chapter 3 discipleship goal	“Discover Strength” “What Gift Do You Share?” Share “Honor God’s Call to Tithe.”
Day 4	reunion theme adult text chapter 4 discipleship goal	“Restore Relationships” “Restore Relationships” Reconciliation
Day 5	reunion theme adult text chapter 5 discipleship goal Share	“Share Christ” “Whom Will You Invite?” “Each One, Reach One.”

If this approach is used, the discussion of the goals should supplement and not replace the exploration of the reunion themes through use of the recommended text.

OPTION 2: Schedule separate class time for exploration of the new church goals. This may vary from a minimum of one session to a maximum of six sessions, depending on the reunion schedule and interests of participants. The sequence and combining of two or more goals into one session can be decided by the facilitator. However, spending a greater proportion of time on the sharing goal is advised since this is the emphasis for the first two years.

Whichever approach is taken, the facilitator will need to select from the following discussion questions and activities those that will provide the best experience for all participants.

 

We will be disciples who share our witness and resources, those who “heed the urgent call to become a global family united in the name of Christ, committed in love to one another” (Doctrine and Covenants 161:6b).

Read Called to Discipleship pages 4 through 6. Also read Grant McMurray’s 2002 World Conference address, “Called to Discipleship: Coming Home in Search of the Path” (Herald, June 2002, pages 13-14). If the video Called to Discipleship is available, you may want to watch the section of the video that speaks to this goal.

1. What excites you about this goal of each one, reach one?

2. What have been the reactions of those to whom you have talked about this goal?

3. What issues or challenges does this goal raise for you?

1. When have you experienced God inviting you to be a disciple of Jesus? Explain how and when this happened.

2. How effective are you in demonstrating the disciplines of fellowship, hospitality, welcoming, and nurturing? Which of these do you want to be more diligent about developing?

3. What barriers exist in your life that hold you back from inviting others to accept Christ? How can you overcome these?

4. How can you support the witnessing ministry in your congregation? What help do you need from your congregation to become a more effective personal witness?

5. How can you better respond to the challenge found in Doctrine and Covenants 161:3a, reprinted on page 6 of the booklet?

6. How can the Community of Christ become more of a “welcoming, witnessing church”? (quote from McMurray address). What can you do to help make this a reality?

7. How realistic is it that your congregation can double its active membership in the next four years or even ten years?

8. What would it look like for your congregation to become diverse? What kinds of people could be included who are not now present?

Taking Action (Write your thoughts, and then share with a neighbor.)

1. What can you personally start to do to reach one?

2. What can you begin to do through your congregation to reach many?

Read Called to Discipleship pages 6 to 11. Also read Grant McMurray’s 2002 World Conference address, “Called to Discipleship: Coming Home in Search of the Path” (Herald, June 2002, pages 14-15). See also “Tithing: A Disciple’s Generous Response” in the May 2002 Herald (pages 14-21). If the video Called to Discipleship is available, you may want to watch the section of the video that speaks to this goal.

1. What do you find appealing about this new approach to tithing?

2. What have been the reactions of those to whom you have talked with about this goal?

3. What issues or challenges does this goal raise for you?

1. Review the “Historical Perspective on Tithing” found on page 2 of Tithing: A Disciple’s Generous Response. Over time there have been significantly different understandings of God’s call to tithe. What reflections do you have on these early understandings of tithing?

2. Ask for persons to share briefly about the joy or satisfaction they have had in their response to stewardship of temporalities.

3. Review the following key scriptures: Doctrine and Covenants Section 147:5a, Section 154:5, and Section 161:5. With these scriptures as foundation, consider the following:

• Discuss how the new understanding of tithing reflects generosity as response to God’s grace and love.
• In what ways does the new understanding of tithing bring clarification and further interpretation of familiar principles? How is this clarification and additional interpretation of important principles of value to the church and to us as individuals?
• What are the needs of a “growing church”?
• How can we “provide more fully and joyfully for the great work”?

4. What do you consider to be God’s greatest blessings to you? How do these blessings express God’s grace and love? In what ways are you generous?

5. Discuss in pairs or small groups the following quote found on page 4 of Tithing: A Disciple’s Generous Response: “All that we have and all that we are eternally is a priceless gift to us from God. What then shall be our response? Be thankful; be faithful; and give to others as generously as God has given to us.”

6. Read the guiding principles found on page 7 of the Called to Discipleship booklet. What are your reflections on these?

7. After looking over the Definitions and Guidance sections on pages 8 through 10 of the Called to Discipleship booklet, break into pairs or small groups and share your thoughts. What is helpful or challenging about these definitions and the guidance for tithing, saving, and responsible spending?

8. What method of financial planning and management have you found helpful? What impact does your effectiveness in this area have on your generosity? How can the World Church assist its members and friends in this important area of stewardship?

9. Do you believe there is “enough and to spare” in terms of resources? If so, why do some people go hungry or have inadequate clothing, shelter, and medical care? Do you feel that you have “enough” resources? Why or why not?

10. How can the World Church most appropriately challenge its members to give generously so that adequate funds are received at both local and World Church levels for the needs of a growing church?

1. What adjustments will need to be made in your life to support the generosity you desire?

2. What can you start to do personally to honor God’s call to tithe?

3. What can you begin to do through your congregation to support one another to be generous disciples?

 

Goal: Allow the Spirit to fill you.

We will be a church composed of people open to new understandings of spirituality, “embodying the hope and freedom of the gospel” and seeking “pathways for healing” (Doctrine and Covenants 161:1b, 2a).

Read Called to Discipleship pages 11 through 15. Also read Grant McMurray’s 2002 World Conference address, “Called to Discipleship: Coming Home in Search of the Path” (Herald, June 2002, pages 19-20). If the Called to Discipleship video is available, watch the section that speaks to this goal.

1. What excites you about this goal of allowing the Spirit to fill you?

2. What have been the reactions of those to whom you have talked about this goal?

3. What issues or challenges does this goal raise for you?

1. Read the description of covenant discipleship groups found on pages 11 and 12 of Called to Discipleship. What elements appeal to you? Do you see yourself sharing in such a group in your congregation? What kinds of people would you feel comfortable joining with in such a group?

2. What congregational and community needs do you see being addressed by the formation of covenant discipleship groups in your congregation? How would such groups contribute to the mission of the church?

3. In the video, Carolyn Brock said that the covenant discipleship group model being developed is based on the life of Jesus. Specifically, she talked about his ministry of compassion, healing, and witness based on his deep relationship with God. How do you think covenant discipleship groups might empower people to live out ministry deeply rooted in relationship with God?

4. In what ways might the commitment made to be part of a covenant discipleship group differ from the commitment you have made to be part of your congregation?

Watch the Herald for further information about the development of covenant discipleship groups resources and training.

5. When was the last vibrant worship experience in your congregation? What made it memorable? How might members of your congregation define “vibrant worship” differently?

6. Assess the health of corporate worship in your congregation. What are its strengths and weaknesses?

7. What stands in the way of your congregation’s worship being vibrant? Do the greatest barriers relate to planning; receptivity of the members; expectations; or preparation of leaders, participants, and congregation? Are some necessary worship ministry skills missing? Or are other factors most important?

8. What place does music have in vibrant worship? How vibrant is the music in your congregation?

1. What can your congregation do to further support the spiritual development of all members and friends? How might a covenant discipleship group help?

2. What personal contribution can you make toward more vibrant worship in your congregation?

3. Looking at your responses to question 7 above, what steps can your congregation take to improve preparation for worship? How can your congregation encourage the development of skills for worship ministry?

Access Worship Ministries at www.CofChrist.org/worship.

Goal: Extend the hand of reconciliation.

We will be agents of reconciliation, “those . . . who feel conflict yet extend the hand of reconciliation”
(Doctrine and Covenants 161:2a).

Read Called to Discipleship pages 15 through 17. Also read Grant McMurray’s 2002 World Conference address, “Called to Discipleship: Coming Home in Search of the Path” (Herald, June 2002, pages 16-18). If the video Called to Discipleship is available, you may want to watch a section of the video that speaks to this goal.

1. What excites you about extending the hand of reconciliation?

2. What have been the reactions of those to whom you have talked about this goal?

3. What issues or challenges does this goal raise for you?

1. Where do you see conflict in your congregation? What do you think causes it? How might progress be made toward resolving the conflict?

2. Do you consider yourself a good listener? Why or why not? How could you improve your listening skills? Do you know people who are good listeners? What makes them good at listening? How does good listening help resolve conflict?

3. What conflict resolution training has been available to the people in your congregation? Would you be willing to commit time to get additional training? How would you benefit?

4. In what ways does your congregation cooperate with other faith communities in your area? What are the barriers to further cooperation? What might be the benefits if you could cooperate more? What other faiths in your community might be receptive to cooperative endeavors?

5. If some members of your congregation are fearful that cooperating with other faiths will result in a loss of our church’s distinctiveness, how can these fears be addressed?

1. What can you start to do personally to extend the hand of reconciliation?

2. What can you begin to do through your congregation?

 

Goal: Learn and teach the sacred story.

We will be learners and teachers, those who “listen attentively to the telling of the sacred story” (Doctrine and Covenants 161:5).

Read Called to Discipleship pages 18 through 20. Also read Grant McMurray’s 2002 World Conference address, “Called to Discipleship: Coming Home in Search of the Path” (Herald, June 2002, page 15). If the video Called to Discipleship is available, watch the section of the video that speaks to this goal.

1. What excites you about learning and teaching the sacred story?

2. What have been the reactions of those to whom you have talked about this goal?

3. What issues or challenges does this goal raise for you?

1. In the video, Peter Judd talked about the learning process and the teaching process as vital. We often think of ourselves as being one or the other. In what ways are we both learners and teachers? What are the implications of each person being called to be both learner and teacher?

2. What does it mean to be scripturally literate? Do you consider yourself to be scripturally literate? How can you raise your level of scriptural literacy and that of your congregation?

3. Assess the health of your congregation’s church school program. What are its strengths and weaknesses? What suggestions do you have for improvement?

4. Discuss the pros and cons of a “unified” Sunday morning during which a scripture text is studied in church school and then thematically explored in the worship service that follows.

5. As part of his discussion of this goal, President McMurray announced the opening of the Community of Christ Seminary. What value do you believe the Community of Christ Seminary will have for the church? How do you believe the seminary will be able to assist you in preparation for ministry? If you are not sure the seminary is relevant to you in your jurisdiction, have someone in class accept responsibility for contacting the seminary and inquiring about its possible impact in the field: Graceland University, Community of Christ Seminary, 1401 W. Truman Road, Independence, MO 64050, phone 1-816-833-0524.

6. What study courses would you support if your congregation offered them?

7. What kinds of learning programs have you participated in over the last five years? How have they enhanced your ministerial effectiveness?

8. What kinds of learning opportunities would you like to share in during the next three years? How do you anticipate they will increase the quality of your ministry?

9. How can you encourage members of your congregation to seek more learning opportunities? How can you help those who are resistant to serious study see the need for it?

10. Part of being an effective minister is being open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. In small groups, share an experience of a time when you felt your thorough preparation served as a foundation for the Spirit in your ministry.

1. What can you do personally to revitalize church school?

2. What can you begin to do through your congregation to enrich the church school experience?

3. What education or training do you need to undertake to enhance your effectiveness as a minister?

4. What can you begin to do through your congregation to provide educational opportunities that will enhance ministerial effectiveness?

 

 

Goal: Embody justice and proclaim peace.

We will be a community of people who embody justice, “those who see violence but proclaim peace” and who “feel the yearnings of [our] brothers and sisters” (Doctrine and Covenants 161:2a, 3a).

Read Called to Discipleship pages 21 through 23. Also read Grant McMurray’s 2002 World Conference address, “Called to Discipleship: Coming Home in Search of the Path” (Herald, June 2002, pages 20-21). If the video Called to Discipleship is available, you may want to watch the section of the video that speaks to this goal. 

1. What excites you about embodying justice and proclaiming peace?

2. What have been the reactions of those to whom you have talked about this goal?

3. What issues or challenges does this goal raise for you?

1. “And the Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and of one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; and there was no poor among them” (Doctrine and Covenants 36:2h-i). How is this scripture meaningful today as we seek to find ways to help the poor? What other scriptures come to mind that speak of God’s compassion for the poor?

2. Who and where are the poor in your church neighborhood? How can the congregation seek to work with them?

3. In the United States, the church has had a twenty-five year partnership with Bread for the World, a Christian organization that lobbies the U.S. Congress on behalf of the poor in the United States and internationally. How would your congregation react to doing an “Offering of Letters” one Sunday? How would you need to prepare people? If you live outside the United States, what organizations exist in your country that enable you to lobby for the poor? For more information, see www.CofChrist.org/hunger/offeringofletters.asp.

4. The Outreach International methodology of Participatory Human Development (PHD) works so that the poor are able to solve their own problems. What do you already know about the work of Outreach International? How might their method of working be used in your church neighborhood?

Watch the Herald for developments and keep in touch with your apostle and Mission Center director.

5. What are you already doing as a congregation that is transforming your neighborhood?

6. How is the worth of people or the sacredness of creation violated in your neighborhood? How could you join with others to transform, to bring justice and healing?

7. What other groups or churches are in your neighborhood that you could partner with in mission to bring justice, reconciliation, and healing?

8. What constructive action could your congregation take in terms of issues like terrorism after September 11, 2001?

9. How does being a congregation in an international church challenge members to think globally and act personally?

1. What can you start to do personally to embody justice and proclaim peace?

2. Who do you know that could help you get started as a congregation locally? Who will contact Peace and Justice Ministries at World Church headquarters? How would a group of people from your congregation attending the annual Peace Colloquy be empowering?

 

Access Peace and Justice Ministries at www.CofChrist.org/peacejustice.

 

We will embrace our historic call to be God’s people, those who “create diverse communities of disciples and seekers” (Doctrine and Covenants 161:6a).

Read Called to Discipleship pages 24 through 27. Also read Grant McMurray’s 2002 World Conference address, “Called to Discipleship: Coming Home in Search of the Path” (Herald, June 2002, pages 15-16). If the video Called to Discipleship is available, watch the section that speaks to this goal.

1. What excites you about this goal to create diverse communities?

2. What have been the reactions of those to whom you have talked about this goal?

3. What issues or challenges does this goal raise for you?

1. Where do you see weaknesses in family relationships in the church and in the community? What should the church be doing to address these weaknesses?

2. What kinds of family ministry programs and resources does you congregation offer to the community? How else can your congregation have a positive impact on family relationships in your community?

3. Make a mental list of all of the “families” in your congregation. Now use your imagination to “scan” your congregation on a Sunday morning. Do you see any individuals who aren’t included in one of the “families” on your mental list? If so, what does your congregation do to offer “family” support to that person? Think of the families on your list. What kinds of family circumstances are represented there? Are there families who have experienced divorce or the death of a family member? How has your congregation helped them in their loss? Are there single parents? What support has the congregation offered them? Are there children whose parents do not attend? What has the congregation done to make them welcome and secure? Do you know the names of all the children in your congregation? Have you attended any of their school or sports events? Do you encourage their active participation in worship and other activities in the life of your congregation?

4. Does your congregation partner with another congregation in any way? If so, describe that partnership. What benefits does each congregation derive?

5. Give examples of how partnerships provide value to both parties. In some cases, partnerships will be between “equals,” while in other cases, there may be a partnership between one congregation seen as strong and one congregation that seems more challenged or “weak.” In what ways might the “weaker” partner have strengths to give to the “strong” partner?

6. What sort of congregation, Community of Christ or other, would your congregation benefit from partnering with? Why did you come to that conclusion?

7. In the video, Jim Slauter told the viewer that congregational partnerships can be as “varied and creative as their own imaginations allow them to be.” Use your imagination to create ideas about what a partnership might look like. What benefits would your imaginary partnership bring to each of its participants? Now think of ways your home congregation might make your “dreams” for congregational partnering come true.

8. What benefit do you think people receive from living and providing ministry in a culture unlike their own? How can these experiences enrich their home congregation when they return?

1. What can you personally do that will have a positive impact on your family relationships?

2. What can your congregation do to strengthen different kinds of families in all their diversity?

3. What kind of partnership might benefit your congregation?

4. What can your congregation do to help expand WorldService Corps?

 

Access WorldService Corps at www.CofChrist.org/worldservice.