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Remember Breath Prayer: Inspired by Luke 15 Breath in: God is merciful. Breath out: He loves forgiving me. Song Themes: Our Heavenly Father is Good. He gives peace, love, and joy! (Geared towards ages 2-8 but true for every age!) Remember one another Is anyone celebrating something that happened this week? Let’s share so we can all thank God together. Is anyone struggling, feeling sad, lonely or scared? How can we pray for one another? Remember what we learned last week Practice the Following Jesus Liturgy (With our youngest kids only focus on the portion that we’re currently learning) Leader: What is a disciple? Kids: Someone who is following and being formed by Jesus in all of life. Reflect: Sons and Daughters of God *Pastoral Tip* This week's topic may be challenging for some kids. Some of the questions below are straight forward. You will probably get the answers you expect. Some of them can be sensitive, though, and require a wise, pastoral response. Be ready to be kind, loving, and patient, especially with children who may have experienced trauma or haven't had an opportunity to form secure attachments. Invite the Holy Spirit to give you a tender heart for today's lesson. Set the stage with Key Concepts and Questions Our Heavenly Father is kind, patient, and loving. When we ask for forgiveness, He jumps at every opportunity to love us and make things right. Have you ever wondered, "How come my parents keep giving me rules and spoiling my fun?" Have you ever felt upset with your parents for giving you chores, or things to be responsible for? Have you ever wanted to be the boss? What would you do? How do you think it would go? Read or Watch: "Running Away" Discover through curious questions: Ask the children what stood out to them. What did they like about the story? Was anything new or different than how they’d heard the story in the past? Allow the conversation to be led by their questions, insights, and wonderments. Discuss: Have you ever made a mistake and wondered if your parents will still love you afterwards? What happened? How did it go? Respond Experience: Role Play Act it out Allow kids to play different roles a few times through (the father, the prodigal son and pigs). Help them act out important parts from the prodigal son story Ask them - how did it feel to be welcomed back when you played the role of the prodigal son? How did it feel to show kindness to the son when you played the role of the father? What do you think pig food tastes like? Encounter: PRAY If you have time and capacity allow the kids to draw a prayerful picture Listen Turn on some worship music and have the kids color the picture of the prodigal son coming home to the father.

Simple Reminders The primary idea you need to keep revisiting during this Following Jesus Pathway is that we are following and being formed by Jesus. This pathway can be learned simply or in great depth. We trust that you as a leader know your people and the dynamics of your group well enough to adapt and impart this topic with grace and wisdom. This guide is designed to help you and others follow and be formed by Jesus. Remember to keep it Jesus-Centered. We pray that you will be Spirit-Led and Spirit- Empowered as you lead and learn together. Brief Commentary and Context (Answer this question here: What did this mean in the original context and how is it set in the larger story of the Bible?) ‘Baptized in the Name’ Overview: Jesus tells us to ‘baptize in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit’. In our culture, "name" refers primarily to what a person is called. But in Hebrew the thought that underlies Jesus' usage, "name" has a deeper meaning. To be baptized “in the name” of another person is to receive the essence of that person’s identity. We are called to die with Christ to our old life and be raised to new life and new identity in the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Brief Commentary for Luke 15:11-32 (The Prodigal Son) The Pharisees were very clear about their disapproval around who Jesus chose to keep company with. Jesus, amidst a mixed audience of the religious elite and those labeled sinners, began teaching them, through parables, the way of the Kingdom of God. His stories brought correction to the Pharisees and inclusive celebration to those in question. After two shorter parables Jesus began to describe a riveting tale of a father and his two sons. Both sons in the story needed a revelation of the love of the father. The younger was a wayward son of disobedience, driven by self-interest he wasted the father’s inheritance completely. Jesus was speaking to the lost sheep of Israel, led away from the father’s house by sin. Jesus’ portrayal of this undignified, running father reveals that God always receives us as His children. The inclination to serve and satisfy ourselves drives us further from Him, creating an ‘orphan’ identity. But when we remember who He is and who we are with Him, we come to ourselves and race back home to the arms of a loving Dad who has eagerly been watching the road for our return. We witness the fathers embrace and complete restoration of his son. The older brother reflected the heart of the Pharisees; they believed that obedience to the Law earned them acceptance with the Father. The lavish grace and celebration that the Father showers on the younger son is utterly offensive to the older brother, who has built his life upon his own performance. Tragically, we see that we can have full access to all that the Father is and has, yet never enjoy either and instead live as a ‘slave’ in the Fathers house. This story gives us insight into the Father’s heart for His children. Through Jesus, the Father has now made a way for all His children to come home. We can leave behind our rebellion and the shame of a wasted life, or our self-righteous performance and be baptized/immersed again into the identity of beloved. Summary Scripture: 1 John 3:1- “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” Core Truths/Scriptures for the topic 1 Peter 2:9- “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” Zephaniah 3:17- “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” Jeremiah 31:3- “The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.” Galatians 3:26- “For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus” Galatians 4:7- “Therefore you are no longer a slave, but a son; and if a son, then an heir through God.” Extra Resources to help you Prepare Teaching: Family of beloved sons and daughter http://downloads.navahchurchkc.com/podcasts/2019_Discipleship/2019:01:20%20-%20Adam%20Cox%20-%20Baptized%20in%20Love.mp3 https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/gospel-luke-3/ https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/coming-to-yourself-and-coming-to-the-father Anyone new in your home church? Things to Consider: Is the new individual, or family organically connecting with anyone in your home church? Suggest a coffee hang to begin a deeper connection, or consider having the individual/family over for an easy dinner to get to know them better. Is the new individual, or family interested in receiving communication via text, or email? If so, have them email admin@navahchurchkc.com with their name and phone number. Do they plan to attend All Navah Gatherings? If yes and it is a new family, they can email admin@navahchurchkc.com with their name, their children(s) name, DOB and grade to make for a smooth kids ministry check-in process.

* The Kids Resource linked above is the same as Lord's Supper Part 1 feel free to use/adapt it if it's not easy to include kids in with the meal this week. REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship and Prayer: Worship, prayer, or communion Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus | Reawaken Hymns | Official Lyric Video Matt Redman - It Is Well With My Soul (Acoustic/Live) Remember each other: Care Optional- break up into smaller groups for 10 min Hi/Lo check in Remember the liturgy: Following Jesus Liturgy Remember what we learned and put into practice last week: Accountability Remember the commands we’ve learnt up to this point - can you do all the hand motions? REFLECT (30 min) Prepare (see the Leaders Guide for a brief commentary and context for the scripture and core truth from the topic) Introduce today’s topic and any commentary, or context for the scripture. Topic Title: Give Share the Summary Scripture for the topic if you want: Matt 6:21 & 24 Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed. Share context for Scripture Story: Mark 10:17-31 "Rich Young Ruler". Discover Read the Scripture: Mark 10:17-31 Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People? (optional) In verse 21, what strikes you about Jesus looking at him with love while inviting him to surrender what had his heart? Is there anything that has my heart more than Jesus? RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Lord’s Supper (Communion)- take time to reflect on how God has been generous to us during communion. Practice and Obey (for the coming week) Reflect this week on what has your ‘worship’. Does anything else take priority in your life over God? Pray Lord’s Prayer

REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship and Prayer: Worship, prayer, or communion We Have Come - Kristene DiMarco Build Your Church - Elevation Worship & Maverick City | Lyrics (Feat. Naomi Raine & Chris Brown) Remember each other: Care Optional- break up into smaller groups for 10 min Hi/Lo check in Remember the liturgy: Following Jesus Liturgy Remember what we learned and put into practice last week: Accountability Topic: Give Reflect on how you have reordered your priorities or considered how to live generous lives. REFLECT (30 min) Prepare (see the Leaders Guide for a brief commentary and context for the scripture and core truth from the topic) Introduce today’s topic and any commentary, or context for the scripture. Topic Title- “Gather” Part 1 Share the Summary Scripture - Hebrews 10:24-25 Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed Share context for Scripture Story Discover Read the Scripture: Mark 10:17-31 Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People? (optional) 1 Cor. 14:26 starts by saying, “when you come together” assuming the saints are gathering. Why is it so important that the church gather and what is the purpose of gathering? What has shifted in our culture from a joyful commitment to gather, to a casual option? The passage goes on to say, “each one”. Why is it crucial for “each one” to bring their contribution? Many expressions of the Spirit working through the people are listed (“a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, an interpretation). Talk about those and discuss how your gatherings can reflect these elements and others both in what is prepared and spontaneously offered. Do our gatherings reflect this Spirit led “each one” contributes pattern that we read in the passage? How can we grow? RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Invite people to share what contribution and gifts they want to contribute to the church. Pray for one another. Lord’s Supper (Communion) Practice and Obey (for the coming week) Prepare your heart and ask God what you can bring as a contribution the next time your church gathers. Come ready to share. Pray Lord’s Prayer

PRACTICE (60 min) Prepare Read 1 Cor. 14:26-33 together and give a short instruction about the church being a gathering of those filled with the Spirit who each have a contribution to bring. Remind them that each one has something to offer; a song, spiritual song or gratitude, a scripture, a life lesson, a revelation, a prophetic word, a burden, a prayer, a spiritual gift etc. You will have prepared people to bring their contribution the week before, but give a few minutes of silence for everyone to consider what they want to contribute whether they prepared or not. Invite the Holy Spirit to lead you all and take off all pressure allowing for a free flowing giving, receiving and learning environment. Facilitate the rest of the gathering as the Spirit leads and moves through the people of the church.

REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship and Prayer: Worship, prayer, or communion Obedience (LIVE) - Lindy & The Circuit Riders Every Nation (Every Soul) - LiveLyric™ Video Lindy Conant & The Circuit Riders Remember each other: Care Optional- break up into smaller groups for 10 min Hi/Lo check in Remember the Liturgy: Following Jesus Liturgy Remember what we learned and put into practice last week? Accountability Topic: Gather Reflect on what it was like for everyone to bring their contribution and what it could look like to continue to practice 1 Cor. 14:26-33 REFLECT (30 min) Prepare Introduce today’s topic and any commentary or context for the scripture Topic Title: “Go Make Disciples” Part 1 Share the Summary Scripture for the topic if you want Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed Share context for Scripture Story Discover Read the Scripture Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People? (optional) Why is “making disciples” Jesus’ main point and verb in the passage? How do we make disciples like Jesus did? Why does it involve Going, Baptizing into Father, Son and Holy Spirit and Teaching people to obey all that He has commanded? Who has God used to “make a disciple” of you? What did they do? (tell stories) RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Take time to share about who you are being called to disciple. Lord’s Supper (Communion) Pray Lord’s Prayer Practice and Obey Take time to either pray for those you are discipling and ask God for how he wants you to intentionally continue to invest in their lives. Or if you are not yet discipling anyone, ask Him to lead you to someone you can disciple.

Remember Breath Prayer Breathe in: We are following Jesus Breath out: In all of Life Worship Theme: Jesus is Lord, the King of the world and the King of me! Following Him sets us free and brings us life, hope, and fills us with love. Remember what we learned and put into practice last week? Is anyone celebrating something that happened this week? Let’s share so we can all thank God together. Is anyone struggling, feeling sad, lonely or scared? How can we pray for one another? Practice the Following Jesus Liturgy (With our youngest kids only focus on the portion that we’re currently learning) Leader: Because of the Gospel we receive the Gift. What is the Gift? Kids respond: We are forgiven We are freed We are filled with the Holy Spirit We are found in the Father and formed in Family Forever! Reflect: Explore Key Concepts A disciple is someone who follows Jesus in all of life. If God's people would trust and obey Him, God would protect them. The whole earth belongs to God, but He has chosen us to be his special family. God says, "I want you to live in a way that shows everyone what I am like so they can follow me too." The most important thing of all is to love God more than anything else in the world, and to know that God loves us even more. Read or Watch: Jesus Storybook Bible, "10 Ways to Be Perfect" Discover through curious questions: Ask the children what stood out to them. What did they like about the story? Was anything new or different than how they’d heard the story in the past? Allow the conversation to be led by their questions, insights, and wonderments. Discuss: Why did God give rules (or commandments)? What was his desire for the people? Do you think the people could be perfect and follow God's rules? What would happen when they didn't follow God's ways? Do you have rules in your home? Why do you think you have those rules? What happens when you break a rule? When you live according to the rules of the house how do you feel and how do others feel? Respond: Listen and Obey Experience: John 10:27 Follow the Leader: Practice Listening and Obeying Read and Repeat: "My sheep listen to my voice. I know them and they follow me." Listen and Obey activity: Explain that when we listen to Jesus we may not be able to hear his audible voice, but we can know His heart, His ways, and His direction by reading the Bible and getting to know the Holy Spirit, who whispers to our hearts. Level 1: A simple 'Simon says' activity to get everyone practicing and listening closely. Level 2: Follow the leader. Have the kids follow you as closely as they can. Encourage them to mimic your actions as you lead them around the room. How do we follow Jesus, our King and leader? How do we know what He's doing or saying or where He's taking us? Take it up a notch and encourage the kids to mimic your emotions and your attitude as you lead them, not just your actions. Exaggerate your facial expressions to help them identify what you're feeling. Following Jesus isn't just about doing the right thing, it's also about feeling His heart and knowing what's He's thinking and feeling for those around us. Level 3: Take turns choosing a leader from the group. You can get as creative as you want with this analogy. What does good leadership look like? Ex. A bad leader might run ahead and not wait for those following. Does Jesus take us into consideration or does He try to trick us and make things difficult? Jesus is a good leader that can be trusted. The possibilities are endless, have fun! Encounter: PRAY and Worship Read John 10:27 again "My sheep listen to my voice. I know them and they follow me." Imagine: If Jesus were sitting across the table from you what would he say? Let's listen together for the still, quiet voice of the Holy Spirit and see what He might be saying to us now. What are some characteristics of His voice (Kind, strong, loving, patient). Write down, draw, or share what you think the Good Shepherd is saying to YOU, His sheep. Get up and sing! "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus"

Simple Reminders The primary idea you need to keep revisiting during this Following Jesus Pathway is that we are following and being formed by Jesus. This pathway can be learned simply or in great depth. We trust that you as a leader know your people and the dynamics of your group well enough to adapt and impart this topic with grace and wisdom. This guide is designed to help you and others follow and be formed by Jesus. Remember to keep it Jesus-Centered. We pray that you will be Spirit-Led and Spirit- Empowered as you lead and learn together. Brief Commentary and Context (Answer this question here: What did this mean in the original context and how is it set in the larger story of the Bible?) Definition of a “Disciple” A disciple is someone who is following and being formed by Jesus in all of life. Linguistically, the word for “disciple” in the Greek is ‘mathetes’, and, although we translate it “disciple,” it also means learner, student, or follower. This word is most akin to the environment of an internship where an expert apprentices a student toward competency in a trade or skill. This relationship involves head knowledge but focuses upon applying that knowledge to everyday situations of life to equip the learner with wisdom. *https://discipleship.org/blog/what-is-a-disciple-three-key-characteristics/ Brief Commentary for Luke 9:18-27 After following Jesus for three years having witnessed his life, miracles and teaching the disciples journey came to a climactic point, a moment of truth. Jesus looked at his first followers and asked a riveting question, “who do you say that I am?” Peter had been waiting for his moment to shine and exclaimed, “the Christ of God.” What a revelation, what a moment! However, what Peter and the disciples thought this confession meant and what Jesus would soon reveal were very different. The disciples had fantasies of grandeur, power and freedom from Rome’s oppressive rule. They imagined a soon coming deliverance led by their Rabbi that looked more like success than suffering. They envisioned themselves at Jesus’ side winning the greatest of all victories. Jesus indeed is the Christ but he hadn’t come to win like they imagined, but rather to suffer and ultimately die before he would be raised to life and victory. The disciples wanted the kingdom without a cross. Jesus then opened up the very heart of what it would mean for them to follow him. He invited them to deny themselves and take up their cross daily, to lose their lives to ultimately save them. The call to be disciples is more costly than they ever imagined and at the same time far more wonderful! The question to the original disciples and us today remains, will we deny ourselves, take up our cross daily and follow him? Summary Scripture: Matt 4:19- “And he said to them, ‘Follow me and I will make you fishers of men.” Key Idea: A disciple is someone who is following and being formed by Jesus in all of life. Core Truths/Scriptures for the topic Matt 10:37-39- “Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves their son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. Whoever does not take up their cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.” Ephesians 5:1-2 - Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God John 5:19- Jesus gave them this answer: “Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does.” 1 John 2:3-6- We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did. John 13:34-45- “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” Extra Resources to help you Prepare https://bibleproject.com/podcast/cost-following-jesus-new-testament-themes-part-2/ https://seminary.grace.edu/what-is-the-true-meaning-of-christian-discipleship/ https://www.navigators.org/resource/basics-of-discipleship/ Anyone new in your home church? Things to Consider: Is the new individual, or family organically connecting with anyone in your home church? Suggest a coffee hang to begin a deeper connection, or consider having the individual/family over for an easy dinner to get to know them better. Is the new individual, or family interested in receiving communication via text, or email? If so, have them email admin@navahchurchkc.com with their name and phone number. Do they plan to attend All Navah Gatherings? If yes and it is a new family, they can email admin@navahchurchkc.com with their name, their children(s) name, DOB and grade to make for a smooth kids ministry check-in process.

REMEMBER (30 min) Remember God: Worship, prayer, or communion Worship Songs: Missionary Anthem (LIVE) - Seth Yates - YWAM Kona Music Fresh Wind (Official Lyric Video) - Hillsong Worship Leeland - The Sending (Official Live Video) Prayer: Spend some time in intercession for workers to be sent ( Matt 9:38) Remember each other: Care Optional- break up into smaller groups for 10 min Hi/Lo check in Remember the Liturgy: Following Jesus Liturgy Remember what we learned and put into practice last week? Accountability Topic: Go Make Disciples Part 1 Share with someone who you are intentionally investing your life into or who God is leading you to disciple. REFLECT (30 min) Prepare Introduce today’s topic and any commentary or context for the scripture Topic Title: “Go Make Disciples” Part 2 Share the Summary Scripture for the topic if you want (Matt. 28:18-20 - “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey all that I have commanded. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”) Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed Share context for Scripture Story Discover Read the Scripture Discussion Questions What is the biblical and historical context? What does this reveal about God and People? (optional) What did John the Baptist mean by “Behold the Lamb of God”? Why did Jesus say, “Come and you will see” and “Follow me”? And why is that crucial to discipleship? Andrew and Philip both found others in their network of relationships to follow Jesus. Who do you know that may be interested to “come and see” what Jesus is all about? How would you give them that opportunity? RESPOND (30 min) Experience and Encounter Make an “oikos map”. Draw a circle with your name in the middle. Draw a few lines with other circles branching out from your name to make a map of those you are praying for who have yet to follow Jesus and who you desire to help follow Jesus as disciples. (Oikos Map – video) Lord’s Supper (Communion) Pray Lord’s Prayer Practice and Obey Spend time praying for people on your Oikos Prayer Map. Listen for what Jesus may tell you to do. Consider Praying daily at noon for the people on your Oikos Prayer Map. Consider using the 24-7 Prayer App “Inner Room” (https://innerroom.app/) to add these people to your prayer list with specific prayer points and set reminders to pray for them.

Remember Breath Prayer Breathe in: I call upon you Jesus Breath out: And you answer me Worship Theme: "Forever" Remember what we learned and put into practice last week? Is anyone celebrating something that happened this week? Let’s share so we can all thank God together. Is anyone struggling, feeling sad, lonely or scared? How can we pray for one another? Practice the Following Jesus Liturgy (With our youngest kids only focus on the portion that we’re currently learning) Leader: Because of the Gospel we receive the Gift. What is the Gift? Kids respond: We are forgiven We are freed We are filled with the Holy Spirit We are found in the Father and formed in Family Reflect: John 3:14-16 Explore Key Concepts - All those who have sinned and look to Jesus will be healed of their sin and set free from their guilt. He forgives us and welcome us into His Kingdom FOREVER! A very long time ago God's people were experiencing great suffering. At one point they were being bitten by snakes. They felt scared and many people were dying. Moses asked God how to save the people from the snake bites. God told him to take a brass snake, put it on a stick and lift it high for everyone to see. Then God did a miracle! Whenever anyone was bit by a snake they could look upon the snake that was on the stick and God would heal them! Many many years later God did something similar for his people. But it wasn't to heal a snake bite, it was to heal our sin. Now, all those who've sinned can look upon Jesus who was raised up on the cross. Whoever looks to Him to be healed will be forgiven of their sin and receive the promise of eternal life. That means we get to be with Him forever! Watch: Moses and the Brass Serpent (This video is an excellent explanation for young kids of the story of God's people in Numbers 21. Navah does not endorse every Latter Day Kids video). Discover through curious questions: Ask the children what stood out to them. What did they like about the story? Was anything new or different than how they’d heard the story in the past? Allow the conversation to be led by their questions, insights, and wonderments. Discuss: What does it mean to "look upon Jesus"? How do we do that when we can't see Him? Have you ever "looked to" or asked Jesus to help you? When and how? Respond: John 3:14-16 Experience: The Saints who Cheer us On! The Bible says that when we look to Jesus we will be with Him for eternity. That means forever! Even after we die we get the gift of eternal life, to enjoy God and our family and church for all time. Do you have anyone close to you that has died and is with Jesus? Maybe a grandparent, a family friend, aunt or uncle? Did you know that the Bible says they are cheering us on from heaven! How cool is that?! We may not hear them, but we know in our hearts that they are with Jesus and they are cheering for us to love Jesus too! (Hebrews 12) Draw a picture/portrait of someone you know who is now with Jesus. If you don't know anyone, draw a picture of a famous saint (Paul, Joan of Arc, Moses, Mother Theresa, Noah, John the Baptist). Show the saints (those who are with Jesus now) cheering on God's Church, His people, US! Encounter: PRAY and Worship Read Hebrews 12:1-2 We have nothing to fear. God is the same yesterday today and forever and His love for us never changes! He wants us to succeed, be filled with His Spirit and be with Him forever. Let's look to Him in prayer and say thank you for the promise of eternal life. Pray: You may want to open in prayer and then make space for the kids to pray. Play the song by Brooke Pointdexter. Encourage everyone to get up and get moving, responding to the call to "Come on! Be who you are." "We're the sons and daughters, that water walkers. No fear can shake us. No lie can break us. Only you can make us be who we are."

Simple Reminders The primary idea you need to keep revisiting during this Following Jesus Pathway is that we are following and being formed by Jesus. This pathway can be learned simply or in great depth. We trust that you as a leader know your people and the dynamics of your group well enough to adapt and impart this topic with grace and wisdom. This guide is designed to help you and others follow and be formed by Jesus. Remember to keep it Jesus-Centered. We pray that you will be Spirit-Led and Spirit- Empowered as you lead and learn together. Brief Commentary and Context (Answer this question here: What did this mean in the original context and how is it set in the larger story of the Bible?) The Gift- ‘The Gift’ is a shorthand description used in the apostles' letters to the churches describing the lavish grace of God given to all who repent and place their trust in Jesus as Lord, believing the gospel. The gospel is who Jesus is and what he has done. ‘The Gift’ is what we freely receive in Christ and continually experience through the Holy Spirit! Brief Commentary for Luke 23:32-43 The sinless lamb of God hung crucified between two criminals. Some from the crowd, the Jewish rulers and Romans soldiers hurled taunting insults at him. “He saved others; let him save himself, if he is the Christ of God the chosen!” His body ached with unimaginable pain, his soul pressed to breaking as the sin of humanity was placed upon him. One of the criminals at his side joined in the accusations towards Jesus. “But the other criminal rebuked him. “Don’t you fear God,” he said, “since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” A simple moment of compassion from the criminal, a small expression of faith to see this man Jesus as innocent, flings wide the door to be with Jesus forever in paradise. How is it possible that Jesus offers ‘paradise’ when he is experiencing such hell? How can a man who it seems has utterly fallen short of God’s righteousness every day of his life suddenly be welcomed into ‘paradise’ in his last hours? What is this ‘paradise’ that Jesus has to offer? Paradise is the presence of God, being with Jesus. A word that takes us all the way back to the garden of Eden where God and man dwelt together in harmony. Jesus had lived in the presence of God, embodied the presence of God and offered the presence of God to all people who would believe. Here in his darkest moment, unable to sense God’s presence himself, he once again welcomes the undeserving into eternal life, saying “today you will be with me in paradise.” Paradise is being with Jesus! He will breath his last breath and be with Jesus, in the presence of God, forever. The paradise of God’s presence is available today and will be enjoyed forever!! Summary Scripture: Romans 6:23- For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Key Idea: Eternal life begins when we are spiritually reborn through faith in Jesus and come into union with God who is life. Those who are born again become partakers of the divine nature and though they die will remain in Christ and at the return of Jesus receive renewed glorified bodies to be with God forever in a new heaven and new earth. Core Truths/Scriptures for the topic John 17:3- Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. 1 Thess 4:16-18- “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage one another with these words.” John 5:24- “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes Him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.” John 3:14-16- “And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. For God so loved the world,that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” 1 Peter 1:3-4- “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you,” 2 Cor 5:6-9- “So we are always of good courage. We know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith and not by sight. Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him.” Learn the Tool: The Gospel and the Gift Extra Resources to help you Prepare https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/eternal-life/ https://lifehopeandtruth.com/prophecy/kingdom-of-god/gift-of-eternal-life/ Paradise Now with Tim Mackie https://bibleproject.com/blog/can-we-experience-eternal-life-today/ Anyone new in your home church? Things to Consider: Is the new individual, or family organically connecting with anyone in your home church? Suggest a coffee hang to begin a deeper connection, or consider having the individual/family over for an easy dinner to get to know them better. Is the new individual, or family interested in receiving communication via text, or email? If so, have them email admin@navahchurchkc.com with their name and phone number. Do they plan to attend All Navah Gatherings? If yes and it is a new family, they can email admin@navahchurchkc.com with their name, their children(s) name, DOB and grade to make for a smooth kids ministry check-in process.

Simple Reminders The primary idea you need to keep revisiting during this Following Jesus Pathway is that we are following and being formed by Jesus. This pathway can be learned simply or in great depth. We trust that you as a leader know your people and the dynamics of your group well enough to adapt and impart this topic with grace and wisdom. This guide is designed to help you and others follow and be formed by Jesus. Remember to keep it Jesus-Centered. We pray that you will be Spirit-Led and Spirit- Empowered as you lead and learn together. Brief Commentary and Context (Answer this question here: What did this mean in the original context and how is it set in the larger story of the Bible?) The Gift- ‘The Gift’ is a shorthand description used in the apostles' letters to the churches describing the lavish grace of God given to all who repent and place their trust in Jesus as Lord, believing the gospel. The gospel is who Jesus is and what he has done. ‘The Gift’ is what we freely receive in Christ and continually experience through the Holy Spirit! Brief Commentary for Ephesians 3:14-21 The apostle Paul, writing to a young church in Ephesus, has been laying out the magnificent blueprint for the church being established in Asia Minor and down through the ages. He is explaining the grandeur of God’s eternal plan in Christ, specifically the formation of a new family of Jesus which includes not only Jews but Gentiles. The church is described as a holy temple in the Lord where God will live by His Spirit, this is the mystery hidden for ages past but now revealed. Jesus’ new family will be found in the Father and transformed together by the Spirit. Having unfolded the eternal plan he pauses to pray, almost as if he is overwhelmed by God’s beauty and goodness. On his knees he expresses his heart and desire to the Father on behalf of Jesus' family. It is a confident appeal based on the Father’s glorious riches to strengthen the church with power through the Holy Spirit for the purpose of love. They have been filled with the Spirit and only together as God’s family can they be formed into Jesus’ image to experience and express God’s love. It will take the Holy Spirit in community to grasp a love with infinite dimension, know a love beyond knowledge, and be filled with all the fullness of God. What a gift to be ‘found in the Father and formed in the family’! The apostle declares it is all unto the ‘immeasurably more’ dreams of the kingdom and the glory of God forever! Paul will go on in the remaining chapters to describe the very down to earth way that they were called to live as the church following Jesus in all of life. It will be costly and contested but Jesus is worthy! Summary Scripture: Ephesians 2:18-22- “For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure , being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.” Key idea: The gift of God is to find our new identity in the Father and to work out our new identity in a Spirit-led transforming process with the church, formed in the family. Isaiah 64:8- “But now, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand.” Luke 15:32- “It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is now found.” Colossians 3:5;12-14- “Put to death therefore what is earthly in you…put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.” Romans 8:28-30- “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.” Learn the Tool: The Gospel and the Gift Extra Resources to help you Prepare https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/ephesians/ Anyone new in your home church? Things to Consider: Is the new individual, or family organically connecting with anyone in your home church? Suggest a coffee hang to begin a deeper connection, or consider having the individual/family over for an easy dinner to get to know them better. Is the new individual, or family interested in receiving communication via text, or email? If so, have them email admin@navahchurchkc.com with their name and phone number. Do they plan to attend All Navah Gatherings? If yes and it is a new family, they can email admin@navahchurchkc.com with their name, their children(s) name, DOB and grade to make for a smooth kids ministry check-in process.