Small Group Study Materials These studies are recommendations by FPC staff or Small Group leaders. Unless otherwise noted, these materials are available for purchase through major retailers. Materials in bolded font are available in the Small Group Lending Library. FPC gratefully acknowledges Menlo Park Presbyterian Church for this material and their willingness to share the fruits of their labor with us.
Categories Bible Study Old Testament - Books Old Testament - Topical New Testament - Books New Testament - Topical Surveys (cover multiple books in the Old Testament or New Testament) Life Issues
Page 2 3 4 7 9 12
Difficulties/Challenges; Friendship; Marriage; Men; Money/Possessions; Parenting; Teenagers (Understanding/Parenting); Women
Missional Living
17
Christian Living; Culture; Emergent; Evangelism; Kingdom of God; Mission; Social Justice; Worldview
Spiritual Formation
22
Community; Discipleship; Prayer; Relationship with God; Series; Small Group Growth; Spiritual Practices; Transformation
Theology & New Believer Materials Questions/Studies for New Believers; Apologetics; Christian Basics/Theology; Church History
Titles are added as recommendations are received by staff and Small Group leaders.
30
Page 3
Focus Format OLD TESTAMENT-BOOK Participants guides
# of Sessions
NavPress LifeChange (Series) Genesis, Exodus, Joshua, Ruth & Esther, 1 Samuel, Proverbs, Isaiah
Participants guides
8 to 13
Participants guides
6
Various
LifeGuide (Series) Most books (but not all) of the Old Testament are covered by this series MPPC library has copies of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Daniel, Hosea, Jonah/Joel/Amos. New Community (Series) Exodus, 1&2 Samuel, Nehemiah, Psalms Vol 1, Psalms Vol 2, Daniel
Various
DVD and Participants guides
5
Participants guides
6
Hybels, Bill or Ortberg, John with Harney, Kevin and Sherry; Willow Creek Association Liquid
Ruth: Relationships that Bring Life Leaders and Participants guides
Various authors; InterVarsity Press
The Crossing: The Book of Joshua
Ruth
Proverbs
Author/Publisher
Varied
Various
Joshua
Title
13
Ruth Haley Barton / Fisherman Bible Study guides Serendipity House
Proverbs: Uncommon Sense (library has participant guide only)
Section: Bible Study
Page 3 of 60
Page 4
Focus
Format Participants guides
# of Sessions
Title
Author/Publisher
6 or 12
Proverbs
Hybels, Bill
Making Life Work
DVD and Participants guides
12
Moore, Beth Daniel: Lives of Integrity, Words of Prophecy
Daniel
OLD TESTAMENT-TOPICAL DVD and discussion guide.
4
Abraham
Facing the Unknown DVD and Participants guides
7
DVD and Participants guides
5
DVD and Participants Ten guides Commandm ents
5
Participants guides
Various
Baker Books, Deepening Life Together (Series): Promises of God (also found in NewTestament- Topical section)
Covenant
Life of David
Batterson, Mark
Liquid Fork in the Road Liquid The Ten: 1-5 and The Ten: 6-10
8 to 13 LifeGuide (Series) Several topics are offered by this series: Christian Virtues (also found in NT-Topical section), Old Testament Characters, Praying the Psalms, Spiritual Gifts (also found in NTTopical section)
Various authors; InterVarsity Press
Section: Bible Study
Page 4 of 60
Page 5
Focus Format NEW TESTAMENT-BOOK Suggested questions
# of Sessions
Serendipity House Serendipity New Testament for Groups
DVD and Participants guides
Varied
Baker Books, Deepening Life Together (Series): John, Acts, Romans, Ephesians, Revelation
Participants guides
18
Participants guides
Varied
Various
Stott, John; InterVarsity John Stott Bible Studies (Series) Press Beatitudes, Acts, Romans, Galatians, Ephesians, 1&2 Thessalonians, 1 Timothy & Titus, 2 Timothy NavPress LifeChange (Series) Every book of the New Testament is covered by this series. Matthew, Mark, John, Acts, Romans, Galatians, Colossians & Philemon, 2 Thessalonians, 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus, James, 1 Peter, 2 Peter & Jude, 1, 2, & 3 John
Various
Participants guides Various
Participants guides Various
Author/Publisher
Varied
All
Various
Title
8 to 13 LifeGuide (Series) Every book of the New Testament is covered by this series. Mark, Acts, Romans, 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians,Thessalonians 6 New Community (Series) Luke, Acts, Romans, 2 Corinthians, Philippians, Colossians, Titus, James, 1 Peter, 1 John, Revelation
Various authors; InterVarsity Press
Hybels, Bill or Ortberg, John with Harney, Kevin and Sherry; Willow Creek Association
Section: Bible Study
Page 5 of 60
Page 6
Focus
Format Participants Guide
Various
# of Sessions
Participants Guide
13
Book and study guide
12
Various
Author/Publisher
301 Depth Bible Study Series: Ephesians (Our Riches in Christ), Philippians (Joy Under Stress), James (Walking the Talk) 1 John (The Test of Faith)
NT Wright and various authors
Serendipity House
Lucado, Max 3:16
John Participants guides
13 Words of Faith (Series) Acts (1&2), Hebrews, James, 1 Peter, 1 John, Revelation (1&2)
Acts
Romans
Title
Varied NT Wright for Everyone (Series) Matthew, Mark, Romans, 1&2 Timothy/Titus, Ephesians, Colossians & Philemon, 1&2 Thessalonians, 1 Corinthians
DVD and Participants guides
10
Participants guides
12
Participants guides
8
Ingram, Chip r12 True Spirituality
Ephesians
Philippians DVD and Participants 1&2 guides Thessalonia ns
Words of Faith Series, Serendipity
Life Lessons with Max Lucado (series): Ephesians
Philippians: God's Guide to Joy 6
A Spritiual Road Map in a Mixed Up WorldA small group study in 1 & 2 Thessalonians (Volume 1 and 2)
Lucado, Max Klug, Ron, Fisherman Bible Study guides series Purpose Driven Ministries
Section: Bible Study
Page 6 of 60
Page 7
Focus 1&2 Thessalonia ns
Format Leaders and Participants guides
# of Sessions
Author/Publisher Serendipity House
1 & 2 Thessalonians: Return of the King
DVD and Participants guides
6 each
Rick Warren James: Developing a Faith that Works, Volume 1 and 2.
James
James
Title
13
DVD and Participants guides
5
DVD, worksheets and Leader's Guide
6
Liquid Life at Five Topliff, Debbie Painting Revelation: A Visual Exploration of the Last Book of the Bible
Revelation
NEW TESTAMENT-TOPICAL DVD and Participants guides
7
DVD, Leader's guide and Participants guides
11
DVD and Participants guides
5
Covenant
Fruit of the Spirit Parables
Baker Books, Deepening Life Together (Series): Promises of God (also found in Old Testament- Topical section) Living Beyond Youreslf: Exploring the Fruit of the Spirit (library has participant guide only) Mirror Image
Beth Moore
Liquid:
Section: Bible Study
Page 7 of 60
Page 8
Focus
Format DVD and Participants guides
# of Sessions
Author/Publisher Baker Books,
Deepening Life Together (Series): Parables
Parables
Participants Guide
13
Parables
Serendipity House 301 Depth Bible Study Series: Parables: Virtual Reality
DVD with participants guides
6
Participants guides
6
Deeper Connections (Series) The Life of Jesus The Miracles of Jesus The Prayers of Jesus The Forgiveness of Jesus The Last Days of Jesus The Parables of Jesus
Jesus' Teaching
Jesus' Teaching
The Lord's Prayer: Praying with Power New Community (Series) Participants guides
6
Jesus' Teaching
Williams, Matt, Zondervan
Ortberg, John with Harney, Kevin and Sherry; Willow Creek Association
Ortberg, John with Harney, Kevin and Sherry; Willow Creek Association Hybels, Bill with Harney, Sermon on the Mount : Connect with God, Kevin and Sherry; Pt 1 and Pt 2 Willow Creek New Community (Series) Association The Sermon on the Mount Stott, John, InterVarsity LifeGuide (Series) Press Parables: Imagine God's Way of Life New Community (Series)
Participants guides
6
Participants guides
12
Jesus' Teaching Jesus' Teaching
Title
4
Section: Bible Study
Page 8 of 60
Page 9
Focus
Format Participants guides
Various
# of Sessions
Title
Author/Publisher
8 to 13 LifeGuide (Series) Several topics are offered by this series. Christian Virtues (also found in OT-Topical section), Meeting Jesus, Sermon on the Mount, Spiritual Gifts (also found in OTTopical section)
Various authors; InterVarsity Press
Section: Bible Study
Page 9 of 60
Page 10
Focus Format SURVEYS OT Survey
Leaders and Participants guides Participants guides (called Discussion Guide)
# of Sessions
8
8 8 DVD, Leader's guide and Participants guides
Author/Publisher
Redding, Mary Lou; Meeting God in Scripture: Entering the Old Upper Room Books Testament
9 7
OT Survey
Title
Old Testament Challenge OTC1 : Creating a New Community OTC 2: Stepping Out In Faith OTC 3: Developing a Heart for God OTC 4: Pursuing Spiritual Authenticity
8
OT Survey
Ortberg, John and Harney, Kevin and Sherry
Yancey, Phillip The Bible Jesus Read
Participant Guide
7
OT Survey: History of Israel
Truth for Today series: Stepping out in Faith: Life-Changing Stories from the History of Israel
Audio lecture (60 min) and OT Survey: worksheets Pentateuch Participant Guide
10 to 12 Creation, Covenant and Kings 9
OT Survey: Pentateuch Audio lecture (60 min) and OT Survey: worksheets Prophets
Ortberg, John and Harney, Kevin and Sherry Stuart, Dr. Douglas, Gordon-Conwell Seminary Professor
Ortberg, John and Harney, Kevin and Truth for Today series: Creating a New Community: Life-Changing Sherry Stories from Genesis to Deuteronomy
10 to 12 Prophets and Promise
Stuart, Dr. Douglas, Gordon-Conwell Seminary Professor
Section: Bible Study
Page 10 of 60
Page 11
Focus
Format Participant Guide
# of Sessions
Title
Author/Publisher
8 Truth for Today series: Pursuing Spiritual Authenticity: LifeChanging Words from the Prophets
OT Survey: Prophets Participant Guide
8
OT Survey: Wisdom Book - Commentary
Varied
New Testament
Leaders and Participants guides
Ortberg, John and Harney, Kevin and Sherry
Ortberg, John and Truth for Today series: Harney, Kevin and Developing a Heart for God: Life-Changing Sherry Words from the Wisdom Books ….For Everyone (NT Series) Matthew, v.1 & 2 Mark John, v.1&2 Acts, v.1&2 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Galatians & Thessal. Hebrews 1&2 Timothy & Titus Eph/Phil/Col/Philem
Wright, N.T.
Upper Room Books Meeting God in Scripture: Entering the New Testament
NT Survey Audio lecture (60 min) and NT Survey: worksheets Gospels & Acts
10 to 12
Audio lecture (60 min) and NT Survey: worksheets Romans to Rev.
10 to 12
Christ and His Church
Gordon, Dr. T. David, Gordon-Conwell Seminary Professor
Letters to God's People
Gordon, Dr. T. David, Gordon-Conwell Seminary Professor
Section: Bible Study
Page 11 of 60
Page 12
Description and/or Review Inductive Bible study with notes at the end of each lesson on how to take the study/homework and move it into a discussion. This is a curriculum strongly oriented toward study. (Level: Intermediate)
Inductive Bible study style. Topical studies are available as well.
Bible study, discussion questions, and community-building exercises Each lesson includes a 10-minute modern-day movie that illustrates a situation that could either be controlled by fear and insecuirty or where God can reach out and help His people cross to a better place Uses Ruth's story to help you reflect on your own relationships and the ways in which God might be inviting you to move different ways--ways that will lead you into lifegiving patterns of relating with others. Studies 13 themes found in the book of Proverbs. Includes simple daily devotions for the week, icebreaker questions, Bible study and strong emphasis on discussion and application. Order through www.lifeway.com
Section: Bible Study
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Page 13
Description and/or Review This book has 12 chapters that includes discussion questions for each chapter. It is a practical guide based on the wisdom of the book of Proverbs and touched upon multiple areas of life including decision-making, friendships, marriage, finances, parenting, work and integrity. There also is a companion study guide that covers 6 of the chapters and provides a workbook approach to the questions in the book
Study of prophecy and learning from Daniel's experience how to shine for Christ in our modern culture
A modern look at the life of Abraham. Viewers will expereince cinematic short films that show Abraham living in the 21st century. Bible study formatted to emphasize small group growth for both individuals and the group. Includes assessments for the group to do as well as brief daily reflections for those who wish to extend. Covers both Old and New Testament to see the "big picture" of God's Promises What would "a man after God's own heart" look like today? DVD episodes depict David's watershed decisions through the life of a modern man The DVD has 10-minute episodes introducting present-day characters whose problems and struggles the 10 commandments
Inductive Bible study style.
Section: Bible Study
Page 13 of 60
Page 14
Description and/or Review New Testament Bible that includes questions in the margin for every passage. The questions for each passage are designed for group study in sections called "Open," "Dig," and "Reflect." Bible study formatted to emphasize small group growth for both individuals and the group. Includes assessments for the group to do as well as brief daily reflections for those who wish to extend. Inductive Bible study questions, commenatry notes, personal application, prayer helps and leader guidelines. Topical study of Jesus Christ is available as well.
Inductive Bible study with notes at the end of each lesson on how to take the study/homework and move it into a discussion. This is a curriculum strongly oriented toward study. (Level: Intermediate)
Inductive Bible study style. Topical studies are available in this series as well.
Bible study, discussion questions, and community-building exercises. Topical studies also available.
Section: Bible Study
Page 14 of 60
Page 15
Description and/or Review Thoughtful questions, prayer suggestions, and useful background and cultural information. Can use used on its own or alongside Wrights's New Testament for Everyone commentary.
Study designed for small groups who want to do serious Bible study and willing to do homework. If unable to order through major retailers, try www.lifeway.com A study based on the book 3:16. The focus is the Bible verse John 3:16. The author connects the themes of that one verse to other passages in the Bible. Leader's guide included at the end of the study guide. www.lifeway.com Inductive Bible study style with emphasis on relationships, including ice breakers keyed to session topics and relational questions tied to the Scripture subject Discipleship curriculum based on the 12th chapter of Romans. There also is a book titled Living on the Edge: Dare to Experience True Spirituality. For more information, go to http://r12online.livingontheedge.org Includes questions for discussion, stories, reflections and space for journaling. Revised version Inductive Bible study with two questions at the end of each lesson for application Each session is structured to include the 5 purposes of fellowship, discipleship, ministry, mission and worship. Material to extend the study as well as to help with group growth is included in the appendixes.
Section: Bible Study
Page 15 of 60
Page 16
Description and/or Review Studys how Jesus' second coming impacts all aspects of our living. Includes simple daily devotions for the week, icebreaker questions, Bible study and strong emphasis on discussion and application. Order through www.lifeway.com A verse-by-verse study of the Book of James. Participant guides are designed around connecting, growing (DVD lesson), serving, sharing, worship. Additional material to extend the lesson is provided each week. Volume 1 covers Chapters 1 & 2 (6 lessons total). Volume 2 covers Chapters 3, 4, & 5 (6 lessons total). The DVD has 10-minute episodes following the story of a recent college gradtuate who is struggling to discover purpose and direction in her life. Portrays the practical advice of James in a lighthearted, culturally relevant way. This is a visual artistic journey through the book of Revelation. The DVD sessions present the narrative arc of John's vision while you watch an artistic portrayal of the content. Worksheets, charts, and a comprehensive leader's guide can be used to dig into the text or to deepen small group discussion. For more information: http://paintingrevelation.com/ Bible study formatted to emphasize small group growth for both individuals and the group. Includes assessments for the group to do as well as brief daily reflections for those who wish to extend. Covers both Old and New Testament to see the "big picture" of God's Promises Includes daily assignments. Group time includes teaching from the DVD and questions found from Leader's Guide. Includes both Old and New Testament study http://www.experienceliquid.com
Section: Bible Study
Page 16 of 60
Page 17
Description and/or Review Bible study formatted to emphasize small group growth for both individuals and the group. Includes assessments for the group to do as well as brief daily reflections for those who wish to extend. Parables studied are Prodigal Son, Pharisee and Tax Collector, Great Banquet, Good Samaritan Study designed for small groups who want to do serious Bible study and willing to do homework. If unable to order through major retailers, try www.lifeway.com
Is a unique because of its creative filming and its substantial and comprehensive presentation of Jesus’ life and ministry on Israel by contemporary Bible scholars. Uses teaching, group discussion and individual reflection for in-depth Bible study.
This study looks at our deepest passion and longing...to know and experience God. Bible study, discussion questions, and community-building exercises. The parables of Jesus communicate vital truths about God, his kingdom, and the broad scope of life. Bible study, discussion questions, and community-building exercises. The Sermon on the Mount reveals the heart qualities God desires in you. Bible study, discussion questions, and community-building exercises. Inductive Bible study style.
Section: Bible Study
Page 17 of 60
Page 18
Description and/or Review
Inductive Bible study style.
Section: Bible Study
Page 18 of 60
Page 19
Description and/or Review Covers "the big picture" of Hebrew scripture through halfpage daily readings combined with a weekly group meeting that includes formational reading experiences and discussion. (Level: Intermediate to advanced) While the Old Testament Challenge series (4 parts) is designed for a churchwide study, the discussion guide can be used for Small Group study on its own. The 4 discussion guides move through the Old Testament in order. There is a video that is sold with this series, but it is meant for use in larger teaching settings/classes/sermons. (Level: Intermediate)
A DVD-based curriculum that examines 1. Is the Old Testament Worth the Effort? 2.Understanding the Old Testament 3.Job: Seeing in the Dark 4.Deuteronomy: A Taste of Bittersweet 5. Psalms: Spirituality in Every Key 6. Ecclesiastes: The End of Wisdom 7. The Prophets: God Talks Back 8. Advance Echoes of a Final Answer. MPPC library has a copy of the Leader's guide only. Study that examines passages of the Old Testament with information provided on background and word study. Each lesson ends with a a reflection and a challenge for the time between sessions. Leaders notes are included in the back of each guide. Accessible through www.gordonconwell.edu/dimensions. Online version is free if you create an account; the CD or CD-ROM versions are available for a fee. (Level: Advanced) Study that examines passages of the Old Testament with information provided on background and word study. Each lesson ends with a a reflection and a challenge for the time between sessions. Leaders notes are included in the back of each guide. Accessible through www.gordonconwell.edu/dimensions. Online version is free if you create an account; the CD or CD-ROM versions are available for a fee. (Level: Advanced)
Section: Bible Study
Page 19 of 60
Page 20
Description and/or Review Study that examines passages of the Old Testament with information provided on background and word study. Each lesson ends with a a reflection and a challenge for the time between sessions. Leaders notes are included in the back of each guide. Study that examines passages of the Old Testament with information provided on background and word study. Each lesson ends with a a reflection and a challenge for the time between sessions. Leaders notes are included in the back of each guide.
A comprehensive, highly accessible set of study guides that can be used alongside studying the Bible. Written by a scholar that Christianity Today called "one of the top 5 theologians in the world." Featuring Scripture passages followed by background information, explanations, anecdotes, and life application commentary.
Covers "the big picture" of new Testament scripture through half-page daily readings combined with a weekly group meeting that includes formational reading experiences and discussion. (Level: Intermediate to Advanced) Accessible through www.gordonconwell.edu/dimensions. Online version is free if you create an account; the CD or CD-ROM versions are available for a fee. (Level: Advanced) Accessible through www.gordonconwell.edu/dimensions. Online version is free if you create an account; the CD or CD-ROM versions are available for a fee. (Level: Advanced)
Section: Bible Study
Page 20 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Title Format DIFFICULTIES/CHALLENGES Growing Through Life's challenges
# of Sessions
Updated 1/20/12
Author/Publisher
Participant Guide (Leader's guide included at the end)
12
Reapsome, James & Martha. Fisherman Bible studies
Book and Participants guides
6
Parrott, Drs. Les and Leslie
DVD , Book and Participants Guide
8
Cloud, Henry; Townsend, John
DVD and Participants Guides
6
Outreach publishing
Book with free study guide available online
13
Chapman, Gary
6
Parrot, Dr. Leslie and Les
6
Parrot, Drs. Les and Leslie
6
Thomas, Gary
6
Parrot, Dr. Leslie and Les
FRIENDSHIP
Relationships
MARRIAGE Boundaries in Marriage
Fireproof
The Five Love Languages
Love Talk
www.5lovelanguages.com/resour ces/free-study-guides DVD, Book and Participants guides
Making Marriage Work
DVD, Leader and Participants Guides
Sacred Marriage: What if God DVD, Book and Participants Designed Marriage to Make Us guides Holy More Than to Make Us Happy DVD, Book and Participants Your Time-Starved Marriage guides Small Group Study Materials
Section: Life Issues
Page 21 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Title MEN
Format
# of Sessions
Updated 1/20/12
Author/Publisher
Book with workbook included
8
Arterburn, Stephen
DVD and Participants Guides
6
DVD and Participants guides
5
Towner, Dick , Good Sense series Willow Creek Association Ward, John; Pries, Jeff
Booklet
1
Stott, John
DVD with participants guides and/or Book with Discussion questions
6
Ortberg, John
Book and workbook Boundaries with Kids: When to or say YES, When to say NO, to DVD and participant guides Help Your Children Gain Control of Their Lives
14
Cloud, Henry; Townsend, John
Every Man's Battle
MONEY/POSSESSIONS Freed-Up: Financial Living Liquid: Money Talks Stott on Stewardship: Ten principles of Christian giving When the Game is Over, It all goes back in the box
PARENTING 8
DVD, leaders guide and participant guides
6
Burns, Jim
DVD and worksheets
8
Turansky, Dr. Scott and Miller, Joanne
DVD, leaders guide and participant guides
6
Parott, Drs. Les and Leslie
Confident Parenting
Everyday Parents CAN Raise Extraordinary Kids! Parenting: The Early Years
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Life Issues
Page 22 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Title
Format
Parenting with Love & Logic: Teaching Children Responsibility
# of Sessions
Updated 1/20/12
Author/Publisher
Book
8
Cline, Dr. Foster & Fay, Jim
Book
12
Anthony, Michelle
Book with discussion guide included
15
Stafford, Wes
Spiritual Parenting: An awakening for today's families
Too Small to Ignore
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Life Issues
Page 23 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Title Format TEENAGERS (UNDERSTANDING/PARENTING) Five Love Languages of Teenagers
Book with free study guide available online
# of Sessions
Updated 1/20/12
Author/Publisher
15
Chapman, Gary
Book
13
Clark, Chap
Parenting Teens with Love and Book Logic: Preparing Adolsecents for Responsible Adulthood
8
Cline, Dr. Foster & Fay, Jim
The Space Between: A Parent's Book Guide to Teenage Development
10
Muller, Dr. Walt
DVD and Participants guides
6
Shirer, Priscilla, Moore, Beth, Arthur, Kay
DVD, Leader's guide and Participants guides
10
Beth Moore
www.5lovelanguages.com/resour ces/free-study-guides
Hurt: Inside the world of today's teenagers
WOMEN Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed: A Study of David
Esther: It's Tough Being a Woman
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Life Issues
Page 24 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Title
Format
Book with discussion guide Having a Mary Heart in a Martha included World Living a Life of Balance
# of Sessions
Updated 1/20/12
Author/Publisher
12
Weaver, Joanna
Participant Guide (Leader's guide included at the end)
12
Women of Faith
DVD, Leaders guide, participant guides and book
6
Feinberg, Margaret
Participant Guide (Leader's guide included at the end)
6
Group publishing
Organic God
Simply Relevant - Heart Spa: Relational Bible Series for Women
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Life Issues
Page 25 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Updated 1/20/12
Description and/or Review Scripture study of 11 people in the Bible who faced difficult circumstances: Moses (Rejection); Joshua (Overwhelming Responsibilities); Gideon (Doubts); Peter (Failure), etc. This series is on friendships. Topics include: The Compulsion for Completion, Keeping the Family Ties from Pulling Strings, Crossing the Gender Line, Friends to Die For, What to do When Friends Fail and Relating to God without Feeling Phony. Appropriate for young adults/singles. (Note: There is a workbook included in the back of the paperback book.)
Exercises and activities in each session help partners connect principles with marriage-strengthening application A practical study to be used by a married couple or a small group of couples. Each DVD session uses scenes from the movie Fireproof and study guide uses those scenes to sparkdiscussion and moves into Scripture study. Each week there is an individual (one for wives; the other for husbands) and a couple's devotion (i.e. 2 devotions for each person each week). Can be used by couples or groups. Includes a 5 Love Languages profiles for husbands and wives at the end of the book. These are the love languages of adults - very important for anyone who feels like they sometimes miss with their spouse on commmunicating well with each other. Improve marital communication. Women's and Men's workbooks are available. Discussing struggles, conflicts and misconceptions that occur in marriage. Available at www.bluefishtv.com. A video-based Bible study with leader's guide and downloadable participant guides. Focus is to shift your marriage from one that aims for marital enrichment to one that aims for spiritual enrichment. Materials include Small group ice-breakers, discussion questions, Bible study and guided prayer. Reclaiming time together as a married couple. Women's and Men's workbooks are available. Small Group Study Materials
Section: Life Issues
Page 26 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Updated 1/20/12
Description and/or Review For married and single men. Focus is avoiding sexual immorality with advice for any man who desires sexual integrity.
Study of Biblical essentials on earning, giving, saving, spending and reducing debt Money Talks take a lighthearted but important look at one of the more difficult issues of our faith: money and stewardship. A 14-page exposition that outlines 10 principles of Christian giving derived from 2 Corinthians, chapters 8 and 9. Ten discussion questions are provided at the end. A reminder that the object of life is to be rich towards God and that everything else will all "go back in the box" when your life is over. Sessions focus on how to live with an eternal perspective.
Sessions discuss setting limits and defining and applying boundaries to help children both now and in the future.
Each session covers a different aspect of parenting, including breaking generational chains of dysfunction and creating a warm atmosphere to handling discipline issues and blessing children with a legacy of faith. Using conscience to help kids live life with integrity. These speakers spoke at MPPC's Fall 2010 parenting class. Applicable to ages 2 to 18. Biblical approach into the traits parents want their children to have and what traits they want their children to see modeled in them.
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Life Issues
Page 27 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Updated 1/20/12
Description and/or Review The authors help you realize some basic (but challenging) strategices on how to let your kids make choices, experience consequences and assume responsibility in a healthy way that allows them to mature while having the right kind of relationships with their parents. Recommended for parents with young children: "Great book on the heart of what we are trying to do - more than any other achievement in life, we want our kids to know Jesus." Mixing autobiographical stories with insight from his work as the president of Compassion International, this material focuses on "the least of these" and how God calls us to care for them. Although there is no direct parenting advice in this book, this study will impact the way that you parent your children, and how you view other children through God's eyes.
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Life Issues
Page 28 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Updated 1/20/12
Description and/or Review This book describes the 5 love languages as they are manifested in teenagers. There also are chapters specific to teenage behavior as well as a test at the end of the book that parents can ask their teens to take to help parents. Recommended for parents with teens: "Chapman describes how teenagers experience love and affection and how we can speak that language to them. We may think we are loving them well, but perhaps we are not speaking in a 'language' they understand. This is a good and thought-provoking read!" Recommended by for parents with teens: "Deep (and sometimes troubling) dive intothe culture of adolescents today. Hurt will help you understand what is truly at the root of pain in adolescent culture and perhaps your own kids as well." This book includes an extensive bibliography for parents who want to learn more. Recommended for parents with teens: "The authors help you realize some basic (but challenging) strategices on how to let your kids make choices, experience consequences and assume responsibility in a healthy way that allows them to mature while having the right kind of relationships with their parents." This book's purpose is to help parents understand and parent effectively through the changes that teens experience. Recommended for parents with teens: "Muller is one of the gurus at understanding youth culture and will help you navigate music and media issues well."
Each segment focuses on the life of David at a different stage of his life: as a young man (Shirer), as a middle-aged man (Moore), and as a man facing the final third of his life (Arthur). The sessions were taped at the 2007 Deeper Still women's event. Target audience of this material is women. Designed for women Includes daily assignments. Group time includes teaching from the DVD and questions found from Leader's Guide. (MPPC's library has participant guides only)
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Life Issues
Page 29 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Updated 1/20/12
Description and/or Review Built around the story of Mary and Martha from Luke, Chapter 10 but explores the entire Bible to challenge women to draw closer to God with less stress and greater joy. Each lesson has group discussion questions that explore Scripture on the session topic. Look past the busyness and distractions of life that can cloud our relationship with God, and imagine how our view of God can change if we cast aside all the things that get in the way, and truly experience God’s big-hearted love. Discussion questions available in the back of the book, but Small Group curriculum avaialble as well. This simple Bible study is based on the theme of finding refreshment in Jesus, It provides good opportunity for a women's group to invite nonchurches friends to "get their feet wet."
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Life Issues
Page 30 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Title CHRISTIAN LIVING
Chasing Daylight
Format
# of Sessions
Updated 1/20/12
Author/Publisher
DVD's, Leaders Guide, Participants Guides and Book
10
McManus, Erwin
DVD and discussion guide
1
McManus, Erwin
DVD, Leaders guide and handouts
4
Nasser, David
DVD and participant guides MPPC library has book only.
6
Warren, Rick
Book with discussion questions
9
Rainer, Thom & Geiger, Eric
Participant guide
12
Bridges, Jerry
Choices: Choose to Live
Paul the Apostle: What Culture Doesn't Want You to Hear
The Purpose-Driven Life
Simple Church
Trusting God
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Missional Living
Page 31 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Title
Format
# of Sessions
Updated 1/20/12
Author/Publisher
DVD's, Leaders Guide, Participants Guides
6
McManus, Erwin
Participants guides for download
4
ChristianBibleStudies.com
Discussion guides
1
ChristianBibleStudies.com
Discussion guides
1 5
Fuller Seminary's Brehm Center Lyons, Gabe
5
Lyons, Gabe
6
Crouch, Andy and Christian Vision Project
Uprising: A Revolution of the Soul
CULTURE
Impacting Culture
Movie Discussion Guides Movie Study Guides
Q Society: Engaging Postmodern DVD and participant guides Culture (Our Mission in a New Context) Q Society: The Whole Gospel DVD and participant guides (Revisiting Our Grand Message to the World) DVD and participant guides, or Book and online discussion Where Faith and Culture Meet guide
Small Group Study Materials
16
Section: Missional Living
Page 32 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Title EMERGENT Emergent Culture
Format DVD, Leaders and Participants Guides Book with discussion questions
# of Sessions
6
Updated 1/20/12
Author/Publisher Long, Jimmy
20 chapt McLaren, Brian
Generous Orthdoxy
Soul Graffitti
They Like Jesus but not the Church
Book with Discussion Questions
15
Scandrette, Mark
DVD, Leaders and Participants Guides
6
Kimball, Dan
Participants guides
12
Pippert, Rebecca & Siemens, Ruth
DVD and participant guides MPPC library has the participant guide only.
4
Hybels, Bill
Participants guides
6
www.smallgroups.com
3
Poole, Garry
10
Kinnaman, David and Gabe Lyons
EVANGELISM Evangelism: A Way of Life
Just Walk Across the Room
Missional Evangelism Three Habits of Highly Contagious Participants guides Christians Book and downloadable discussion guide UnChristian: What a New Generation Really Thinks about Christianity
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Missional Living
Page 33 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Title KINGDOM OF GOD
Format
The Community of the King
Participants guides
6
Snyder, Howard
Participants guides
8
Leader's Guide
3
Scott Allen, Darrow Miller and Robert Moffitt / Kingdom Lifestyle Bible Study Series Horton, Michael S.
Participants guides
6
# of Sessions
God's Unshakable Kingdom
Updated 1/20/12
Author/Publisher
The Kingdom and Our Culture
MISSION God's Remarkable Plan for the Nations Gospel in Life
Loving a Lost World
Scott Allen, Darrow Miller and Robert Moffitt / Kingdom Lifestyle Bible Study Series DVD and participant guides 8 Keller, Timothy, Redeemer Presbyterian Church and Redeemer City to City Audio lecture (60 min) and 10 to 12 Tennent, Dr. Timothy. worksheets Gordon-Conwell Seminary Professor
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Missional Living
Page 34 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Title SOCIAL JUSTICE
Format
# of Sessions
Updated 1/20/12
Author/Publisher
Book with discussion questions Hole in Our Gospel or DVD and Study Guide (MPPC library has both.) DVD and free online Seek Social Justice: Transforming participant guides Lives in Need
5
Stearns, Richard
6
Heritage Foundation
Start> Becoming a Good Samaritan
DVD and participant guides
6
Book with discussion questions
12
Seaton, Michael / Zondervan & World Vision Kraybill, Donald
Book with discussion questions
45
Colson, Charles and Pearcy, Nancy
DVD and discussion guide
4
Phillips, Todd
The Upside-Down Kingdom (3rd edition)
WORLDVIEW How Now Shall We Live?
No Plan B - Your Part in God's Remarkable Plan to Rescue the World
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Missional Living
Page 35 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Updated 1/20/12
Description Written around the story of Jonathan and Saul from 1 Samuel, Chapters 13 and 14 to illustrate the difference between living a life of "purpose and adventure" or "apathy and missed opportunity." Book also available by the same title.
A one-session study on how our choices move us toward God or away from God. Through the life of Paul, see how today's church faces the same problems as the early church and explore how Christians are called to live.
DVD-based study that goes over the principles that can be used in conjunction with the book to help a group to grow.
Challenges churches to simplify the process of making disciples by examining four concepts: Clarity, Movement, Alignment, Focus.
Although the study was designed to be used with the book, it can also be used by itself. (The book has 14 chapters and the study has 12 lessons). Descripton from the author: [I]n an effort to strengthen my own trust in God, I began a lengthy Bible study on the subject of God's sovereignty in the affairs of his people...It is the fruit of that study I now share.. written from the perspective of a brother and companion to all those who are tempted at times to ask, "Can I really trust God?"
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Missional Living
Page 36 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Updated 1/20/12
Description In this study, Erwin teaches us that there’s one thing you can’t change about yourself and that’s your character. Only Christ can transform us from the inside. In each of the six sessions, Erwin provides Biblical and practical teaching that will challenge. Book also available by the same title.
This will help you and your group think about important issues facing Christians in the workplace. Being a Christian in the secular world can be a struggle, especially at work. How do you immerse yourself in the culture, but not be negatively affected by it? Go to ChristianBibleStudies.com and type the name of the study in the search box. Downloadable guides available for a variety of movies at: http://biblestudies.stores.yahoo.net/modigu.html Download guides for free at: http://www.brehmcenter.com/institutes/reelspirituality/study-guides/ Explore the dynamics of our post-Christian society and re-imagine the opportunities that exist for our mission in a new context. Featuring Os Guinness, Alan Hirsch, Andy Crouch, John Tyson. Revisit the story of the Bible to explore its themes and see how it shapes our lives, including how we live and interact with culture. Featuring Charles Colson, Tim Keel, Ron Martoia, Jamie Tworkowski. A challenge for Christians to become culture-makers rather than condemning and criticizing the culture or livingn apart from it. (Level: Intermediate) The online discussion guide that follows the book can be found at http://www.ivpress.com/title/exc/3394-guide.pdf.
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Missional Living
Page 37 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Updated 1/20/12
Description A study of the emergent culture and its implications for ministry. Based on a book from the same author titled Emerging Hope: A Strategy for Reaching Postmodern Generations. Helpful study for those who want a better understanding of Generation X and the Millenial Generation. A confession and a manifesto from a senior leader in the emerging church movement who calls for a radical, Christ-centered orthodoxy of faith and practice that is strong on mission yet generous in spirit. Moves the reader beyond "us/them" stereotyping to a more ancient embrace of "we." (Level: Intermediate) Scandrette uses stories of his own life and the lives of others from his home in the Mission District of San Francisco to explore what "good news of God" might mean for our particular time and place. Written to appeal to those with post-Christendom sensitibilities Covers six of the most common objections and misunderstandings emerging generations have about the church and how the church can respond in positive ways. Book also available by the same title. LifeGuide (Series). Bible study covering topics such as overcoming fear, getting people interested, communicating creatively and talking with friends about Jesus. Practical encouragement for sharing the Gospel in everyday life
This study will help you see that all places are mission fields and that all people are missionaries. It will also challenge you to reach out to different cultures, ages, and those with broken lives. (Level: Intermediate) Series of 6 articles for download and study. Go to www.smallgroups.com and type the name of the study in the search box. Small Group discussion covering how to build relationships with seekers, share the gospel with them, and bring them to outreach events. Presents research on how Christians are perceived by non-Christians "for the issues they stand against, rather than the hope which they stand for." Discussion guide available for free download at http://www.unchristian.com.
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Missional Living
Page 38 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Updated 1/20/12
Description A 6-session study that builds on ideas outlined in the book of the same name. The focus is understanding the relationship between God's kingdom and the church and our place in that relationship. Exploring what the Bible teaches about the Kingdom of God (Level: Intermediate) “Instead of being in the world but not of it,” Horton writes, “we easily become of the world but not in it.” Explore what God's Kingdom is to be like in this society. Go to ChristianBibleStudies.com and type the name of the study in the search box. Exploring what the Bible teaches about God's redemptive plan and how it is to reach to all nations (Level: Intermediate) A study on the Gospel of Jesus Christ and how it is lived out in all of life first in your heart, then in your community and then into the world. For more information go to www.gospelinlife.com. The message of Christianity is for every person – regardless of location, culture or language. This study gives a biblical, historical, cultural, and strategic perspective on missions and challenges you to be a “world” Christian. (Level: Advanced)
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Missional Living
Page 39 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Updated 1/20/12
Description Mixed with personal testimony, Stearns explores Jesus' call to love our neighbors and shows you how to use your time, talents, and money to heal a broken world. 6-week DVD curriculum is available at www.thegospelquest.com Challenges the politicized definition of "social justice" and re-frames it with the idea of spiritual poverty. Free curriculum available at http://www.seeksocialjustice.com/ Encourages living out a "Good Samaritan" life by examining 5 global issues of major need The kingdom of God announced by Jesus was a new order of things that looked upside-down - both in the 1st century and now. This study takes a contextualized look at Jesus' ministry through the Gospels.
This book delivers a logical, more than just "because the Bible says so" framework for interpreting the Gospel to the postmodern world, while also illustrating the vision for a culture based entirely on Biblical principles. Todd Philips travels to Rwanda and the Republic of Congo to explore how he will make a difference to people looking for hope and help. From the villages and refugee camps of the region, Todd uses Biblical teaching to reveal the important role God has for each of us to rescue the world.
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Missional Living
Page 40 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Title COMMUNITY Everybody is Normal Till You Get to Know Them
Format
# of Sessions
Updated 1/20/12
Author/Publisher
Book with Discussion Questions
12
Ortberg, John
Participants guides
7
Corrigan, Thom
Participants guides
25
Ogden, Greg
Book and study guide or DVD and Participant guide (MPPC has both)
10
Willard, Dallas
Participants guides
12
Ogden, Greg
Participants guides
30
Billy Graham Evangelistic Association
Experiencing Community
DISCIPLESHIP Discipleship Essentials: A Guide to Building Your Life in Christ
The Divine Conspiracy: Rediscovering our Hidden Life in God Leadership Essentials: Shaping Vision, Multiplyinng Influence, Defining Character Thirty Discipleship Exercises: The Pathway to Christian Maturity
Walking with God (Series): Friendship with God The Incomparable Jesus "Follow Me!" Discovering the Church Building Your Church Impacting Your World
The Way of Transforming Discipleship Companions in Christ
Small Group Study Materials
Leaders guides, Vol 1 & 2 (each volume covers 3 books) and participant guides
Leaders and participants guides
12 or Cousins, Don and 13 Poling, Judson (Willow Creek Resources)
6
Bryant, Stephen; Upper Room Books
Section: Spiritual Formation
Page 41 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Title PRAYER Prayer: Does it Make Any Difference? Praying God's Way Deepening Life Together (Series) The Sacred Echo The Way of Prayer - Companions in Christ
Format
# of Sessions
Updated 1/20/12
Author/Publisher
DVD with participants guides
6
Yancey, Philip
DVD and Participants guides
4
Baker Books
DVD, leaders guide and participant guides Leaders and Participants Guides
6
Feinberg, Margaret
10
Jane Vennard, Stephen Bryant; Upper Room Books
RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD Book with Discussion Questions
9
Yaconelli, Michael
Dangerous Wonder
DVD, Leaders and Participants Guides
6
Ortberg, John
God is Closer Than You Think
Participants guides
7
Ortberg, John; Pederson, Laurie; and Poling Judson
SERIES Pursuing Spiritual Transformation (Series) Fully Devoted (Daily Living); Gifts (Service); Giving (Stewardship); Grace (Way of Life); Groups (Community); Growth (Training vs. Trying)
Companions in Christ (Series) Embracing the Journey Feeding on the Word Deepening Our Prayer Responding to Our Call Exploring Spiritual Guidance
Small Group Study Materials
Leaders and participants guides
28 Upper Room Books (total)
Section: Spiritual Formation
Page 42 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Title SMALL GROUP GROWTH
# of Sessions
Format Book - leader resource
n/a
Updated 1/20/12
Author/Publisher Poole, Gary
The Complete Book of Questions
Doing Life TogetherDeepening Life Together (Series)
DVD and Participants guides
6
Audio book - leader Don't Lead Alone: How to Enlist and resource Develop Purpose Champions in Your Small Group
6
Book - leader resource
n/a
Eastman, Brett & Dee; Wendorff, Todd & Denise, Lee-Thorp, Karen. Gladen, Steve and Witt, Lance Lee-Thorp, Karen
How to Ask Great Questions Book - leader resource
n/a
Sheely, Steve
Ice-Breakers and Heart-Warmers DVD and Participant Guides
4+
Donahue, Bill; Cloud, Henry; Townsend, John
Book (not a study)
n/a
Poole, Gary
Book with Discussion Questions
10
Arnold, Jeffrey
Regroup
Seeker Small Groups
Small Group Outreach: Turning Groups Inside Out
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Spiritual Formation
Page 43 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Title
# of Sessions
Format
Updated 1/20/12
Author/Publisher
DVD and discussion guide
4
Danielson, Alan
Book and study guide
13
Foster, Richard
What If…Our Small Group Made a Difference in Our Lives?
SPIRITUAL PRACTICES Celebration of Discipline Book and Journal Workbook
13+
Foster, Richard and Helmers, Kathryn
Celebration of Discipline
Participants guides
12
Sterk, Andrea & Scazzero, Peter
Workbook
12
Renovare
DVD and Discussion Guides
2
Miller, Don
DVD with participants guides and/or Book with Discussion questions Participants guides with leader's notes
6
Ortberg, John
7
Peace, Richard
Workbook
9
Smith, James Bryan & Lynda Graybeal
Participants guides with leader's notes
8
Peace, Richard
Christian Disciplines (LifeGuide series) Connecting with God
Let Story Guide You
The Life You've Always Wanted Spiritual Autobiography: A Spiritual Formation Study Guide (Series) Spiritual Formation Workbook Spiritual Journaling: A Spiritual Formation Study Guide (Series) Small Group Study Materials
Section: Spiritual Formation
Page 44 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Title
Format
The Way of Forgiveness
Leaders and Participants Guides
# of Sessions
8
Updated 1/20/12
Author/Publisher Bryant, Stephen and Thompson, Marjorie; Upper Room Books
TRANSFORMATION The Apprentice Series: The Good and Beautiful God The Good and Beautiful Life The Good and Beautiful Community
Books with Discussion Questions
Smith, James Bryan 9 12 9
The Emotionally Healthy Church Workbook Workbook
8
Scazzero, Peter
Emotionally Healthy Spirituality
Workbook, DVD , book
8
Scazzero, Peter & Geri
Leaders and participants guides
7
Upper Room Books
Exploring the Way
Book and workbooks
19
Cloud, Dr. Henry and Townsend, Dr. John
6
Ortberg, John
How People Grow: What the Bible Reveals about Personal Growth
DVD with participants If You Want to Walk on Water, You've Got to guides and/or Book with Get Out of the Boat Discussion questions
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Spiritual Formation
Page 45 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Title
# of Sessions
Format
The Me I Want to Be Becoming God's Best Version of You
An Ordinary Day with Jesus
Updated 1/20/12
Author/Publisher
DVD with participants guides
5
Ortberg, John
DVD, Leaders and Participants Guides
8
Ortberg, John and Barton, Ruth Haley
DVD and participant guides
4
Hybels, Bill
DVD with participants guides and/or Book with Discussion questions
13
Willard, Dallas
The Power of a Whisper: Hearing God, Having the Guts to Respond
Renovation of the Heart
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Spiritual Formation
Page 46 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Updated 1/20/12
Description and/or Review Examine how God views and values community and how we can draw closer to others. A great study for a new small group to consider what it means to be community by sharing and by studying what the Bible teaches us about community. Core truth, inductive Bible study, memory verses, reading on the theme included in each lesson. Can be used for small groups or one-on-one discipleship
A call to discipleship that is faithful to Jesus Christ's teachings. (Level Intermediate to Advanced) Follow-up to Ogden's Discipleship Essentials.Core truth, inductive Bible study, memory verses, reading on the theme included in each lesson. Can be used for small groups or one-on-one discipleship Simple lessons based on Scripture to explore 30 exercises that can grow Christian faith. (Level - Intermediate to Advanced)
Developed at Willow Creek Community Church as a small group discipleship study series. Content is meant to give a solid spiritual foundation to participants, including tools to continue growing. Homework (personal devotions) is included.
Explore the meaning of authentic Christian spirituality. Noted by the publisher as "a great Lenten study or preparation for a mission trip" (Level Intermediate to Advanced)
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Spiritual Formation
Page 47 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Updated 1/20/12
Description and/or Review What is prayer? How does it work? And more importantly, does it work? This material is an exploration of prayer. Bible study formatted to emphasize small group growth for both individuals and the group. Includes assessments for the group to do as well as brief daily reflections for those who wish to extend. Listening for God's voice in your life A small group experience to explore the nature of prayer and a number of different prayer forms. (Level - Intermediate to Advanced) A study on recapturing the joy of being a child and applying that joy to your relationship with God. Recognizing how to have a close relationship with God. Book also available by the same title.
This series from Willow Creek is designed to motivate and guide believers in a process of personal change. The first study, Fully Devoted, introduces participants to the core ideas behind transformation, and each of the remaining five guides covers one of the five “G’s”: Gifts, Giving, Grace, Groups, and Growth in 7 sessions each.
Each book contains five major sections (5 or 6 weeks each) to introduce participants to the Christian life as a spiritual journey, scriptural meditation, prayer, our call as followers of Christ, and spiritual guidance. (Level Intermediate to Advanced)
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Spiritual Formation
Page 48 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Updated 1/20/12
Description and/or Review 1001 conversation starters for any occasion. Questions fall into 10 general areas: simple,light-hearted topics, peronsality, preferencees, past experiences, imagination, opinions, deep themes, feelings, basic spiritual subjects, complex spiritual issues. (Reference, not a study) Meant to be an introductory group study that studies the 5 Biblical purposes that God intends for your life. A Purpose-Driven resource. A series of training instructions on empowering all members of a small group to work together. A Purpose Driven resource. (Reference, not a study) Guide your group to discovery with these proven techniques. A resource book (not a small group study) that teaches when and how to ask effective questions and promote follow up discussions. Ice-breakers are fun ways to get people talking and interacting with one another at the start of a gathering. Heart-warmers are closing activities for a group time. (For leaders to use in planning) DVD#1 has four 60-minute sessions on the foundations of group life with activities and discussion time within those sessions. 1. Getting Connected - God's purpose for Small Groups; 2. 5 Habits of LifeChanging Small Groups; 3. Setting Ground Rules; 4. Determining Your Group's Purpose DVD #2 has thirteen 5-10-minute coaching segments along with three 60minute sessions on confrontation, conflict resolution and helping people in crisis. Subtitle is "Engaging Spiritual Seekers in Life-Changing Discussions." Resource (not a small group study) for those who would like to start (or grow) a seeker-friendly small group. This resource book (not a small group study) covers the various ways that groups can develop and focus and would be helpful in encouraging a group to see the "bigger picture" of what it can do. Chapters include Groups that Invite, Multiply, Serve the Church, Support Mission, Go on Short-Term Mission, Evangelism, Serve the Community, Care Holistically.
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Spiritual Formation
Page 49 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Updated 1/20/12
Description and/or Review Alan Danielson takes a look at four questions every small group should ask themselves - What if we cared? What if we were honest? What if we failed? What if we got off the couch? You'll hear real-life interviews from small groups whose lives were changed after they asked themselves those very questions.
Described by Christianity Today as one of the 10 best books of the 20h century, this book explorese the central spiritual practices of the Christian faith. The study guide has a short summary of each chapter, daily scripture readings, discussion questions and a book list for further study. (Level: Intermediate to Advanced) The first 13 sessions for the workbook follow the book. The subsequent lessons (39) are meant to take what was learned about each discipline and move into deeper study and practice. The sessions are divided into 4 sections: Overview (book); Inward disciplines; Outward disciplines; Corporate disciplines. It is possible for a group to do just one section. (Level: Intermediate to Advanced) Inductive Bible study style. Multiple studies are available, including individual Bible books. Each chapter explores a different area in which you can connect on a deeply personal level with God. There are discussion questions and exercises for each chapter. (Level: Intermediate to Advanced) These 2 video sessions explore the power of biblical story, important principles storytellers use today, and practical ways to apply them to your life. Study the ancient spiritual disciplines from a modern perspective to take you on the road of genuine spiritual transformation. This study is meant to help a group engage the spiritual practice of autobiography (reflecting on how God has worked and is working through your life). The material focuses on Abraham's story. A Renovare resource for spiritual renewal. This workbook is meant to help a group focus on spiritual formation. The revised edition (1993) correlates with Richard Foster's Streams of Living Water. This study is meant to help a group engage the spiritual practice of journaling - including how to do it.
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Spiritual Formation
Page 50 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Updated 1/20/12
Description and/or Review A small group experience to explore the Christian call to life a forgiven and forgiving life. (Level: Intermediate to Advanced) Match your ideas about God and how He works in our lives to what Jesus reveals. Then engage in a process of spiritual formation related to the issue examined. There is a "Soul Training" section following every chapter, along with a Small Group discussion guide at the end of the book. At www.apprenticeofjesus.org, additional material is available for groups that want to incorporate discussion, spiritual practices, retreats, and other content into an extended study. (Look under the Small Groups tab.)
This workbook can be used on its own or as a companion resource to The Emotionally Healthy Church. Appropriate for leaders and members, small groups, classes and congregations. Includes guidelines for discussion leaders and an inventory of spiritual/emotional maturity. Focus is using biblical truths to be transformed into a healthy disciple of Jesus Christ.
This workbook can be used by individuals to work though the principles in the book of the same name. When used with a small group, the DVD provides a helpful introduction and there are leader notes at the back of the workbook. The premise of this study is starting the journey of bringing emotional health and contemplative spirituality together for a lifetime of spiritual growth. The book is strongly recommended as reading in between each session. An introduction to the language of spiritual formation and some basic practices of the Christian spiritual life. Can be used as a prequel to the Companions in Christ series (Look under "Series" section) Emphasizing the doctrines and themes of Christianity, How People Grow shows why all personal growth is spiritual growth. Suitable for personal or small group use with questions for reflection or discussion. Using the visual picture of Peter stepping out of the boat to walk on water, examine your own fears around leaving your "comfort zone" and moving out to where God may be calling you.
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Spiritual Formation
Page 51 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Updated 1/20/12
Description and/or Review A study in becoming the unique, fully alive people that God created us to be. This study has made a huge impact on some of the groups that have studied it, bringing a recognition of the depth of God's love and grace that is antithetical to a performance-based culture. Recognizing that Christ is present in every moment of the day and so that transformation toward an ongoing, close relationship with God is developed. Four sessions cover "how to discern the 'voice' of God from the other voices that vie for your attention, how to invite his input into your daily routine, how to 'practice' his presence and how to allow heaven-sent input to direct your life toward making a kingdom-oriented difference in this world." Includes practical applications and short individual reflection sections after each session. Learn how spiritual transformation happens with group discussion questions, exercises and Bible study in each lesson. Also available is Revolution of Character by Son Simpson, which is an adaptation of Renovation of the Heart and includes several questions at the end of each chapter. (Level: Intermediate to Advanced)
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Spiritual Formation
Page 52 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Format Title QUESTIONS/STUDIES FOR NEW BELIEVERS
Updated 1/20/12
# of Sessions
Author/Publisher
DVD with resource cards
5
Heartland Community Church
Participants guides
13
NavPress
Participants guides with Leader's notes
7
Pippert, Rebecca Manley
Book with discussion questions
7
Gumbel, Nicky
Leaders and Participants guides
6
Poling, Judson/Tough Questions
Finding
Growing in Christ
People Who Met Jesus
Searching Issues
Tough Questions MPPC has all titles and the leader's guide available. Do Science and the Bible Conflict? Don't All Religions Lead to God? How Could God Allow Suffering and Evil? How Does Anyone Know God Exists? How Reliable is the Bible? What Difference Does Jesus Make? Why Become a Christian?
APOLOGETICS Small Group Study Materials
Section: Theology & New Believer
Page 53 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Format
Title
Updated 1/20/12
# of Sessions
Author/Publisher
Book with discussion questions
14
Strobel, Lee
Book with discussion Knowing Christ Today: Why we can Trust Spiritual questions Knowledge
8
Willard, Dallas
DVD and participant guide
6
Keller, Timothy
Participants guides
13
Stott, John; InterVarsity Press
Book and participant guides
11
Peterson, Eugene
Participants guides
6
Nystrom, Carolyn
Book. Study guide available online
3+
Lewis, C.S.
DVD, Leader and Participant Guides
10
Wright, N.T.
Participants guides
6
Blankman, Derek
The Case for Christ
The Reason for God: Conversations on Faith and Life
CHRISTIAN BASICS/THEOLOGY Jesus Christ: Teacher, Servant & Savior
The Jesus Way: A Conversation on the Ways that Jesus is the Way John Calvin: Sovereign Hope Mere Christianity
Living Faith Martin Luther: Ri8ghteous Faith Theology Matters I
Theology Matters II
Small Group Study Materials
Online audio lectures (60 min) and worksheets
10 to 12 Wells, Dr. David: Gordon-Conwell Seminary Professor
Online audio lectures (60 min) and worksheets
10 to 12 Wells, Dr. David: Gordon-Conwell Seminary Professor
Section: Theology & New Believer
Page 54 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Format
Title
# of Sessions
Video and Participants Guides
10
Updated 1/20/12
Author/Publisher Wright, N.T.
Simply Christian
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Theology & New Believer
Page 55 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Title CHURCH HISTORY
Updated 1/20/12
Format
# of Sessions
Online audio lectures (60 min) and handouts, or CD for order
10 to 12 Rosell, Dr. Garth, Gordon-Conwell Seminary professor
Online audio lectures (60 min) and handouts, or CD for order
10 to 12 Rosell, Dr. Garth, Gordon-Conwell Seminary professor
Author/Publisher
God's People Through the Ages I
God's People Through the Ages II
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Theology & New Believer
Page 56 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Updated 1/20/12
Description A very simple DVD-based curriculum. Five DVD sessions in documentary style follow Route 66 and share stories and insights around Finding direction; Finding yourself, Finding your place; Finding pain Finding hope. The resource cards give a discussion starter and an application for each session. Good for helping new believers become aquainted with themes that will be found on the journey of faith. Copies available from
[email protected] (Level: Beginner) A 13-week follow-up course for new and growing Christians. Part 1 is 5 lessons on Assurance: Assurance of Salvation, Answered Prayer, Victory, Forgiveness and Guidance. Part 2 is 8 lessons on Christian Living: Putting Christ first, God's strength, Bible, Love, Giving, Church, Good works, Witnessing. Great for building a foundation for new believers. Scripture memory cards included. (Level: Beginner) Seven seeker Bible discussions - 6 from Luke and 1 from John looking at stories of people who met Jesus and what that reveals about Jesus. (Level: Beginner) This book is from the Alpha series and is meant to give insights for difficult questions, including those who may be considering Christian faith. Subjects are suffering, other religioins, premarital sex, new age movement, homosexuality, science, Trinity. (Level: Beginner) This series is specifically designed for spiritual seekers (or nonChristians) to be able to raise questions and investigate the basics of the Christian faith. (Level: Beginner)
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Theology & New Believer
Page 57 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Updated 1/20/12
Description A retracing of Strobel's spiritual journey from atheism to Christian faith, including the questions that he asked and the answers he found. Demonstration of how faith and knowledge can support each other. (Level: Intermediate) A 6-session group study that is based on the book The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism.
From the John Stott Bible Studies (Series). Inductive Bible study questions, commenatry notes, personal application, prayer helps and leader guidelines. A spiritual theology book that uses Biblical exposition and cultural analysis to consider how Jesus is the Way. This is done by looking at the "ways" of Jesus, Abraham, Moses, David, Elijah, Isaiah, Herod, Caiaphas and Josephus. (Level: Intermediate) Study on John Calvin's theology, which pointed toward hope in God. Leader's notes included in the back of each guide. This book is a discussion of Christian belief that has become one of the most popular introductions to Christianity and one of the most popular of Lewis's books. A study guide can be found at www.cslewis.org on the "resources" page. Video curriculum that offers answers to questions about the faith, enabling believers of all backgrounds to understand Christianity more fully. Study on Martin Luther's theology. Leader's notes included in the back of each guide. Accessible through www.gordonconwell.edu/dimensions. Online version is free if you create an account; the CD or CD-ROM versions are available for a fee. (Level: Advanced) Accessible through www.gordonconwell.edu/dimensions. Online version is free if you create an account; the CD or CD-ROM versions are available for a fee. (Level: Advanced)
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Theology & New Believer
Page 58 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Updated 1/20/12
Description N. T. Wright explains the fundamental elements of Christianity in a way that challenges viewers but uses language that is easy to understand. These 10 video lessons also come with a PDF discussion guide that corresponds to each lesson. Go to www.smallgroups.com and type the name of the study in the search box. Book also available by the same title.
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Theology & New Believer
Page 59 of 60
Items in bold are available for loan in MPPC's Small Groups Resource library
Updated 1/20/12
Description The Church has a long and colorful history , beginning two millenia ago in Jerusalem. These lectures highlight key events and people of the first 1500 years of Church history and point to how the Churrch’s history is relevant to the Church today. Accessible through www.gordonconwell.edu/dimensions. Online version is free if you create an account; the CD or CD-ROM versions are available for a fee. (Level: Advanced)
Much has happened in the Church over the last 500 years – for good and for ill. Beginning with one of the pivotal events of church history, the Reformation, this historical survey continues up to the present day – concluding with a look at the challenges that face the church in this hour of history. Accessible through www.gordonconwell.edu/dimensions. Online version is free if you create an account; the CD or CD-ROM versions are available for a fee. (Level: Advanced)
Small Group Study Materials
Section: Theology & New Believer
Page 60 of 60
