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Study/Action Modules

Each of the four study/action modules includes three common elements: 1) an initial theme emphasis event; 2) an adult study curriculum; and 3) a congregational outreach activity. Additional modules will be available as alternatives for churches that may have previously used some of the materials and to allow a degree of flexibility to address specific needs.

Each module includes complete instructions for conducting the recommended study curriculum and activities. In addition, each module includes free telephone consultation with a New Life Ministries Congregational Advisor to assist with specific questions that may arise during implementation of the process. The first module also includes a manual to guide participating churches through the entire two-year LIFE process and guidelines for conducting a congregational and community profile.

Module 1 – Discovering A Vision

Purpose: To instill in the congregation a biblical foundation for sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Theme Emphasis Event: Congregational LIFE Kickoff

Adult Study Curriculum: The video curriculum, Following in the Footsteps of Paul by G. Edwin Bontrager, casts a vision for outreach and growth. Through "you are there" video images, the stories of ancient followers of Christ come alive for modern Christ-followers. Each lesson includes two short video segments taped on location in modern Turkey (ancient Asia Minor), one giving the historical background and the other challenging viewers in our present-day mission. Themes include personal preparation, keys to growth, common barriers to growth, and potential threats from within. The leader's guide includes student handouts for congregational self-evaluation.

Congregational Outreach Activity: Congregational members participate in a Christmas outreach as a means of putting the learning into action.

LifeQuest Congregational Profile with Analysis: Using a step-by-step self-study tool, congregations explore their own unique setting for outreach and growth. The self-study is conducted by a specially appointed task force that gathers information through observation, interviews, historical and statistical data analysis, and a congregational survey, followed by reflection on the findings. The completed self-study is then be reviewed by a skilled outside consultant who offers further observations related to possible future action.

Module 2 – Welcoming New People

Purpose: To create an attitude and practice of hospitality to those who may be new to faith in Christ and to the church.

Theme Emphasis Event: A church-wide dinner with relational activities provides the means for introducing this study/action module.

Adult Study Curriculum: Widening the Welcome of Your Church: Biblical Hospitality and the Vital Congregation by Fred Bernhard and Steve Clapp is the study book. Participants discover the biblical basis for hospitality; examine ways to be hospitable to specific groups; consider the impact of physical facilities and worship style; and explore the impact that application of these principles has had on one rural congregation. A leader's guide includes reproducible handouts for class discussion.

Congregational Outreach Activity: An "acts of kindness" activity provides a first step in implementing the learning from this study.

Purpose: To equip participants to share their faith in a natural, caring manner, and to become more comfortable inviting others to share in the life of the church.

Theme Emphasis Event: Worship ideas help leaders plan an introduction for this module.

Adult Study Curriculum: Sharing Living Water: Evangelism as Caring Friendship by Steve Clapp and Sam Detwiler helps people identify the natural connecting points for faith-sharing without being manipulative. Through biblical and practical input, participants learn to express their faith and the importance of the church in their own words. The leader's guide offers solid biblical content and ideas for practical application.

Congregational Outreach Activity: The congregation hosts an "Invite a Friend Sunday," an opportunity to bring friends, family members, school and work associates, and social acquaintances to a special Sunday celebration. The celebration is followed by an expression of appreciation to each guest.

Purpose: To encourage outreach and discipleship through small groups.

Theme Emphasis Event: Ideas provided introduce the congregation to the theme of this module.

Adult Study Curriculum: Called to Care by Palmer Becker provides the basis for training those in the congregation who are interested in exploring small groups. A student guide is also provided to use with this book.

Congregational Outreach Activity: Leaders implement newly learned growth principles in existing small groups or as they begin new groups for the purpose of care giving, growth in discipleship, and outreach.

Celebration Sunday: Congregations conduct a celebration of new life in Jesus Christ that serves as a springboard into further outreach and growth emphases.