Scripture References: Mark 8:35/Luke 9:24 (Lose life to find it); John 2:1-11 (Servants knew); Ephesians 4:11-12 (Equipping saints)

Sermon Notes:

Intro: Welcome! As a church, our staff focuses on equipping you for ministry. We aim to live in healthy biblical tensions (grace/truth, word/spirit, deep/wide). Our strategy for deep discipleship and wide outreach involves "Parties" and "Packs." Today, we're outlining our rhythm for the upcoming year and the vital role of your participation.

Key Points:

1. Strategy Recap: Parties & Packs:
   • Parties (Go Wide): Monthly gatherings focused on hospitality, connection, and inviting others into community.
   • Packs (Go Deep): Weekly, gender-specific small groups (4-6 people) focused on spiritual maturity and applying God's Word.
2. New Rhythm for the Year:
   • Parties: 1st week of every month. (Consistent time/place preferred).
   • Packs: Weekly for 12 weeks straight in the Fall (Sept 17 - Dec 10), focused on the Book of James.
   • Rationale: Creates space for other vital ministries (leadership training, marriage courses, outreach, prayer nights); allows for more intense, focused discipleship in Packs; aims for strong participation throughout the 12 weeks.
3. Yearly Emphasis: Fall (Word - James); Winter (Spirit - Fruit/Gifts); Spring (Mission). Sunday services will align, featuring worship on front/back ends, ministry time, and slightly shorter sermons.
4. The Need for Participation: Post-pandemic, our volunteer "serve culture" needs rebuilding. While attendance is up, participation lags. We need ~20% active involvement (currently ~10%) to facilitate Sunday mornings and ministries effectively.
5. Value of Serving: Serving isn't just duty; it's where value and connection are found. "Losing your life" for Christ leads to finding true life (Mk 8:35). Servants often see God work uniquely (John 2:9). Serving bonds us together.
6. Call to Action Components:
   • Attend Regularly: Consistent presence makes participation feasible and fosters formation.
   • Serve One, Attend One: The model enabling involvement and receiving.
   • Sign Up: Opportunities abound on Sunday mornings (Kids, Connect/Hospitality, Security, Media, Setup/Teardown) and in leadership (Party/Pack Leaders).

Conclusion: Our vision to behold Jesus, reflect His brilliance, and devote ourselves to His mission requires active participation, not just observation. The adjusted rhythms of Parties and Packs, alongside committed Sunday service, are designed to help us grow deeper and reach wider together. Your involvement is crucial and deeply valuable.

Call to Action:

• Pray & Consider: Ask God where He wants you to participate this year.
• Fill Out the Card: Indicate your interest in: 
  • Leading a Party (Monthly hospitality)
  • Leading a Pack (Weekly discipleship - Fall)
  • Joining a Sunday Serve Team (Kids, Connect, Security, Media, Setup/Tear-down)
• Commit: Embrace the rhythms. Show up regularly. Serve faithfully. Let's behold and reflect Jesus together.

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