Know and be Known Part 1 Bible Passage: Acts 2:42-47, John 13:34-35 Sermons can be viewed on the Hope Valley Church YouTube Channel Building Community (15-20 mins) Quick Welcome and begin with the following icebreakers: Go around the group first up and share your name and family. Take turns to share three high points in your life, two are true and one is made up. People in the group need to guess which high point is the made up one. Take turns to each share what you hope to gain from being part of 28 Days of Community? Play Video - Introduction to the Series and this week's topic Explain basic group dynamics Our aim is to grow closer in our knowing each other and together take further steps in: Developing our Heart for God’s Mission, living out God’s word, being encouraged to engage in practical service and build excellent relationships People are free to share or not as part of the discussion. Share freely but leave space for others to share as well. Don’t hog the conversation. If you have questions feel free to ask them. As we discuss and share each week it is not about having the right answers. We want to learn together from the Bible and encourage each other as we share our insights and questions so that we can be doers of God’s word. Warm Up What do you think are the most important things people need from others in their life? What are the things you want others to care about most in regards to you? Opening God’s Word Read: Acts 2:42-47 This is the classic summary of New Testament Christian community. Note these are brand new believers and all they have in common is their new life in Christ, His love and being filled with the Holy Spirit. What barriers do you think people, like these in Acts 2 have to overcome to get to know each other? What may have helped them feel safe in each other's company? What role do you think Jesus plays in creating this amazing new community of believers? Read: John 13:34-35 Note Jesus is not talking about feelings of the heart here. He is talking about what we do in our interactions with others. In particular what we do to bless and benefit the other. How does taking time to get to know a person show that you love them? How does sharing yourself so others can get to know you show you love them? How can we make people feel safe so they can let their guard down and be themselves? Living it Out What is one thing you have appreciated learning about someone else this week? Brainstorm one thing you can do as a group to live this out this week and then commit to it? Is there anyone you can invite to join you next week? Pray Together Pray in pairs or threes for each other a prayer of blessing or for a need the other has. Contacts If you would like more information or further help please contact: alison.hb@hopevalleychurch.com.au scott.button@hopevalleychurch.com.au