EXPLORE GOD

We know that these are uncertain times. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, a lot of people are asking big, hard questions about God, faith, and life. Many are searching for comfort, hope, and encouragement. This page was created to help you discover trustworthy information that will aid you in exploring the way of Jesus and Christian Spirituality

Whether you are seeking to support and nurture your new journey with Jesus, or still exploring the entire concept – here are some helpful resources and next steps:

A FOLLOW UP TO GOOD FRIDAY

Questions for Discussion and Personal Reflection

  1. Have you ever felt desperate to be loved, but unsure of who to trust?
  2. What does it mean to you to think that Jesus came to say, “I know you”?

NEXT STEPS

  1. COME BACK: Join us for next Sunday’s broadcast
  2. ALPHA is a 10-week course designed to explore spiritual questions and facilitate open conversation. Every week begins with a short film followed by a safe space to ask questions and share. Alpha begins Wednesday, April 15th. Click HERE to sign up. 
  3. BEGIN SPIRITUAL PRACTICES (BELOW)

PRAYER

WHAT IS PRAYER

Payer is the word we use for human communication with God. Prayer doesn’t need to be fancy or polished. You can simply tell God what’s on your heart and mind, and listen for what is on God’s heart and mind, which often feels like the “still, small voice” within our own thoughts. Prayer can be done verbally, written down in a journal, or simply sitting in silence.

HOW TO PRAY

If you are still exploring Christianity or aren’t even sure God exists, prayer can be a way of asking God to help you find him. Experiment with spending even just a few minutes praying each day, and see what happens.

Here are a few prayer resources you might find useful:

Daily Prayer App – simple app that provides prayer guides throughout the day

New Normal – a guide to help orient your day around some basic spiritual practices while social distancing

SCRIPTURE

WHAT IS THE BIBLE

The Bible is an ancient Jewish collection of sacred literature, made up of many different literary styles, that tells the story of God and his people. To followers of Jesus, the Bible is more than just an ancient text; it is one of the best ways to get to know God himself. For more on what the Bible is, and how to understand it, click HERE.

HOW TO READ THE BIBLE

We recommend beginning with Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John (known as “the gospels”) which each tell the story of Jesus’ life and ministry on earth. In addition, you could experiment with reading one Psalm per day. The book of Psalms is a collection of songs and poetry that express the full range of human emotions. Psalms can be helpful to read as you begin this journey because you can often see yourself in the writers’ words.

You can also use a Bible reading plan that suggests specific passages to read each day. Here is one with reminders and videos each day:

1 Year Plan

Lastly, as you read Scripture, here are three helpful questions to ask or to journal about: 

  1. What strikes you about this passage?
  2. What do you think it means?
  3. What does it mean for your life if what this passage says about God, the world, and you are true?

COMMUNITY

The Way of Jesus was not meant to be lived alone, but shared with others who are walking the same path.

HOMECHURCHES

We recommend connecting with one of our homechurches, small groups of people sharing life and exploring the way of Jesus together. During this season of social distancing, all of our groups are meeting virtually. 

You can visit sanctuaryri.org/groups for a full list of open groups.

ALPHA

Another great place to continue exploring the way of Jesus is to sign up for Alpha. ALPHA is a 10-week course designed to explore spiritual questions and facilitate open conversation. Every week begins with a short film followed by a safe space to ask questions and share.

Alpha begins Wednesday, April 15th. Click HERE to sign up. 

DECIDING TO FOLLOW JESUS

Jesus is the central figure of human history and has captured the hearts of people across the ages. He is God in the flesh and he lived, died and rose again in order that you would know God’s unfailing love for you. Jesus identified with our broken condition, owned the consequences of our sin and overcame the power of death. In response, we identify with Jesus and own our contribution to the evil in the world as Jesus gives us the power to overcome the brokenness in our lives.

All you need to do is say yes! If you are ready to say yes to Jesus today you can simply tell him. It’s not magic, but it is helpful to verbalize to God what is happening for you. You can use this prayer: 

Father,

Thank you for your free gift of grace that is made possible through Jesus. I recognize I am broken and have contributed to the mess around me and within me. I receive your love and forgiveness and I want to reorient my life around your way.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

CONNECT HERE WITH A PASTOR OR LEADER