MAKING SENSE OF FAITH: How can I move from mere knowledge of the Bible to true faith in Christ?
This week we will wrap up our study “Where Hope Lives.” What does it really mean to have faith? “Faith” is more than an intellectual acknowledgment of something. For our discussion this week, read the study beginning on page 76 of the Life Matters Learner Guide (let me know if you need a copy) and the following passages:
Romans 4:1-25;
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%204:1-25&version=NIV

Romans 10:1-13; and
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%2010:1-13&version=NIV

Hebrews 11:1–12:2.
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews%2011:1–12:2&version=NIV

Consider this:
Faith Is Only as Good as Its Object (Romans 4:1-3,23-25)
Faith Involves an Act of the Will (Romans 10:9-13)
Faith Is a Way of Life (Hebrews 12:1-2):

1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.

2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Remember, God who created everything is still in control of His creation. Keep praying for each other, caring for each other and take care of your families. John
Homebuilders LIFE Group: Learning the Scripture / Involvement in Service / Fellowship – Sharing Life / Evangelism of Seekers

Two More Prayer Requests for this week (10-24)

Waldens - Please pray now for Allison and Chris as a 'glitch' has arisen for them to close on their house tomorrow. The people want to move in without closing and just rent the house for a few days. The Waldens are not comfortable with that scenario! Allison asked us to pray for a miracle that they can still close tomorrow (Friday)

Wheelers - Maggie Wheeler is still on bedrest with her baby that is due in early December. Please pray for the Wheelers (all three of them) to have peace and protection during this time of waiting.

Additional prayer requests for week of 10/24

Please pray for these additional requests:

Pat Green - Pat's father, George, was a OK State Trooper died yesterday due to injuries he received from a car wreck on Monday. Please pray for the family as they grieve the loss of George.

Cindy Ingram - Cindy's sister, Vanessa, is due to deliver in 4 weeks and her blood pressure is elevated. She is in the hospital under observation. Pray for protection for she and the baby.

Lynsi Whitaker - Their little daughter, Charity, will have surgery Friday morning to remove a piece of glass from her foot. Pray for no complications. Also Lynsi's friend, Ashley Morales, has been diagnosed with lymphoma. Pray for a successful treatment plan.

Prayer Requests for 10/24

Please remember to lift these requests to the Father often this week.

'Hear my prayer, O Lord, listen to my cry for mercy; In the day of my trouble I will call to you for you will answer me.' Psalm 86:6

Ingrams - Pray for Terry's cousin, Matthew, to feel accepted and get involved in the youth group.

Whitakers - Pray for their marriage; for Aaron as he enters the Army; for patience and adjustment for all as they live with Lynsi's parents.

Lazenbys - Pray for their friend, Kay, who is battling Stage 4 breast cancer. Kay is not saved but appears to be seeking God. Pray for her salvation and for her husband and children.

Zacharys - Tim will be starting a new job at the Walmart in Claremore in a couple of weeks. Pray for the transistion time from the Owasso store.

Bendures - Janna was sick on Sunday, possibly the flu. Pray for quick healing and that Brad and the children will be protected from getting it.

Waldens - Big time praise that Allison and Chris got an offer on their house in Ft. Smith. If the inspection goes well, they will close on Friday. Pray for no complications and that Friday they can celebrate big time!

Greens - Pat's father was seriously injured in a car accident today (10-25). Pray for wisdom for the doctors in treating him and that he will have a full recovery. Pray for peace and comfort for the family during this scary time.

JUST ONE: How can I know Jesus is the only way to God?

In this age of tolerance, the claim that Jesus is the only way to God is not politically correct. How we respond to questions about the uniqueness of Christianity is important. For Sunday, read this week’s study beginning on page 68 of the Learner’s Guide, and these background passages:

John 3:16-18; 14:5-11

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%203:16-18;%2014:5-11&version=NIV

1 Timothy 2:3-7

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Timothy%202:3-7&version=NIV

Jesus is The One Son, The One Way, and The One Mediator.

Remember, God who created everything is still in control of His creation. Keep praying for each other, caring for each other and take care of your families. John

Homebuilders LIFE Group: Learning the Scripture / Involvement in Service / Fellowship – Sharing Life / Evangelism of Seekers

Prayer Requests - October 19th

Please pray often this week for these prayer requests.
'The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective' James 5:16

Lemery family - Please continue to pray for the family and friends of Jonathan Lemery as the grieving over his tragic death will continue for a long time. Pray for our youth and the youth workers as they deal with this tragedy and great loss.

Applegates - Levi has an interview for a new position at work at 2pm on Tuesday. Pray for direction for Levi and confidence of God's plan for his life.

Bendures - Janna's brother, Ben, has a big test coming up to get his CDL

Waldens - Allison and Chris really need a buyer or a renter for their house in Ft Smith that has been on the market for over a year.

Lazenby - Tim visited our class on Sunday and asked us to pray for a friend, Kay, who is battling a recurrence of cancer

Gambles - Mel asked us to pray for the Lowe family in OKC as they lost their daughter, Isabella, who had the same PBD disorder that Ginny suffers from. Kristan, the mom, is 36 weeks pregnant and tests were inconclusive as to whether the new baby has the same disorder.

Wheelers - Maggie and Brandon have been visiting our class and Maggie is expecting a baby in early December. She was put on bedrest this week. Pray for patience and peace for Maggie and for the life of their precious baby to be protected.

Terrills - Allison and Steven have also been visiting and their baby is due in early November. Pray for protection these last couple of weeks and for healthy delivery of their baby.

Langleys - Courtney's sister, Chelsey, is due October 31st. Pray for a safe delivery of a healthy baby. Also Courtney asked us to continue to pray for her cousin, Scott's mom whose name is Penny and also for their grandmother who are learning to cope with the grief over Scott's death. Also Scott's brother and sister are also in need of comfort in their grief.

SON OF GOD, SON OF MAN
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” Matthew 5:4 (NIV)
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%205:4&version=NIV
This week, whatever you are dealing with, may you be comforted by God’s promise of salvation. On Sunday, we will continue our study on “Where Hope Lives,” on page 60 of the Learner’s Guide (Let me know if you need a copy). “How is Jesus unique among the religious leaders of the world?” We’ll look at His teaching, miracles and resurrection. Read John 6:22-71; 9:1-41; and 20:1-31.
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%206:22-71;%209:1-41;%2020:1-31&version=NIV
If you haven’t already, read this excerpt from Josh McDowell’s book “A Ready Defense” at:
http://www.ccci.org/how-to-know-god/who-is-jesus-god-or-just-a-good-man/index.htm
Remember, God who created everything is still in control of His creation. Keep praying for each other, caring for each other and take care of your families. John
Homebuilders LIFE Group: Learning the Scripture / Involvement in Service / Fellowship – Sharing Life / Evangelism of Seekers

Announcements

1. This Sunday evening will be our 2010 Family Missions Banquet, 6:00 p.m., in the Fellowship Hall. Chris Clarke, of Happy Trails Ministry, will be the guest speaker and will be sharing about his ministry to the Equestrian Community. The dinner will be “western” and Brad & Mary Kay Henderson will provide the music. Children’s & Youth Choirs will meet at 5:00 p.m. and there will be no Student TAG meeting. This Sunday begins our month-long Missions’ Emphasis. Acts 1:8 says, "You shall be My witnesses...". We are all encouraged to be aware of the many ways we can Touch Our World for Christ…locally and "to the ends of the earth". Please utilize the Prayer Guide you’ll receive this Sunday and pray specifically for the ministries listed. You CAN make a difference. This Sunday, October 24, our opportunity will be to bring coats, blankets, and sleeping bags to be distributed at the Caring Center. Our World Mission Offering Goal this year is $210,000. Be praying what your gift will be to the offering. The receipts will be distributed in the following manner:
60% to Lottie Moon International Missions ($126,000)
22% to Annie Armstrong North American Missions ($46,200)
10% to Edna McMillan State Missions ($21,000)
8% to World Hunger ($16,800)
700 Cans & Boxes needed! The John 3:16 Thanksgiving Baskets’ ministry will be the recipient of FBC’s Mission Action Project in October. You can help by bringing large cans of sweet potatoes and boxes of stuffing mix. These items (700 of each) will be added along with other donations to the Thanksgiving baskets taken to people in need. You may bring cans and boxes all through the month of October and leave them in the collection bins in the Foyer of the South Education Building . Also, we will have special collection of these materials on Sunday, November 8, as part of the special collection with our Global Mission Emphasis. If you would like to help assemble these baskets, please contact John 3:16 at 592-1186. For more information, please contact Maribeth Dean at 481-5832.
2. Church Directories: If you have not picked up your directory, you may do so in the Adult Library on Sundays or at the Receptionist’s Desk, Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. If you would like to purchase a directory for $5.00, they are now available on a first come, first serve basis.
3. Have you donated candy for the Trunk or Treat event yet? Trunk or Treat will be held on Sunday, October 31, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the Super Block. We need your help in donating candy and placing it in the boxes that are located in the Detroit Entrance and the South Education Building Foyer for candy donations. We also need people who will bring their cars with their trunks decorated and pass out candy and prizes. If you can bring a car, please contact Debbie Thompson at 594-5023 or Cindy at 594-5028.
4. The next sessions of the First Glance Class have been set for Sunday, October 31 and November 7. If you have recently joined or have been visiting FBC Tulsa and wish to take a closer look at this fellowship of believers, please make your reservation for the October sessions of First Glance by calling Deron’s office at 594-5019. These sessions will meet in the Church Parlor, 9:45 to 10:45 a.m., and will be led by our Lead Pastor, Deron Spoo.
5. Wednesday Evenings are for Adults: Join us each Wednesday evening at 6:00 p.m. for:
a) the James Bryan Smith book study, The Good and Beautiful Life, led by Deron Spoo in the Fellowship Hall.
b) a Deaf Bible Study, The Survival Kit for New Christians, in the Deaf LIFE Group Class, Room 316 South.
6. The Springs is recruiting volunteers to help continue the work our church began last year in Sand Springs. There are ministries currently running that need help to continue to successfully serve the Sand Springs community. Currently, volunteers are needed with any skill set for general set-up and tear-down; workers for Preschool and Children’s ministry (must have or be able to successfully pass an FBI background check); student ministry; and/or AV technicians to run the video computer and to mix audio. Friendly faces are needed on people who have a passion for others and are not afraid to walk by faith. For more information, please contact Eric Barron, Campus Pastor, at 594-5051.
7. Our Annual Fall Attendance Emphasis is coming up on Sunday morning, November 7 (Time Change). The church will furnish Krispy Kreme Dontus for all Preschool, Children’s, Student & Adult Groups.
8. There are four PROTOS classes for Adults on Sunday evenings, 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. These classes deal with Christian History, Biblical Theology, Spiritual Discipline, and Biblical Financial practices.
9. Our CrossOver Ministry is in need of adults, college students, singles, and/or couples who are willing to invest in these young people by driving a bus, riding a bus, teaching a Bible study, or simply spending time with the students. CrossOver meets on Sunday nights from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Drivers are needed from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. Volunteers may serve weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Chas Higgins, CrossOver Director, at chas.higgins@cox.net.
10. Women’s Ministry. A new book study will begin on Thursday, October 21, 12:00 Noon. The study, Fingerprints of God, will be led by Terri Moore.
11. Business Meeting will be held Sunday, October 24, 2010, at 5:00 o’clock pm., to take action on the proposed 2011 Church Budget. The meeting is open to all members.

Prayer Requests

Please keep one of our church families, The Lemerys, in your prayers often this week. Their son, Jonathan, died tragically last night at home. Jonathan was a senior at Metro Christian. Pray for our youth group as they struggle with this loss as well.

Prayer Requests

Langleys - Courtney's cousin Scott passed away. Please pray for comfort for the family as they grieve his loss. Also Derek's dad has been diagnosed with Tick Fever after going to the ER yesterday with a high fever. Pray for successful treatment. Finally, Courtney's sister, Chelsey is expecting a baby Oct 31st. Pray for her these last couple of weeks and for a delivery with no complications and a healthy baby.

Waldens - Allison and Chris still have a house to sell in Ft. Smith. Pray that the Lord will send a buyer or a renter SOON!

Bendures - Brad asked us to pray for help in managing anger and forgiveness and that others would forgive him.

Ingrams - Terry's friend Matt's marriage is improving but they need to get plugged into a church. Pray for Terry as he continues to minister to Matt and that maybe they'll even consider joining us in Homebuilders and FBC.

Zacharys - Tiffany is in Florida on business till the 17th. Pray for Tim and the kids at home. Also pray for Tim's job situation to be more secure and less stressful.

Whitakers - Continue to lift up Lynsi and Aaron with the struggles in their marriage.

“GOOD ENOUGH? What should be my standard for morality, and what difference does it make?”
Following our discussion Sunday, take a look at the ideas to “Connect” with our Community and as a Couple on page 47 of the LIFE Matters Learner’s Guide (let me know if you need a copy). Again for an introduction to “moral relativism,” check out William Lane Craig’s video podcast on objective morality, “Where Do Objective Morals Originate in the Universe,” http://www.leestrobel.com/videoserver/video.php?clip=strobelT1199. As suggested, look at “the toll sin has taken on” our city and find ways to make a difference.
Date night idea (No, really.): Watch Ben Stein’s movie, “Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed.”
Synopsis: “Big science has expelled smart ideas from the classroom... What they forgot is that every generation has its Rebel! That rebel, Ben Stein (Ferris Bueller's Day Off) travels the world on his quest, and learns an awe-inspiring truth...that educators and scientists are being ridiculed, denied tenure, and even fired - for merely believing that there might be evidence of "design" in nature. Perhaps life is not just the result of accidental, random chance. In the film Ben says "Enough" - And NOBODY messes with Ben!”
Watch the trailer:
http://www.amazon.com/Expelled-No-Intelligence-Allowed/dp/B0032CRODE/ref=pd_vodsm_B0032CRODE
If you watch this, give us a movie review.
This week we are looking at moral relativism as it relates to God’s holy character and Jesus’ atoning death for our sins. How do you decide if something is right or wrong?
Read this week’s study in the Learner’s Guide beginning on page 48 and the following passages:
1. Isaiah 5:8-6:7; and
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%205:8-6:7&version=NIV
2. Romans 3:9-26.
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%203:9-26&version=NIV
For more on moral relativism, read “Turning Heroes into Horrors” by J. P. Moreland,
http://www.boundless.org/2005/articles/a0000966.cfm.
Remember, God who created everything is still in control of His creation. Keep praying for each other, caring for each other and take care of your families. John
Homebuilders LIFE Group: Learning the Scripture / Involvement in Service / Fellowship – Sharing Life / Evangelism of Seekers

Announcements

1. Special Wednesday night meeting: There will be a meeting on Wednesday, October 13, to discuss a proposed change in the 2011 Church Budget affecting our church's giving to the Cooperative Program. The meeting is open to all members and will be held at 5:30 p.m. in the Church Parlor.
2. 2010 Family Missions Banquet will be held on Sunday, October 17, at 6:00 p.m. Chris Clarke, of Happy Trails Ministry, will tell us about his ministry to the Equestrian Community. The dinner will be "western" and Brad & Mary Kay Henderson will provide the music. Tickets, $10 per adult and less for children, are on sale in the Foyers of the church.
3. Adults: Join us each Wednesday evening as we study The Good and Beautiful Life, by James Bryan Smith. This is a clear and compelling book based on Jesus' message on the mount. The book can be purchased on Amazon.com or various books stores in our city. The study is being led by Deron Spoo, 6:00 p.m., in the Fellowship Hall. Mission Friends for Preschool and Children meets during this time.
4. Trunk or Treat (instead of our annual Fall Fun Festival) will be held on Sunday, October 31, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the Super Block. We need your help in donating candy throughout the month of October. Boxes are located in the Detroit Entrance and the South Education Building Foyer for candy donations. We also need people who will bring their cars with their trunks decorated and pass out candy and prizes. If you can bring a car, please contact Debbie Thompson at 594-5023 or Cindy at 594-5028.
5. Volunteers are needed at The Springs to help continue the work our church began last year in Sand Springs. There are ministries currently running that need help to continue to successfully serve the Sand Springs community. Currently, volunteers are needed with any skill set for general set-up and tear-down; workers for Preschool and Children's ministry (must have or be able to successfully pass an FBI background check); student ministry; and/or AV technicians to run the video computer and to mix audio. Friendly faces are needed on people who have a passion for others and are not afraid to walk by faith. For more information, please contact Eric Barron, Campus Pastor, at 594-5051.
6. PROTOS, for Adults, meets every Sunday evening, 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., with four courses being offered this Fall. All classes meet on the 4th Floor of the North Education Building. Choir for Preschool and Children meets during this time.
7. CrossOver Ministry is in need of adults, college students, singles, and/or couples who are willing to invest in these young people by driving a bus, riding a bus, teaching a Bible study, or simply spending time with the students. CrossOver meets on Sunday nights from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Drivers are needed from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. Volunteers may serve weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Chas Higgins, CrossOver Director, at chas.higgins@cox.net.
8. October's Mission Action Project for our church has us focusing on the John 3:16 Thanksgiving Baskets' ministry. You can help by bringing large cans of sweet potatoes and boxes of stuffing mix. These items (700 of each) will be added along with other donations to the Thanksgiving baskets taken to people in need. You may bring cans and boxes all through the month of October and leave them in the collection bins in the Foyer of the South Education Building. Also, we will have special collection of these materials on Sunday, November 8, as part of the special collection with our Global Mission Emphasis. If you would like to help assemble these baskets, please contact John 3:16 at 592-1186. For more information, please contact Maribeth Dean at 481-5832.

Prayer Requests for the week of October 4th

Remkes - Amber will be traveling beginning Oct 9th; boys home alone

Ingrams - Continue to pray for Cindy's family as they grieve the loss of her great grandpa.

Langleys - Courtney's cousin, Scott, continues to receive chemo for his brain tumor. Pray for healing and financial provision for Scott. Also Courtney's sister, Chelsey, is expecting a baby on October 31st.

Zacharys - Pray for Tim's job as things are stressful and uncertain, also Tiffany will be traveling for work from the 10th through the 17th.

Gambles - Melissa offers praise for Ginny's current good health and her continued progress. She also asked us to pray for new friends who have children in the hospital with Ginny's disorder (Peroxisomal Disorder).
Pray specifically for Sam in Nebraska, Adrian in California and Joel in Canada.

Dales - Please pray for Amy's young cousin Annie who was stricken with some kind of mysterious illness in late May that has basically left her in almost a vegative state. Pray for a breakthough in diagnosis and healing.