Challenging Lifestyles

What is it? A Brand new Alpha DVD Course! Nicky Gumbel’s Newest DVD is based on Jesus' radical teaching given in the Sermon on the Mount, and suggests ways in which we can apply this teaching in our own lives. Part 1, the first 6 weeks are presented on DVD. The last 4 sessions are presented in small group discussion only.

Who is “Challenging Lifestyle” for? This outstanding course is for those who are serious about growing in their faith and will embrace The Sermon on the Mount through the eyes of a disciple. Although Alpha is not a prerequisite, this course is designed for mature Christian discussion and Alpha lays a wonderful foundation for the talks.

What happens during a “Challenging Lifestyle” course? We’ll begin with a home cooked dinner with the entire ALPHA group then, we’ll gather in our own room together where in the first 6 weeks we’ll have a video presentation followed by 1 hour of small group discussion. In the last 4 weeks the leaders will give a brief 15 minute recap of the chapters we read during the week (requiring about 30 minutes of reading each week), followed by plenty of time for small group discussion. Each talk will take a practical look at some challenging Christian questions that maturing Christians will enjoy pondering!

SOME TOPICS WILL INCLUDE:
How to find the secret of happiness: Nicky examines our modern day ideas of happiness and shows how true happiness comes from a right relationship with God. Blessed: (Greek) makarious 'blessed, fortunate, happy — the privileged recipient of God's favor.' Are we looking for happiness in the wrong places? Happiness is not dependent on our outward condition!

How to change the world around you: He challenges us to transform the world around us by re-examining our relationships with others.  Can we make any difference? Jesus said we can change the world around us not by withdrawal, but by involvement.

How to understand the Old Testament: He explains why the Old Testament is not only relevant to our lives as Christians, but also essential to our understanding of Jesus and the Holy Spirit.  We’ll review authority of the Old Testament and interpretation of the New Testament: "Do not think I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them" Interpretation of the Old Testament. "& I have come & to fulfill them." Matthew 5:17

How to handle anger: He suggests ways in which we can successfully deal with anger. What does the Bible say about anger; is it ever justified; and how can we control it?  Anger is an emotion, and a natural passion. Physically, anger causes changes in our bodies.

How to approach sex in the 21st century: He looks at the biblical framework for sex; modern day attitudes towards sex; and why as Christians we are called to be radical in the way we live our lives.  Biblical framework … Creation: Sex is good; Fall: Sex is complicated; Redemption: Sex can be restored; Glorification: Sex is not an end in itself.

How to respond to divorce: He examines the painful subject of relationship breakdown and draws on the fact that Jesus, when asked about divorce, replied by discussing marriage. All of us are affected because we belong to a society that is deeply affected by this issue.

10 Week Course: Wednesdays, February 11-April 15

6:30 p.m ~ Dinner  
(We try to respect your time by starting promptly!)
7:00-9:00 p.m. ~ Topic presentation & small group discussions

FREE Childcare can be arranged by calling 48 hours in advance: 214-291-8024

To register or for more information contact Rev. Debbie Lyons at 214-291-8007 or dlyons(at)standrewumc.org.