Growth Groups

A Growth Group is an informal gathering of people who are interested in mutually developing their own spiritual growth by investigating together what the Bible has to say about a particular subject. A Growth Group is small enough (10-12 people) to allow anyone who wishes to participate the freedom to speak within a casual, relaxed atmosphere.

Each group is directed by a leader who has reviewed the passage and is prepared to guide the conversation. However, no one in the group is required to speak. This self-discovery discussion format multiplies the benefits of each individual’s own study by giving them an opportunity to share insights or just “listen in” to the conversation.

Many people have reported that they enjoy this format because they can read their Bible for themselves, but they are not reading it by themselves! Others have said they appreciate this non-denominational approach because the Bible itself is the only material used in the conversations.

Each group meets in a home or our church building weekly for one hour. All lessons are self-contained, and require no previous attendance, so anyone can “drop in” to visit any group at any time. The College Avenue Church of Christ (1817 N. College Avenue) provides free supervised childcare for infants, and special ministries for older children, from 5:45 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. each Sunday night to make it possible for parents to participate in a Growth Group undistracted.

SPRING SERIES: THE MESSAGE OF THE CROSS

Because the crucifixion of Jesus took place on the weekend of the Passover, and because the Jewish people have faithfully observed that religious holiday over the centuries, the death and subsequent resurrection of Jesus is one of the few events in the gospel story we can accurately date with confidence.

On April 2 we will mark the 1,977th anniversary of the one event most precious to Christians: the sacrificial death of their Savior. In the weeks leading up to that anniversary our groups will take a fresh look at the meaning of the Cross by examining the seven sayings of Jesus.

Crucifixion was a brutal, tortuous death. As the body of the condemned man slumped from its own weight the victim would begin to suffocate. In order to breathe he had to push himself up with his legs, but such exertion would caused excruciating pain in the nail through his feet, and he would quickly slump again. Because of the physical agony associated with speaking, a man on a cross would not be given to long speeches. Every utterance would require a superhuman effort.

This may explain why the gospels record only seven short sayings from the Cross. Each statement, however, is packed with significance! Join us this spring for these devotional meditations as we reflect on the meaning of the death of Jesus through his last, dying words.

February 14: “Father, Forgive Them” (Luke 23:26-34)

The Cross reveals the grace of God.

February 21: “Woman, Behold Your Son” (John 19:23-27)

The Cross reveals the humanity of Jesus.

February 28: “This Day You Will Be With Me In Paradise” (Luke 23:32-43)

The Cross reveals our hope of heaven.

March 7: “My God, My God, Why Have You Forsaken Me?” (Matthew 27:45-56)

The Cross reveals the sinfulness of sin.

March 14: “I Thirst” & “It Is Finished” (John 19:28-37)

The Cross reveals the obedience of Jesus.

March 21: No Groups (Spring Break)

March 28: “Into Your Hand I Commit My Spirit” (Luke 23:44-46)

The Cross reveals the Sonship of Jesus.

April 4: “The Message of the Cross” (1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5)

The Cross reveals the wisdom and power of God.