LEADERSHIP GUIDE - JANUARY 2022
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. 7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.” (John 15:1-8 ESV)
In John 15:1-8, Jesus shares with His disciples the following illustration: His Father is the vinedresser (gardener), Jesus is the vine, and His disciples are the branches. As disciples, if we abide and remain connected to Jesus, we will bear fruit in our life (v. 5), God will answer our prayers (v. 7), and His glory will be revealed to others (v. 8). Conversely, if we are apart from Jesus, we will not bear fruit (v. 6).
We’re experiencing yet another surge in this pandemic that has created fear, worry, and hopelessness in people’s lives. Yet, as Christ-followers we rest in the fact that God is faithful and as His plans and purposes will come to pass if we abide and remain connected to Jesus while also shepherding our Small Group members to do the same. We must continue to share the Gospel, make disciples, and pray boldly and confidently that God will make a way and that His will be done.
After going over the discussion questions, please set aside time for focused and fervent intercessory prayer of the prayer points listed. Let’s believe in faith that God will move mightily in our prayer time together and that 2022 will be a fruitful year of disciple-making as we abide and remain connected to Christ.
Discussion Questions (25-30 minutes):
How are you abiding and remaining in Christ during the current state of the pandemic? What challenges are you facing as you abide in Him?
How are your Small Group members doing during the current state of the pandemic? Has faith remained or has it wavered? As their leader, how can you help shepherd them to abide and remain in Christ while also living on mission for God and others?
Prayer Points (25-30 minutes):
Pray that our people will continue to abide in Christ throughout this difficult season.
Pray that those currently suffering around us will experience breakthroughs and blessings.
Pray for family, friends, and loved ones to come to the Lord.
Pray that God would crush this pandemic once and for all.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Zoom Reimbursement
Due to the ongoing pandemic and with the uncertainties of people's schedules, we will continue to reimburse Zoom “Pro Package” subscriptions until further notice. This will enable you to keep hosting virtual Zoom meetings and not neglect meeting as a small group.
Once you have received your Zoom Pro invoice for the month, kindly forward them directly to info@pearlside.org in a timely manner. Thank you, leaders, for continuing to shepherd your people well during this time.
Seek Week postponed until Feb. 15-17
We are excited to be having our first 2022 Seek Week from February 15-17. This will allow many who are traveling and adjusting back from the holidays to be focused, available, and in full health as we come together in prayer and fasting. Looking forward to seeking the Lord together!
End of Year Giving Statements
Church, thank you for your faithfulness and generosity in 2021! Through your generosity, we were able to continue to be an extension of God’s hope and provision to the world around us. We will be sending out giving statements to your email on file. If you would like to request a paper statement, please request it by filling out the form at pearlside.org.give.