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Class 101
Discovering Our Church Family
PARTICIPANT GUIDE
Table of Contents
WELCOME 3
SESSION ONE: OUR PURPOSE 4
The Reason for Everything 5
God’s Five Purposes for Your Life on Earth 7
Why You Need the Church 11
What Does It Mean to Be a Christian? 12
Baptism: How You Identify with God’s Family 18
The Lord’s Supper: Communion with God’s Family 23
SESSION TWO: OUR STRATEGY 25
Our Motto 26
Our Purpose Statement 27
Circles of Commitment 28
Development Diamond 29
Our S.A.D.D.L.E.B.A.C.K. Values 30
Our Faith Statement 34
The Essentials We Believe 35
SESSION THREE: OUR STORY 37
Our History 40
SESSION FOUR: OUR SADDLEBACK FAMILY 47
What Is the Church? 48
Why Become a Member? 51
Our Model for Membership: The First Church 53
What Are My Next Steps? 57
ANSWER KEY 58
Welcome
Class 101: Discovering Our Church Family is the first of Saddleback’s foundational classes. You were designed to be a part of a church family, and that’s exactly what Saddleback is intended to be—your family. A healthy family has common beliefs, purposes, and commitment. That’s why we want to share with you what we believe and where we’re going.
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SESSION
ONE
Our Purpose
THE REASON
FOR EVERYTHING
1. Everything starts with God!
The Lord has made everything for his own purpose.
PROVERBS 16:4 (GW)
Everything, absolutely everything . . . got started in him and finds its purpose in him.
COLOSSIANS 1:16 (THE MESSAGE)
For everything comes from God alone. Everything lives by his power, and everything is for his glory. To him be glory evermore.
ROMANS 11:36 (TLB)
2. God is love.
Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God . . . Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.
1 JOHN 4:7–8 (NIV)
3. God wanted a family to demonstrate his love.
When I think of the wisdom and scope of his plan, I fall down on my knees and pray to the Father of all the great family of God—some of them already in heaven and some down here on earth.
EPHESIANS 3:14–15 (TLB)
4. God’s family is the church!
God’s family is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.
1 TIMOTHY 3:15 (GW)
5. God’s family will last forever, outlasting everything else in creation.
[God] has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end.
ECCLESIASTES 3:11 (NLT)
[We have] the hope of life forever, which God promised to us before time began. And God cannot lie.
TITUS 1:2 (NCV)
6. Although God created us last, he thought of us first. He planned the universe for his family.
I am your Creator. You were in my care even before you were born.
ISAIAH 44:2 (CEV)
He chose to give birth to us by giving us his true word. And we, out of all creation, became his prized possession.
JAMES 1:18 (NLT)
7. God didn’t reveal his plan until he sent Jesus.
And God gave me the work of telling all people about the plan for his secret, which has been hidden in him since the beginning of time. He is the One who created everything. His purpose was that through the church all the rulers and powers in the heavenly world will now know God’s wisdom, which has so many forms. This agrees with the purpose God had since the beginning of time, and he carried out his plan through Christ Jesus our Lord.
EPHESIANS 3:9–11 (NCV)
8. Jesus makes the whole plan possible.
It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for . . . part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone.
Ephesians 1:11–12 (THE MESSAGE)
[Jesus] died for us so that . . . we can live with him forever.
1 Thessalonians 5:10 (NLT)
This is the plan: At the right time [God] will bring everything together under the authority of Christ—everything in heaven and on earth.
Ephesians 1:10 (NLT)
9. The time is getting closer.
All creation is waiting eagerly for that future day when God will reveal who his children really are. The creation looks forward to the day when it will join God’s children in glorious freedom from death and decay.
Romans 8:19, 21 (NLT)
No mere man has ever seen, heard, or even imagined what wonderful things God has ready for those who love the Lord.
1 Corinthians 2:9 (TLB)
10. In the meantime, we can practice for eternity.
We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God, while we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed.
Titus 2:12–13 (NLT)
GOD’S FIVE PURPOSES
FOR YOUR LIFE ON EARTH
1. God planned me for .
For you created everything, and it is for your pleasure that they exist and were created.
Revelation 4:11 (NLT96)
The Lord takes pleasure in his people.
Psalm 149:4 (GNT)
Long before he laid down earth’s foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love.
Ephesians 1:4 (The Message)
Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the firstand greatest commandment.”
Matthew 22:37–38 (NIV)
“I don’t want your sacrifices—I want your love; I don’t want your offerings—I want you to know me.”
Hosea 6:6 (TLB)
The first purpose of life is .
The Bible calls this .
Some . . . people have missed the most important thing in life—they don’t know God.
1 Timothy 6:21 (TLB)
“People who don’t know God are always worrying . . .”
Matthew 6:32 (CEV)
2. God formed me for .
[God’s] unchanging plan has always been to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. And this gave him great pleasure.
Ephesians 1:5 (NLT96)
[God] has given us the privilege of being born again so that we are now members of God’s own family.
1 Peter 1:3 (TLB)
That family is the church of the living God, the support and foundation of the truth.
1 Timothy 3:15 (NCV)
Love your spiritual family.
1 Peter 2:17 (The Message)
The second purpose of life is .
The Bible calls this .
We belong to each other, and each needs all the others.
Romans 12:5 (TLB)
3. God created me .
From the very beginning God decided that those who came to him—and all along he knew who would—should become like his Son.
ROMANS 8:29 (TLB)
We look at this Son and see . . . God’s original purpose in everything created.
COLOSSIANS 1:15 (The Message)
In your lives you must think and actlike Christ Jesus.
PHILIPPIANS 2:5 (NCV)
As the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like him.
2 CORINTHIANS 3:18 (TLB)
The third purpose of life is .
The Bible calls this .
"[Some people have] such shallow soil of character that when the emotions wear off and some difficulty arrives, there is nothing to show for it."
MARK 4:17 (The Message)
4. God “shaped” me .
You shaped me first inside, then out; you formed me in my mother’s womb.
PSALM 139:13 (The Message)
S
H
A
P
E
God has made us what we are. In Christ Jesus, God made us to do good works, which God planned in advance for us to live our lives doing.
EPHESIANS 2:10 (NCV)
The fourth purpose of life is .
The Bible calls this .
5. God made me .
“In the same way that you gave me a mission in the world, I give them a mission in the world.”
JOHN 17:18 (The Message)
Through Christ, God made peace between us and himself, and God gave us the work of telling everyone about the peace we can have with him . . . So we have been sent to speak for Christ.
2 CORINTHIANS 5:18, 20 (NCV)
The most important thing is that I complete my mission, the work that the Lord Jesus gave me—to tell people the Good News about God’s grace.
ACTS 20:24 (NCV)
Make the most of your chances to tell others the Good News.
COLOSSIANS 4:5 (TLB)
The fifth purpose of life is .
The Bible calls this .
The Big Key
I can’t fulfill God’s purposes .
The big takeaway here is you can’t fulfill God’s purposes by yourself. You need to be part of God’s family.
WHY YOU
NEED THE CHURCH
The Purpose of the Church Is to Help People Fulfill
God’s Purposes for Their Lives
Since we are all one body in Christ, we belong to each other, and each of us needs all the others.
ROMANS 12:5 (NLT96)
Having a church family will help you:
• Center your life around God (worship)
• Connect with other believers (fellowship)
• Cultivate spiritual maturity (discipleship)
• Contribute something back (ministry)
• Communicate God’s message (mission)
What’s Driving Your Life?
This world is fading away, along with everything it craves. But if you do the will of God, you will live forever.
1 JOHN 2:17 (NLT96)
[God’s] plans endure forever; his purposes last eternally.
PSALM 33:11 (GNT)
“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me . . . and you’ll recover your life . . . and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”
MATTHEW 11:28, 30 (The Message)
It makes no difference who you are or where you’re from—if you want God and are ready to do as he says, the door is open.
ACTS 10:35 (The Message)
What does it mean
to be A Christian?
Most people live their entire lives without ever knowing “WHY?” They exist year after year with no idea of why they live or God’s purpose for their lives. The most basic question a person asks is, “What is the meaning of life?”
Everyone wants to be happy. People try many ways.
• Some look for happiness by acquiring possessions.
• Some look for happiness by experiencing pleasure.
• Some look for happiness by gaining prestige and power.
But real happiness comes from understanding my purpose in life.
Why Am I Here?
1. God created me to me.
The LORD appeared to us in the past saying: “I have loved you with an everlasting love.”
Jeremiah 31:3 (NIV)
Even before the world was made, God had already chosen us to be his through our union with Christ. . . Because of his love God had already decided that through Jesus Christ he would make us his children—this was God’s pleasure and purpose.
Ephesians 1:4–5 (GNT)
2. We were created to a personal relationship with God and to
all of the rest of God’s creation. This makes us special.
So God created human beings, making them to be like himself. He created them male and female, blessed them, and said, “Have many children, so that your descendants will live all over the earth and bring it under their control. I am putting you in charge of the fish, the birds, and all the wild animals.”
Genesis 1:27–28 (GNT)
[God] richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.
1 Timothy 6:17 (NIV)
[Jesus said,] “I have come in order that you might have life­—life in all its fullness!”
John 10:10 (GNT)
3. When we know and love God and live in harmony with his purpose for our lives, it produces tremendous benefits in our lives.
CLEAR CONSCIENCE Romans 8:1 Life and Peace Romans 8:6 Help with Weakness Romans 8:26 Purpose Romans 8:28 Confidence Romans 8:31 Security Romans 8:39 Power and Strength Philippians 4:13 Fulfillment Philippians 4:19 Freedom John 8:32, 36
What’s the Problem?
1. People have a natural desire to and to ignore God’s principles for living.
2. The Bible calls this attitude .
All of us like sheep have gone astray; each of us has turned to his own way.
Isaiah 53:6 (MEV)
If we say that we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and refusing to accept the truth.
1 John 1:8 (TLB)
Sin breaks our close relationship with God. It causes us to fear God and try to live our lives outside of his will.
The trouble is that your sins have cut you off from God.
Isaiah 59:2 (TLB)
Yes, all have sinned; all fall short of God’s glorious ideal.
Romans 3:23 (TLB)
When our relationship with God is not right, it causes problems in every area of our lives—marriage, career, relationships, finances, etc.
“WHEN PEOPLE HAVE PROBLEMS, THEY OFTEN TRY MANY DIFFERENT WAYS OF COPING BEFORE TURNING TO GOD.”
There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death.
Proverbs 16:25 (NIV84)
Even when we know that our deepest need is God, we often try wrong ways of getting to know him.
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What’s the Solution?
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6 (NIV)
God himself came to earth as a human being to bring us back to himself. If any other way would have worked, Jesus Christ would not have had to come. The way is in the person of Jesus Christ.
“JESUS HAS ALREADY TAKEN CARE OF YOUR SIN PROBLEM.”
The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Romans 6:23 (NIV84)
God did this for us because he loves us and wants us to know him.
God demonstrated his love for us in that while we were still separated from God by sin, Christ died for us.
Romans 5:8 (AP)
God is on one side and all the people on the other side, and Christ Jesus, himself man, is between them to bring them together, by giving his life for all mankind.
1 Timothy 2:5 (TLB)
God has already done his part to restore our relationship to him. He took the initiative. Now he waits for each of us to individually accept what he has done for us.
What Does God Want Me to Do?
1. that God has not been first place in your life and ask him to forgive your sins.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from every wrong.
1 John 1:9 (AP)
2. that Jesus died to pay for your sins and that he rose again on Easter and is alive today.
If you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is your Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
Romans 10:9 (NIV84)
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name [Jesus] . . . by which we must be saved.
Acts 4:12 (NIV)
3. God’s free gift of salvation. Don’t try to earn it.
For it is by grace you are saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.
Ephesians 2:8–9 (NIV84)
4. Jesus Christ to come into your life and be the director (Lord) of your life.
"To all who received him, he gave the right to become children of God. All they needed to do was to trust him to save them. All those who believe this are reborn!—not a physical rebirth resulting from human passion or plan—but from the will of God."
John 1:12–13 (TLB)
[Jesus says,] “Listen! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in.”
Revelation 3:20 (HCSB)
PRAYER OF
COMMITMENT
Dear Jesus,
Thank you for making me and loving me, even when I’ve ignored you and gone my own way. I realize I need you in my life, and I’m sorry for my sins. I ask you to forgive me. Thank you for dying on the cross for me. Please help me to understand it more. As much as I know how, I want to follow you from now on. Please come into my life and make me a new person inside. I accept your gift of salvation. Please help me grow now as a Christian.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
Whoever calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved.
Romans 10:13 (GW)
BAPTISM: HOW YOU
IDENTIFY WITH GOD’S FAMILY
What is the Meaning of Baptism?
1. It illustrates Christ’s , , and resurrection.
Christ died for our sins . . . he was buried . . . and . . . he rose again.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:3–4 (KJV)
When we are lowered into the water, it is like the burial of Jesus; when we are raised up out of the water, it is like the resurrection of Jesus.
ROMANS 6:4 (The Message)
For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ.
COLOSSIANS 2:12 (GNT)
2. It illustrates my as a Christian.
When someone becomes a Christian, he becomes a brand new person inside. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!
2 CORINTHIANS 5:17 (TLB/NLT)
Your baptism in Christ was not just washing you up for a fresh start. It also involved dressing you in an adult faith wardrobe—Christ’s life, the fulfillment of God’s original promise.
GALATIANS 3:27 (The Message)
Baptism doesn’t make you a believer—it shows that you already believe. Baptism does not “save” you, only your faith in Christ does that. Baptism is like a wedding ring—it’s the outward symbol of the commitment you made in your heart.
3. It demonstrates my into Christ’s body, the church.
We each used to independently call our own shots, but then we entered into a large and integrated life in which [Christ] has the final say in everything. (This is what we proclaimed in word and action when we were baptized.) Each of us is now a part of his resurrection body.
1 CORINTHIANS 12:13 (The Message)
Why Should I Be Baptized?
1. To follow the example set by .
At that time Jesus came from Nazareth . . . and was baptized by John in the Jordan.
MARK 1:9 (NIV)
2. Because Christ it.
“Go, then, to all peoples everywhere and make them my disciples: baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teach them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
MATTHEW 28:19–20 (GNT)
3. It shows that I really am a .
Many of the [people] who heard Paul believed and were baptized.
ACTS 18:8 (NIV)
We know that we have come to know him if we obey his commands.
1 JOHN 2:3 (NIV84)
Why Be Baptized By Immersion?
1. Because was baptized that way.
As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water.
MATTHEW 3:16 (NIV)
2. Every baptism in the was by immersion.
Two examples:
Then both Philip and the [man] went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water . . .
ACTS 8:38–39 (NIV)
Now John also was baptizing at Aenon near Salim, because there was plenty of water.
JOHN 3:23 (NIV)
3. The word “baptize” means to water.
The Greek word baptizo means “to immerse and dip under water.”
4. Baptism is the best symbol of a burial and resurrection!
The founders from different denominations agree with the statement above.
MARTIN LUTHER: “I would have those who are to be baptized to be entirely immersed, as the word imports and the mystery signifies.”
JOHN CALVIN: “The word ‘baptize’ signifies to immerse. It is certain that immersion was the practice of the ancient church.”
JOHN WESLEY: “We are buried with him, alluding to the ancient manner of baptizing by immersion.”
THE NEW CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: “The biblical form of baptism was unquestionably immersion. In the Catholic church, immersion seems to have prevailed until the twelfth century.”
Who Should Be Baptized?
Every person who has in Christ.
Many of them believedhis message and were baptized.
Acts 2:41 (GNT)
Simon believedin Christ and was baptized.
Acts 8:13 (NLV)
But when they believedPhilip as he preached the good news . . . and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.
Acts 8:12 (NIV)
At Saddleback, we wait until our children are old enough to believe and understand the true meaning of baptism before we baptize them.
Some churches practice a “baptism of confirmation” for children. This ceremony is intended to be a covenant between the parents and God on the behalf of the child. The parents promise to raise their child in the faith until the child is old enough to make his own personal confession of Christ. This custom began about 300 years after the Bible was completed. This is different from the baptism talked about in the Bible, which was only for those old enough to believe. The purpose is to publicly confess your personal commitment to Christ.
At Saddleback, it is a membership requirement that every member must have been baptized the way Jesus demonstrated, even though many of us were “confirmed” as children.
“OVER 50,000 PEOPLE HAVE BEEN BAPTIZED AT SADDLEBACK CHURCH!”
When Should I Be Baptized?
“AS SOON AS YOU HAVE BELIEVED!”
Those who believed . . . were baptized . . . that day!”
ACTS 2:41 (NLV)
Then Philip spoke. Starting with that passage, Philip told the official the Good News about Jesus. As they were going along the road, they came to some water. The official said to Philip, “Look, there’s some water. What can keep me from being baptized?” The official ordered the carriage to stop. He and Philip stepped into the water, and Philip baptized him.
ACTS 8:35–38 (GW)
There is no reason to delay. As soon as you have decided to receive Christ into your life, you can and should be baptized. If you wait until you are “perfect,” you’ll never feel “good enough!”
Practical Questions
1. Can my family be baptized together?
Yes! If each family member fully understands the meaning of baptism, and each one has personally placed his/her trust in Christ for salvation, we encourage families to be baptized at the same time. It is a wonderful expression of commitment.
Young children who wish to be baptized can attend a baptism class held regularly throughout the year through Saddleback Kids.
However, it is important to remember that baptism is a personal statement of faith, not a family tradition. It is usually not wise to delay your baptism while waiting on other family members to accept Christ, particularly children. This puts an undue pressure on them and delays your obedience.
2. What should I wear when I am baptized?
We have baptism T-shirts you can wear over your swimsuit or any clothes you feel comfortable in. We also provide changing rooms, towels, and shorts you can use.
3. Will I have to say anything?
No. At the beginning of the service, one of our pastors will briefly explain the meaning of baptism. You will wait at the edge of the pool for your turn to be baptized. A pastor will introduce you, briefly lower you just under the water, and then you can leave the pool, dry off, and watch the others. We encourage you to invite all your relatives and friends to attend your baptism! You will be given a photo and certificate of your baptism.
4. Special needs?
All of our pastors can perform a private baptism in special circumstances.
THE LORD’S SUPPER:
COMMUNION WITH GOD’S FAMILY
Jesus never asked his disciples to remember his birth. But he did instruct them to remember his death and resurrection. He gave the church two visible symbols (called ordinances) as reminders of his death. These two ordinances are baptism and the Lord’s Supper.
The Lord’s Supper is an object lesson that represents a great spiritual truth for believers.
What Is the Lord’s Supper?
To find the answer to what is the Lord’s Supper, let’s read, one verse at a time,
1 Corinthians 11:23–26 (NIV).
1. It is a .
The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread.
VERSE 23
2. It is a .
And when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.”
VERSE 24
3. It is a .
In the same way . . . he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood . . . drink it, in remembrance of me.”
VERSE 25
4. It is a .
For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s deathuntil he comes.
VERSE 26
Who Should Take the Lord’s Supper?
Only those who are already (Mark 14:22–26).
For anyone who eats and drinks without recognizing the body [of the Lord] eats and drinks judgment on himself.
1 CORINTHIANS 11:29 (BSB)
How Do I Prepare Myself for the Lord’s Supper?
So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy mannerwill be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup.
1 CORINTHIANS 11:27–28 (NIV)
You prepare yourself through:
Self-Examination (1 Corinthians 11:27)
Confessing My Sins (1 John 1:9)
Recommitment (Romans 12:1)
Restoring Relationships (Matthew 5:23–24)
When and How Often Should We Observe the Lord’s Supper?
Jesus never said when or how often believers should observe the Lord’s Supper. He instituted it on a Thursday night. In the Bible, Christians observed the communion in small groups in homes.
SESSION
TWO
Our Strategy
The Great Commandment
“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart . . . soul and . . . mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
MATTHEW 22:37–40 (NIV)
The Great Commission
Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing themin the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
MATTHEW 28:19–20 (NIV)
OUR MOTTO
A Great Commitment . . .
. . . to the Great
and the Great
. . . will grow a Great Church!
OUR PURPOSE STATEMENT
“TO BRING PEOPLE TO JESUS AND MEMBERSHIP IN HIS FAMILY,
DEVELOP THEM TO CHRIST-LIKE MATURITY,
AND EQUIP THEM FOR THEIR MINISTRY IN THE CHURCH
AND THEIR LIFE MISSION IN THE WORLD,
IN ORDER TO MAGNIFY GOD’S NAME.”
CIRCLES OF
COMMITMENT
Stages of Spiritual Growth
The Bible explains that spiritual growth is a journey:
1. People live at different stages of commitment and spiritual maturity.
2. We only grow by making commitments.
The Purpose Driven strategy moves people from the outer fringe of our church to the center by encouraging personal spiritual growth through a series of classes and covenants.
Let’s examine the numbers in each of the stages represented in the chart below.
Fill in the name of this campus here:
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Development
Diamond
📷
OUR
S.A.D.D.L.E.B.A.C.K.
VALUES
Our Common Foundation
“CHRIST-CENTERED . . .
BIBLE-BASED . . .
GOD-GLORIFYING . . .
SPIRIT-LED . . .
PRAYER-POWERED . . .
MISSION-MINDED AND
DOING GOD’S FIVE PURPOSES OF WORSHIP, FELLOWSHIP, DISCIPLESHIP, SERVICE, AND EVANGELISM.”
Our Distinctive Values
S
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.
EPHESIANS 4:32 (NIV/NLT)
As God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
COLOSSIANS 3:12 (NIV)
So warmly welcome each other into the church, just as Christ has warmly welcomed you; then God will be glorified.
ROMANS 15:7 (TLB)
A
“My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.”
MARK 11:17 (GW)
All nations will remember the Lord. From every part of the world they will turn to him; all races will worship him.
PSALM 22:27 (GNT)
Show respect for all people. Love your brothers and sisters in God’s family.
1 PETER 2:17 (ERV)
D
But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
JAMES 1:22 (ESV)
If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.
JAMES 4:17 (NIV)
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”
MATTHEW 7:21 (NIV)
“Teach them to do everything I have commanded you.”
MATTHEW 28:20 (GW)
D
Let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity.
HEBREWS 6:1 (BSB)
Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path.
PROVERBS 4:26 (NLT)
As the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like him.
2 CORINTHIANS 3:18 (TLB)
L
This is how we know what love is: Christ gave his life for us. We too, then, ought to give our lives for others! If we are rich and see others in need, yet close our hearts against them, how can we claim that we love God? My children, our love should not be just words and talk; it must be true love, which shows itself in action.
1 JOHN 3:16–18 (GNT)
E
All of you together are the one body of Christ, and each one of you is a separate and necessary part of it.
1 CORINTHIANS 12:27 (TLB)
The eye can never say to the hand, “I don’t need you.” The head can’t say to the feet, “I don’t need you.” In fact, some parts of the body that seem weakest and least important are actually the most necessary.
1 CORINTHIANS 12:21–22 (NLT)
B
Glory be to God, who by his mighty power at work within us is able to do far morethan we would ever dare to ask or even dream of—infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, or hopes.
EPHESIANS 3:20 (TLB)
According to your faith will it be done to you.”
MATTHEW 9:29 (BSB)
“Everything is possible for one who believes.”
MARK 9:23 (NIV)
“But that’s not a big enough job for my servant—just to recover the tribes of Jacob, merely to round up the strays of Israel. I’m setting you up as a light for the nations so that my salvation becomes global!”
ISAIAH 49:6 (The Message)
A
Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together . . . but let us encourage one another, and all the more.
HEBREWS 10:24–25 (BSB)
What you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.
2 TIMOTHY 2:2 (ESV)
“Just ask the previous generation. Pay attention to the experience of our ancestors. For we were born but yesterday and know nothing. Our days on earth are as fleeting as a shadow. But those who came before us will teach you. They will teach you the wisdom of old.”
JOB 8:8–10 (NLT)
C
I have become a slave to all people to bring many to Christ. When I was with the Jews, I lived like a Jew to bring the Jews to Christ. When I was with those who follow the Jewish law, I too lived under that law. Even though I am not subject to the law, I did this so I could bring to Christ those who are under the law. When I am with the Gentiles who do not follow the Jewish law, I too live apart from that law so I can bring them to Christ. But I do not ignore the law of God; I obey the law of Christ. When I am with those who are weak, I share their weakness, for I want to bring the weak to Christ. Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some. I do everything to spread the Good News and share in its blessings.
1 CORINTHIANS 9:19–23 (NLT)
“And no one puts new wine into old wineskins.”
MARK 2:22 (NLT)
K
“Be careful. Don’t think these little children are worth nothing. I tell you that they have angels in heaven who are always with my Father in heaven.”
MATTHEW 18:10 (NCV)
“Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
MATTHEW 18:3 (NIV)
OUR FAITH
STATEMENT
Our Beliefs
In essential beliefs—we have .
There is one body and one Spirit . . . one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all.
EPHESIANS 4:4–6 (NIV)
In nonessential beliefs—we allow .
Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters . . . Who are you to judge someone else’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls . . . So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God . . . So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God.
ROMANS 14:1, 4, 12, 22 (NIV84)
In all our beliefs—we show .
If I . . . hold in my mind not only all human knowledge but the very secrets of God, and if I also have that absolute faith which can move mountains, but have no love, I amount to nothing at all.
1 CORINTHIANS 13:2–3 (PHILLIPS)
THE ESSENTIALS
WE BELIEVE
About God
God is the Creator and Ruler of the universe. He has eternally existed in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. These three are co-equal and are one God.
Genesis 1:1, 26–27; 3:22; Psalm 90:2; Matthew 28:19;
1 Peter 1:2; 2 Corinthians 13:14
About Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ is the Son of God. He is co-equal with the Father and Holy Spirit. Jesus lived a sinless human life and offered himself as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of all people by dying on a cross. He arose from the dead after three days to demonstrate his power over sin and death. He ascended to heaven’s glory and will return again someday to earth to reign as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
Matthew 1:22, 23; Isaiah 9:6; John 1:1–5; 14:10–30; Hebrews 4:14, 15; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4; Romans 1:3, 4; Acts 1:9–11; 1 Timothy 6:14, 15; Titus 2:13
About the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is co-equal with the Father and the Son of God. He is present in the world to make men aware of their need for Jesus Christ. He also lives in every Christian from the moment of salvation. He provides the Christian with power for living, understanding spiritual truth, and guidance in doing what is right. He gives every believer a spiritual gift when they are saved. As Christians, we seek to live under his control daily.
2 Corinthians 3:17; John 16:7–13; 14:16, 17; Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 2:12; 3:16; Ephesians 1:13; Galatians 5:25; Ephesians 5:18
About the Bible
The Bible is God’s Word to us. Human authors, under the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit, wrote it. It is the supreme source of truth for Christian beliefs and living. Because God inspired it, it is the truth without any mixture of error.
2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20, 21; 2 Timothy 1:13;
Psalm 119:105, 160; 12:6; Proverbs 30:5
About Human Beings
People are made in the spiritual image of God, to be like him in character. People are the supreme object of God’s creation. Although every person has tremendous potential for good, all of us are marred by an attitude of disobedience toward God called “sin.” This attitude separates people from God and causes many problems in life.
Genesis 1:27; Psalm 8:3–6; Isaiah 53:6;
Romans 3:23; Isaiah 59:1, 2
About Salvation
Salvation is God’s free gift to us but we must accept it. We can never make up for our sin by self-improvement or good works. Only by trusting in Jesus Christ as God’s offer of forgiveness can anyone be saved from sin’s penalty. When we turn from our self-ruled life and turn to Jesus in faith, we are saved. Eternal life begins the moment one receives Jesus Christ into his life by faith.
Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:8, 9; John 14:6; 1:12;
Titus 3:5; Galatians 3:26; Romans 5:1
About Eternal Security
Because God gives us eternal life through Jesus Christ, the true believer is secure in that salvation for eternity. If you have been genuinely saved, you cannot “lose” it. Salvation is maintained by the grace and power of God, not by the self-effort of the Christian. It is the grace and keeping power of God that gives us this security.
John 10:29; 2 Timothy 1:12;
Hebrews 7:25; 10:10, 14; 1 Peter 1:3–5
About Eternity
People were created to exist forever. We will either exist eternally separated from God by sin, or eternally with God through forgiveness and salvation. To be eternally separated from God is hell. To be eternally in union with him is eternal life. Heaven and hell are real places of eternal existence.
John 3:16; John 14:17; Romans 6:23;
Romans 8:17–18; Revelation 20:15; 1 Corinthians 2:7–9
SESSION
THREE
Our Story
THE SADDLEBACK
VISION
From Pastor Rick’s Sermon
March 30, 1980
It is the dream of a place where the hurting, the hopeless, the discouraged, the depressed, the frustrated and confused can find love, acceptance, guidance and encouragement.
It is the dream of sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with the hundreds of thousands of residents in south Orange County.
It is the dream of 20,000 members growing together in spiritual maturity through Bible studies, seminars, retreats and fellowship—loving, laughing, and learning together, understanding God’s wonderful plan and living life to its greatest potential.
It is the dream of sending out hundreds of career missionaries and church workers all around the world and sending out our members by the thousands on short-term mission projects to every continent. It is the dream of starting at least one new daughter church a year.
It is the dream of 50 acres of land, on which will be built a regional church of southern Orange County—with beautiful yet efficient facilities . . . including a worship center seating thousands, a counseling and prayer center, classrooms for Bible study and training lay ministers, and family recreational facilities. All of this will be designed to minister to the total person—spiritually, emotionally, physically, and socially—and set in a peaceful, inspiring garden setting with bright flowers, beautiful trees, and pools of still water, sparkling fountains and flowing streams.
I stand before you today and state in confident assurance that these dreams will be realized. Why?
BECAUSE THEY ARE INSPIRED BY GOD!
THE PURPOSE DRIVEN
COVENANT
April 17, 2005
Today I am stepping across the line. I’m tired of waffling, and I’m finished with wavering. I’ve made my choice; the verdict is in and my decision is irrevocable. I’m going God’s way. There is no turning back.
I will live the rest of my life serving God’s purposes with God’s people on God’s planet for God’s glory. I will use my life to celebrate his presence, cultivate his character, participate in his family, demonstrate his love and communicate his Word.
Since my past has been forgiven, and I have a purpose for living and a home awaiting in heaven, I refuse to waste any more time or energy on shallow living, petty thinking, trivial talking, thoughtless doing, useless regretting, hurtful resenting, or faithless worrying. Instead I will magnify God, grow to maturity, serve in ministry, and fulfill my mission in the membership of his family.
Because this life is preparation for the next, I will value worship over wealth, “we” over “me,” character over comfort, service over status and people over possessions, position and pleasure. I know what matters most and I will give it all I’ve got. I will do the best I can with what I have for Jesus Christ today.
I won’t be captivated by culture, manipulated by critics, motivated by praise, frustrated by problems, debilitated by temptation, or intimidated by the devil. I’ll keep running my race with my eyes on the goal, not the sidelines or those running by me. When times get tough and I get tired, I won’t back up, back off, back down, back out, or backslide. I’ll just keep moving forward by God’s grace. I’m spirit-led, purpose driven, and mission-focused, so I cannot be bought, I will not be compromised, and I shall not quit until I finish the race.
I’m a trophy of God’s amazing grace so I will be gracious to everyone, grateful for every day and generous with everything that God entrusts to me.
To my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, I say: However, whenever, wherever, and whatever you ask me to do, my answer is yes! Wherever you lead and whatever the cost, I’m ready. Anytime. Anywhere. Any way. Whatever it takes, Lord; whatever it takes! I want to be used by you in such a way that on that final day I’ll hear you say, “Well done, thou good and faithful one. Come on in and let the eternal party begin!”
OUR
HISTORY
(1980–1985) Saddleback Beginning
LOCATION: Laguna Hills High School (theater and gym)
DRAW: Laguna Hills and Mission Viejo
Major Developments
• We began and developed weekend services.
• We defined our purposes, values, and vision.
• We adopted the S.A.D.D.L.E.B.A.C.K. strategy.
• We developed the communication/response card.
• We developed the membership class and banquets.
• We began teaching with message outlines.
• We developed the idea of “campaigns.”
• We began training other pastors.
Blessings
• Average attendance grew from 0 to 719.
• We baptized 380 new believers.
Risks in Faith
• Saddleback started with nothing.
• The first service was financed on a credit card.
• We sponsored the start of 5 other churches (1 per year).
Tests
• Will we become a large church? (Some members opposed.)
• Growing a congregation with few resources presented challenges.
• Finding spaces to meet was difficult.
• Pastor Rick experienced his “year of discouragement” (1981).
Sacrifices
• We hand addressed, stamped, and paid for 15,000 letters to advertise the first service.
• We set up and took down the entire church every week.
• We gave away our building fund to help world missions.
Miracles
• God brought the right talent at the right time.
• There were many miracles of financial provisions.
• God displayed healing miracles—Jeff Taylor and Judy Johnson.
Lessons and Values that Shaped Saddleback
• Trust God: Where God guides, God provides.
• Never stop learning! All leaders are learners.
• Acceptance: Jesus came to save us not condemn us.
• Don’t expect unbelievers to act like believers until they are.
• Every member is a minister. Every member has a responsibility.
(1986–1992) Saddleback Everywhere
LOCATION: Trabuco Hills High School
DRAW: All Saddleback Valley cities
Major Developments
• We launched our music ministry.
• We began midweek Bible study.
• We created Saturday services (MVHS, Lake Hills, El Toro High School, outdoors).
• We developed the CLASS system (101–401).
• We began using testimonies as a part of the sermon.
• We reached out with “The Fax of Life” weekly devotional.
• We became the first church on the Internet (1992).
Blessings
• Average attendance grew from 1,017 to 3,954.
• The sum total of those baptized is 2,479 from 1980 to 1992.
Risks in Faith
• We moved 6 miles from LHHS to THHS to keep growing.
• We attempted to buy over 100 acres in South Orange County.
Tests
• We waited 13 years for a permanent home for our church.
• We experienced 7 years of delays and disappointments in acquiring land.
• Putting up with mud, rain, and inconveniences during a year of THHS construction; more complex setup.
Sacrifices
• Volunteers leading 2, then 3, then 4 services in 2 locations.
• People parking a half mile away in order to attend.
• During our “Possess Our Land” campaign, 467 families sacrificially gave an average of $6,700 in addition to their regular tithe in order to purchase land.
Miracles
• A last-minute gift of $250,000 from a visitor came in the day we had to close escrow (which made the deal possible).
• We traded our canyon property we purchased for $3.5 million for better property worth $9.5 million.
Lessons and Values that Shaped Saddleback
• Keep it simple, practical, portable, reproducible, and flexible!
• We cannot out-give God! God is faithful.
• It takes unselfish people to grow a church.
• Never give up! Keep believing what you can’t see.
• Love leaves no choice. As long as one person doesn’t know Jesus we must keep reaching out.
(1993–1995) Saddleback in a Tent
LOCATION: The Tent
DRAW: All of Orange County and some outside
Major Developments
• We launched Celebrate Recovery®.
• We launched our lay counseling ministry.
• We began expanding small groups.
• We developed the “point and play” format.
The Purpose Driven Church was published.
• We expanded international pastor training.
• The Toll Roads and Alicia Parkway extension opened.
Blessings
• Average attendance grew from 5,446 to 9,326 in 3 years.
• The sum total of those baptized reached 4,824 from 1980 to 1995.
Risks in Faith
• We spent millions on infrastructure—roads, water, electrical, grading—without any building yet.
• We started 17 Spanish-speaking churches in 1 year.
Tests
• We experienced bad weather and Marine jet noise during worship in the tent.
• 1993 Financial Crisis: Attendance jumped by 2,000 but the new attenders were not giving yet. The cost of caring for all these new people left a $100,000 a month deficit for most of the year.
Sacrifices
• Our pastors volunteered to take no salary during the crisis.
• During our “Time to Build” campaign, members sacrificially gave an average of $14,000 per family in addition to their regular tithe in order to build our Worship Center.
Miracles
• A surprise end-of-year gift of $1,000,000 paid off the deficit.
• There were hundreds of miracles recorded during “Time to Build” when half of our church visited the other half in home visits.
Lessons and Values that Shaped Saddleback
• Use it up, wear it out, make do, or do without.
• We’re tough. We can handle more than other churches.
• Pioneers don’t complain. We can put up with anything.
(1996–2005) Saddleback 4.0 in Lake Forest
LOCATION: Worship Center
DRAW: All across Southern California
Major Developments
• We opened the Ministry Center.
• We opened the bridge (second entrance).
• We opened the Children’s Center.
• We launched on-campus venues.
• We created 2 summer’s end fairs for the community.
• We created 6 campaigns: “Millennial Members,” “40 Days of Faith,” “40 Days of Love,” “40 Days of Purpose,” “40 Days of Community,” and PEACE.
The Purpose Driven® Life was published.
• We celebrated our 25th Anniversary at Angel Stadium.
• We added a fifth and sixth service.
Blessings
• Average attendance nearly doubled from 11,192 to 20,806.
• We baptized 14,831 new believers from 1996 to 2005.
Risks in Faith
• We launched the prototype of the Global PEACE initiative.
• We expanded Purpose Driven Ministries around the world.
Tests
• Keeping up with Saddleback’s explosive growth.
• We battled with the IRS on behalf of all churches—we won decisively.
• We transitioned from a small staff to a larger one.
Sacrifices
• During our “Building for Life” campaign, members and attenders sacrificially gave over $20,000,000 in addition to regular tithes to build Phase 3 of our campus.
• During our “For the Children” campaign members and attenders sacrificially gave $13.7 million in addition to their regular tithes to build Phase 4 of our campus.
Miracles
• Over 3,000 of our small groups participated in the “Miracle of Feeding” 42,000 homeless in Orange County—3 meals a day for 40 days!
The Purpose Driven® Life / 40 Days of Purpose became a global phenomenon.
• We received the gift of Williams Canyon property.
Lessons and Values that Shaped Saddleback
• It’s not about you! It’s all about God.
• This life is preparation for the next. Life is a test and a trust.
• We are blessed to be a blessing.
• We must care about the whole world.
(2006–2010) Saddleback Multi-Sites
LOCATION: Multi-campus/Small Groups
DRAW: Everywhere!
Major Developments
• We launched 7 regional Saddleback campuses: Anaheim, San Clemente, Irvine, Rancho Capistrano, Orange, Huntington Beach, Corona.
• We restructured our staff to combine and incorporate Purpose Driven® training into The PEACE Plan and coalition.
• We expanded our 4,800 small groups into 93 Southern California cities!
• ­We celebrated our 30th anniversary with 50,000 in attendance for Easter at Anaheim Stadium.
Risks in Faith
• Moving from a church in one location to a church in many locations.
• Giving to meet the needs of hurting through our PEACE Centers.
Miracles
• Saddleback members and attenders gave $48 million over their regular tithes in our “Extending the Vision” Campaign, part of which went to build our student center, the Refinery.
Tests
• The Great Recession of 2008 tried our growing church.
• Would we become satisfied and complacent?
Blessings
• Saddleback has more talented and mature volunteers using their SHAPE in ministry and mission than ever before, and our influence for God and for good—in our county, country, and the world—has never been greater. To God be the glory!
(2011–Now) Saddleback 6.0 Internationally
LOCATION: International Campuses/Small Groups
DRAW: Everywhere!
Major Developments
• We launched 14 regional Saddleback campuses: Anaheim, Aliso Viejo, Corona, Español, Irvine North and South, Laguna Woods, Los Angeles, Newport Mesa, Rancho Capistrano, San Clemente, San Diego, South Bay, and Yorba Linda.
• We launched 4 International campuses: Berlin, Germany; Buenos Aires, Argentina; Hong Kong, China; and Santa Rosa, Philippines.
• We opened the local PEACE center in December 2011.
• We launched All-Africa Initiative to take the Rwanda model to every country in Africa.
Miracles
• Our PEACE Teams went to every nation — 192 countries!
• We can see the end of “Finishing the Task” to reach all the unreached people groups in the world.
• 50,000th person baptized at Saddleback!
Tests
• Will Saddleback continue to serve Jesus, even through grief and loss?
• Will Saddleback 6.0 accept the challenge of “Decade of Destiny”?
Lessons and Values that Shaped Saddleback
• We are a second-chance grace place.
• We are an all-nation congregation.
SESSION
FOUR
Our Saddleback Family
BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP
“THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BEING A MEMBER AND AN ATTENDER MEANS BEING A PARTICIPATOR, NOT JUST A SPECTATOR, A BELONGER, NOT JUST A BYSTANDER, A CONTRIBUTOR, NOT JUST A CONSUMER.”
Let the peace of heart that comes from Christ be always present in your hearts and lives, for this is your responsibility and privilege as members of his body. And always be thankful.
COLOSSIANS 3:15 (TLB)
WHAT IS
THE CHURCH?
1. The church is a .
You should be like one big happy family, full of sympathy toward each other, loving one another with tender hearts and humble minds.
1 PETER 3:8 (TLB)
Galatians 6:10, Hebrews 2:10–12, 1 Peter 4:17
So we operate on the basis of not .
Don’t reprimand a senior member of your church, appeal to him as a father. Treat the young men as brothers, and the older women as mothers. Treat the younger women as sisters, and no more.
1 TIMOTHY 5:1–2 (PHILLIPS)
[A pastor] must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect. (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?)
1 TIMOTHY 3:4–5 (NIV)
2. The church is a .
1 Corinthians 12:27, Ephesians 5:23, Ephesians 1:22–23, Colossians 1:18, 2:19
We are a body, not a business! We are an organism, not an organization!
Therefore, we function on the basis of , not
.
For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us.
ROMANS 12:4–6 (NIV)
In an organization, “maintenance” becomes the focus. But in an organism, “ministry” is the focus.
At Saddleback we have a simple structure so we can maximize and minimize .
[God] gave . . . some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.
EPHESIANS 4:11–12 (NIV84)
What is our
structure?
The people are the .
The pastors are the .
Currently there are over different ministries in our church founded and operated by members.
3. The church is a .
This is Jesus’ favorite description of the church.
John 10:1–30, Matthew 26:31, Matthew 25:33
Therefore, it is cared for and led by .
Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”
JOHN 21:16 (NIV)
Three different terms are used in the New Testament to refer to the same church leaders:
“POIMEN” =
“PRESBUTEROS” =
“EPISCOPOS” =
To the elders among you . . . Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them.
1 PETER 5:1–2 (NIV)
Paul sent to Ephesus for the elders of the church. When they arrived, he said to them . . . “Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God.”
ACTS 20:17–18, 28 (NIV)
See also Titus 1:5–7, 1 Timothy 5:17.
WHY BECOME
A MEMBER?
1. It’s an act of obedience to Christ’s commands.
God expects every believer to join a local church. In fact, there are over 50 commands in the New Testament you cannot follow unless you commit to joining a local body of believers. Without a church family, you’re a spiritual orphan.
Be devoted to each other like a loving family.
ROMANS 12:10 (GW)
You are members of God’s very own family, citizens of God’s country, and you belong in God’s household with every other Christian.
EPHESIANS 2:19 (TLB)
2. It’s a counter-cultural choice that shows maturity.
Immaturity is the inability to make and keep commitments. Today’s culture promotes immaturity everywhere: “Keep your options open. . . don’t commit to a job, a marriage, a church. . . anything.” Even many believers have a superficial consumer’s attitude of “shopping and hopping”—attending different churches each week without being dedicated or loyal to any specific church family. You cannot build character without making commitments.
My friends, stop thinking like children. Think like mature people and be as innocent as tiny babies.
1 CORINTHIANS 14:20 (CEV)
Christ loved the church, and he gave his life for her.
EPHESIANS 5:25 (NLT96)
3. It’s a necessary step in your spiritual development.
First they gave themselves to the Lord; and then, by God’s will they gave themselves to us as well.
2 CORINTHIANS 8:5 (GNT)
They helped the believers grow in love for God and each other.
ACTS 14:22 (TLB)
4. It provides spiritual protection.
TO PASTORS:
Guard and [protect] the whole flock of God over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you overseers [and guardians]. [Care for and] shepherd the Church of God which He bought with His own blood.
ACTS 20:28 (AMP)
TO MEMBERS:
Obey your spiritual leaders, and do what they say. Their work is to watch over your souls, and they are accountable to God. Give them reason to do this with joy and not with sorrow. That would certainly not be for your benefit.
HEBREWS 13:17 (NLT)
OUR MODEL FOR
MEMBERSHIP:
THE FIRST CHURCH
What the First Christians Did in the Jerusalem Church
And every day, in the Temple and from house to house, they continued to teach and preach this message: “Jesus is the Messiah.”
ACTS 5:42 (NLT)
All the believers met together . . . and shared everything they had . . . They worshipedtogether regularly in the temple courts. They also met together in small groups in homes and fellowshipped with communion and eating together. They also shared whatever they had with joy and generosity. They praised God together and the whole city liked them so every day more people were saved, and the Lord added to the number of believers in the church.
ACTS 2:44, 46–47 (NLT)
1. They united into a congregation.
2. They shared to meet each other’s needs.
3. They worshiped in the Temple courts (multiple venues/campuses).
4. They met in small groups in homes for fellowship.
5. They celebrated communion.
6. They ate together.
7. They gave generously and joyfully.
8. They built a reputation for love.
9. They brought people to Christ every day.
10. Never stopped growing!
What Does It Mean to Be a Member of Saddleback?
The Bible is very clear about the privileges and responsibilities of belonging to a church family. These are spelled out in our Membership Covenant, which has been signed by over 40,000 people who are now members of our Saddleback family.
Having received Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior and been baptized by full immersion, and being in agreement with Saddleback’s statements, strategy, and structure, I now feel led by the Holy Spirit to unite with the Saddleback Church family. In doing so, I commit myself to God and to the other members to do the following:
1. I will protect the unity of my church.
• By acting in love towards other members
• By refusing to gossip and by resolving conflicts using Matthew 18:15–17
• By following the leaders
“If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back. But if you are unsuccessful, take one or two others with you and go back again, so that everything you say may be confirmed by two or three witnesses. If the person still refuses to listen, take your case to the church. Then if he or she won’t accept the church’s decision, treat that person as a pagan or a corrupt tax collector.”
MATTHEW 18:15–17 (NLT)
So let us concentrate on the things which make for harmony, and on the growth of one another’s character.
ROMANS 14:19 (PHILLIPS)
Live in complete harmony with each other—each with the attitude of Christ toward the other.
ROMANS 15:5 (TLB)
Now that by your obedience to the truth you have purified yourselves and have come to have a sincere love for other believers, love one another earnestly with all your heart.
1 PETER 1:22 (GNT)
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
EPHESIANS 4:29 (NIV)
Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls and will give an account for their work. Let them do this with joy and not with complaints, for this would be no advantage for you.
HEBREWS 13:17 (NET)
2. I will share the responsibility of my church.
• By praying for its growth
• By inviting the unchurched to attend
• By warmly welcoming those who visit
We always thank God for all of you and pray for you constantly.
1 THESSALONIANS 1:2 (NLT)
“ ‘Go out into the country lanes . . . and urge anyone you find to come, so that the house will be full.’ ”
LUKE 14:23 (TLB)
So warmly welcome each other into the church, just as Christ has warmly welcomed you; then God will be glorified.
ROMANS 15:7 (TLB)
3. I will serve the ministry of my church.
• By discovering my gifts and talents
• By being equipped by my pastors to serve
• By developing a servant’s heart
Serve one another with the particular gifts God has given each of you.
1 PETER 4:10 (PHILLIPS)
It was [God] who “gave gifts to people”; he appointed . . . others to be pastors and teachers. He did this to prepare all God’s people for the work of Christian service, in order to build up the body of Christ.
EPHESIANS 4:11–12 (GNT)
When you do things, do not let selfishness or pride be your guide. Instead, be humble and give more honor to others than to yourselves. Do not be interested only in your own life, but be interested in the lives of others. But [Christ] gave up his place with God and made himself nothing. He was born as a man and became like a servant.
PHILIPPIANS 2:3–4, 7 (NCV)
4. I will support the testimony of my church.
• By attending faithfully
• By living a growing and godly life
• By giving regularly
Let us not give up the habit of meeting together . . . let us encourage one another.
HEBREWS 10:25 (GNT)
But whatever happens, make sure that your everyday life is worthy of the Gospel of Christ.
PHILIPPIANS 1:27 (PHILLIPS)
On every Lord’s Day each of you should put aside something from what you have earned during the week.
1 CORINTHIANS 16:2 (TLB)
One-tenth of all crops belongs to the Lord, including the crops from fields and the fruit from trees. That one-tenth is holy to the Lord.
LEVITICUS 27:30 (NCV)
WHAT ARE MY NEXT STEPS?
The Purpose Driven Life Discovery Process
Congratulations! You have successfully completed the membership class. There are four questions you need to ask yourself to continue your journey on the purpose driven life development process.
1. Have you committed your life to Jesus Christ and trusted him for salvation?
2. Have you been baptized by immersion (under water) after you committed your life to Christ?
3. Have you completed Class 101: Discovering Our Church Family? You’ve just done that!
4. Do you desire to become a member of Saddleback Church and to abide by the Saddleback Membership Covenant?
We are praying the answer is yes to all four.
In this class, we’ve just barely scratched the surface of all that goes on at Saddleback Church. For a complete understanding of our history and our strategy read Pastor Rick’s book, The Purpose Driven Church.
Your next step is to take Class 201: Discovering My Spiritual Maturity.
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Answer Key
ANSWER KEY
SESSION ONE: OUR PURPOSE
God’s Five Purposes for Your Life On Earth
1. God planned me for HIS PLEASURE.
The first purpose of life is KNOWING AND LOVING GOD.
The Bible calls this WORSHIP.
2. God formed me for HIS FAMILY.
The second purpose of life is TO LOVE OTHERS.
The Bible calls this FELLOWSHIP.
3. God created me TO BECOME LIKE CHRIST.
The third purpose of life is GROWING TO MATURITY.
The Bible calls this DISCIPLESHIP.
4. God “shaped” me TO SERVE HIM.
SPIRITUAL GIFTS
HEART
ABILITIES
PERSONALITY
EXPERIENCES
The fourth purpose of life is TO SERVE GOD BY SERVING OTHERS.
The Bible calls this MINISTRY.
5. God made me FOR A MISSION.
The fifth purpose of life is TO TELL OTHERS ABOUT HIM.
The Bible calls this EVANGELISM.
The Big Key
I can’t fulfill God’s purposes BY MYSELF.
What Does It Mean to Be a Christian?
Why Am I Here?
God created me to LOVE me. We were created to ENJOY a personal relationship with God and to MANAGE all of the rest of God’s creation. This makes us special.
What’s the Problem?
People have a natural desire to BE THE BOSS and to ignore God’s principles for living. The Bible calls this attitude SIN.
What Does God Want Me to Do?
ADMIT that God has not been first place in your life and ask him to forgive your sins. BELIEVE that Jesus died to pay for your sins and that he rose again on Easter and is alive today. ACCEPT God’s free gift of salvation. Don’t try to earn it. INVITE Jesus Christ to come into your life and be the director (Lord) of your life.
Baptism: How You Identify with God’s Family
What is the Meaning of Baptism?
It illustrates Christ’s DEATH, BURIAL, and resurrection. It illustrates my NEW LIFE as a Christian. It demonstrates my INCORPORATION into Christ’s Body, the church.
Why Should I Be Baptized?
To follow the example set by JESUS CHRIST. Because Christ COMMANDED it. It shows that I really am a BELIEVER.
Why Be Baptized by Immersion?
Because JESUS was baptized that way. Every baptism in the BIBLE was by immersion. The word “baptize” means to SUBMERSE INTO water.
Who Should Be Baptized?
Every person who has BELIEVED in Christ.
The Lord’s Supper: Communion with God’s Family
What is the Lord’s Supper?
It is a SIMPLE ACT. It is a REMINDER. It is a SYMBOL. It is a STATEMENT OF FAITH.
Who Should Take the Lord’s Supper?
Only those who are already BELIEVERS (Mark 14:22–26).
SESSION TWO: OUR STRATEGY
Our Motto
A Great Commitment . . . to the Great COMMANDMENT and the Great COMMISSIONwill grow a Great Church!
Our S.a.d.d.l.e.b.a.c.k. Values
Our Distinctive Values
SECOND-CHANCE GRACE PLACE
ALL-NATION CONGREGATION
DOABLE DISCIPLESHIP
DELIBERATE PATHWAY TO GROWTH
LOVE IN ACTION
EMPOWERED MEMBERS
BOLD FAITH
AUTHENTIC FELLOWSHIP
CREATIVE OUTREACH
KID AND FAMILY FOCUSED
Our Faith Statement
Our Beliefs
In essential beliefs—we have UNITY.
In nonessential beliefs­—we allow LIBERTY.
In all our beliefs—we show CHARITY.
SESSION FOUR: OUR SADDLEBACK FAMILY
What is the Church?
The church is a FAMILY.
So we operate on the basis of RELATIONSHIPS not RULES.
The church is a BODY.
Therefore, we function on the basis of SPIRITUAL GIFTS, not ELECTED OFFICES.
At Saddleback we have a simple structure so we can maximize MINISTRY and minimize MAINTENANCE.
What Is Our Structure?
• The people are the MINISTERS.
• The pastors are the ADMINISTERS.
Currently there are over 500 different ministries founded and operated by our members.
The church is a FLOCK.
Therefore, it is cared for and led by SHEPHERDS.
“POIMEN” = PASTOR
“PRESBUTEROS” = ELDER
“EPISCOPOS” = OVERSEER / BISHOP
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