Perspective New Members Guide

WELCOME TO

Burnt Hickory church of Christ

Were glad youve chosen to learn more about Burnt Hickory Church of Christ! The Perspective New Members Guide gives us the opportunity to share our Faith, Family, and Future with you. We are privileged to have people attend from many different church backgrounds; therefore, we have designed this guide to clarify our beliefs and practices as a church family.

THE BASIS FOR THIS GUIDE: So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, (Eph 2:19 ESV)

What Makes Burnt Hickory A Family? Four Things Unite Us

* Our Statement (Why we exist as a church). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 5

* Our Salvation (What God has done for us). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 11

* Our Strategy (How you fit in). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 19

* Our Structure (Where you connect) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 27

SECTION ONE

OUR STATEMENT
OUR MISSION
Teach Bible, Experience Community, Make Disciples

Our Statement

OUR EXPECTATIONS
Attend Sunday Worship, Join a Sunday Bible Class and Participate in a Growth Group.

Our mission is based on two key scriptures:

The Great Commission: Jesus said, Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in 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

The Great Commandment: Jesus said, 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 Prophets hang on these two commandments. Matthew 22:36-40 To Go and Make Disciples is sharing Gods word. (Make Disciples) To Teach Them is teaching Gods people. (Teach Bible) To Love the Lord and Love your Neighbor is showing God. (Experience Community) To do this With all your Heart... Soul... and Mind is desiring Gods standard. (Excellence)

I. WE EXIST TO SHARE GODS WORD MAKE DISCIPLES:

His intent was that through the church the manifold wisdom of God should be made known... Ephesians 3:10 for, Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? Romans 10:13-14 WHY OUR CHURCH MUST NEVER STOP GROWING 1. BECAUSE everybody

matters to God.

The Lord... is patient, not wanting anyone to perish, but wants everyone to come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9 (see also 2 Corinthians 5:14, Luke 15:3-10, Matt. 9:12-13) 2. BECAUSE we

are commanded to grow.

Then the master told his servant, Go out to the roads and country lanes and make them come in, so that my house will be full. Luke 14:23 ...you will be my witnesses... Acts 1:8 3. BECAUSE growth

is Gods will.

He has lost connection with the Head, from whom the whole body, supported and held together by its ligaments and sinews, grows as God causes it to grow. Colossians 2:19 (Jesus) I will build my church. Matthew 16:18

WE BELIEVE OUR CHURCH MUST GROW larger

(creating connections) AT THE SAME TIME.

(more people reached) AND smaller

II. WE EXIST TO TEACH GODS PEOPLE TEACH BIBLE:

Let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity Hebrews 6:1 Grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 3:18 (God has given) ... some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare Gods people for works of ministry, so that the Body of Christ may be built up until we all.., become mature... like Christ. Ephesians 4:11-13

THE HEARTBEAT OF BURNT HICKORY IS OUR worship

small groups, AND ministries.

services, Bible classes,

EVERY MEMBER IS ENCOURAGED TO BE A PART OF EACH. Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord. Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. 1 Corinthians 12:4-5, 27

At BURNT HICKORY EVERY MEMBER IS A: minister EVERY TASK IS: important EVERY MEMBER IS A 10 IN: some

area their gift(s)

The New Member Guide: Our Statement

I. WE EXIST TO SHOW GODS LOVE EXPERIENCE COMMUNITY:

By this shall all men know that you are my disciples - that you have love for one another. John 13:35 (See also 1 John 3:16-17, Matthew 25:34-40, Hebrews 13:16, Romans 12:13) WE SEEK TO BE A POSITIVE VOICE OF GODS TRUTH IN SECULAR SOCIETY. You are the salt of the earth... You are the light of the worldlike a city on a mountain, glowing in the night for all to see. Dont hide your light ...let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. Matthew 5:13-16 For God, who said, Let light shine out of darkness, made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. It is written: I believed; therefore I have spoken. With that same spirit of faith we also believe and therefore speak. 2 Corinthians 4:6, 7, 13

IV. WE EXIST TO DESIRE GODS STANDARD EXCELLENCE:

WE DETERMINE TO PURSUE EXCELLENCE IN ALL THINGS TO REFLECT THE ALL SURPASSING EXCELLENCE OF CHRIST JESUS. Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. Matthew 5:48 Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus. 1 Timothy 3:13 So it is with you. Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, try to excel in gifts that build up the church. 1 Corinthians 14:12

OUR SHARED BELIEFS

Herein is a non-exhaustive list of the core values of the faith and practice of this congregation, from the Holy Scriptures, and shared by its members. We believe in the eternal existence of a triune God; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (John 1:1-3, 14; Matthew 28:18-20; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). We believe the Bible is Gods divinely inspired Word and therefore should be sought and implemented into ones life (2 Timothy 3:16-17). We believe the Holy Spirit is active in the life of every baptized follower of Christ (Acts 2:38; Galatians 4:6; Romans 8:9-15). We believe in the deity of Christ and the redemptive work of His death, burial, and resurrection, which serves as the anchor of our everlasting hope (Matthew 28:1-6; 1 Corinthians 15:20-22; Hebrews 6:19-20). Therefore, through faith, repentance, confession, and believers baptism (immersion), a saving relationship is established between God and mankind. We are called Christians (Hebrews 11:6; John 8:24; Luke 13:3; Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:38; Acts 8:35-39; Colossians 2:12). Salvation results from the grace and mercy of God through Christ who calls us to obedience and holds us accountable to Him (Ephesians 2:8-9). We believe every soul will be resurrected to face divine judgment, resulting in either eternal life in heaven or eternal punishment in hell (John 5:28-29; Matthew 25:45-46; 2 Corinthians 5:10). We believe Christians are to Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3). We believe members are to assemble in order to praise God and encourage one another (Hebrews 10:25). During this time each Sunday we observe the Lords Supper (Acts 20:7), contribute financially, study Gods Word, pray and participate in a cappella singing (Ephesians 5:19-20). We believe all people are responsible to read and study Gods Word striving for unity in truth (Acts 17:11; 2 Peter 1:20-21). We believe the congregation should be led by elders (also called shepherds, bishops, pastor-teachers, and overseers) who actively display Godly qualities (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Ephesians 4:11-13; Titus 1:5-9). Other leaders in the congregation are ministers, deacons, and teachers (James 4:1; 1 Corinthians 12:12-31; Ephesians 4:16). We believe these leaders have the responsibility to equip Christians for meaningful service in Gods Kingdom (Ephesians 4:11-16). We believe every member (who is physically and mentally able) should be active in the mission and vision of the church (I Corinthians 12:14). We believe children are to be reared in the training and instruction of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4).

The New Member Guide: Our Statement

OUR SALVATION
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 Gods purpose for their lives. The most basic question a person can ask is, What is the meaning of my life? Too many peoples lives are like a cast of characters in search of a plot. 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 & power. But real happiness comes from understanding my

SECTION TWO

Our Salvation

PURPOSE IN LIFE I. WHY AM I HERE?

1. GOD MADE ME TO Love ME!
Jeremiah 31:3

God says, I have loved you with an everlasting love!

According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, (Eph 1:4-5 ESV)

2.

WE WERE CREATED TO enjoy A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH

GOD AND TO

manage ALL OF THE REST OF GODS CREATION!

So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him And God blessed them. And God said to them fill the earth and subdue it and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth. (Gen 1:27-28 ESV) God richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 1 Timothy 6:17 Jesus said, I have come in order that you might have life - life in all its fullness. John 10:10

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3. WHEN WE KNOW AND LOVE GOD, AND LIVE IN HARMONY WITH HIS PURPOSE FOR OUR LIVES, IT PRODUCES TREMENDOUS BENEFITS IN OUR LIFE:
Clear Conscience Romans 8:1 Purpose Romans 8:28 Power & Strength Philippians 4:13 Life & Peace Romans 8:6 Confidence Romans 8:31 Fulfillment Philippians 4:19 Help with Weakness Romans 8:26 Security Romans 8:39 Freedom John 8:32,36

This is the kind of lifestyle God intends for us to live. Why then arent most people really happy?

II. WHATS THE PROBLEM?

Man has a natural desire to be

in control and to ignore Gods principles for living.

Look out for #1. Do your own thing. If it feels good, do it - regardless of what God says about it. Its my life and Ill do what I please! THE BIBLE CALLS THIS ATTITUDE: Sin All of us, like sheep, have gone astray, and each of us has turned to his own way. Isaiah 53:6 If we say that we never sin, we are only fooling ourselves, and refuse to accept the truth. 1 John 1:8 Sin breaks our close relationship with God. It causes us to fear God and try to live our lives outside of His will. But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear. Isaiah 59:2 For all have sinned and fall short of Gods glorious ideal. Romans 3:23 WHEN PEOPLE HAVE PROBLEMS, THEY OFTEN TRY MANY DIFFERENT WAYS OF COPING BEFORE TURNING TO GOD. There are ways that SEEM right to man, but they only end in death. Proverbs 16:25

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Even when we know that our deepest need is God, we often try wrong ways of getting to know Him: My mother was a Christian so... It doesnt matter what you believe, just be sincere. Ill give up all my bad habits. Ill work real hard and earn it. Ill be religious and go to church. Salvation by heritage Salvation by sincerity Salvation by subtraction Salvation by works Salvation by religion

III. WHATS THE SOLUTION?

Jesus Christ said, I AM THE WAY, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father, except THROUGH ME! John 14:6

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 a Person!

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

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 God is on one side and all people are on the other side, and Christ Jesus is between them to bring them together, by giving His life for all mankind 1 Timothy 2:5 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.

The New Member Guide: Our Salvation

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IV. WHAT DOES GOD WANT ME TO DO?

Jesus said, Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. (Matthew 11:28-30) God wants us to return to a committed relationship with Him. Like all relationships, the Bible describes this as a five stage process. Common Relationship Stages Meet a Person Bible Parallel Hear Gods word Romans 10:17

Development of Trust

Faith in Him Hebrews 11:6

Change Normal Behaviors

Repentance Acts 26:20

Acknowledge the Relationship

Confession of Belief Romans 10:9, 10

Marriage/Contract

Baptism 1 Peter 3:21

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THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING BAPTIZED I. WHY SHOULD I BE BAPTIZED?

1. FOLLOW THE EXAMPLE SET BY Jesus.

At that time Jesus came from Nazareth and was baptized by John in the river. Mark 1:9 2. BECAUSE CHRIST Commanded IT.

Jesus said, Go then, to all people everywhere and make them my disciples, baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and then teach them to obey everything I have commanded you. Matthew 28:19-20 3. IT DEMONSTRATES THAT I REALLY AM A

Believer.

...many of the people who heard Him believed and were baptized. Acts 18:8 We know that we have come to know Him, if we obey His commands. 1John 2:3

II. WHAT IS THE MEANING OF BAPTISM?

1. IT ILLUSTRATES CHRISTS DEATH, Burial AND RESURRECTION.

Christ died for our sins.. He was buried.. and He rose again. 1 Corinthians. 15:3-4 For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ. Colossians 2:12 Dont you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection. For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin. Romans 6:3-6 2. IT ILLUSTRATES MY New

Life AS A CHRISTIAN.

When someone becomes a Christian he becomes a brand new person inside. The old life has passed away and a new life has begun! 2 Corinthians 5:17 By our baptism then, we were buried with Him and shared His death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead... so also we may live a new life! Romans 6:4

The New Member Guide: Our Salvation

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3. IT IS THE Point WHERE ALL OF GODS PROMISES ARE RECEIVED WHEN PRECEDED BY FAITH, REPENTANCE AND CONFESSION. Peter replied, Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:38 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. They devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Acts 2:41 He said to them, Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. Mark 16:15-16

III. WHY BE BAPTIZED BY IMMERSION?

1. BECAUSE Jesus WAS BAPTIZED BY IMMERSION.

As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water. Matthew 3:16 2. EVERY BAPTISM IN THE New

Testament WAS BY IMMERSION.

(Example) ...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 3. THE WORD BAPTIZE MEANS TO Dip

Under WATER.

The Greek word baptizo means to immerse or dip under water. 4. IT BEST SYMBOLIZES A DEATH, BURIAL AND RESURRECTION!

The founders of denominations agree: Martin Luther (Lutheran Church)... I would have those who are to be baptized to be entirely immersed, as the word imports and the mystery signifies. John Calvin (Presbyterian Church) The word baptize signifies to immerse. It is certain that immersion was the practice of the ancient church. John Wesley (Methodist Church) Buried with Him, alludes to, baptizing by immersion according to the custom of the first church. Brenner (Catholic Church) For thirteen hundred years was baptism an immersion of the person under water.

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IV. WHO SHOULD BE BAPTIZED?

EVERY PERSON WHO HAS Believed IN CHRIST SHOULD BE BAPTIZED. Those who believed and accepted His message were baptized. Acts 2:41 Simon himself believed and was baptized... Acts 8:13 But when they believed Philip as he preached the Good News... and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Acts 8:12 At Burnt Hickory, 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, and be obedient to Gods plan for salvation. At Burnt Hickory, it is a membership requirement that every member must have been baptized the way Jesus demonstrated, even though many of us may have been confirmed as children.

V. WHEN SHOULD I BE BAPTIZED?

AS SOON AS YOU HAVE BELIEVED! Those who believed.. were baptized.. that day! Acts 2:41 Then Philip began with the Scripture and told him the Good News about Jesus. As they traveled along the road, they came to some water, and the man said, Look, here is water! Why shouldnt I be baptized right now? Philip said, If you believe with all your heart, you may. The man answered, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God So they went down into the water and Philip baptized him. Acts 8:35-38 There is no reason to delay. As soon as you believe in Christ you can and should be baptized. If you wait until you are perfect youll never be good enough!

The New Member Guide: Our Salvation

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Can my family be baptized together? Yes, if each family member understands fully 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 are asked to meet with our Minister of Youth for a pre-baptism conversation. However, it is important to remember that baptism is a personal statement of faith, not a family tradition. It is 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. What should I wear when I am baptized? Its not important what you wear. We provide changing rooms, baptismal robes, towels and hair dryers. Will I have to say anything? You will be asked to affirm the Good Confession, That Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God and is your Lord and Savior. We encourage you to invite all your relatives and friends to attend your baptism.

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OUR STRATEGY
THE BURNT HICKORY STRATEGY
Burnt Hickorys Commitment Rings

SECTION THREE

Our Strategy

Your Spiritual Journey at Burnt Hickory At Burnt Hickory, we believe becoming a follower of Christ is a decision that is followed by a process. We make a decision to accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior and then begin the process of changing our lives to become more and more like Him. It is this process of continually growing to become more fully devoted to Him that is often confusing for new followers of Christ. Becoming a fully devoted follower of Christ is a life long spiritual journey that is taken one step at a time. The following graphic will serve as a road map to help you understand some of the steps that you should take as you begin Your Spiritual Journey at Burnt Hickory.

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Regular Attender

Become a Member
Attend

Maturing Member

Ministering Member

Transfer or Seeker

Guest Welcome Luncheon

and read

Worship

Bible Class

Community Impact

Perspective New Members Guide

Growth Group

I. You Are Special, Unique, and have a Purpose

Most church members in America might better be called consumers than Christ Converts! 1. WE ARE CALLED INTO FULL-TIME MINISTRY. And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ. (Ephesians 4:11-12 ESV) But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. (1Peter 2:9 ESV) Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, What shall we eat? or What shall we drink? or What shall we wear? For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. (Matthew 6:25-34 ESV)

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2. WE ARE UNIQUELY GIFTED FOR GODS WORK.

As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of Gods varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies -- in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. (1 Peter 4:10-11 ESV) For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them. (Romans 12:4-6 ESV) But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. (1 Corithians 12:18 ESV) 3. YOU WERE GIVEN FULL-TIME GIFTS FOR FULL-TIME MINISTRY. Paul wrote, This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time. For this I was appointed a preacher and an apostle, a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. (1Timothy 2:3-7 ESV) After this Paul left Athens and went to Corinth. And he found a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had commanded all the Jews to leave Rome. And he went to see them, and because he was of the same trade he stayed with them and worked, for they were tentmakers by trade. (Act 18:1-3 ESV) God often disguises His ministers as tentmakers, police officers, teachers, and engineers to reach out into the lost world with His message.

II. Discovering your S.H.A.P.E.

As we have seen, God has uniquely gifted you for a special role in His body at Burnt Hickory. Some people can sense their placement and others need help finding that special place. The leaders at Burnt Hickory believe that every member can have a 10 experience as an active, rightly placed member. So, why do so many people get burned out with volunteerism in churches? We believe it is because many churches emphasize the wrong thing. We were a good example of this. We used to try to place people into one of our open positions. Now, we try to create the right position for the people God has sent our way. We have shifted our emphasis from filling positions to fulfilling people. As Isaiah the Old Testament prophet wrote, But now, O LORD, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand. (Isaiah 64:8 ESV) Discovering what the master craftsman has uniquely made you to be is exciting. After years of administering spiritual gifts inventories, we have learned
The New Member Guide: Our Strategy 21

that theres more to finding your special place than just knowing your giftedness. We have adopted the acronym S.H.A.P.E. to assist you in finding what God has crafted you to be as an active member of the Burnt Hickory family. S.H.A.P.E. stands for: S piritual Gifts the unique abilities that you have to equip or serve others for God H eart the passion that makes getting up in the morning exciting and worthwhile A bilities the natural talents you have that enable you to accomplish things P ersonality the qualities that impact the way you relate to others E xperiences the resources of lifes experiences that give you special perspective

What follows, will help you discover your S.H.A.P.E. Later you will be asked to complete a Get Connected form which will ask for a summary of the information.

III. Spiritual Gifts Survey

This is not a test, so there are no wrong answers. The Spiritual Gifts Survey consists of 80 statements. Some items reflect concrete actions; other items are descriptive traits; and still others are statements of belief. Select the one response you feel best characterizes yourself and place that number in the blank provided. Record your answer in the blank beside each item. Do not spend too much time on any one item. Remember, it is not a test. Usually your immediate response is best. Please give an answer for each item. Do not skip any items. Do not ask others how they are answering or how they think you should answer. Work at your own pace. Your response choices are: 5 Highly characteristic of me/definitely true for me 4 Most of the time this would describe me/be true for me 3 Frequently characteristic of me/true for meabout 50 percent of the time 2 Occasionally characteristic of me/true for meabout 25 percent of the time 1 Not at all characteristic of me/definitely untrue for me
______ 1. ______ 2. ______ 3. ______ 4. ______ 5. ______ 6. ______ 7. ______ 8. ______ 9. ______ 10. ______ 11. ______ 12. ______ 13. ______ 14. ______ 15. ______ 16. ______ 17. ______ 18. ______ 19. ______ 20. ______ 21. I have the ability to organize ideas, resources, time, and people effectively. I am willing to study and prepare for the task of teaching. I am able to relate the truths of God to specific situations. I have a God-given ability to help others grow in their faith. I possess a special ability to communicate the truth of salvation. I have the ability to make critical decisions when necessary. I am sensitive to the hurts of people. I experience joy in meeting needs through sharing possessions. I enjoy studying. I have delivered Gods message of warning and judgment. I am able to sense the true motivation of persons and movements. I have a special ability to trust God in difficult situations. I have a strong desire to contribute to the establishment of new churches. I take action to meet physical and practical needs rather than merely talking about or planning to help. I enjoy entertaining guests in my home. I can adapt my guidance to fit the maturity of those working with me. I can delegate and assign meaningful work. I have an ability and desire to teach. I am usually able to analyze a situation correctly. I have a natural tendency to encourage others. I am willing to take the initiative in helping other Christians grow in their faith.

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______ 22. ______ 23. ______ 24. ______ 25. ______ 26. ______ 27. ______ 28. ______ 29. ______ 30. ______ 31. ______ 32. ______ 33. ______ 34. ______ 35. ______ 36. ______ 37. ______ 38. ______ 39. ______ 40. ______ 41. ______ 42. ______ 43. ______ 44. ______ 45. ______ 46. ______ 47. ______ 48. ______ 49. ______ 50. ______ 51. ______ 52. ______ 53. ______ 54. ______ 55. ______ 56. ______ 57. ______ 58. ______ 59. ______ 60. ______ 61. ______ 62. ______ 63. ______ 64. ______ 65. ______ 66. ______ 67. ______ 68. ______ 69. ______ 70. ______ 71. ______ 72. ______ 73. ______ 74. ______ 75. ______ 76. ______ 77. ______ 78. ______ 79. ______ 80.

I have an acute awareness of the emotions of other people, such as loneliness, pain, fear, and anger. I am a cheerful giver. I spend time digging into facts. I feel that I have a message from God to deliver to others. I can recognize when a person is genuine/honest. I am a person of vision (a clear mental portrait of a preferable future given by God). I am able to communicate vision in such a way that others commit to making the vision a reality. I am willing to yield to Gods will rather than question and waver. I would like to be more active in getting the gospel to people in other lands. It makes me happy to do things for people in need. I am successful in getting a group to do its work joyfully. I am able to make strangers feel at ease. I have the ability to plan learning approaches. I can identify those who need encouragement. I have trained Christians to be more obedient disciples of Christ. I am willing to do whatever it takes to see others come to Christ. I am attracted to people who are hurting. I am a generous giver. I am able to discover new truths. I have spiritual insights from Scripture concerning issues and people that compel me to speak out. I can sense when a person is acting in accord with Gods will. I can trust in God even when things look dark. I can determine where God wants a group to go and help it get there. I have a strong desire to take the gospel to places where it has never been heard. I enjoy reaching out to new people in my church and community. I am sensitive to the needs of people. I have been able to make effective and efficient plans for accomplishing the goals of a group. I often am consulted when fellow Christians are struggling to make difficult decisions. I think about how I can comfort and encourage others in my congregation. I am able to give spiritual direction to others. I am able to present the gospel to lost persons in such a way that they accept the Lord and His salvation. I possess an unusual capacity to understand the feelings of those in distress. I have a strong sense of stewardship based on the recognition that God owns all things. I have delivered to other persons messages that have come directly from God. I can sense when a person is acting under Gods leadership. I try to be in Gods will continually and be available for His use. I feel that I should take the gospel to people who have different beliefs from me. I have an acute awareness of the physical needs of others. I am skilled in setting forth positive and precise steps of action. I like to meet visitors at church and make them feel welcome. I explain Scripture in such a way that others understand it. I can usually see spiritual solutions to problems. I welcome opportunities to help people who need comfort, consolation, encouragement, and counseling. I feel at ease in sharing Christ with nonbelievers. I can influence others to perform to their highest God-given potential. I recognize the signs of stress and distress in others. I desire to give generously and unpretentiously to worthwhile projects and ministries. I can organize facts into meaningful relationships. God gives me messages to deliver to His people. I am able to sense whether people are being honest when they tell of their religious experiences. I enjoy presenting the gospel to persons of other cultures and backgrounds. I enjoy doing little things that help people. I can give a clear, uncomplicated presentation. I have been able to apply biblical truth to the specific needs of my church. God has used me to encourage others to live Christ like lives. I have sensed the need to help other people become more effective in their ministries. I like to talk about Jesus to those who do not know Him. I have the ability to make strangers feel comfortable in my home. I have a wide range of study resources and know how to secure information. I feel assured that a situation will change for the glory of God even when the situation seems impossible.

The New Member Guide: Our Strategy

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INSTRUCTIONS: The light gray numbers on this grid correspond

to the statements in the Spiritual Gifts Inventory on the previous

record the sum of the values of each row on the totals column.

TOTAL Administration Apostleship Discernment Evangelism Exhortation Faith Giving Hospitality Knowledge Leadership Mercy Prophecy Service/Helps Shepherding Teaching Wisdom 1 13 11 5 20 12 8 15 9 6 7 10 14 4 2 3 17 29 26 36 34 28 23 32 24 16 22 25 30 21 18 19 31 44 41 51 49 42 38 45 39 27 37 40 46 35 33 48 47 57 55 64 63 56 53 60 68 43 52 54 58 50 61 62 59 71 70 77 75 80 67 78 79 65 66 69 72 76 73 74

The gifts I have begun to discover in my life are (These are the three highest scores from above): 1. ________________________________________________________________________ 2. ________________________________________________________________________ 3. ________________________________________________________________________

IV. Heart

I love to (Check all that apply.) Communicate Create Design/Develop Improve Things Influence Others Involve People Lead/Be in Charge Meet New People Operate/Maintain Things

statement on this grid. When you have copied all the values,

pages. Copy the value you wrote beside the corresponding

Organize Perform Before Others Pioneer New Efforts Repair Stuff Research/Learn Serve/Help Others Solve Problems

V. Abilities

(Check all that apply) Artistic/Graphics Arts and Crafts Counseling Counting/Classifying Decorating Evaluating Feeding Interviewing Landscaping Managing Mechanical Musical
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Planning Promoting Public Relations Recruiting Repairing Researching Teaching Welcoming Writing/Editing

VI. Personality
(Mark where you fall on each of the four scales below.) How are you energized? What recharges your inner batteries?

Extrovert I get energy from being with people. working with a team. focusing on what is happening around me.

Introvert I get energy from having time alone. working alone or one-on-one. focusing on what is happening inside me.

Extrovert Introvert 3 2 1 | 1 2 3

Routine

What kinds of tasks do you prefer?

I like tasks that are predictable. are similar every day. required more action than decision.

Variety I like tasks that are unpredictable. are different every day. require many decisions.

Routine Variety 3 2 1 | 1 2 3

Self-Controlled I like to reflect before I speak. be in control of my moods. restrain my reactions.

How expressive are you?

Self-Expressive

I like to express openly what I think. express openly what I feel. feel deeply and think strongly.

Self-Controlled Self-Expressive 3 2 1 | 1 2 3

Cooperative

How do you usually relate to others?

I like to work together. aim for a shared goal. enjoy the process as much as the goal.

Competitive I like to compete against an opponent. aim for a goal. celebrate victory. win.

Cooperative Competitive 3 2 1 | 1 2 3
The New Member Guide: Our Strategy 25

VII. Experiences
(Give brief description(s)) Spiritual

Painful

Educational

Vocational

Minister/Service

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OUR STRUCTURE
For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. But all things should be done decently and in order. 1Corinthians 14:33a, 40 HOW OUR CHURCH IS STRUCTURED

SECTION FOUR

Our Structure

The structure of the church should not be determined by culture, business practices, or even denominational traditions. THE NATURE OF THE CHURCH DETERMINES ITS STRUCTURE 1. THE CHURCH IS A fellowship .

And they devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. Acts 2:42 ESV A TOP PRIORITY IN A FELLOWSHIP IS harmony AND unity . eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:3 So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding. Romans 14:19 ANY attitude that causes disunity is sin.

Colossians 3:15; 1 Corinthians 1:10; 2 Timothy 2:14; Pr. 17:14; 2 Corinthians 13:11; Philippians 1:27, 2:1-3; Colossians 2:2, Philippians 4:2; 1 Peter 3:8; 1 Corinthians 14:33; John 13: 34-35; 2 Timothy 2:23; Romans 15:5-6; Romans 12:16-18; Colossians 3:13-14; Psalm 133:1 IMPLICATION: A GOOD STRUCTURE PROMOTES UNITY AND DOWNPLAYS differences .

But in the following instructions I do not commend you, because when you come together it is not for the better but for the worse. For, in the first place, when you come together as a church, I hear that there are divisions among you. 1 Corinthians11:17-18 VOTING TENDS TO divide us .

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2. THE CHURCH IS family . Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. 1 Peter 3:8 (See also Galatians 6:10, Hebrews 2:10-12, 1 Peter 4:17) SO WE OPERATE ON THE BASIS OF relationship NOT rules . Do not rebuke an older man but encourage him as you would a father, younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, younger women as sisters, in all purity. 1 Timothy 5:1-2 [An Elder] He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for Gods church? 1 Timothy 3:45 3. THE CHURCH IS A body . 1 Corinthians 12:27; Ephesians 1:22-23, 5:23; 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 spiritual gifts NOT elected officers . For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them. Romans 12:4-6 In an organization maintenance becomes the focus. But in an organism ministry is the focus. AT BURNT HICKORY WE HAVE A SIMPLE STRUCTURE SO WE CAN MAXIMIZE ministry AND MINIMIZE maintenance . And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ. Ephesians 4:11-12 OUR STRUCTURE The Members are the ministers The Leaders (Elders, Ministers, Deacons) are the administers

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4. THE CHURCH IS A flock . (Jesus favorite description of the Church) John 10:1-30; Matthew 26:31; Matthew 25:33 THEREFORE IT IS CARED FOR AND LED BY Shepherds (elders) . Different terms are used in the New Testament to refer to the same church leaders: PRESBUTEROS EPISCOPOS: POMAINO

So I exhort the elders among you shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight 1 Peter 5:1-2 [Paul] sent to Ephesus and called the elders of the church to come to him. And when they came to him, he said to them Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood. Acts 20:17-18, 28 See also Titus 1:5-7; 1 Timothy 5:17 WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A MEMBER The difference between attenders and members can be summed up in one word: commitment . At Burnt Hickory, we recognize the need for a formal membership. We ask you to commit to membership for 5 reasons: A Biblical Reason: Christ is committed to the church. ...Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her. Ephesians 5:25 A Cultural Reason: It is an antidote to our society. We live in an age where very few want to be committed to anything... a job.., a marriage.., our country. Membership swims against the current of Americas consumer religion. It is an unselfish decision. A Practical Reason: It defines who can be counted on. Every team must have a roster. Every school must have an enrollment. Every business has a payroll. Every army has an enlistment. Even our country takes a census and requires voter registration. Membership identifies our family. A Personal Reason: It produces spiritual growth. The New Testament places a major emphasis on the need for Christians to be accountable to each other for spiritual growth. You cannot be accountable when youre not committed to any specific church family. A Spiritual Reason: We give primary shepherding care and first assistance to individuals and families who are members at Burnt Hickory.
The New Member Guide: Our Structure 29

HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER? 1. Read all four sections of The New Member Guide. We believe it is important that you have a full understanding of who and what a congregations is before you commit to it. The New Member Guide has been designed to give you this orientation. 2. Be baptized as a believer by immersion for the forgiveness of your sins. We recognize this kind of baptism from other places. If you have been baptized through a different mode, i.e., sprinkling, pouring, christening, for a different reason, i.e., to join a church, or without your own faith, i.e., you were an infant, to satisfy someone other than God, we believe you need to be baptized. If you have questions about this teaching, please let us know. It would be our privilege to sit down with you and discuss this further. 3. Begin participate in Sunday am worship, an Sunday Bible class and be ready to join a growth group. As James said, So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead (James 2:17). Being a member of a church family is more that a statement; it is commitment to the good of the whole. 4. Complete the Get Connected form and let us know your intent. It is our honor to have you as a brother or sister in the family of God. We would like to receive a family photo from you (or we will be happy to make arrangements to take your family photo) and then formally introduce you to the church family at the next worship opportunity. You can complete the Get Connected form online at www.burnthickory.org. You will need this guide to complete the online form. As you will discover, you will be asked to share with us much of the information you collected on yourself in section 3 of this guide. Look to the right side of the home page for the following hyper link:

If you prefer, you can use the included Get Connected form and simply return it to the church office. We are here to assist you to the best of our ability. If you have additional questions or need clarification about anything in this guide or what to do next, please contact Mike our Connections Minister. Mike Sparks Connections Minister Cell 678 910-9892 E-mail masparksga@gmail.com Office 678 354-4905

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