Guidelines for Hosts/Facilitators

Transcription

1 Guidelines for Hosts/Facilitators

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3 Guidelines for Hosts/Facilitators A key to the fulfillment of the purpose for this course is that individuals would catch the Lord s passion and open their homes to host a series of ten meetings and provide a comfortable intimate setting for an edifying corporate experience. Though it is not expected that the host have all the answers to everyone s questions, there is certainly a measure of responsibility for both the physical and spiritual atmosphere. For sure the material can be gone over on an individual basis. However, no less important than the choice of subjects to be considered, is the aspect of it being in a group setting. In recognition of this we deeply bless and thank you for receiving this call of the Spirit. Where it seemed appropriate, the subject matter is broken up into themes and thoughts focusing on particular points. There will likely be some statements and thoughts that are new. Some may be difficult, challenging, and even contrary to commonly-held understandings. Wherever the little logo appears is a suggested point for possible reflection and discussion. The bold statements are meant to be related to and the bold questions meant to be answered. The facilitator s task is simple and crucial. The hope is that everyone would show up with his or her thoughts, feelings, questions, problems, doubts and fears. It would be helpful to point out and emphasize the stopping points and simply ask the participants what they are thinking and feeling. Do they agree with what is written? Do they understand the point? Do they find it problematic? Generally speaking, at each point everyone should be encouraged to respond. You should not feel that you are expected to have the answer to people s questions or validate their statements. The empha- 1

4 sis is to help bring things out such that everyone is clear about what needs to be related to. Ideally no important point or principle issue should be set on the side to be considered at another time. It s more about digesting what is gone over than getting through all the material by a certain time. If we walk this way, when we get to the end of this road we will know how to share the process with others. The Spirit is birthing a grassroots movement. If we build right, stay small and go deep, we will experience a true multiplication and joining of resonant hearts so many have been longing for. In the end, God and God alone will get all the glory. What kind of person would be best to invite to be part of the group? The material is designed for those that have some awareness about Israel; people involved in Israel prayer groups would be good candidates friends of friends that desire to see things from God s perspective. those who are looking to gain a better understanding of the place of Israel historically, presently and prophetically. To identify potential participants asking a few specific questions will be helpful. Do you believe that Israel yet has a part to play in God s plan? Do you feel that you understand it in part but would like to go deeper? Would you be interested in participating in a small group for a ten-session course in a discussion format? 2

5 It would be helpful to state at the beginning that the discussions are not for the purpose of promoting or supporting a position, but for spending enough time to see the roots and ramifications of key Bible passages to be firmly established in what we believe. We strongly recommend that everyone read the weekly section at least once before meeting together. That shouldn t be difficult as none are very long. They should be encouraged to jot down any thoughts they have along the way. Once each participant has read the section, whether before or during the session, free open discussion should be encouraged. The goal is not that everyone would come to agreement on everything, but that all thoughts, ideas, and feelings would be expressed and held up to the light of Scripture. As a facilitator, it is important to not allow the discussion to get into a heated or pressured mode or be dominated by any individual. It is enough that things are brought out and left for the Holy Spirit to sort through in His time and way. Where there are bolded statements, it would be fitting to go around the room asking what people think. Some of the questions have simple answers, and others are a basis for discussion. Suggestions for questions at the end of a session: Were you impacted? How? What are you left with? How would you summarize the session? Was there something new? Did you get a different perspective on something? Did you come to any new understandings? Are you left with any open questions? Do you feel edified? Challenged? Encouraged? Excited? Disturbed? What emotions has this study brought up in you? 3

6 Suggestions for questions at the completion of the course: Was it a profitable experience? Do you feel closer to God? Do you think you better understand His thoughts and plans? Do you feel more connected to Israel? Would you recommend the course to others? Would you like to host a course? Suggestions for points for prayer: A need for more clarification and understanding For a renewed dedication to the passion of Father s heart A declaration of commitment to God s vision for Israel Repentance for not honoring the Word for not caring about what God cares about for being self-centered Practical Suggestions The Alpha Course found it very beneficial to begin the evening with a corporate meal. If possible, we would encourage following that pattern. Pot luck is always nice. The overall time of the gathering should be structured to allow fellowship over dinner, relating to the course material, and time for prayer. The facility should be comfortable in seating and climate. Either a living room setting or around a table could work. Good lighting is important. As the scope of the course expands, there will be local coordinators able to help the host/facilitators with any questions or problems. Presently any needs can be addressed to ewisrael@emmausway.org. The developers of the course can also be reached via the same address for any other questions or suggestions. Any participants interested in hosting a course can also contact the above address for information on how to obtain materials. To keep things simple, the suggested donation for the material is 4

7 10 whether Pounds, Euros or US dollars. Directions for forwarding the contributions will be provided. If desired, the facilitators may furnish the offering at receipt of the material or wait until it is collected from the participants. The development, translation, printing, distribution and administration of the course is a faith-based work. If the participants are particularly blessed and would like to make an additional contribution it would be helpful and appreciated. Please bear in mind that the goal is to come closer to Father to better understand His emotions, His thoughts, His plans and His perspectives. How does He feel? What does He see? What will He do? Surely we will be motivated to some manner of active response. However, first and foremost it is to know and understand His heart, that we might be truly united with Him and one another. We who have written down the information in these sessions were witnesses and participants in an era (60 s and 70 s) when a secular generation woke up and with one voice determined to do it differently. The desire for real change fell short of the goal because only a relatively small percentage found their way to the only One who could bring the peace we sought and give us new hearts and spirits. Such a move is today upon the Body of Messiah worldwide. As a great ship, the Body of Messiah has been traveling in a certain lane for a while. We have gathered a considerable degree of momentum over the last 2000 years. As we would recognize the need for change at a deep level, we must take into account that it takes time to turn such a vessel. To attempt a radical turn or stoppage would cause damage that could possibly be avoided. Shift and turn we must; of this there is no question. We have the sense that there is enough time to complete the work if we would just be fully concentrated on what the Spirit sets before us. By God s grace, from this coming awakening there will be no going back to sleep. 5

8 This course is one element of a wider vision for the development of the awaited new wineskin. The subjects of worship and ministry to God, relating as a healthy unified body, dealing with foundational issues of the heart, and discerning the prophetic hour will be addressed in a work entitled In Search of the Obvious a Hand Book for the New Wine Skin which is scheduled for release in early Please feel free to contact us if you think you might be interested in receiving a copy. For the Glory of His Name, Arni & Yonit Klein with friends on the way to Emmaus. ewisrael@emmausway.org