Circular Living: Half Circles (David Fitch)
This week’s study questions are based on David Fitch’s concept of the missional “half circle” from his March 5th sermon, and from the all-church study, “What Is The Church,” also by David Fitch.
The “half circle” is a space in which we enter as guests—as recipients of someone else’s hospitality. We allow God to use our gifts and strengths, sometimes along with other followers of Christ, to provide an embodied witness to the gospel love of Christ. Use the following questions to discover your half circle.
1. Rhythm: Trace your weekly rhythms.
What places do you regularly frequent that are inexpensive, accessible, and occupied by people?
Barber/Salon; Restaurant/Bar/Coffee Shop; Community Center; Gym/Recreation Center; Hospital; Park; School; Workplace; Other(s)
2. Strengths: Note your gifts and strengths.
What gifts and strengths do you bring into this place?
Listening; Serving/Helping; Encouragement; Faith; Discernment; Wisdom; Other(s)
3. Define your “Guesthood.”
What places may you be invited into that are not your own? How might you enter as a guest (a recipient of hospitality)?
4. Identify your Teammates
Who is the person or people who will go with you into these places?
Discuss the following questions, drawn from the “What Is the Church?” study, session 1.
What do you think is the main purpose of the Church today?
How would you describe the current state of St. Mark’s Community Church? For instance, is it growing or declining? Is it mainly composed of younger or older people?
Imagine if you believed in the Christian faith but never practiced it. What would your life as a Christian be like?
David Fitch defines the Church as “a community of practices which join people together in their submission to Jesus as Lord.” What happens to our beliefs when we ignore practices?
