“Christian Conversations”
A Sermon Series with Intentional Small Group Discussions

Conversations about important topics swirl around us. First Baptist Church is providing an opportunity to discuss some of these topics in a Christian format.

From Sunday, Oct. 15 through Sunday, Nov. 12, Pastor Noel will preach a 5-part sermon series called “Christian Conversations.” Each sermon will seek to inform and inspire further conversation about a certain topic. Subsequent to each sermon, small groups will hold a structured one-hour discussion on that week’s topic. The schedule for the series will be:

Oct. 15: “How Can Christians Have Disagreement Without Division?”

Oct. 22: “How Do Christians View the End Times?”

Oct. 29: “How Should Christians Relate to Muslims?”

Nov. 5: “How Does Christian Faith Apply to Ecological Concerns?”

Nov. 12: “How Does Holy Scripture Relate to LGBTQ Persons?”

The purpose of this program is fivefold: 1) to address topics that many church members have indicated interest in, 2) to model a distinctly Christian approach to discussing controversial topics, 3) to grow in our faith individually and collectively, 4) to practice the priesthood of all believers by sharing the ministry of the word with one another, and 5) to maintain unity in Christ amid our disagreements. The purpose of the program is not to take a congregational vote or to achieve agreement on everything.

Guiding Covenant for Christian Conversations: G-R-A-C-E **

Generating trust and confidentiality within the group.

Respecting each person as a child of God.

Allowing for individuals to speak openly and honestly.

Creating a safe, non-threatening space for Christian conversation.

Employing the Baptist practice of the priesthood of all believers by offering and receiving insights in a spirit of mutuality.

*Sunday groups will meet at 5:00 p.m. on Oct. 22 because our Fall Festival is from 3:00-5:00 that day.

** This covenant is adapted from materials produced by First Baptist Church, Athens, GA.