Group Resources
These are suggested resources but by no means an exhaustive list of possibilities. The sky is the limit when it comes to valuable resources that will enrich the lives of your group members. Please let us know of any resources your group would like to recommend to others.
Groups are responsible for purchasing their own materials. A number of books and studies have accompanying participants’ guides, leader guides and DVD teaching available as well. However, if you find your group prefers a simpler approach, most books these days have Reflection Questions that can be used in a group setting to facilitate discussion. Or why not have your group members take turns writing discussion questions for each gathering.
Group Resources
(** Indicates DVD teaching AVAILABLE for checkout from MHCC Life Groups resource library)
**NOOMA DVDs
We have 18 volumes of these 10- to 15-minute video segments by Rob Bell. Each short film Great as an ongoing study or to fill in between studies. The real-life situations depicted in the films, coupled with well-written reflection questions, spark meaningful discussion. Good for any group but especially effective for seekers. Check them out at http://www.nooma.com.
**The Life You’ve Always Wanted by John Ortberg
Based on the best-selling book, this six-session study helps participants move past the status quo to the abundant life that Christ offers by exploring the ancient path of spiritual disciplines.
**Song of Solomon Study by Tommy Nelson
For singles as well as engaged or married couples, this 11-session study based on the life of Solomon delves into key relationship issues from dating and courtship to marriage, commitment, intimacy and dealing with conflict.
**40 Days of Purpose with Rick Warren
Based on The Purpose-Driven Life, this six-week study has helped millions of people discover the answer to the universal question, “What on earth am I here for?” For those who have been believers for a long time, the study is a reminder of the five purposes for which we were created by God.
**Rendezvous: A Sacred Encounter with God by Frank Moore
This six-week study based on the book is about becoming aware of Christ’s presence in all aspects of life so that we can encounter Him in our personal life, our closest relationships, our friendships, our faith community and in our world.
**The Jesus I Never Knew by Philip Yancey
This 6-session study based on Yancey’s best-selling book is a life-changing look at the life of Christ and why anyone who meets Him will never be the same. Yancey explores the miracles of Christ as well as His grace, his teaching, His death and resurrection.
ReGroup by Henry Cloud, Bill Donahue, and John Townsend
A unique DVD study with accompanying participant guides that teaches groups how to function in a healthy way, leading group members to more authentic relationship which fosters personal growth. There are four 60-minute sessions on the foundations of group life and thirteen 5- to 10-minute coaching segments on such topics a prayer, encouraging others and active listening. Flexible format that can be used in conjunction with another study or activity. Great resource to help launch a new group.
Boundaries with Teens by John Townsend
This book gives parents of teens practical, biblically based wisdom for raising teenagers. Townsend covers such topics as dealing with disrespect and misbehavior, setting healthy limits and consequences, and developing strategies to deal with common adolescent problems.
Boundaries with Kids by Henry Cloud & John Townsend
Cloud & Townsend offer ten basic principles that help parents raise kids who know how to take control of their actions, attitudes and emotions. Both practical and biblically sound, this book presents logical strategies for instilling the kind of character in your children that will help them lead healthy, balanced adult lives.
The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman
Great study for couples. This is a classic book that helps couples understand their unique love languages so that they can fulfill one another’s needs in meaningful, satisfying ways. There’s also an edition to help parents understand their child’s love language—The Five Love Languages of Children.
Sacred Marriage by Gary Thomas
What if your marriage were more than a sacred covenant with another person? Thomas shows how your marriage is an avenue God desires to use to deepen your relationship with Him. Includes questions for small group discussion.
Sacred Pathways by Gary Thomas
This book has moved many believers into a closer, more dynamic relationship with Christ by making readers aware of the unique way they most naturally encounter and love Him. Thomas explores the various spiritual temperaments and reveals how to nurture spiritual health by engaging in the sacred pathways that bring you closest to Christ. Free study guide at http://www.garythomas.com/html/studyguides/SacredPathways.pdf.
The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen
Inspired by Rembrandt’s painting of the powerful Gospel story, Nouwen writes a beautifully inspiring book that will change forever the way you experience the story of the prodigal son. You will be deeply moved as you see yourself in the middle of the story as both the prodigal son and the older brother. And you will find rest in the arms of the Father who waits for you. An excellent study guide is available for free download at http://www.synodresourcecenter.org/pg/bible_studies/devotional/0002/prodigal_son.html
An Arrow Pointing to Heaven by James Bryan Smith
Smith writes about the life of his friend singer-songwriter Rich Mullins, who wrote the classic song “Awesome God.” Mullins led a life of struggle and temptation, grace and redemption. You’ll relate to this imperfect man whose hope and salvation was rooted in the “furious” love of God. Includes questions and ideas for small group use.
Devotional Classics edited by James Bryan Smith and Richard Foster; and Spiritual Classics edited by Emilie Griffin and Richard Foster
Referred to jokingly by Foster as “the greatest hits of the saints,” these two books are a treasury of classic literature drawn from nearly 2000 years of Christian writing. You will encounter excerpts by such authors as Dietrich Bonhoeffer, St. Augustine, Martin Luther, Julian of Norwich, Leo Tolstoy and Teresa of Avila. Each of the 52 selections includes an author profile, meditations for individual or group use, discussion questions and a reflection by Richard Foster. These readings will penetrate your soul, and the writers will impart timeless wisdom for living the Christian life. Perfect for any group that desires to explore timeless paths for growth in Christ-likeness.
Other Ideas
Check out anything by Brennan Manning, Richard Foster, Philip Yancey or Dallas Willard.