Rooted – Togetherness

September 7, 2025

Description:

What does it take to grow spiritually strong and stay rooted in your faith? In Acts 2, we see the early church thriving because they devoted themselves to seven life-giving rhythms: Daily Devotion, Prayer, Repentance, , Serving, Generosity, Sharing Your Story, and Worship.

This series, Rooted, will help you cultivate these spiritual practices—not as religious duties, but as relational habits that anchor you in Christ and bear lasting fruit. Each week, we’ll unpack one rhythm and show you how to live it out in practical, powerful ways. Because when you’re rooted in God, you’re ready for anything life throws your way.

Small Group Study Guide

Ice Breaker Questions

  1. Define what a “trustworthy” person means to you.
  2. Name someone you are thankful for that Jesus brought you together with.
  3. What do you enjoy doing in your community? How has this helped you connect with others?

Read Together 

Read each passage aloud together, then discuss:

  1. Acts 2:42-47
  2. John 13:34-35, 15:4-5
  3. Genesis 2:18
  4. Romans 12:10-16
  5. Hebrews 12:24-25

Discussion Questions

  1. Share an experience that brought you closer to someone. How did that impact your relationship?
  2. Have you ever been there for someone in desperate need of help or rescue? How did this affect the way you view togetherness?
  3. Which of the three main points do you struggle with the most and why:
    1. Bring togetherness
    2. Keep togetherness
    3. Restore togetherness
  4. Read John 15:4-5 – Why is “remaining in Jesus” so hard?
  5. God made us to be in community and relationships with each other. How is God calling you to live in community with others?
  6. How can we address the “Loneliness Epidemic” right where God has us with the people He’s connected us to?
  7. Do you have a ruptured relationship with someone? Could be a family member, friend, or perhaps a coworker? How can you bring restoration and healing?
  8. Are you able? To widen your circle, invite someone into your community, and experience God’s love? Prayerfully write down the ways God is encouraging you to bring togetherness to those who need it.

Action Steps

  • Prayerfully write down a list of names that God is asking you to reach out to. Send a text, make a call, or send a letter of encouragement.
  • Extend an invite to get to know someone new. Make it fun! Get ice cream, have a barbeque, watch a sports game, etc.
  • Dedicate some time this week to change up your routine and schedule to add some margin for spending time with God. Put away distractions and open yourself up to Him relationally. Let Him speak to you and recharge you, so you can be filled with His loving Spirit, ready to share with the people around you this week.
  • Consider joining or leading a small group this Fall. See if there’s room to bring someone searching for community into the mix!

Closing Prayer

Father in Heaven,

Thank you for showing us your commitment and devotion to rescuing us from our sin through your Son Jesus. Help us see and experience your love fully each day. Fill us up Lord as we root ourselves in you. May your Spirit flow through us to those around us. As we say “yes” to you and the next step you’re calling each of us to right now – help us respond and take action towards living closer with you and alongside others.

We love you Lord!

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

Rooted – Worship

August 31, 2025

Description:

What does it take to grow spiritually strong and stay rooted in your faith? In Acts 2, we see the early church thriving because they devoted themselves to seven life-giving rhythms: Daily Devotion, Prayer, Repentance, , Serving, Generosity, Sharing Your Story, and Worship.

This series, Rooted, will help you cultivate these spiritual practices—not as religious duties, but as relational habits that anchor you in Christ and bear lasting fruit. Each week, we’ll unpack one rhythm and show you how to live it out in practical, powerful ways. Because when you’re rooted in God, you’re ready for anything life throws your way.

Small Group Study Guide

Ice Breaker Questions

  • What’s the weirdest or most random thing you’ve ever found in your spare room?
  • What type of worship environment did you grow up in—quiet and reserved or loud and expressive?
  • If someone gave you a winning lottery ticket, how would you react?

Read Together 

Read each passage aloud together, then discuss:

Discussion Questions

  1. Why do you think worship is such a controversial topic in churches today?
  2. What stood out to you most in the story of David and the Ark?
  3. How do you respond to the idea that Uzzah’s death wasn’t unfair but was rooted in disobedience?
  4. What does David’s joyful, even undignified, dancing tell us about true worship?
  5. In what ways might we be treating God’s presence too casually in our own lives?
  6. What do you think the story of the scarred mother that Ben told says about how we should view Jesus and His sacrifice?

Action Steps

  • Reflect on your worship – Ask yourself whether your worship is more about style or heart. Consider your posture before God.
  • Read 2 Samuel 6 this week – Slowly and prayerfully, noting how David’s attitude toward worship changes.
  • Pray daily – Ask God to reveal any areas where you’ve been treating His presence casually.
  • Stretch yourself in worship – Take one small step outside your comfort zone this week, whether it’s singing, raising your hands, or focusing your heart more intentionally during worship.
  • Journal – Write down how God’s presence has blessed you. Keep a weekly log of “God moments” where you sense His nearness.
  • Invite someone to church – Just like David blessed the people after worship, share your joy and invite others into God’s presence.
  • Join a Rooted Small Group — Experience the full journey! Sign up here.

Rooted – Witness

August 24, 2025

Description:

What does it take to grow spiritually strong and stay rooted in your faith? In Acts 2, we see the early church thriving because they devoted themselves to seven life-giving rhythms: Daily Devotion, Prayer, Repentance, , Serving, Generosity, Sharing Your Story, and Worship.

This series, Rooted, will help you cultivate these spiritual practices—not as religious duties, but as relational habits that anchor you in Christ and bear lasting fruit. Each week, we’ll unpack one rhythm and show you how to live it out in practical, powerful ways. Because when you’re rooted in God, you’re ready for anything life throws your way.

Small Group Study Guide

Ice Breaker Questions

  • Have you ever acted as an eyewitness in real life? What was that experience like?

     

  • What personal story—big or small—has influenced your faith journey?

     

  • On a scale from 1 to 10, how comfortable are you featuring your faith story in conversations?

Read Together 

Read each passage aloud together, then discuss:

Discussion Questions

  1. The Role of a Witness
    • Reflect on Acts 1:8. What does it mean to be a witness rather than a speaker or performer?

       

    • How does the Holy Spirit empower us to share faith stories effectively?

       

  1. Telling Your Tale
    • Paul’s testimony in Acts 22 shows the “Before / Encounter / After” narrative. What’s your “before” like?

       

    • Read John 1:6–8. What does it mean to point to the Light instead of being the source?

       

  1. Sharing What You’ve Seen
    • In Romans 10:13–15, the gospel spreads through stories. Who could benefit from hearing yours?

       

  1. The Impact of Story
    • Share thoughts on Kris Mitchell’s journey. What impact do personal testimonies have on your own faith?

       

    • What obstacles keep you from telling your story, and how might you overcome them?

Action Steps

  • Write Your Story — Use the “Before / Encounter / After” format to craft and own your testimony.
  • Share It This Week — Tell your story to someone: a friend, coworker, or family member—just one person.
  • Pray for Courage — Ask God to position you with someone who needs to hear your story.
  • Be the Light — Let your journey of transformation shine in everyday life—through words and actions.
  • Join a Rooted Small Group — Experience the full journey! Sign up here.

Rooted – Generosity

August 17, 2025

Description:

What does it take to grow spiritually strong and stay rooted in your faith? In Acts 2, we see the early church thriving because they devoted themselves to seven life-giving rhythms: Daily Devotion, Prayer, Repentance, , Serving, Generosity, Sharing Your Story, and Worship.

This series, Rooted, will help you cultivate these spiritual practices—not as religious duties, but as relational habits that anchor you in Christ and bear lasting fruit. Each week, we’ll unpack one rhythm and show you how to live it out in practical, powerful ways. Because when you’re rooted in God, you’re ready for anything life throws your way.

Small Group Study Guide

Ice Breaker Questions

  • What’s the most thoughtful or surprising gift you’ve ever received?

     

  • Growing up, were you more of a saver or a spender? Has that changed?

     

  • Fill in the blank: “I feel most generous when __________.”

Read Together 

Read each passage aloud together, then discuss:

  • Luke 6:38 – “Give, and you will receive…”

     

Discussion Questions

  1. What Stood Out?
    1. After hearing the sermon or reading 2 Corinthians 9, what verse, phrase, or illustration stood out to you most? Why?

       

  2. Dig Into the Word
    1. Read 2 Corinthians 9:6–8. What is Paul saying about how giving works in God’s economy? What does it mean to “sow generously”?

       

    2. In verse 8, Paul says God will provide “all you need” and “plenty left over.” Do you believe that? Why is that hard for us to trust sometimes?

       

    3. Read 2 Corinthians 9:9–11. How does generosity bless both the giver and the receiver?

       

    4. Paul says we are “enriched in every way.” What does generosity look like beyond finances?

       

    5. Read 2 Corinthians 9:12–15. What is the end result of generosity? What impact does it have on people’s view of God?

       

    6. Read Luke 6:38. What kind of return does Jesus promise when we give? How does this challenge worldly thinking?

       

    7. Read Hebrews 13:14–16. What do these verses say about what pleases God?

       

  3. Real Talk
    1. Bryan shared a story about his son’s piggy bank—how it’s easier to be generous when you remember the money came from Dad in the first place. What’s in your “piggy bank” right now that you struggle to release?

       

    2. What do you think keeps people (including yourself) from being generous? Fear? Control? Scarcity mindset?

       

    3. How do you know if you’re giving from the heart vs. out of guilt or pressure?

       

  4. Mission & Movement
    1. Bryan highlighted FCC’s “Unfinished” generosity—over $500K already given. What part of that mission excites you? How does it inspire your faith?

       

    2. Where have you seen the impact of generosity in your own life or in someone else’s?

Action Steps

Choose 1–2 of these to try this week:

  • Give a gift: Buy someone coffee, lunch, or a small surprise to bless them.

     

  • Serve someone: Offer your time or skill to help someone in need—childcare, yardwork, a ride, etc.

     

  • Support a cause: Choose a mission partner, nonprofit, or family to give to—FCA, Choose Hope, or a local need.

     

  • Talk with your family: Discuss what generosity looks like for your household and how you want to grow.

     

  • Set a generosity goal: Not a dollar amount—set a goal to live open-handedly this week.

Closing Prayer

“Father, thank You for being the ultimate Giver. Everything we have is from You and for You. Help us to sow generously, not out of guilt, but out of gratitude. Teach us to be open-handed with our time, talents, and treasure. Use our giving to meet needs, spread the gospel, and bring glory to Your name. Help us trust You to provide so we can bless others freely. Root us in generosity—because You first gave to us. In Jesus’ name, amen.”

Rooted – Serving With Purpose

August 10, 2025

Description:

What does it take to grow spiritually strong and stay rooted in your faith? In Acts 2, we see the early church thriving because they devoted themselves to seven life-giving rhythms: Daily Devotion, Prayer, Repentance, , Serving, Generosity, Sharing Your Story, and Worship.

This series, Rooted, will help you cultivate these spiritual practices—not as religious duties, but as relational habits that anchor you in Christ and bear lasting fruit. Each week, we’ll unpack one rhythm and show you how to live it out in practical, powerful ways. Because when you’re rooted in God, you’re ready for anything life throws your way.

Small Group Study Guide

Ice Breaker Questions

  1. What does “exceptional” service look like to you?
  2. How would you “make a difference” to change the world around you?
  3. Have you ever been served in such a way that it left a lasting impression/impact on you?

Read Together 

Read each passage aloud together, then discuss:

1. Acts 2:42-47

2. Mark 10:35-45

3. 1 Peter 4:8-11

4. Ephesians 2:1-10

5. Matt 16:24, 28:18-20

Discussion Questions

  1. In what specific areas of your life have you experienced Jesus’ redemption and transformative power?
  2. Where do you sense God is calling you to engage in good works?
  3. 3. Which of the three main points do you struggle with the most?
    1.  Head – Think
    2. Heart – Posture
    3. Hands – Serve
  4. What aspects of Jesus’ heart are most surprising or impactful to you?
  5. Describe individuals you know who embody a heart like Jesus. What qualities do you find most attractive in them?
  6. How can you distinguish between serving with a genuine purpose and simply pursuing your own agenda?
  7. What practical steps can you take to participate in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20)?
  8. In which areas of your life do you specifically need the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit? What do you aspire to achieve or experience through the power of the Holy Spirit?
  9. Spend several minutes in silent prayer, inviting the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart. Afterward, write a prayer revealing your desire for the Holy Spirit’s active work in your life.
  10. Reflecting on your life and God-given gifts, what sense of purpose do you have, and how do you believe God intends to use you?
  11. How do you envision yourself contributing to the needs of society through the unique gifts you possess?

Action Steps

  • Craft a prayer expressing gratitude for Jesus’ humility and service, asking God to cultivate a similar heart in you.
  • Write a prayer acknowledging your role in God’s mission. If you struggle with this desire, be honest with God and ask Him to open your heart to ways of reaching others. If the desire is present, ask for guidance on how He wants you to serve.
  • Identify your spiritual gifts. How can you intentionally utilize these gifts in your current season of life?
  • Compose a prayer of gratitude for your spiritual gifts. Ask God for opportunities to use these gifts and to be stretched beyond them, aligning with His will.

Closing Prayer

Father in Heaven,

Thank you for showing us your commitment and devotion to rescuing us from our sin through your Son Jesus. Help us see and experience your love fully each day. Fill us up Lord as we root ourselves in you. May your Spirit flow through us to those around us. As we say “yes” to you and the next step you’re calling each of us to right now – help us respond and take action towards living closer with you.

We love you Lord!

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

Rooted – Repentance & Prayer

August 3, 2025

Description:

What does it take to grow spiritually strong and stay rooted in your faith? In Acts 2, we see the early church thriving because they devoted themselves to seven life-giving rhythms: Daily Devotion, Prayer, Repentance, , Serving, Generosity, Sharing Your Story, and Worship.

This series, Rooted, will help you cultivate these spiritual practices—not as religious duties, but as relational habits that anchor you in Christ and bear lasting fruit. Each week, we’ll unpack one rhythm and show you how to live it out in practical, powerful ways. Because when you’re rooted in God, you’re ready for anything life throws your way.

Small Group Study Guide

Ice Breaker Questions

  • What’s something you’ve had to work hard to remove (weeds, clutter, a bad habit)? How did it feel once it was gone?
  • When you hear the word “repentance,” what comes to mind? Guilt? Freedom? Why?

Read Together 

Read each passage aloud together, then discuss:

  • Acts 2:37–39, 42 (NLT):

    “Peter’s words pierced their hearts, and they said to him and to the other apostles, ‘Brothers, what should we do?’ Peter replied, ‘Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. This promise is to you, to your children, and to those far away—all who have been called by the Lord our God.’ … All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper), and to prayer.”

  • 1 John 1:8–9 (NLT):
     “If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth. But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.”
  • Psalm 51:10–12 (NLT):
     “Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me… Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you.”
  • Acts 3:19 (NLT): “Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away. Then times of refreshment will come from the presence of the Lord.”

Discussion Questions

Point 1: Repent Daily – Because Sin is Constant

  • Why is it so easy to think of repentance as a one-time event instead of a daily rhythm?

     

  • How does the imagery of weeds (or the house root illustration) help you picture the effect of unaddressed sin?

     

  • What would it look like for you to invite God to “search you” daily (Psalm 139:23–24)?

Point 2: Remove Barriers – Because Sin Blocks Fellowship

  • How does unconfessed sin affect your connection with God—even if you know He still loves you?

     

  • What’s the difference between condemnation and conviction? Why is that important?

     

  • How do you normally handle guilt? Hide it? Excuse it? Confess it quickly?

Point 3: Renew Your Soul – Because Prayer Brings Life

  • When have you experienced the “refreshing” of God after confession or extended prayer?

     

  • What rhythms help keep you rooted in prayer? What makes them hard to maintain?

     

  • How could the “Pause, Pray, Pivot” rhythm help your spiritual life? Which step is hardest for you?

Action Steps

  1. Create Your Worn Patch: Pick a consistent spot and time to pray daily this week—even 10 minutes.

     

  2. Practice Pause–Pray–Pivot:

     

    1. Pause: Ask God to search your heart (Psalm 139:23–24).

       

    2. Pray: Confess any sin and thank Him for forgiveness.

       

    3. Pivot: Take one practical step toward change today.

       

  3. Pray for Revival: End each prayer this week with:
     “Do it again, Lord. Do it again—and let it start with me.”

Closing Prayer

“Father, thank You for grace that invites us back every time. Search us, show us what needs to change, and give us the courage to confess and the strength to walk in freedom. Let our prayers be honest and our hearts stay tender. Do it again, Lord—start revival in us and through us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Rooted: Growing Deeper – Rooted & Ready: Rhythmic Devotion

July 27, 2025

Description:

In this message, we are introduced to Rooted and the 7 spiritual rhythms found within scripture, with the first being about devotion.

Small Group Study Guide

Ice Breaker Questions

  • Who and/or what are you most “devoted” to?

     

  • Share 2-3 rhythms, routines, or habits you do each day.

     

  • Is change difficult for you? How so? (Why or why not)

Read Together 

Read each passage aloud together, then discuss:

Discussion Questions

  1. What part of this week’s message stood out to you or convicted you personally?
  2. Read Acts 2:42-47. What does “devotion” look like or mean to you? How does it show up in everyday life?
  3. Ever heard the phrase, “you reap what you sow?” How is “rhythmic devotion” like gardening for the soul? What sort of fruit or results can come from this sort of “cultivation” found in Acts 2:42-47?
  4. People evidently found this new way of living really impactful and attractive! Is this still relevant today? (Discuss)
  5. Read Colossians 2:6-7. What does it look like to be “rooted and built up in Christ” as it pertains to the health of our faith?
  6. Read Psalm 23. Do you relate with David in any way? (Write a verse or a section of passages down to reflect on, then share with your group.)
  7. Read Jeremiah 17:7-8. Have you ever experienced broken trust or confidence before? How did that impact you? Are you willing to give God your trust and confidence – even in difficult times when there’s “heat and drought?” (Write down one thing to entrust Him with and offer it to Him fully each new day prayerfully. Ask God to give you someone trustworthy to journey with you through this).
  8. Read John 7:37-39. Jesus on the last and greatest day of the festival said that those who believe in Him will have “rivers of living water flowing from within them” in the form of the Holy Spirit. As you consider rooting yourself, hydrating yourself, daily with Jesus – how could this impact your life and those around you?
  9. What is your next step of faith? What will you decide to change or do next? What will you commit to and devote yourself to try doing that leads you closer to Jesus? (Write it down, set a daily reminder, and share with those you entrust in your group to help you.)

Action Steps

  • Identify unhealthy habits & influences: Your life is precious and has great value! Remove any harmful things that are at work to distract or destroy your attempts to live closer with God. Don’t let the enemy have a foothold on your ability to even make important decisions that may dramatically change your life for the better of you and those around you.
  • Detox: Take a break from social media, substances, and all other habits for 48 hours. Retreat with the Lord in His Creation and practice Psalm 23. Replace the time with reading Scripture, worship, or silence—and observe the impact this has been causing.
  • Start small: Set some achievable, small, and clear goals. Even easy or simple decisions can seem monumental at first. Allow yourself some grace, but try and try again! Find someone to take this next step with, you may find that it’s not only more likely to take place, but also more fun to do together.
  • Dream BIG: Ask God to perform wonders and miracles for you! Don’t settle for less alone, as you might take one step forward and two steps backwards. Have a desired destination for yourself, but keep the first few steps in clear view. Let God intercede for you and blow your expectations away as you commit to devoting yourself to Him more each day.
  • Be intentional: The only thing that stands between you and another person, thing, goal, or task is “intentionality.” Time and energy are a constant daily battle, so give it your first real “yes” and do what you can with your intentionality. God at your side will certainly help to provide you with what you need!
  • Celebrate it: After embracing this next step and doing it regularly, take a moment to reflect and celebrate what’s taking place! See the fruit of your commitment and ask God to help you be overflowed so it can go beyond yourself to impact those around you. Delight and cherish the people who God has placed you with every step of the way.

Closing Prayer

Father in Heaven,

Thank you for showing us your commitment and devotion to rescuing us from our sin through your Son Jesus. Help us see and experience your love fully each day. Fill us up Lord as we root ourselves in you. May your Spirit flow through us to those around us. As we say “yes” to you and the next step you’re calling each of us to right now – help us respond and take action towards living closer with you.

We love you Lord!

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.