CELL NOTES 7/10/07

 

ICE BREAKER

 

At what time of day are you at your most creative and energetic?  Do projects wait for a “rainy day” or when you have more time, or do you get on with them now? 

 

THEME

 

Harvest

Reading: Genesis 1: 26 - 31

 

SERMON OUTLINE

 

1. The world can be an awesome place.  As the reading says, it is good.

 

2. The Bible assumes the eternal existence of God (Gen.1: 1) and that He designs and created the natural order.  It is not a scientific text book, but asserts the principle of God as creator – reflected in the idea of “intelligent design” gaining currency today.

 

3. We gain satisfaction from creativity, because we are made in the image of a creator God.

 

4. vs 28 – 29 assert that humans are specifically charged with responsibility for the care of the rest of creation, which is also provided for our sustenance.

 

5. When humanity fell (Gen 3: 17 – 19) somehow the created order was spoiled and broken as well.

 

6. As history has unfolded, so man’s care for creation has been very patchy, and frequently selfish.

 

7. The global village of 100.

 

8. What can we do?  A lot!  The video from Malawi.

 

9. Commit to generosity and responsible behaviour.  Undertake daily acts of generosity and random kindness.

 

QUESTIONS OF APPLICATION 

 

1. What aspect of the created world is most inspiring to you?  How does it affect your understanding of God?

 

2. How do you practice the responsibility given in v.28?  Is there any way you can take this more seriously?  How much of a priority should it be in your life?

 

3. When were you last on the receiving (or giving) end of a spontaneous act of generosity?

 

4. The harvest gifts will go to the Archer Project.  How do you react to the homeless, beggars, sellers of “The Big Issue”?