CELL NOTES 25/6/07

ICE BREAKER

How do you get on with your neighbours?

THEME

Loving your neighbour in a multi-faith society.

READING Romans 10 ; 5 – 13

SERMON OUTLINE (Mandy Gillen)

1) Galeed House ( House of meeting) is in Darnall, as a Christian centre, to be a meeting place for people from many different backgrounds, predominantly Muslim meeting with the volunteer Christians.

2) There can be many misunderstandings in both directions. “Muslim” is as s varied as is “Christian.”

3) At heart people are people with the same concerns about family, finances, future etc. The philosophy of the house is to encourage genuine friendship.

4) Barriers can exist across generations and social divides, as well as ethnic. With any difference it can be overcome, if we want them to. It just takes a bit more effort.

5) Ethnic–predominant areas arise for reasons of geography (proximity to mosque or butcher), language ( people speak the same) etc.

6) 1Cor 9 : 19 – 20

7) We can easily have stereotypes via the media. Most Sheffield Muslims are somewhat apathetic in their attitude to Islam, and often react in fear to bad treatment from whites ( ref bus driver).

8) Eastern culture of hospitality. We need to approach people on their terms.. Real friendship involves time.

9) Do we choose to keep our distance in relationships?

10) There is a huge appeal to Muslims when they see Christians who practise their faith – in praying, fasting, being kind.

1) There is a cost in loving our neighbour – some (of our own family and friends as well as within other communities) will react with hostility.

12) The secular humanist view is that what we believe does not matter. The Bible's view is very different. We need to spur each other on to love, and holding on to our hope ( Heb 10 : 19 – 25)

QUESTIONS OF APPLICATION

1) Read the Romans passage, especially vv 8 – 13. From v 9 will you be saved? How do you feel about sharing this message with “The gentile” (v12)? (See the 1Corinthians passage).

2) How and where do you encounter people form different backgrounds ( ethnic, generational, social)? How do you feel about that?

3) Who are you prejudiced against? Who are you real friends?

4) How may you respond practically to Sunday’s message? (See the Hebrews passage)