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Watch Groups
A Watch Group is a small group of people within the church who meet regularly to
establish a sense of community and to help live out the reality of the Christian
life on a day-to-day basis. The scripture, Church history and our own experience
have taught us that small groups are the most effective model for a dynamic church
body, which consistently administers the love and grace of God. This interpersonal
relationship model was the basis for vibrant Christian life and growth in the New
Testament Church (see Acts 2:42-47). For this reason, Watch Groups will be the
primary relational cell for connection to the church body here at Mad City.
The benefits of participating in a Watch Group are far reaching. In the
context of this smaller "spiritual family" you will be able to establish
deeper relationships in a warm and safe environment. You will be accepted
for who you are while at the same time encouraged to reach your full
potential in God. This small group will be a care-giving community as
well as a place to grow in areas of serving others. The Body will
learn how to grow up into the fullness of Christ as we see the Lord
at work in and through each other.
The term "Watch" has two meanings: First, "watch" means to be spiritually
awake and alert (Matthew 24:42). We want to help each other grow in spiritual
passion in a culture that is often bored with God and church. The other
meaning has to do with Jesus' Shepherds watch over His flock (Heb. 13:20). Part
of how He cares for, leads, and provides for us is through one another. This
is most easily done in a small group setting.
ORSHIP - As we experience the glory of God's presence in small groups,
the Father makes us one. (John 17:22)
CCOUNTABILITY - We want to keep each other awake by encouragement and warning
if necessary because the day of the Lord's return is getting nearer. (Hebrews 10:24-25)
EACHING - Jesus said we were to teach people to obey what He commanded. (Matthew 28:20)
There will be discussion from excerpts of Sunday morning messages chosen by the
leaders that center around how to live out and apply the Word of God.
ARING - Ephesians 4:16 tells us that God's plan was
that the body would build itself up in love. Small groups give a place where
people can use their gifts in practical ways to care for each other. We are
also praying for the manifestation of the supernatural gifts in I Corinthians
12 so the body can be strengthened in every way.
EALING - James 5:16 tells us that healing comes
from confessing our sins to each other and praying for one another. When small
groups develop trusting relationships they become safe places where people
can be vulnerable and receive anointed, heart-felt prayer that heals them. Healed
people then turn around and start healing others.
We are asking people to commit to their group for nine months. February -
November. We will begin the fourth week of February and end the week after
Thanksgiving. The commitment means that you will try to be there each time
the group meets. If you can't make a meeting we are asking you to call one
of the leaders to let them know. This is the intentional part of developing
meaningful relationships which takes time and commitment.
Some groups will have childcare or have children involved in the meetings in
some fashion. Many groups will not involve children making it necessary for
you to make other arrangements.
If you already have relationships in the church you may want to go where
your friends are going. If you are relatively new, you may want to go to
the one nearest your present address. If you would like some help, Pastor
Joel Alberti is available to help connect people to the group that best
fits what they're looking for. You can talk with him on Sunday mornings
or email him at: jalberti@madcitychurch.org
or call him at 608-210-8015.
Sign up will occur during the month of March at the Sunday services. However,
you can join a group at any time. Another way to sign up is by emailing or
calling the office: madcitychurch@madcitychurch.org; 608-210-8000.
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