How It Works

This page is designed to help you pursue God with a group or mentor by using simple, Bible-based conversation starters. To request a mentor from Ordinary Faith (WY), click here. Here’s the picture we’re working toward:

The Process

We’ve created a simple pathway to help you go “full circle” with a group or mentor. We call it the “3E” process:

  1. Engage: Start talking about the “Featured Topics” below, choosing whatever interests you.
  2. Establish: When ready, start “The Pursuit” (see below) to get established in a “full circle” faith.
  3. Empower: After you finish “The Pursuit,” look outward and help someone else pursue God.

Your Part

Take ownership of your pursuit of God with four personal commitments:

  1. Come prepared. Make a commitment to preview the video (or audio) before you meet. This will make your conversation more meaningful for everyone.
  2. Talk & listen. Don’t just bring your ideas and opinions to the table. Develop a teachable heart, and come ready to hear from God and others.
  3. Discover truth. We believe the Bible has answers to every question. If you keep showing up, you can expect to discover a fresh perspective on just about any topic.
  4. Act on it. The goal in every conversation is transformation, not just information. Be ready to step up and act on what you’re learning.

Learn more about pursueGOD.

Featured Topics

Use the conversation starters below to ENGAGE in a pursuit of God.

Browse Index

The Pursuit

This 12-topic discipleship track will introduce you to the mission of our church and help you go “full circle” in your pursuit of God with a group or mentor.  

Learn More
Q. How do we use this in a classroom setting?

 

This discipleship track is designed to be completed both inside and outside of the classroom to help you learn and talk about each topic. We’ll connect you with a group or mentor to complete this discipleship track in the weeks ahead. Here’s the schedule:

  • Topic 1-2: In class (Discover)
  • Topics 3-5: With a group or mentor
  • Topic 6: In class (Trusting Jesus)
  • Topics 7-8: With a group or mentor
  • Topic 9: In class (Getting Baptized)
  • Topics 10-11: With a group or mentor
  • Topic 12: In class (Next Steps)

Q. What is discipleship?

At pursueGOD, we define discipleship in terms of a simple “full circle” process that includes three key elements (see below). Discipleship tracks are designed to create a clear pathway for you to make it around the circle, featuring 12 topics on faith, life, and everything in between.  

Q. How do discipleship tracks work?

Discipleship tracks are designed to help you go “full circle” with a group or mentor over the course of 12 or more weeks. Just cover a topic every week with a group or mentor, watching the video ahead of time to prepare for the conversation. Connect in person or on the phone and use the discussion questions provided to learn together. The goal is to help you pursue God “full circle”, which is our picture of discipleship:

Q. What is the structure of a discipleship track?

Discipleship tracks are divided into four sections. First you’ll get warmed up with topics we think you’ll find interesting. Section 1 helps you through Step 1 in a “full circle” pursuit, laying out the basics of faith and helping you trust Jesus for salvation. Section 2 lays the groundwork for Step 2, showing you the importance of honoring God in your daily life as a Christian. The final section will help you go “full circle” and become a disciple-maker, showing you how to help someone else through this discipleship track.

Q. What if we need more than 12 weeks?

Then take more time! We recommend covering additional topics at the end of any section as needed for your own pursuit of God. For example, if you need more time to get connected before talking about faith or the Bible, cover additional topics in Section 0. If you need more time to investigate the claims of Christianity, cover additional faith topics in Section 1. If you need more time to talk about honoring God in your daily life, cover additional topics in Section 2. Slow is fast, so take your time as you work through this discipleship track.

Q. What’s next when we finish this track?

The ultimate goal is to equip you to go “full circle” and help someone else through this discipleship track. So once you’ve completed this track, join the movement and bring someone else through it! This doesn’t mean you have to stop meeting with your group or mentor. Continue to cover additional topics from one of our sites as needed. 

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ABOUT OUR CHURCH

Topic #1: Who We Are

Key Points:

  • We are Ordinary People in pursuit of an Extraordinary God. Hebrews 11:6
  • We are a Christian Church, centered upon Jesus and grounded in the teachings of the Bible. John 14:6
  • We Hold to five simple doctrinal statements.
  • We Help Ordinary People live an Ordinary Faith and Experience an Extraordinary God. Matthew 28:19-20
Talk About It
  1. What’s your initial reaction to this topic?
  2. In your opinion, what makes a good church?
  3. Do you have any questions about our basic Christian beliefs?
  4. Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
Topic #2: What We Do

BUILDING A SIGNIFICANT PLACE

Ephesians 4:12-13 (NLT) Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. 13 This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God’s Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ.

It is the purpose of every church to equip those who follow God to serve and grow.  As we serve God and others, we grow in godly character (2 Peter 1:1-11).  As we grow in godly character, we become more and more unified with each other.  This is the foundation for a group of believers who understand their need and desire for a real community of faith as displayed in Acts 2:42-47.

In order to Help Ordinary People live an Ordinary Faith and Experience an Extraordinary God, we take the example of God the Father and Jesus Christ seriously.  In John 14:2, Jesus promises that he is preparing a place for all those who follow Him.  In Hebrews 11:6, we find that God the Father has prepared a city for those who believe Him. So we also provide a place for real Faith to thrive.

[Creating a Discipleship Culture]


A PLACE TO BELIEVE

When We Start by Trusting Jesus there are many questions that must be answered. And, in the beginning of our Faith journey, we aren’t even sure what questions to ask. So, how do we start? How do we get our children started?  How do we help people that we care about get started on their journey? Here are a few of the “places” that we provide.

Each week we host a gathering for singing to God, learning about God’s Word, and the opportunity to have someone pray for those who are seeking. We call this our Gateway Service. It has several purposes. First, our gateway service is designed to be as simple and sensible as possible.  Much of what we do in our Gateway Service is considerate of those who don’t have a great deal of “church” experience. We avoid a lot of things many churches do in thier services that doesn’t really make sense to those who aren’t “insiders” in regard to church life. We use common language or define the words we do use so that the things that are taught make sense even if you have never heard Bible instruction before. We want you to be able to invite someone from your workplace, sports team, or university class without the worry that they will be confused but rather given clear guidance toward Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 9:19-23)

Second, we offer singing, instruction, and prayer in an age specific format for children in our many kids classes.  This classes go on at the same time as the adult gathering to allow parents a few minutes to concentrate upon their own spiritual lives.  These “kid friendly” classes are a great place for your children and grandchildren to begin exploring who God is and how to have a real relationship with Him.

[Why Go to Church?]

Third, we also host small groups and one-on-one mentoring for those who have specific questions.  The first small group we ask you to engage in is our Foundations Class.  This class is a foundation for your faith and will help you understand our framework of Faith. (Trust Jesus, Honor God, and Help Others)

[Why Join a Small Group]


A PLACE TO BECOME

When We live to Honor God, we have moved from the place of wondering about God and His Son Jesus Christ to a place of trusting in Him.  He becomes our source and strength (John 15). He becomes our purpose (Matthew 6:33). Therefore living a life that honors Him becomes very important. But, again, we often don’t even know the right questions to ask in our Faith Journey. We have three “places” to help as you seek to honor God.

First, our weekly gathering will generate new ideas in regard to faith. Often the messages you hear from the Bible will be very counter intuitive to way the average person thinks.  The weekly gathering will also put you in the vicinity of a number of people who are on similar journeys. So, making a connection with someone in a similar place in life will be easier.

Second, our small groups provide a place to have a conversation about many of the things you are now contemplating as you seek to honor God.  In a small group you will enjoy the company of other like- minded people. You will learn about God, His Word, and how it applies to your situation. And, you will have a chance to talk about it and process what you have learned in a constructive environment.

Third, we have mentors who would love to help you in your journey. Most of us have matters in our own stories that will need some specific spiritual restoration. And, there are times that we just need to talk to someone and “work things out” (Galatians 6:1-2Hebrews 10:24-25).

[Take Christian Basics]


A PLACE TO BELONG

When We Mature by Helping Others, we have realized that we have received some wonderful things from God. Those incredible gifts come with the joy and responsibility to share them with others.  As we share those gifts, our capacity for greater experience is increased!

Many will choose to share in the Gateway Service.  The weekly gathering is a gift to others.  It takes the valuable gifts of finance and time to serve so many each week.  By serving as a children’s worker or teacher, or by helping set up or tear down the equipment necessary for each week’s service, you invest in the life of another seeker.

[If You’re Following Jesus… You’re Following a Servant.]

Others will be able to host and/or lead a small faith group in their home or favorite coffee shop.  It is an exciting joy to participate in the journeys of others.

And some, will engage individuals in one-on-one mentoring.  We believe mentoring is the best modern word in usage that most accurately describes Jesus’ intention that all of us make disciples. (Matthew 28:19-20)

[Take Mentor Training]

Topic #3: Where We're Going

WHAT IS THE WIN?

When someone visits Ordinary Faith that’s awesome. When they hang around, take foundations, and start serving others on a team, that’s fantastic.  When they engage in a small group, it’s so sweet.  We celebrate all of these steps of faith and many others, because they are real, important, and often very difficult. But… THE WIN is when a man, woman, or child helps someone else get to know Jesus either in a one on one scenario, in the home, in a coffee shop, in a small group or anywhere else. We call this “Going Full Circle” and it is the WIN. Because Jesus did not just tell us to “make disciples” he told us to make disciples who make disciples.

[Are You Going Full Circle in Your Faith?}


WE ARE LEADING THROUGH TEAMS

Our Church is led by a team of pastors and lay leaders who all play significant spiritual and administrative roles. We don’t have Bishops, Elders, or Deacons to which many are accustomed. But, we do have a Leadership Team and a network of Team leaders who work together like a family. We also have a lead pastor and an assistant pastor who focus on equipping believers for ministry.

[What is Team Culture?]


WE ARE BUILDING A HEALTHY CHURCH

A healthy church is consistent with the Bible’s ideas regarding the gathering of believers–so, we founded the health of Ordinary Faith upon The Bible.  With God’s Word as our moral authority our path is protected. And even though we may still stray because of our humanity, His Word will always correct our course.

The Holy Spirit is also very critical for the health of any church.  The Bible speaks of the Holy Spirit as the most significant presence in any church.  And we can easily attest to how peaceful and powerful a group of people can be when the Fruits of the Spirit are on display in each other’s lives.

God’s Word often presents a Multiplicity of Leaders as firm footing for a healthy church. This is why we use a team model of leadership.

And, we provide as many opportunities for growth and service as our resources will allow.

[How to Choose a Church]


WE ARE BUILDING THE KINGDOM

Rock Springs and Green River are very fluid communities. Like the beautiful Green River, families flow in and out of our towns in rhythm with our local economy.  With that image in mind, we realize that many of those who come to us will only be here a short time.  Our desire is to help them Start by Trusting Jesus, Live to Honor God, and Grow by Helping Others to Start by Trusting Jesus!  In short, Our goal is to help people find Jesus Christ and Share Him the rest of their Days.

We also believe it is very important that we help other churches, and even start new churches or groups as God opens the doors.  And, of course, there is always the understanding that our faith must be passed to the next generation. So, we work diligently with children and we will always work very hard to give our ministry away to those in the generation God is raising up to further His Kingdom.

Well, I hope you have discovered a bit more about Ordinary Faith.  Honestly, we know we have a lot to figure out.  We are a newer church, so sometimes it’s a little “messy” around here. And, we also realize what we are doing isn’t for everyone, and that is okay.  The goal of this series was give clarity on who we are, what we are about, where we are going, and how we will get there.

God Bless You on your journey and remember, “It only takes an Ordinary Faith to experience an Extraordinary God!

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TRUSTING JESUS

Topic #4: What Is Sin?

Key Points:

  • Sin can be defined as going your own way, trusting and acting on your own opinions and feelings instead of on God’s truth. James 4:17
  • The Bible teaches that every human being is infected at the core with a sinful nature. Romans 3:10-12, 23
  • Sin brings brokenness into our personal lives, our culture, and the world. Romans 6:23
Talk About It
  1. What’s your initial reaction to this topic? What jumped out at you?
  2. How does this video define sin? How would you define it?
  3. On a scale of 1 (Mother Teresa) to 10 (Hitler), how bad of a “sinner” are you? How do you think someone else would rate you?
  4. Read James 1:14-15. Give an example of how sin is a selfish impulse. Where do you think that impulse comes from?
  5. Read Galatians 5:19-21. Why do you think there’s such a wide variety of sin listed there? What would you add to the list?
  6. How have you seen sin derail your life or that of someone you know?
  7. For next week, take an honest look at your own life and identify a few areas of brokenness that you need to address.
Topic #5: Who Is Jesus?

Key Points:

  • Jesus is both fully God and fully man. John 1:1
  • Jesus lived a sinless life and yet died a criminal’s death on a cross. Isaiah 53:4-6
  • The fundamental fact of the Christian faith is that Jesus died on a cross and rose from the dead. 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
Talk About It
  1. What’s your initial reaction to this topic?
  2. What, if anything, did you learn about Jesus when you were younger?
  3. Read John 1:1. Why is it important to believe that Jesus is fully God? How would it impact Christianity if he were something less?
  4. Read Isaiah 53:5-8. How did Jesus fulfill this prophecy? Why did he have to do it?
  5. Read 1 Corinthians 15:3-4. Why is it important that Jesus rose from the dead? How would it impact the basic Christian message if he didn’t?
  6. Spend some time investigating the claims of Jesus (see below) before next week’s meeting.
Topic #6: Trusting Jesus

Key Points:

  • Every human being has a basic problem that keeps them from a rich and satisfying life. John 10:10
  • Jesus fixed the human problem through his death and resurrection. Romans 5:8
  • Your relationship with God begins when you personally trust Jesus for salvation. Romans 3:22

A Sinner’s Prayer:

“Jesus, I recognize I’m a sinner. I know that you died on the cross and rose from the dead so that I could have life. I’m turning from my sin now, and I’m turning to you in faith. I trust in you alone to forgive my sin and give me new life. Thank you for this free gift. Amen.”

Talk About It
  1. What’s your initial reaction to this topic?
  2. Review the definition of sin from the first topic in this track. Why is it important to understand what sin is? Do you agree everyone has a sin problem? Explain.
  3. Read Romans 6:23. Make a list of the ways sin can bring “death” into our lives.
  4. In your own words, explain how the death and resurrection of Jesus fixes our sin problem. 
  5. Read Romans 3:22. Do you believe that anyone can be made right with God by trusting in Jesus? Are there any exceptions?
  6. Have you put your faith in Jesus for salvation? If so, when? If not, are you ready to do it today? See the “Sinner’s Prayer” above.

HONORING GOD

Topic #7: Honoring God

Key Points:

  • The Spirit leads from the inside out, empowering us to honor God every day. Ezekiel 36:26-27
  • The Bible guides us and shows us the attitudes and actions that honor God. 2 Timothy 3:16-17
  • Other believers help us stay on the right track, both one-on-one and in the local church. Galatians 6:1-2
Talk About It
  1. What’s your initial reaction to this topic? 
  2. Read Ezekiel 36:26. Describe the difference between a “stony” heart and a “tender” heart.
  3. Read 2 Timothy 3:16. What does this verse say that scripture does for us? Share a scripture verse that has been “useful” for you.
  4. Share a teaching from the Bible that surprised you when you first heard it. Did you obey it? Why or why not?
  5. Read Galatians 6:1-2. Share a time when another believer helped you on to the right path.
  6. Make a commitment to start reading the Bible every day. Need help? Try a reading plan.
Topic #8: The Battle

Key Points:

  • There’s a daily battle between our old nature and our new nature. Galatians 5:16-17
  • The freedom we have in Christ is intended to help us love people more, not just live for ourselves. Galatians 5:13-14
  • The Holy Spirit produces relationship-building fruit in our lives. Galatians 5:22-23
  • We participate with God by actively walking “by the Spirit” on a daily basis. Galatians 5:24-25
Talk About It
  1. What’s your initial reaction to this topic?
  2. Give an example of how some people misunderstand the freedom we have in Christ.
  3. Read Galatians 5:16-17. Share about a time when you were not “free to carry out your good intentions”. 
  4. Read Galatians 5:22-23. Which of these is your strongest fruit right now? Which is your weakest?
  5. Name one or two things that haven’t changed in your life, even though you know they should have. Why has it been difficult to change those things?
  6. Make a list of some practical disciplines you can develop to help you walk “by the Spirit”. 
Topic #9: How to Pray

Key Points:

  • Pray to grow close to your father, like you’re in an actual relationship with him. Matthew 6:9
  • Pray to get in step with your king – for his will to be done and not yours. Matthew 6:10
  • Pray to lean on your provider because you need what only he can offer. Matthew 6:11-13
Talk About It
  1. What’s your initial reaction to this topic?
  2. Do you ever feel like prayer is complicated? Explain.
  3. Share a time when God answered one of your prayers. What did that answer tell you about God?
  4. Read Matthew 6:7-8. What would you say is the essence of “Gentile” or pagan prayer? How is Christian prayer different?
  5. When you pray “Your will be done,” what are you actually saying to God?
  6. Read Matthew 6:11-12. If God already knows our needs, why pray for daily food?
  7. Read Matthew 6:13. What inner battles – spiritual, mental, or emotional – do you face on a regular basis? How can prayer prepare you for those battles?
  8. Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?

HELPING OTHERS

Topic #10: Helping Others

Key Points:

  • Jesus wants his followers to go “full circle” and help others pursue God. Matthew 28:19-20
  • Christian maturity comes after we start discipling someone, not before. Ephesians 4:12-13
  • The greatest thing you can do in your life is to help someone pursue God. 2 Timothy 2:2
Talk About It
  1. What’s your initial reaction to this topic?
  2. Who is helping you pursue God? How are they doing it?
  3. Define “full circle” faith in your own words. Where are you on the circle?
  4. How do most churches define “spiritual maturity”? How does this video define it?
  5. Do you think you can help someone else pursue God? Why or why not?
  6. Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
Topic #11: The Process

Key Steps:

  • Disciple-making is simply a series of conversations, and our discipleship tracks provide a pathway for full circle faith.
  • Invite, invest, and empower to help people discover truth one conversation at a time.
  • God makes the seed of truth grow in the heart and mind of the seeker. 1 Corinthians 3:7
Talk About It
  1. What’s your initial reaction to this topic?
  2. Who first shared their faith with you? How did they go about it, and why was it helpful to you?
  3. Do you find sharing your faith difficult? Why or why not?
  4. Invite, Invest, Empower – which one seems the most difficult to you? Explain.
  5. Read 1 Corinthians 3:7. How do you see this principle at work in your own story of faith?
  6. Do you feel qualified to make disciples? If not, what would qualify you?
  7. Make a list of a few people who might be interested in going through this track with you. Begin praying for those people.
Topic #12: Next Steps

Next Steps:

  1. Cover more training topics (below). 
  2. Practice with the topics in this discipleship track.
  3. Pray for God to open a door for disciple-making.
  4. Follow up with your trainer after you’ve started discipling.
Talk About It
  1. What’s your initial reaction to this topic?
  2. Who in your life can you invite into a discipling relationship? Which discipleship track would be best for them?
  3. Read John 15:16. Do you think the disciples would have ever mobilized if Jesus hadn’t been so direct about it? Explain.
  4. Imagine that you’re discipling someone a year from now. What does your follow up relationship look like with your trainer? How often are you still connecting?
  5. What are some roadblocks that might keep you from helping someone pursue God? How can you eliminate those roadblocks?
  6. What are some training topics (see toggle below) that you’d like to cover with your mentor?
More on Making Disciples

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