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Wed, 01 Oct 2003
Oct 01, 2003, 14:38
[top/the_pathway]
The Never-Ending Journey
By Jason Silver
You’ve probably wondered why we’ve been talking about the Pathway so much. For example, our September series was called "the Pathway," we’ve begun to develop a new web site called "thePathway.ca," and we talk about newcomers getting connected along the "connection pathway." What is this all about?
"In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight…"
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When Jesus taught, he often used Parables to describe complex truths. On the surface a parable is a simple little story. But it’s more than that. It’s also a type of metaphor. Jesus described the kingdom of heaven by using examples from the here and now. Losing a coin, planting a garden, managing a business- these are just some of the real-life examples Jesus used as illustrations.
There is something intriguing about opening a story with the words, "There was a man who had two sons…" You’re drawn into the story- maybe even putting yourself in the story.
This is our intent with the Pathway. It’s a kind of modern-day parable, yet it has a timeless impact; everyone understands that life is a journey.
But Is It Scriptural?
Scripture is especially full of reference to ‘the path.’ For example, "You broaden the path beneath me, so that my ankles do not turn." from 2nd Samuel 22. Job has many references to life being a path. For example, "Will you keep to the old path that evil men have trod?" and "There are those who rebel against the light, who do not know its ways or stay in its paths." Psalms has many references as well, "You have made known to me the path of life;" and "My steps have held to your paths; my feet have not slipped." and "Teach me your way, O Lord; lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors." "They spread a net for my feet- I was bowed down in distress. They dug a pit in my path- but they have fallen into it themselves." "I run in the path of your commands, for you have set my heart free." There are many more.
Proverbs continues as well, with a parallel between paths of wisdom, and paths of foolishness. "Then you will understand what is right and just and fair-every good path." "Thus you will walk in the ways of good men and keep to the paths of the righteous." This one is particularly familiar: "In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."
Also, "I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths," and "I walk in the way of righteousness, along the paths of justice,"
As you probably know, I could go on and on. Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Micah- all contain verses which describe the pathway.
The New Testament also contains references to the path. Jesus asks us to "follow him." Luke uses it as a metaphor in describing the "path to peace." Paul encourages us not to place a stumbling block on anyone’s path. People have understood that life is a path for thousands of years.
What Does This Mean For Us?
This is an important point for us, because the ancient ways have become very attractive to young potential followers. Post-modern thinkers are attempting to return to the roots of faith, deconstructing what is "now" in order to better understand what life can mean to us.
God Started This
Our orange discipleship pamphlet came out two years ago, with a nice path on the cover. Inside were pictures of footsteps, and descriptions of the four phases of discipleship, from ‘Come and See’ through to ‘Remain in Me.’ We ask people to consider the road they are on, and if they are ready to take their first steps of faith. Bryan Wylie first recognized the potential use of this symbol, and suggested we think of the four phases of discipleship as tourist, traveller, trekker, and tour-guide. It’s reassuring to consider that God was leading us in this direction two years ago.
How Does This Affect Me?
We are designing this symbol and also thePathway.ca web site as a symbol of what is important to us as a church. We want to be a church that does God’s work of making disciples like Jesus. It is the most important work we can do.
If you don’t know where you are on the Pathway, take the Pathway quiz. You can get a copy from the church office, or fill it out online. Then you will be able to get involved in next-step activities which will mature you and make you more and more like Jesus.
If you have friends, neighbours, co-workers, or family members curious about becoming a Christian then direct them to our thePathway.ca web site. In the words of the web site:
"Jesus asked us to follow him, but often it can be difficult to know how. Where does the path go? Who else is on it? This site brings practical lessons of spiritual growth within your reach.
"Do You Want To Walk This Path?
"The Pathway has been marked by trekkers before you, but the Journey is not easy. You must climb dark mountains and cross dangerous rivers. Some parts of this road you must travel at night. Danger spots have been clearly indicated but many have fallen to their deaths.
"Do not take this trip lightly. It has the potential of great reward, but it is not for the weak of heart.
"You may gain new skills and inner strength you once thought impossible; but only if you abandon all confidence in your own ability and place complete trust in your guide.
"Decide for yourself: are you a tourist, looking for a diversion? Or are you able to guide others yourself? Are you a seasoned trekker, able to blend in with your surroundings, or a novice traveller, oft mistaken for a tourist yourself?
"Once you have found yourself, you may begin moving down the pathway. Along the way you may find hikers unable to move on, or challenging trials which slow you down as well. Our advice: stay close to your guide as you travel- this ‘trainer’ will help you find your way."
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Oct 01, 2003, 14:38
[top/the_pathway]
The Pathway
By Lane Fusilier
Welcome to the Pathway! We are walking an ancient path in pursuit of a dynamic spiritual life. Many of us are new to this, curious about who Jesus is, but not sure we can know yet. Quite a few are taking faith steps, committing our ways to Him, learning to find hope and help in Jesus. A number of us are wanting to know how we can experience the sort of authentic community that makes life satisfying. A few are out front, scouting ahead, encouraging us to move along in faith.
Regardless of where you are in your spiritual journey, we want you to understand that there are people like you here. The journey goes a little easier when we enjoy it together.
This year, we will continue to help our friends step onto the path and get to know who Jesus is. We will follow through on our commitment to show one another how to develop the spiritual disciplines that deepen us and prepare us to know God more fully.
We have also prepared to begin a new phase of our spiritual journey. Our intention this year is to enjoy our common journey. Friendships that matter are those that bring us encouragement, companionship, and joy. We have launched mid-size groups that meet in both hours Sunday mornings. The hope is that you will find the study of the Word nurturing there, that you will make new friends, deepen established friendships and realize that you are known and accepted for who you are now.
Even if you are shy, don’t miss this. Either come early or stay a little later.
Jesus said that outsiders will know that we are Christians by our love for one another.
Welcome to the Pathway!
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Wed, 01 Jan 2003
Jan 01, 2003, 14:38
[top/the_pathway]
Student Steps
03-01
Matt Collins
In our Newcomers Guide we highlight the importance of taking steps. In everything we do, we make footprints along the way. In our youth ministry at Philpott, this takes us one step closer to knowing God in a more personal and intimate way. Where do these footprints start? Where does the path lead us?
For our students it begins with our outreach events. Our bi-weekly activities are done to provide an opportunity for our youth to come out and to be introduced to the ministry and the people that make it up. It is in this non-threatening environment that they can be introduced to Christ through relationships with their friends. From there the path takes us to our Youth Church experience where we challenge the students to make a decision for Christ and to evaluate their current lifestyle. We want to expose them to an opportunity to grow in Christ, and to better understand His plans for their life.
As our students grow in their relationship with Him, we encourage them to join one of our small groups. This is the next step or footprint. Here students are challenged even further: they have made a commitment to Christ and now we encourage them to deepen that relationship. Finally, for those who are hungry for more, we place them on our student leadership team. These students now look to lead and teach others. They have a burning desire that hungers for God and want to give aid and direction to those who are just starting out on their journey.
In the end it is our vision to see students emerge from our ministry as fully devoted followers of Christ. We desire that they have firmly planted their feet in Him, and have walked the path towards a flourishing relationship in Christ. It is my prayer that every student that comes through our doors will find clear direction through the footprints of those who went before them, and that all students are given the opportunity to experience Him in His fullness.
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