Life Messages: Wholeness | Clare Thompson at 11am | 1 August 2021

Our summer series is an open theme…

1 August 2021 - 11am Service

Life Messages

On Sundays in August, a different person will be sharing a LIFE MESSAGE each week, we've asked the team to think of the thing they would most like to say to the Church.

We hope you can join us in person or online throughout August as our leaders share with us what’s on their hearts right now. Today Clare is talking to us about wholeness.

If you feel moved by today’s message - be sure to sign up for our Wholeness Course happening in the autumn.

www.woodlandschurch.net/wholeness

August EcoChallenge: Call for Change

At Woodies, we are keen love God's creation and our People + Planet group is key in helping us to reduce our impact on the environment as a church. Our monthly EcoChallenges help everyone in church to take part from home. This month, David Parker shares the some helpful tips for how to get involved.

August 2021: EcoChallege - “Call for Change”

In November the UK is hosting the UN international climate change conference, COP 26. It is of vital importance because it is at this meeting that countries are expected to make further commitments towards keeping global warming under 1.5 degrees, as outlined in the Paris agreement of 2015.

We need to be praying that this is a success and that countries make real, significant commitments.

We can also call on our government to lead the way. The Climate Coalition, which is made up of many different organisations, including among many others Tearfund and Christian Aid, has launched a petition and campaign called The Time Is Now asking the government to commit to:

• Invest in clean energy revolution in the UK.

• Protect, restore and expand our green spaces.

• Leave no one behind: increase support to the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change at home and abroad.

You can sign the Climate Coalition’s declaration ‘The Time Is Now’ and find out more using the links below:

• Tearfund website: https://www.tearfund.org/forms/reboot-declaration  

• The Time is Now campaign site: https://thetimeisnow.uk

 For a greater impact you could consider writing to your MP, the Prime Minister or the Chancellor. Watch the video below and consider sharing it with your friends and family and on social media. #TheTimeIsNow

GET INVOLVED WITH PEOPLE + PLANET

If you’d be interested in finding out more about the Woodlands People + Planet group, or have some feedback about the challenges, connect with us:

• Email lydia.klimecki@bristol.ac.uk 

• Find us on Facebook

Offering for The Ballards

On Sunday, the 1st of August at our 11am and 7pm services we will be taking time to pray for Steve & April Ballard from our team as they move on from Woodies.

Steve & April are leaving Woodlands to start a new Church plant with the West of England Baptist Association called 'Open House', where they will be supported by a small core of people, including a number from the Woodlands Group of Churches.

Steve & April have had a big impact on our life as a Church and we will miss them and want to thank them for the many ways they have served.

We will be taking an offering towards the cost of setting up the new Church. This offering will go towards ministry expenses, premises rental and equipment hire, etc.

To donate, use the link below:

• Support the Ballards: Give to help cover church planting costs

If you are a UK tax payer, please remember to tick the Gift Aid Box!

Life Messages Series

Our summer series is an open theme…

On Sundays in August, a different person will be sharing a LIFE MESSAGE each week, we've asked the team to think of the thing they would most like to say to the Church.

We hope you can join us in person or online throughout August as our leaders share with us what’s on their hearts right now.

Remember you can book in advance to attend church in person. Capacity will be limited and COVID safe precautions will be taken. We’re also serving hot drinks before each service. Simply book online here:

• Sunday Services - Online Bookings

---

TALKS FROM OUR LIFE MESSAGES SERIES

Heart of David Series: Repentance | Clare Thompson at 7pm | 25 July 2021

How can we all be people after God’s own heart?

25 July 2021 - 7pm Service

The Heart of David Series: Repentance

In the Bible, King David is called ‘a man after God’s own heart’. This July, we will be looking at how David’s heart is revealed as much in the Psalms as in the amazing narratives of his life in 1 & 2 Samuel.

The sermon series aims to invite us to examine our own hearts and ask how we can cultivate and guard a heart of worship.

Also - remember our others services today also looked at the same topic. Check it out!

DISCUSSION NOTES

INTRODUCTION

Read 2 Samuel 12 andPsalm 51

David certainly had stuff to repent of. For someone described as a man after God’s own heart, it is alarming to read about his adultery and subsequent murder to cover his tracks.

His psalm of repentance in Psalm 51 however is one of the great milestones of the Bible in helping us return to God.

1. ‘Above all else guard your heart says the proverb. What was it about David’s life that allowed him to become so hear hearted, so blind to right and wrong in the story of Bathsheba?

2. It has been said that the greatest spiritual danger comes when we no longer sense the need to repent. What are the stages that you recognise in becoming hard hearted? How could that progression be stopped?

3. In Psalm 51 David says ‘Against you, you only have I sinned’ v 4. What does that mean? Surely he sinned pretty big time against Bathsheba and Uriah?

4. What was it that brought a change of heart, repentance to David? What place does prophetic or preaching ministry have in challenging sin today?

It has often been said it’s good to keep short accounts with God. Consider the Lord’s prayer as a discipline to keep your heart soft and repentant.

Heart of David Series: Repentance | Tim Dobson at 8.30am | 25 July 2021

How can we all be people after God’s own heart?

25 July 2021 - 8.30am Service

The Heart of David Series: Repentance

In the Bible, King David is called ‘a man after God’s own heart’. This July, we will be looking at how David’s heart is revealed as much in the Psalms as in the amazing narratives of his life in 1 & 2 Samuel.

The sermon series aims to invite us to examine our own hearts and ask how we can cultivate and guard a heart of worship.

Also - remember our others services today also looked at the same topic. Check it out!

DISCUSSION NOTES

INTRODUCTION

Read 2 Samuel 12/Psalm 51

David certainly had stuff to repent of. For someone described as a man after God’s own heart, it is alarming to read about his adultery and subsequent murder to cover his tracks.

His psalm of repentance in Psalm 51 however is one of the great milestones of the Bible in helping us return to God.

1. ‘Above all else guard your heart says the proverb. What was it about David’s life that allowed him to become so hear hearted, so blind to right and wrong in the story of Bathsheba?

2. It has been said that the greatest spiritual danger comes when we no longer sense the need to repent. What are the stages that you recognise in becoming hard hearted? How could that progression be stopped?

3. In Psalm 51 David says ‘Against you, you only have I sinned’ v 4. What does that mean? Surely he sinned pretty big time against Bathsheba and Uriah?

4. What was it that brought a change of heart, repentance to David? What place does prophetic or preaching ministry have in challenging sin today?

It has often been said it’s good to keep short accounts with God. Consider the Lord’s prayer as a discipline to keep your heart soft and repentant.

Heart of David Series: Repentance | Dave Mitchell at 11am | 25 July 2021

How can we all be people after God’s own heart?

25 July 2021 - 11am Service

The Heart of David Series: Repentance

In the Bible, King David is called ‘a man after God’s own heart’. This July, we will be looking at how David’s heart is revealed as much in the Psalms as in the amazing narratives of his life in 1 & 2 Samuel.

The sermon series aims to invite us to examine our own hearts and ask how we can cultivate and guard a heart of worship.

Also - remember our others services today also looked at the same topic. Check it out!

DISCUSSION NOTES

INTRODUCTION

Read 2 Samuel 12/Psalm 51

David certainly had stuff to repent of. For someone described as a man after God’s own heart, it is alarming to read about his adultery and subsequent murder to cover his tracks.

His psalm of repentance in Psalm 51 however is one of the great milestones of the Bible in helping us return to God.

1. ‘Above all else guard your heart says the proverb. What was it about David’s life that allowed him to become so hear hearted, so blind to right and wrong in the story of Bathsheba?

2. It has been said that the greatest spiritual danger comes when we no longer sense the need to repent. What are the stages that you recognise in becoming hard hearted? How could that progression be stopped?

3. In Psalm 51 David says ‘Against you, you only have I sinned’ v 4. What does that mean? Surely he sinned pretty big time against Bathsheba and Uriah?

4. What was it that brought a change of heart, repentance to David? What place does prophetic or preaching ministry have in challenging sin today?

It has often been said it’s good to keep short accounts with God. Consider the Lord’s prayer as a discipline to keep your heart soft and repentant.

Heart of David Series: Courage | Rob Scott-Cook at 7pm | 18 July 2021

How can we all be people after God’s own heart?

18 July 2021 - 7pm Service

The Heart of David Series: Worship

In the Bible, King David is called ‘a man after God’s own heart’. This July, we will be looking at how David’s heart is revealed as much in the Psalms as in the amazing narratives of his life in 1 & 2 Samuel.

The sermon series aims to invite us to examine our own hearts and ask how we can cultivate and guard a heart of worship.

Also - remember our others services today also looked at the same topic. Check it out!

DISCUSSION NOTES

INTRODUCTION

Read 1 Samuel 20 and Psalm 55

One of the most iconic friendships in Scripture is the friendship of David & Jonathan. (1 Sam 20).

There is a covenantal love that goes beyond self-interest, or the grave. Yet David who was clearly capable of great loyalty and great love, also experienced and practiced betrayal in relationships. Psalm 55 expresses his sense of pain at broken relationship (v 14).

Friendship is extremely powerful in our lives, and Jesus himself said to his disciples ‘I no longer call you servants, but friends’. How can our friendships sustain us and enrich us including in our discipleship? How do we handle the pain of loneliness or betrayal?

1. In marriage we make solemn covenantal promises to one another. Is there a place for that kind of covenant in other relationships? What are the relational loyalties in your life right now? How do they affect your faith?

2. How did Jonathan & David handle the ‘comparison trap’, and their own personal ambitions, in walking out their friendship?

3. Jonathan’s friendship with David angered his father, Saul. Have you ever experienced conflict when your friendship (and faith) loyalties have angered your family? How have you navigated those tensions?

4. What does ‘betrayal’ in friendship look like? How can Church handle breakdown in relationship between two people in community? What happens when a dating couple in a small group split up for example?

5. How can great friendships avoid becoming cliques?

It’s worth thinking in our small groups how we can build deep and trusting friendships, but also make room in those communities for new people. How do we make that work in practice?

C.S. Lewis writes brilliantly on friendship and relationships in his book ‘The Four Loves’.

Heart of David Series: Friendship | Nigel Savage at 11am | 18 July 2021

How can we all be people after God’s own heart?

18 July 2021 - 11am Service

The Heart of David Series: Friendship

In the Bible, King David is called ‘a man after God’s own heart’. This July, we will be looking at how David’s heart is revealed as much in the Psalms as in the amazing narratives of his life in 1 & 2 Samuel.

The sermon series aims to invite us to examine our own hearts and ask how we can cultivate and guard a heart of worship.

Also - remember our others services today also looked at the same topic. Check it out!

DISCUSSION NOTES

INTRODUCTION

Read 1 Samuel 20 and Psalm 55

One of the most iconic friendships in Scripture is the friendship of David & Jonathan. (1 Sam 20).

There is a covenantal love that goes beyond self-interest, or the grave. Yet David who was clearly capable of great loyalty and great love, also experienced and practiced betrayal in relationships. Psalm 55 expresses his sense of pain at broken relationship (v 14).

Friendship is extremely powerful in our lives, and Jesus himself said to his disciples ‘I no longer call you servants, but friends’. How can our friendships sustain us and enrich us including in our discipleship? How do we handle the pain of loneliness or betrayal?

1. In marriage we make solemn covenantal promises to one another. Is there a place for that kind of covenant in other relationships? What are the relational loyalties in your life right now? How do they affect your faith?

2. How did Jonathan & David handle the ‘comparison trap’, and their own personal ambitions, in walking out their friendship?

3. Jonathan’s friendship with David angered his father, Saul. Have you ever experienced conflict when your friendship (and faith) loyalties have angered your family? How have you navigated those tensions?

4. What does ‘betrayal’ in friendship look like? How can Church handle breakdown in relationship between two people in community? What happens when a dating couple in a small group split up for example?

5. How can great friendships avoid becoming cliques?

It’s worth thinking in our small groups how we can build deep and trusting friendships, but also make room in those communities for new people. How do we make that work in practice?

C.S. Lewis writes brilliantly on friendship and relationships in his book ‘The Four Loves’.

Heart of David Series: Friendship | Dave Day at 8.30am | 18 July 2021

How can we all be people after God’s own heart?

18 July 2021 - 8.30am Service

The Heart of David Series: Friendship

In the Bible, King David is called ‘a man after God’s own heart’. This July, we will be looking at how David’s heart is revealed as much in the Psalms as in the amazing narratives of his life in 1 & 2 Samuel.

The sermon series aims to invite us to examine our own hearts and ask how we can cultivate and guard a heart of worship.

Also - remember our others services today also looked at the same topic. Check it out!

DISCUSSION NOTES

INTRODUCTION

Read 1 Samuel 20 and Psalm 55

One of the most iconic friendships in Scripture is the friendship of David & Jonathan. (1 Sam 20).

There is a covenantal love that goes beyond self-interest, or the grave. Yet David who was clearly capable of great loyalty and great love, also experienced and practiced betrayal in relationships. Psalm 55 expresses his sense of pain at broken relationship (v 14).

Friendship is extremely powerful in our lives, and Jesus himself said to his disciples ‘I no longer call you servants, but friends’. How can our friendships sustain us and enrich us including in our discipleship? How do we handle the pain of loneliness or betrayal?

1. In marriage we make solemn covenantal promises to one another. Is there a place for that kind of covenant in other relationships? What are the relational loyalties in your life right now? How do they affect your faith?

2. How did Jonathan & David handle the ‘comparison trap’, and their own personal ambitions, in walking out their friendship?

3. Jonathan’s friendship with David angered his father, Saul. Have you ever experienced conflict when your friendship (and faith) loyalties have angered your family? How have you navigated those tensions?

4. What does ‘betrayal’ in friendship look like? How can Church handle breakdown in relationship between two people in community? What happens when a dating couple in a small group split up for example?

5. How can great friendships avoid becoming cliques?

It’s worth thinking in our small groups how we can build deep and trusting friendships, but also make room in those communities for new people. How do we make that work in practice?

C.S. Lewis writes brilliantly on friendship and relationships in his book ‘The Four Loves’.

Social Distancing Update

Here’s an update about what we’ll be doing on Sundays now that the easing of mandatory social distancing measures are in effect as of the 19th July 2021.

Many of us have been looking forward to being able to mingle freely, sing and relate with normal social contact with our friends when we gather at Church.

We are also all conscious of the sacrifices people have made to protect one another in our communities. We are aware that a significant minority of people struggle with the philosophy of mask wearing or have reservations about the vaccine or have not been vaccinated.

All this at a time when Covid infections are very high indeed in our area. While the August 16th target date is yet to be reached for changes to self isolation for vaccinated people, legal self isolation is one consequence of the pandemic which has disrupted people's wedding, holiday and other precious social plans.

Bearing those things in mind this is our proposal for Woodlands Central services over the next month, as we try and gauge the outcomes from government changes.

---

SUMMER PLANS FOR SUNDAYS

ONLINE SERVICES WILL CONTINUE
First of all, our online provision will continue. The 8.30 am service will be zoomed and 11am and 7 pm will be live streamed as well as in person. For the vulnerable and those cautious about quickly returning to former patterns of worship, we understand and will try and serve you in this way.

ZONED SEATING ON SUNDAYS
At our in person services we plan two seating zones in Church. For those who feel confident about this we will have an area at the front of Church where seating will be closer together. You will be able to sing, but we'd like to ask you to put on masks when you do so while infection rates are so high for other people's protection.

Behind the sound desk we will have a socially distanced seating zone for people who want to be in the building, but would value feeling in a safer space. People sitting here will be invited to leave before the rest of the congregation when worship finishes.

BOOKINGS REQUIRED
Importantly we would like you to book your free ticket for worship, indicating which zone you want to sit in to help us manage this well. We are still limiting capacity in our new zoned areas. These arrangements will begin from Sunday 26th July.

Do bear with us as we try and walk the narrow path of freedom and responsibility. We welcome any feedback about this (and anything else to be honest!. Feedback is learning).

Heart of David Series: Courage | Tim Dobson at 11am | 11 July 2021

How can we all be people after God’s own heart?

11 July 2021 - 11am Service

The Heart of David Series: Courage

In the Bible, King David is called ‘a man after God’s own heart’. This July, we will be looking at how David’s heart is revealed as much in the Psalms as in the amazing narratives of his life in 1 & 2 Samuel.

The sermon series aims to invite us to examine our own hearts and ask how we can cultivate and guard a heart of worship.

Also - remember our others services today also looked at the same topic. Check it out!

DISCUSSION NOTES

INTRODUCTION

Read 1 Samuel 17 and Psalm 18

1 Samuel 17 is the story of David & Goliath, and Psalm 18 is a psalm that speaks of God equipping David for battle ‘he trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze’ v 34.

We are probably somewhat uncomfortable with the battles and bloodshed that are part of the Old Testament story. Certainly God himself says to David (1 Chronicles 22:8) that he is too much of a man of blood to build a temple for God.

Yet to be a man after God’s own heart and to have a warrior heart is not a contradiction to the Old Testament world view that sees God as a warrior God.

For us it’s important to remember the words of Paul in Ephesians 6 ‘our struggle is not with flesh and blood’.

1. What are the good qualities of a warrior spirit? How do we celebrate these in Church culture? (Salvation army history?)

2. How important is it for followers of Jesus to have courage? (N.B. Revelation 21:8)

3. What ‘giants’ might we need to fight today? What are the Lord’s battles today? (1 Sam 17:47)

4. What is the link between the warrior spirit and God’s heart for justice and His Kingdom to come? Did Jesus ever demonstrate a ‘warrior’ spirit?

5. How are we trained for spiritual warfare?

6. In what ways does fear stop us doing what God has called us to do in our personal or community lives?

As Christians we are not always good at confronting power. It’s easier to care for the powerless. But all through Church history there have been amazingly courageous men and women who have led and inspired the Church to face the challenges of the age? Who are your inspiring ‘Spiritual Warriors’? (Harry Kane doesn’t count).

Heart of David Series: Courage | Luke Addison at 7pm | 11 July 2021

How can we all be people after God’s own heart?

11 July 2021 - 7pm Service

The Heart of David Series: Worship

In the Bible, King David is called ‘a man after God’s own heart’. This July, we will be looking at how David’s heart is revealed as much in the Psalms as in the amazing narratives of his life in 1 & 2 Samuel.

The sermon series aims to invite us to examine our own hearts and ask how we can cultivate and guard a heart of worship.

Also - remember our others services today also looked at the same topic. Check it out!

DISCUSSION NOTES

INTRODUCTION

Read 1 Samuel 17 and Psalm 18

1 Samuel 17 is the story of David & Goliath, and Psalm 18 is a psalm that speaks of God equipping David for battle ‘he trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze’ v 34.

We are probably somewhat uncomfortable with the battles and bloodshed that are part of the Old Testament story. Certainly God himself says to David (1 Chronicles 22:8) that he is too much of a man of blood to build a temple for God.

Yet to be a man after God’s own heart and to have a warrior heart is not a contradiction to the Old Testament world view that sees God as a warrior God.

For us it’s important to remember the words of Paul in Ephesians 6 ‘our struggle is not with flesh and blood’.

1. What are the good qualities of a warrior spirit? How do we celebrate these in Church culture? (Salvation army history?)

2. How important is it for followers of Jesus to have courage? (N.B. Revelation 21:8)

3. What ‘giants’ might we need to fight today? What are the Lord’s battles today? (1 Sam 17:47)

4. What is the link between the warrior spirit and God’s heart for justice and His Kingdom to come? Did Jesus ever demonstrate a ‘warrior’ spirit?

5. How are we trained for spiritual warfare?

6. In what ways does fear stop us doing what God has called us to do in our personal or community lives?

As Christians we are not always good at confronting power. It’s easier to care for the powerless. But all through Church history there have been amazingly courageous men and women who have led and inspired the Church to face the challenges of the age? Who are your inspiring ‘Spiritual Warriors’? (Harry Kane doesn’t count)

Heart of David Series: Courage | Jo Appleton at 8.30am | 11 July 2021

How can we all be people after God’s own heart?

11 July 2021 - 8.30am Service

The Heart of David Series: Courage

In the Bible, King David is called ‘a man after God’s own heart’. This July, we will be looking at how David’s heart is revealed as much in the Psalms as in the amazing narratives of his life in 1 & 2 Samuel.

The sermon series aims to invite us to examine our own hearts and ask how we can cultivate and guard a heart of worship.

Also - remember our others services today also looked at the same topic. Check it out!

DISCUSSION NOTES

INTRODUCTION

Read 1 Samuel 17 and Psalm 18

1 Samuel 17 is the story of David & Goliath, and Psalm 18 is a psalm that speaks of God equipping David for battle ‘he trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze’ v 34.

We are probably somewhat uncomfortable with the battles and bloodshed that are part of the Old Testament story. Certainly God himself says to David (1 Chronicles 22:8) that he is too much of a man of blood to build a temple for God.

Yet to be a man after God’s own heart and to have a warrior heart is not a contradiction to the Old Testament world view that sees God as a warrior God.

For us it’s important to remember the words of Paul in Ephesians 6 ‘our struggle is not with flesh and blood’.

1. What are the good qualities of a warrior spirit? How do we celebrate these in Church culture? (Salvation army history?)

2. How important is it for followers of Jesus to have courage? (N.B. Revelation 21:8)

3. What ‘giants’ might we need to fight today? What are the Lord’s battles today? (1 Sam 17:47)

4. What is the link between the warrior spirit and God’s heart for justice and His Kingdom to come? Did Jesus ever demonstrate a ‘warrior’ spirit?

5. How are we trained for spiritual warfare?

6. In what ways does fear stop us doing what God has called us to do in our personal or community lives?

As Christians we are not always good at confronting power. It’s easier to care for the powerless. But all through Church history there have been amazingly courageous men and women who have led and inspired the Church to face the challenges of the age? Who are your inspiring ‘Spiritual Warriors’? (Harry Kane doesn’t count).

What to expect at church on Sundays

There are some changes to how we are doing Sundays services at Woodlands Central over the summer.

We recognise that changes in government guidance as of the 19th July have been welcomed by some and are causing anxiety for others, particularly the more vulnerable. We are also aware that rates of COVID cases in Bristol are currently very high.

With that in mind we want to encourage everyone to “consider the interests of others” (Philippians 2:4) as we seek to find ways of opening our services to more people with less restrictions whilst keeping some mitigations in place to reduce the risk of you contracting COVID-19 at a church service.

Before attending, please read the guidelines below.

---

WHAT TO EXPECT ON SUNDAYS
IN JULY & AUGUST 2021

WHO CAN JOIN?
Everyone is welcome to join, but to ensure we are being safe, our capacity is limited and we ask that you book in advance to attend a Sunday service. If you have any COVID symptoms, please do not come to Woodlands. Ring 119 and get a test.

WHAT SHOULD I DO BEFORE I ARRIVE?
Before coming to church, please make sure you have been observing good hygiene to keep us all safe, following common sense and government guidelines to avoid infection.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I GET TO CHURCH?
Please arrive 30 minutes before the service so you can enjoy a hot drink and catchup with friends outside - please bring a keepie cup with you. Everyone must sanitise their hands on entry to the building. The services are live-streamed and we close the doors 15 minutes before the service starts. Simply wait outside the Foyer until you are admitted.

DO I HAVE TO WEAR A MASK?
We want to be loving towards all those who still feel that some Covid restrictions are necessary (and so that our team and volunteers don't have to self-isolate at holiday times), so we would like people to wear masks as they enter and exit the building and are moving about inside the church. Let's be careful and respect each other's space. We will have disposable masks available if needed, but we would much prefer if you could bring your own.

WHERE WILL I SIT?
During July & August, you can choose between two different seating areas when you book online:

Covid Safe Area
Located at the back half of the main hall, maintaining all prior Covid safety precautions:

• Seating is 2m apart

• Masks are required during the service

• No singing allowed

Relaxed Worship Area
The front area of church will have fewer precautions:

• Household/bubble groups are sat 1m apart

• Masks not required during the service (except to sing)

• Singing is allowed (with masks on)

WHAT WILL HAPPEN IN THE SERVICE?
There will be a briefing 15 minutes before the service starts. Then we’ll pray before the service starts, enjoy worship and hear a message. Our services are being live-streamed for those at home who are unable to be with us.

WHAT IF SOMEONE AT CHURCH HAS COVID?
If someone from the service comes down with COVID, you won't have to self isolate (unless you have the NHS app and have your bluetooth enabled on your phone). If you give us permission, you will be contacted with the recommendation that you get tested, if more than two people test positive in any one service. 

WHAT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS IS THE CHURCH TAKING?
Our spaces have all been risk-assessed and capacity has been appropriated in line with Government guidelines for places of worship. We will be sterilising surfaces before and after the service. The toilets will not be available - apart from in a case of emergency - so please ensure that you go before you leave home.

CAN I SIT WITH MY ‘HOUSEHOLD’?
If you are in a household or bubble, please add a comment in the Notes section of the Booking Form online and ensure that you arrive together so that you can be seated together. If possible, please book your tickets at the same time using the "add ticket" option.

We look forward to welcoming you to church on Sundays.

Heart of David Series: Worship | Nigel Savage at 7pm | 4 July 2021

How can we all be people after God’s own heart?

4 July 2021 - 7pm Service

The Heart of David Series: Worship

In the Bible, King David is called ‘a man after God’s own heart’. This July, we will be looking at how David’s heart is revealed as much in the Psalms as in the amazing narratives of his life in 1 & 2 Samuel.

The sermon series aims to invite us to examine our own hearts and ask how we can cultivate and guard a heart of worship.

Also - remember our others services today also looked at the same topic. Check it out!

DISCUSSION NOTES

INTRODUCTION

Read 2 Samuel 6:12-23, Psalm 63 and Psalm 145

2 Samuel 6 describes David bringing the Ark into Jerusalem and ‘dancing before the Lord with all his might’. The worship could be described as ‘extravagant’ in the lavishness of provision, enthusiastic in its celebration, and intimate in its lack of dignity (and exposure).

1. Why do you think David’s wife was so negative about his worship? (v20). Do ever feel negative or even repelled by intimacy or extravagance in worship and if so why? Can you think of any occasions of worship around the life of Jesus that aroused a negative reaction? (e.g. John 12, Luke 19:35 on). What is going on here?

2. David was a great musician and wrote songs (Psalm 63:3-5). Why is music and song so central to so much of our worship? 

3. Worship has a continuum for David from ‘worship in the sanctuary’ (63:v 2) to worship on his own in solitude (63:6). What is the link between public and private worship in your life? What does worship and our ‘secret history with God’ reveal about our heart?

4. Psalm 145 is a Psalm of praise. It gives a big picture of God. How does worship ‘magnify’, gives a bigger and truer picture of God?

5. David worships when he is in trouble. How does a ‘happy clappy’ celebratory Church that celebrates the goodness and power of God handle lament and pain in its worship?

Christianity isn’t a belief system or a philosophy. It is a self-giving relationship with God. The old marriage service says ‘With my body I thee worship’. How does a daily pattern of worship help us keep our hearts in tune with God so that we can be people after God’s own heart?

As a group discuss what helps you worship, with resources like videos and CD’s , with books, liturgies and poems, with creativity and financial extravagance perhaps too?

Heart of David Series: Worship | Clare Thompson at 11am | 4 July 2021

How can we all be people after God’s own heart?

4 July 2021 - 11am Service

The Heart of David Series: Worship

In the Bible, King David is called ‘a man after God’s own heart’. This July, we will be looking at how David’s heart is revealed as much in the Psalms as in the amazing narratives of his life in 1 & 2 Samuel.

The sermon series aims to invite us to examine our own hearts and ask how we can cultivate and guard a heart of worship.

Also - remember our others services today also looked at the same topic. Check it out!

DISCUSSION NOTES

INTRODUCTION

Read 2 Samuel 6:12-23, Psalm 63 and Psalm 145

2 Samuel 6 describes David bringing the Ark into Jerusalem and ‘dancing before the Lord with all his might’. The worship could be described as ‘extravagant’ in the lavishness of provision, enthusiastic in its celebration, and intimate in its lack of dignity (and exposure).

1. Why do you think David’s wife was so negative about his worship? (v20). Do ever feel negative or even repelled by intimacy or extravagance in worship and if so why? Can you think of any occasions of worship around the life of Jesus that aroused a negative reaction? (e.g. John 12, Luke 19:35 on). What is going on here?

2. David was a great musician and wrote songs (Psalm 63:3-5). Why is music and song so central to so much of our worship? 

3. Worship has a continuum for David from ‘worship in the sanctuary’ (63:v 2) to worship on his own in solitude (63:6). What is the link between public and private worship in your life? What does worship and our ‘secret history with God’ reveal about our heart?

4. Psalm 145 is a Psalm of praise. It gives a big picture of God. How does worship ‘magnify’, gives a bigger and truer picture of God?

5. David worships when he is in trouble. How does a ‘happy clappy’ celebratory Church that celebrates the goodness and power of God handle lament and pain in its worship?

Christianity isn’t a belief system or a philosophy. It is a self-giving relationship with God. The old marriage service says ‘With my body I thee worship’. How does a daily pattern of worship help us keep our hearts in tune with God so that we can be people after God’s own heart?

As a group discuss what helps you worship, with resources like videos and CD’s , with books, liturgies and poems, with creativity and financial extravagance perhaps too?

Heart of David Series: Worship | Dave Mitchell at 8.30am | 4 July 2021

How can we all be people after God’s own heart?

4 July 2021 - 8.30am Service

The Heart of David Series: Worship

In the Bible, King David is called ‘a man after God’s own heart’. This July, we will be looking at how David’s heart is revealed as much in the Psalms as in the amazing narratives of his life in 1 & 2 Samuel.

The sermon series aims to invite us to examine our own hearts and ask how we can cultivate and guard a heart of worship.

Also - remember our others services today also looked at the same topic. Check it out!

DISCUSSION NOTES

INTRODUCTION

Read 2 Samuel 6:12-23, Psalm 63 and Psalm 145

2 Samuel 6 describes David bringing the Ark into Jerusalem and ‘dancing before the Lord with all his might’. The worship could be described as ‘extravagant’ in the lavishness of provision, enthusiastic in its celebration, and intimate in its lack of dignity (and exposure).

1. Why do you think David’s wife was so negative about his worship? (v20). Do ever feel negative or even repelled by intimacy or extravagance in worship and if so why? Can you think of any occasions of worship around the life of Jesus that aroused a negative reaction? (e.g. John 12, Luke 19:35 on). What is going on here?

2. David was a great musician and wrote songs (Psalm 63:3-5). Why is music and song so central to so much of our worship? 

3. Worship has a continuum for David from ‘worship in the sanctuary’ (63:v 2) to worship on his own in solitude (63:6). What is the link between public and private worship in your life? What does worship and our ‘secret history with God’ reveal about our heart?

4. Psalm 145 is a Psalm of praise. It gives a big picture of God. How does worship ‘magnify’, gives a bigger and truer picture of God?

5. David worships when he is in trouble. How does a ‘happy clappy’ celebratory Church that celebrates the goodness and power of God handle lament and pain in its worship?

Christianity isn’t a belief system or a philosophy. It is a self-giving relationship with God. The old marriage service says ‘With my body I thee worship’. How does a daily pattern of worship help us keep our hearts in tune with God so that we can be people after God’s own heart?

As a group discuss what helps you worship, with resources like videos and CD’s , with books, liturgies and poems, with creativity and financial extravagance perhaps too?

July EcoChallenge: Get a Water Butt

At Woodies, we are keen love God's creation and our People + Planet group is key in helping us to reduce our impact on the environment as a church. Our monthly EcoChallenges help everyone in church to take part from home. This month, David Parker shares the some helpful tips for how to get involved.

July 2021: EcoChallege - “Get a Water Butt”

This month’s challenge has been on my to-do list for a while – get a water butt! I’m increasingly aware as we go into the summer months that we use a lot of tap water watering our garden and that seems a shame when so much rainwater flows down our gutters into the drains throughout the year.

Water butts are a great way to save water, this also can lower your carbon footprint because treating and pumping water does use a significant amount of energy. Your plants will grow better too - most plants actively prefer being watered with rainwater, which contains some of the natural minerals they need to thrive. Finally water butts can even reduce flood risk by holding water from summer storms which would otherwise go quickly into the drains and then rivers.

A few practical tips:

• You can buy them from most DIY stores, online or even order them from Bristol Water

• Keep the lid securely fastened to stop wildlife or debris getting in

• Use the water on established plants, but now new seedlings (to prevent possible fungal infection)

• One thing you need to be aware of is legionella bacteria, which can multiply if the water temperature gets above 20ᵒC. If possible, site a water butt in the shade, or you can get a reflective jacket for it to keep it cool. Do use a watering can, but don’t use water from a water butt with a spray or a hose as they make it much more likely that bacteria could be inhaled. Washing your hands after gardening is always a good idea too.

• It’s recommended that you clean your water butt every year (once the summer is over) 

If you want to read up more here is an article from the Royal Horticultural Society:

• https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?pid=313

GET INVOLVED WITH PEOPLE + PLANET

If you’d be interested in finding out more about the Woodlands People + Planet group, or have some feedback about the challenges, connect with us:

• Email lydia.klimecki@bristol.ac.uk 

• Find us on Facebook

The Heart of David Series

How can we all be people after God’s own heart?  

In the Bible, King David is called ‘a man after God’s own heart’. This July, we will be looking at how David’s heart is revealed as much in the Psalms as in the amazing narratives of his life in 1 & 2 Samuel.

The sermon series aims to invite us to examine our own hearts and ask how we can cultivate and guard a heart of worship. What does it mean to fight battles as followers of Jesus? How does our heart for God affect our relationships with others? How do we keep a soft contrite and repentant heart when we inevitably mess up? How do the Psalms add a dimension to our prayers around these things?

This series will look at an aspect of David’s heart each week, including both some narrative scriptures and a Psalm linked with each unique attribute.  

Here’s what our preaching topics during this series are:

• Worship | 4th July 2021

• Courage | 11th July 2021

• Friendship  | 18th July 2021

• Repentance | 25th July 2021

We hope you can join us in person or online throughout July for this exciting series.

Remember you can book in advance to attend church in person. Capacity will be limited and COVID safe precautions will be taken. We’re also serving hot drinks before each service. Simply book online here:

• Sunday Services - Online Bookings

---

TALKS FROM OUR HEART OF DAVID SERIES