For Reflection/Discussion: Ephesus was known throughout the ancient world for its Temple devoted to Artemis. How did Paul's proclamation of the gospel of Jesus threaten the status quo in Ephesus? How might the proclamation of the gospel threaten the status quo today? Why is it significant that we worship a God who acts in human history? How does believing that God is "able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine" have an impact on our prayer life? How would you characterize your prayer life? Are your prayers cautious? Why is it important to pray great prayers and to pray them expectantly?

For Reflection/Discussion: In what ways is God's power at work within us as individual Christ-followers and as a church? What role does trusting the promises of God play in how God works in our lives? Is it possible to believe in God without trusting God and the promises of God? What was your initial response to hearing about Pastor Jeff's retirement at the end of the year? How can today's text help us negotiate the coming months as we transition from a relationship with our long-tenured pastor to an interim pastor and, ultimately, to a new senior pastor?

For Reflection/Discussion: How has God been at work in your life up to now? What has God accomplished in and through Simi Prez/ StoneBridge over the years? Why does God deserve all the glory, honor, and praise? In what ways is the church essential to the plan of God? Why is our individual ongoing participation in worship, fellowship, service, and giving vitally important to our church family both now and after our pastor retires? Why is it important to remember that Jesus isn't retiring?