The church as “school” or “learning center”

At Linworth, our goal is to help every believer master the disciplines that will empower them to grow spiritually. We believe that the disciplines do not earn us grace, but that they pave the way for our hearts to receive and experience God’s grace to grow, serve, and minister to others.

We believe that each individual must take responsibility for their own spiritual growth, yet recognize that spiritual growth comes from the right calibration of individual and group involvement.

Spiritual Growth

1. Individual Time with God - “Quiet Time”

What is a quiet time?

Disciplines emphasized: solitude, fasting, prayer, study, meditation, reflection

2. Sunday Mornings, The Rock, The Edge, Friday Night Alive

Large group gatherings designed to celebrate the goodness of God, affirm the presence of Christ in our lives, and demonstrate God’s power and reality to non-Christians. The teaching element conveys overall doctrine and alues in relating rightly to God, the church and the world.

Disciplines emphasized: worship, study, celebration, communion, tithing, fasting

3. Life Groups

Dialogues designed to engage Christ-followers in how to practically live the Christian life. From the group, genuine, trusting friendships catalyze that allow for even greater intimacy and spiritual formation.

Disciplines emphasized: fellowship, confession, prayer, service, study, submission

4. Core Classes

Material that is best learned in a classroom format. Core classes include:

• 101 - Understanding Linworth
• 201 - Understanding the Bible, Prayer and Effective Fellowship
• 301 - Understanding Your Uniqueness and Purpose
• 401 - Help for Sharing Your Faith

Core Leadership Classes include:

• Basics of Friendships
• Basics of Theology
• Basics of Leadership (in developement)

Examples of Additional Classes offered:

• The Book of James
• The Religion of Evolution
• Exit Interviews - Why people are leaving the church?
• Old Testament Survey