Breakout Session 1— 9:30–10:15 a.m.
Increasing Our Gospel Fluency by Understanding the Metanarrative of Scripture: Cierra Bragan
In this session we’ll take a look at the “Big Story” of Scripture and seek to increase our fluency in the seeing and sharing the gospel throughout the Bible. The more we study the whole of Scripture we come to see God’s beautiful cohesive story of salvation from Genesis to Revelation. Seeing and understanding the thread of redemption throughout the Word increases our gospel fluency, equips us to rightly contextualize the gospel when sharing with others, and stirs our hearts towards greater intimacy with Jesus.
Intended Audience: Anybody
To the Unreached for God’s glory: Hannah Brennan
The vast majority of missions resources go to people and places already Reached by the Gospel, while only 3% of missionaries and 1% of missions money are deployed among the Unreached (typically amongst American churches- not particularly Briarwood). This talk is designed to define very regularly used terms from “missionary” to “Unreached People Groups” to help you see God’s heart for His people among the nations. This talk will also help give you ideas of how to engage with what God is doing among the nations from where you are now (in Birmingham) and where you might go (to the nations)! We will pray for the unreached together and go through resources to foster awareness and love for those who live without access to the Gospel.
Intended Audience: Anybody
Steadfast Hope in Seasons of Waiting: Donna Evans
All of us will face some life seasons of change, but seasons of waiting can be particularly difficult as we wait for things to change. In this breakout session we’ll look at some biblical examples of those who waited well; examine some scriptures to encourage us as we wait; and offer three practical strategies for maintaining steadfast hope while we wait.
Intended Audience: Anybody
Empty-Nest Marriage: Jenny Haines
The kids have gone off to college and/or started their careers, now what? This session will focus on how to reconnect as a couple and transition into the next stage of life. Many new things often happen in this stage of life such as the marriage of our children, caring for our aging parents, and unexpected death/illness. We will discuss how keeping a strong marriage foundation will help us through these transitions.
Intended Audience: Empty-Nesters
Bearing fruit in the different stages of life by abiding in the vine (John 15),
being planted by streams of water (Psalm 1),
and still bearing fruit in old age (Psalm 92).
Intended Audience: Seasoned believers
The Divorce Dilemma: Angie Reeder
Whether you are going through divorce, have been through one, or are walking with someone you love through a divorce, there IS hope. Tragically this reality touches everyone’s life at some point now or later. Find out some practical ways to help those you care about find peace, light, and hope when everyday life can seem daunting.
Intended Audience: Divorced, and family/friends of divorced