As we begin a new year together at Parkside Church, I’m reminded of the vision put forth by our elders and pastoral team. That vision was one of extending our reach for gospel growth which would be realized as each one of us invested in gospel relationships. Each of us were called to be in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as well as being active in pursuing relationships with unbelievers so that they could become committed followers of Christ themselves. There is no other greater work to be a part of.
Towards that end we seek to offer a variety of resources and avenues to come alongside and equip you for this vision. One of those venues is our annual workshop,
How People Change. How People Change is a workshop combining corporate teaching with small group breakout sessions on a biblical theology of change.
Together we will study the intricacies of the human heart and see the beauty of the gospel that transforms daily life in a real and tangible way. In-depth biblical discipleship is about relationships - with God and with others. How People Change will give you the tools to understand the process of change in your own life and be better able to help others experience spiritual growth in their lives. We will be encouraged to look at our own hearts through the lens of God’s Word and learn to rely more on God’s many forms of grace. This will enable us to step out in life with renewed faith and courage.
Whenever people ask me, “Why should I take this course?” my typical answer is that every believer needs a solid foundation and theology of the change process. This is a fundamental question of life, “How do I change?” Taking this course gives you the biblical foundation as well as the practical paradigm to understand how the change process works in your life as well as equip you to play a role in other’s lives. Your time is precious and valuable, and three weekends in March is a big request, but I’m confident of the fact that this will be a life-changing course for you!
Whatever role you play here at Parkside, in leadership or behind-the-scenes, let me encourage you to consider participating with us on this journey. Paul writes in Colossians 1:28, “Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ.” This is what we hope to do through this course. Proclaim a rich, Christ-centered, robust theology of change which will equip you for the work of gospel relationship building for gospel growth. If you are interested in becoming a part of the lay counseling ministry of Parkside Church, this course is a prerequisite for that as well as our fall course, Helping Others Change.
The first session takes place on Saturday, March 3 from 9:00 am – 2:00 pm followed by subsequent training on March 17 and 31. Cost for the three weekends is $45 which covers the cost of materials, breakfast and lunch for the entire course. Visit the website to sign up today and get more information. If you’re not able to cover the cost, do not hesitate to email us to request a scholarship. Non-Parkside members are welcomed to attend as well. If you are interested in attending just a portion of the workshop, email us for a prorated agreement.
Hope to see you there,
Pastor Jonathan Holmes

