Life can be messy and hard, yet no matter where you are in your faith, it’s important that you find your next step and keep moving forward. Growing is a process and there’s always something happening at Gainesville First to help you connect with God’s Word and with one another. See a list of the Bible Studies we offer as ongoing and seasonal Disciple Groups below.

Sundays

Stephen Ministry Training

Led by a Stephen Minister / starting August 16 / 4-6pm / S-01

Stephen Ministers are church members who are called to a caring ministry that supports the pastoral outreach of the church. Through 30 hours of training, they learn the art of reflective listening, how to be present with people in difficult times, and the importance of confidentiality. Following commissioning, Stephen Ministers meet monthly with the Stephen Ministry team and weekly with a care receiver when assigned. In their ministry relationships, Stephen Ministers provide encouragement and spiritual support to people who may be experiencing divorce, terminal or chronic illness, loneliness, grief, or other life transitions.

If you have gifts of empathy and compassion, please prayerfully consider joining this ministry. A training class will meet Sundays August 16 – November 22 with a final wrap up and commissioning in January. Contact Rev. Carolyn Clifton at cclifton@gfumc.com for more information and to receive an application. Interviews will be held in July and August as we prepare for the class. Training materials cost $50. Scholarships are available.

Mondays

Monday Scripture Study

Led by Rev. Carolyn Clifton / starts August 24 / 12pm-1pm / Lakeside Conference Room & Zoom

How would your worship experience be different if you prepared your heart in advance? Gather with this group on Mondays to discuss the Scripture text for the upcoming Sunday sermon. Newcomers to the group are always welcome and advanced preparation is not required. Join us in person or via Zoom.

Tuesdays

Men’s Bible Study

Led by Rev. Jamey Prickett / starts August 11 / 7am-8am / Reception Hall & Zoom

Men mark your calendars to join for biscuits and Bible study! We meet every Tuesday morning at 7am for a time of fellowship, reflection, and spiritual growth. Dive deep into the scriptures, discuss their relevance in today's world, and connect with fellow believers. Whether you're new to the Bible or have been studying it for years, this group is open to all men seeking to grow in their faith.

Ladies Bible Study: What Happens Next: A Traveler’s Guide Through the End of This Age

Led by Sheri Duke / starts September 8 / 10am / Room S-13/15

Are we living in the end times? If so, what does that mean for you?

In contrast to the confusion and anxiety that often comes with this topic, Max Lucado believes God wants us to be prepared, not scared; informed, not intimidated. He writes: "The future is not frightening if you know the future. And you can know the future when you know who holds it."

What Happens Next is an optimistic, accessible, and nonsensational guide to what the Bible says about heaven's timeline that will empower you to face the future with faith. Max takes you on a well-researched overview of what God's Word says, exploring the following four big ideas that provide a solid foundation for understanding God's eternal plan:

• We were made to reign with Christ.

• God has made and will keep his promises.

• Heaven has a timeline.

• A golden era-the millennium-awaits God's children.

Max takes you on a 7-week journey of the timeline of history, examining essential milestones such as the rapture, the seven years of tribulation, and the glory of heaven. Whether you find yourself in the "I can't wait," "I'm almost ready," or "I'm not sure about all of this" camp, you will be encouraged to ponder God's promises for the future. In Max's signature encouraging style, he reminds us, "It's all about hope. It's all about Him."

In October, we will begin a study by Lisa Harper, Job: A Story of Unlikely Joy. This study is about finding joy through suffering. It’s about trusting God’s providence and goodness, even amid life’s darkest trials.

The class has a video, and a workbook component combined with time for sharing prayer concerns and fellowship. Join us beginning Tuesday, September 8 in room S-13/15.

Ladies’ Bible Study: The Amazing Collection: Minor Prophets & New Testament Historical Books

Led by Ellen Wren / starts September 15 / 10am / Room S-06

The Amazing Collection: The Bible Book by Book takes you on a unique journey through the Bible, pointing to Jesus from Genesis through Revelation. You’ll see that everything since time began has been moving toward eternity, when God and His people will dwell together forever, because of Christ. Whether you are studying God’s Word for the first time or the fiftieth, The Amazing Collection helps you discover fresh beauty and truth on every page. Knowing the Author of the one book that can change your life is more than a possibility – it’s a promise for those who seek Him. And you’ll find Him in The Amazing Collection. We will be discussing the Later Minor Prophets (Nahum – Malachi) – which we learn that the message to Israel of repentance and return remains constant; this call for softened hearts echoes through the centuries as we struggle with the same sins that offend the same God.

We will then dive into the New Testament Historical Books (Matthew – Acts). After centuries of darkness and silence, the glory of the Lord returned to His people, this time in flesh – the Word, Jesus. Another birth takes place in these books: the Church, born through the promised Holy Spirit and the obedience of Jesus’ followers. These beloved books will spark joy as you marvel at the sovereignty of our loving God.

Women of all ages are very welcome to join us in fellowship, study and prayer with old and new friends.  Join us beginning Tuesday, September 15 at 10am in room S-06. 

Young Adults Small Group

Led by Ginnie Highsmith / Every Tuesday starting January 6 / 6:30pm / GFUMC Campus *Class has ended. Will resume in the Fall.

Is Hell really a place people go to? Did Jonah actually get swallowed by a whale? And what is going on in the book of Revelation? Your twenties and early thirties are full of transitions and unknowns. This small group creates opportunities for young adults to experience authentic Christian community and explore faith's big questions while having fun. If you like big questions, dogs, and cheese dip, the Young Adults Small Group is for you!

Join us every Tuesday beginning January 6 at 6:30pm. For young adults, 21+ years old.

Wednesdays

*Please note that on Wednesday evenings, we also have small groups for our children and students. We encourage you to make this a family night for your small groups!

FAITH CAFE: The Jesus Discoveries: 10 Historic Finds that Brings Us Face-to-Face with Jesus

Led by Nancy Evans & Pam Katz / starting September 9 / 1:30pm / Panera Bread Company

Jesus is Not a Legend. He is Lord.

In an age of growing skepticism, many demand hard evidence before believing anything is true--especially when it comes to Jesus and the Bible. A kind of "artifacts or it didn't happen" attitude. Perhaps nowhere is this attitude more prevalent than when considering the claims of Christianity. The irony of this is that there are centuries of archaeological discoveries that support the narratives found in the Bible. Lost cities and civilizations, found. Lost art and technology, rediscovered. Lost documents, retrieved.

In this eye-opening, faith-fortifying book from acclaimed New Testament scholar and minister Jeremiah Johnston, you'll encounter ten of the most compelling historic finds that corroborate the truth claims found in the Bible regarding who Jesus said he was, when and where He lived, His claims and aims, how His life ended, and how that wasn't the end of His story.

Far more than a tour of the past, The Jesus Discoveries connects His story with your story, perhaps in ways you've never before considered--revealing how Jesus's story changes your story.

● Explore compelling archeological discoveries that support the authenticity of the Bible, the resurrection of Jesus, and the reasonableness of Christianity
● Learn from an acclaimed biblical scholar and ministry leader
● Encounter evidence for Jesus, including the Shroud of Turin, the Magdalen Papyrus, the Dead Sea Scrolls

Join us Wednesdays beginning September 9 from 1:30-3pm at Panera Bread in Gainesville.

DISCIPLE I - Becoming Disciples Through Bible Study

Led by Rev. Garrett Wallace / starts August 12 / 6pm / S-49 / Books are $35

Disciple grows you as a follower of Jesus – reading and asking questions of Scripture with a group of people who quickly become your friends. You can’t rush this, which is why every study is 24 weeks. 12 weeks in the fall to cover the Old Testament and then 12 weeks in the spring focused on the New Testament.

Disciple I is the foundation. It covers all the main themes of faith, while connecting them to scripture. After 24 weeks, you'll be closer to God, closer to others, and ready to more fully live out your faith in everyday life. How might God change your life through Disciple Bible Study this year? Cost is $35 (for both the Old & New Testament workbooks). They can be purchased at the first meeting.

Join us on Wednesdays, starting August 12. In-person or via Zoom.

Inductive Bible Study on the Book of Matthew

Led by Erik Pardue / Wednesdays, starting August 12 / 6pm / Room S-51

Join us for a deeper study of Scripture through the Gospel of Matthew. This class offers a structured approach to discovering what the Bible says and understanding its meaning. Together, we will use both critical thinking and spiritual growth to help discern and apply Scripture in meaningful ways.

MARRIAGE MATTERS: Building God-Centered Marriages

Led by Dr. Doug & BJ Jensen / Wednesdays, August 12-26 / 6pm / S-13/15

Have you ever said something to your spouse that you thought was caring and loving, and they took it the wrong way?  Communicating with a spouse is important but it can be challenging.  Listening to and loving a spouse is not always as easy either. 

Jesus was a master communicator.  He knew what words to say and how to say them.  When we examine the way Jesus communicated, we start to see patterns.  These patterns can help couples learn a new way to share thoughts and ideas, so that your communication, listening and loving are more like Jesus.

In this study, we will learn how we can: Communicate Like Jesus, Listen Like Jesus, and Love Like Jesus.

Each session will include examples from the Bible, teaching technique and a time to practice what you are learning.

Join us on August 12 at 6pm in S-13/15.

MARRIAGE MATTERS: Famous Lovers of the Bible

Led by Dr. Doug & BJ Jensen / Wednesdays, September 16-October 14 / 6pm/ S-13/15

Marriage Matters: Famous Lovers of the Bible

Led by Dr. Doug & BJ Jensen / Wednesdays, September 16-October 14 / 6pm / S-13, 15

Come join Dr. Doug and BJ Jensen, for 5 consecutive Wednesdays beginning September 16, from 6-7pm, as we study the book Famous Lovers in the Bible and build even stronger God-centered marriages.  Each week we will look at a Biblical couple, discuss a main issue in their relationship, learn marriage building tools, and take time to discuss and practice what we are learning.  Topics include: building oneness and teamwork; seeking God’s direction and timing; developing safe, effective, loving communication; the importance of recommitting to your relationship and understanding why forgiveness and humility are so important in marriage.

The Familiar Stranger

Led by Lee Highsmith, Kay Walker, Mary Wall / starting August 12 / S-01

We know that the Holy Spirit is part of the Trinity, but many of us are unsure of exactly how it fits in with God and Jesus. It’s the helper Jesus promised his disciples would come to them after he ascended into Heaven, but what, exactly, did he mean?

Join us for this study as we get to know the Holy Spirit more intimately. Together, we will learn how the Holy Spirit fits into the Trinity and into our spiritual lives. Books are $15 and can be purchased from the Church.

Thursdays

Thursday Ladies Morning Group: The Bible from 30,000 Feet: New Testament

Led by Linda Ingle & Dot Pirkle / Thursdays, starting August 13 / 8:30am / Lakeside Conference Room

Enjoy the magnificent panorama of Scripture like never before! This study shares a FLIGHT plan for all 66 books of the Bible to help you better understand the context and significance of each. In this overview, you'll discover...
Facts—about the author and the date each book was written; Landmarks—a summary of the highlights of the book; Itinerary—a specific outline of the book divided by themes; Gospel—how to see Jesus within the book's pages; History—a brief glimpse at the cultural setting for the book; Travel Tips—guidelines for navigating the book's truths

If you have ever found yourself getting lost and wandering from verse to verse in Scripture, put yourself firmly on track with the clear aerial view offered in The Bible from 30,000 Feet.

This small of group of ladies gathers on Thursday morning to study the Bible together and share life together.  While this group has a great history of studying together faithfully, all are welcome!

Caring for the Caregiver

Facilitated by Brenau psychology students / ongoing on Thursdays / 12:30pm / Connect Café
               
Caring for loved ones experiencing issues with aging and dementia can be challenging. Gathering with others in similar situations to share experiences, gain insights, and receive encouragement can be helpful. In partnership with Brenau University, GFUMC hosts an ongoing support group facilitated by trained, graduate level psychology students on Thursdays at 12:30pm in the Connect Café. Please contact Mildred Smith in the church office for more information or to register prior to attending the group.

Centering Prayer

Led by Rev. Carolyn Clifton / starting August 20 / 2 pm / S-52

Centering Prayer is a spiritual practice rooted in the Christian contemplative tradition that invites us to be present to the presence of God who is always with us. Gather with others on Thursdays at 2pm for a time of prayer and study as we seek to incorporate this practice into our lives. Guidance is offered weekly for those new to the practice. Our book study will be Centering Prayer and Inner Awakening by Cynthia Bourgeault.