Orchard Conversations

THE BIBLE TELLS ME SO? - WEEK 6
Join us for the final conversation in our “The Bible Tells Me So?” series as we explore the phrase “The Bible Says It. I Believe It. That Settles It.” We’ll delve into its origins, discuss its implications, and challenge the black-and-white thinking it represents. In a time of deep polarization, we’ll consider how this mindset affects our faith and society, seeking a more nuanced, compassionate approach to biblical interpretation. This thought-provoking and transformative conversation will guide us toward a deeper understanding and a more inclusive path forward.
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Question for contemplation and conversation:
What are some of the big influences that shaped the way you view Scripture? How has your view of the Bible changed over the course of your spiritual journey?
What does it mean to you to read the Bible with humility and curiosity? How can we have respectful conversations about Scripture with people who have diverse perspectives?
As we finish this “Bible Says So?” series, is there a particular idea or perspective you’d like to carry with you? Is there a belief or attitude you’d like to let go of as you journey forward?
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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com
Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com
 

Summer seems to pass by in the blink of an eye. In honor of the holiday weekend, Scott, Anna, and Benjamin take a pause from our regular series to reflect on the lessons and experiences of this summer. We’ll discuss what we’re learning, how life is teaching us, and our intentions for the rest of the season. Tune in for insights on staying present and connected to our families and relationships.
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Question for contemplation and conversation:
What is life teaching you this summer?
What are your intentions for the rest of this summer?
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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com
Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

THE BIBLE TELLS ME SO? - WEEK 5
This week, we explore Jesus' statement, "I Am the Way, the Truth, and the Life," and discuss its broader, inclusive implications for our lives and faith. Join Lead Pastor Scott Hodge and Benjamin Jay Thomas as they discuss new and transformative insights about this phrase.
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Question for contemplation and conversation:
What does it mean to you personally to follow 'the way, the truth, and the life' that Jesus describes?
How does rethinking Jesus' statement, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life,' as an invitation to a transformative way of living rather than an exclusive path to salvation impact your understanding of your faith?
How does shifting the focus from the afterlife to living a transformed life here and now, as Jesus taught, change the way you practice your faith and interact with others?
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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com
Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

THE BIBLE TELLS ME SO? - WEEK 4
Have you ever heard the phrase “money is the root of all evil”? This week, we’re taking a closer look at this familiar saying. Is it really from the Bible, and what does it truly mean for our lives? We’ll delve into its origins, uncover surprising insights, and challenge common misconceptions. How does this belief shape our views on wealth and influence our actions? Join us as we unravel the truth behind this phrase and discover its deeper implications for our daily lives. This conversation might just change the way you think about money.
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Question for contemplation and conversation:
How can we have a healthy relationship with money that acknowledges its potential for both good and evil?
How can we maintain a relationship with money that takes into consideration both our rights and responsibilities?
How can we foster a community that values generosity and the ethical use of resources?
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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com
Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

THE BIBLE TELLS ME SO? - WEEK 3
This week, we jump back into our conversation series “The Bible Says So?” as we explore the saying, "God helps those who help themselves." We’ve all heard this statement roll off our tongues or the tongues of others. And there’s a lot of truth in it, right? Taking ownership of our lives feels pretty important. But what about those who aren’t in positions to help themselves? And what about the idea of grace and relying on God’s provision? Where do we draw the line? This week, we’ll dive into all of these questions and more!
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Question for contemplation and conversation:
How did thinking about the concept "God helps those who help themselves" resonate with you? How did it challenge your thinking around that need to integrate the ideas of grace and effort, faith and works, rather than seeing them as completely separate?
Looking back, can you think of a time when you tried too hard or didn't try hard enough? What can you learn from that experience?
Is there an area in your life where you might be waiting for help from God or from others? How can you apply the concept of helping yourself in a positive way? How might this conversation prompt you to ask others for help?
How have you experienced greater wholeness or greater joy in being one who helps another?
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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com
Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

This week, as our community based in Aurora, Illinois celebrates Pride Month, we revisit our community value of Hospitality with a throwback sermon from Lead Pastor Scott Hodge. Sometimes we can go our entire lives without being truly seen. The spirit of Hospitality empowers us to see each other exactly as we are, and welcome each other with wide open arms. Today we reflect on this value and how to live it out in our day-to-day lives.
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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com
Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

THE BIBLE TELLS ME SO? - WEEK 2
This week, we continue our conversation series “The Bible Says So?” as we explore the saying “love the sinner, hate the sin.” We discuss the origins of this phrase, why it’s commonly used, and the significant problems it presents, especially when it comes to defining and interpreting “sin” in our contemporary context.
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Question for contemplation and conversation:
Based on your own life experiences, background, and personal journey, what is your reaction to the phrase ‘Love the Sinner, Hate the Sin’? How has this phrase impacted your understanding of love, judgment, and community?
How does the focus on ‘hating the sin’ in others potentially distract us from our own need for personal transformation and repentance?
What might a faith community look like if it fully embraced the principle of unconditional love without the qualifier of ‘hating the sin’? How would this change the way we welcome, support, and journey with one another in our spiritual lives?
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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com
Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

THE BIBLE TELLS ME SO? - WEEK 1
As we begin a new series, “The Bible Tells Me So?”, where we examine conventional wisdom often assumed to be biblical truth, this week we explore the statement “God never gives you more than you can handle,” uncovering its origins, truths, potential harms, and the deeper hope we find in community and God’s support.
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Question for contemplation and conversation:
When did you first come into contact with this idea that “God won’t give you more than you can handle”?
Can you think of a time when this statement was comforting to you, and a time when it felt minimizing, harmful, or perpetuated limiting beliefs?
Where have you experienced people being truly PRESENT with you during difficult times?
What does the story of Job teach us about hope and restoration after periods of intense suffering?
How can we better support each other within our community when someone is facing overwhelming difficulties?
How can we shift the narrative from “handling everything on our own” to embracing our need for divine and communal support?
Are there other phrases or cliches that you’ve experienced that have felt empty or hollow
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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com
Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com