Closer Than Friends

Gathered - Closer than Friends

Week 4

Pastor Mandy Barkhaus

So yes, there is a lot going on and sometimes things don't work out for us, and that is frustrating, but God is still good and God is still great, and we are so thankful for that. So thank you for being a part of Matt's moment. It is an incredible thing when we stand up in front of a congregation and the body of Christ and make that sort of commitment to Jesus publicly. That is amazing.

Over the last few weeks, we've been talking about gathering. Why do we gather? Why do we gather and do this today like we were doing? Why do we gather in different kinds of groups that we have here at Horizons? A couple of weeks ago, we talked a little bit about table groups. These are places of fellowship where we can pull up a chair and share a meal. Sometimes these groups gather for a hobby or shared interest. Table groups are largely about belonging. They remind us that no one should ever feel alone in faith, but also that we are all unique. We don't all share the same interests, yet we are all created in God’s image.

Then we talked about grow groups. These are spaces where we intentionally grow, digging into Scripture and learning what it means to follow Jesus in our everyday lives. Grow groups are places where we learn about Jesus, how He lived, and we unpack all the things He taught us to do. This is where we might learn a new spiritual discipline.

Today, we're talking about spirit groups. Now, I know some of you might think "spirit group" sounds a little intense. Maybe you imagine lighting candles, doing chants, or sacrificing the church coffee pot. But don’t worry—spirit groups are not a cult. I get it if you feel a little intimidated because spirit groups are about something we don’t always like to talk about: confession. Confessing our sins doesn’t sound like the best Sunday afternoon activity. Personally, if given the choice between confessing my sins in front of a group or cleaning out the garage, I’d probably pick the garage.

But confession is powerful. We know this not just because the Bible tells us, but because science has caught up to what God designed. Psychologists have studied confessions, whether to a therapist, a trusted friend, or even just in a journal, and found that it lowers stress, improves mental health, and strengthens relationships. One study even found that people who admitted mistakes felt less shame and closer to those they confessed to. Thousands of years before psychology confirmed it, Scripture was already pointing us to this. James 5:16 says, “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” The prayer of a righteous person is powerful.

In the first-century world, healing meant being fully restored—mind, body, soul, relationships. Confession was, and still is, part of being made whole. Confession opens the door, and prayer brings the power. Yet nobody is raising their hands and saying, “Yes, let me share my deepest secrets in front of a group.” Why? Because it’s hard. Confession may require change, and change is uncomfortable. It’s like when your car makes a weird noise—you don’t want to take it to a mechanic because it’s going to reveal more than you want to see. Confession feels the same way; it forces us to look at what’s really going on.

Spirit groups are not just about confessing sins and leaving it there. They’re about allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us every day, aligning perfectly with one of our values at Horizons: being guided by the Holy Spirit. God’s guidance isn’t just about the small details of life; it’s about helping us walk a morally right path. Psalm 143:10 says, “Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. May your good spirit lead me on level ground.” Spirit groups help us find that level ground before life gets shaky.

In this service, Matt came forward, and next service David Sorienti will renew baptismal vows. In Methodist theology, we don’t redo baptisms because God is faithful; instead, we remember and renew because we need reminding. Spirit groups work similarly—vulnerability and honesty allow God to guide us back to faithfulness. Spirit groups are small, committed circles that meet regularly for conversation, accountability, prayer, and spiritual growth. They create a space to listen to the Holy Spirit and lovingly challenge one another to walk the moral path God intended.

A biblical example is King David. He committed adultery with Bathsheba and arranged the death of her husband Uriah. From the outside, David appeared righteous, but inside he was far from God. Nathan the prophet told him a story, and David reacted, not realizing he was the subject. Nathan revealed the truth, and David confessed: “I have sinned against the Lord.” Nathan then told him, “The Lord has taken away your sin.” This demonstrates the power of confession and gathering with those of deep faith in a forgiving God.

Ashley Ali Crawford shared her experience with spirit groups, small accountability groups where members commit to honesty with themselves, each other, and God. Spirit groups meet regularly to pray, grow spiritually, and reinforce following Jesus in daily life. While Bible studies are valuable, spirit groups focus on life itself. Ashley has been in such a group for nine years and credits it with helping her see herself, her relationships, and God more clearly. These groups provide words of truth and love that draw participants closer to God and bring healing.

Some may be ready to sign up immediately, others might feel anxious, and some may feel they don’t have time. But everyone is invited to ask God if this is an opportunity to say yes. More information is on the Horizons website under groups. Spirit groups offer a safe space for growth, confession, and accountability. They are not just another thing on your calendar—they’re spaces where God works through others to help you grow, heal, and live as God intended.

On September 7th at the impact fair, attendees can indicate interest in spirit groups with a star on their name tag. These groups help people lean into the Holy Spirit, connect with others, and not carry burdens alone. Scripture reminds us: “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed” (James 5:16). You can’t heal what you won’t reveal. Ultimately, everyone will stand before God and answer for their lives. Spirit-filled people walking alongside us help us navigate life faithfully.

Let’s pray: God, thank You for community, for people who speak truth, encouragement, and love. Help us to be honest with You, with each other, and see where we need Your guidance and healing. Give us courage to take the next step, grow closer to You, and be guided by the Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Mr. Bob from the endowment committee introduced the endowment fund and special guest Sharon from the Nebraska United Methodist Foundation. The endowment supports long-term ministry goals beyond the regular budget, ensuring God’s work continues for generations. Contributions can be one-time, periodic, in honor of events, memorials, or legacy gifts.

Sharon shared about the “Put Your House in Order” event, helping individuals create or update a will. Professionals will be available, and registration is required by September 1st. The event is open to everyone, not just church members. More details are on the Horizons website. The session will include presentations on investments, gift planning, and legacies. The endowment fund allows ongoing support for God’s work, and every contribution helps make a difference in spreading His word.