Get Connected

NEXT STEPS
Moving Ahead In Your Spiritual Journey

Where Are You Spiritually?

1. I haven’t given God much thought until recently. I’m curious about spiritual things but don’t want anyone pressuring me. Can I find out more on my own?

Next Steps:

• Relax - We understand that spiritually curious people need their space. That’s why “Next Steps” is self-guided. You can take this as fast and as far as you like.

• Look - The Resource Center (located in our lobby) was created to support your spiritual search without anyone looking over your shoulder. There is a variety of interesting and relevant books and booklets free of charge.

• Listen - At the Resource Center you’ll find a free CD entitled “Fear Of Death.” In it, Roger Pryor presents the benefits of seriously seeking God. You may not be there yet, but this is a great look at something everyone must face.

2. I’ve tried church before but it wasn’t a very positive experience. I haven’t given up on God but am skeptical about organized religion. Is Heartland any different?

Next Steps:

• Heartland Community Church is different from many other churches because it was designed to meet the needs of spiritual seekers and create an environment where they are comfortable. Our unique mission impacts everything we do.

• Browse - Pick up a “Welcome Packet” at the Information Center. Inside you’ll find articles and information explaining what Heartland is all about. There is also a lot of good information on our web site. You can find us at www.heartcc.org.

• Get The Inside Story - “View HCC” is your introduction to HCC. We describe how Heartland got its start and why we do things the way we do. It’s interactive so you can ask anything you want.

• Give Us A Try - The best way to see if Heartland is truly different is to hang out with us. Attend on a regular basis and see if there is positive impact. We don’t claim to be perfect, but we do try to be refreshingly different, creative, relevant, and sometimes just plain fun.

3. I’m definitely searching for spiritual reality. I’m looking for God but still have questions. Got any answers?

Next Steps:

• Search The Source - The Bible is full of information about God. Look over the Journey Bible in the HCC library and follow the steps found in the text windows labeled “Reasons To Believe” and “Addressing Questions.” This book can also be purchased online or at local bookstores.

• Top Ten Questions - Seeker FAQ’s (frequently asked questions) are found on our web page and at Seeker Central. The answers are there too! You can find us at www.heartcc.org or pick up hard copies of these Q & A’s at Seeker Central. Also, pick up the booklet “7 Wonders.” It covers the big questions of life.

• Let Us Help - There are people at Heartland who love to sit with and listen to anyone trying to make sense of life and God. Our commitment is to be a resource, without pressuring you to agree with all we believe or teach. Call the Heartland office at 309-452-7335 and we’ll find someone who would be glad to talk through the questions you have about God.

4. I’ve heard people talk about being followers of Jesus and about a personal relationship with Jesus. I like the ideas that Jesus taught —what does this other stuff mean?

Next Steps:

• Take A Closer Look At Jesus - At the Resource Center you’ll find the book: More Than A Carpenter by Josh McDowell. Another good approach is to read the Bible’s Gospel of John while asking, “What does Jesus say about himself?” Free copies of “John” are available at the Resourve Center.

• Get Inside Information - “View HCC” is a workshop that helps people understand Heartland’s way of doing church and what it means to be a follower of Christ.

• Get The Facts - Becoming a follower of Jesus begins with the personal choice to make him your forgiver and leader.  There is a booklet entitled The Story at the Resource Center that will help you understand.

• Ask - For many, personal faith is an interesting but confusing concept. If you would like to share your thoughts or questions with someone who will listen and help you understand more, call the Heartland office at 309-452-7335.

• Keep Seeking - Heartland is here to help spiritual seekers come closer to God—one person at a time, one step at a time. Take your time, attend, ask, and get all the input and info you need to make an informed choice.

5. I recently decided to make Jesus my forgiver and leader of my life. What do I do now?

Next Steps:

• Tell Someone - Begin building a spiritual support team by sharing your decision with a friend who is a Christ-follower or tell one of the Heartland staff (you can use a Direct Connect card from Sunday’s program).

• Start The Adventure - Pick up the “I Said Yes To Jesus Packet” at the Information Center.

• Celebrate - Becoming personally connected to God creates a new appreciation of God. Christ-followers express those feelings through worship.

• Get Connected - Following Christ is more than a decision; it’s a new direction. Get connected with someone who is able to help you in your walk with God. Call the church office at 452-7335 or use a Direct Connect card for help.

• Consider Baptism - Baptism is a way to publicly show that you have made Jesus your Forgiver and Leader. It is explained at the View HCC workshop and before baptisms, which are held at regular intervals during the year.

6. I’ve been a Christ-follower for a while but seem to have stalled out. How do I get spiritually recharged?

Next Steps:

• Get Connected - Sometimes we stall spiritually because we’ve been isolated from others who desire to follow Christ and grow spiritually. Check out one of our Life Groups by calling the church office at 452-7335 for current options.

• Read To Recharge - There are many excellent books in the Heartland library.

• Clean House - If your life is stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts, actions, or relational patterns; it may be time to do a thorough spiritual house cleaning. “Steps To Freedom In Christ” is designed to walk you through each area of life and bring it under the influence and authority of Jesus, our Forgiver and Leader. Call the church office 309-452-7335 for information.

7. I'm a Christ-follower and I’d like to get involved in Heartland’s mission to help spiritual seekers find God. How do I get plugged in?

Next Steps:

• View HCC - This series of four classes is designed to help you take a closer look at yourself, at Heartland, and where you might fit in.

Vision - We will answer your questions about Heartland, our purpose, our values, and our mission.

Insight - Gain new insights into yourself, how you are uniquely wired, and how you relate to others.

Engage - Dig deeper into the beliefs and practices of Heartland and why we do what we do.

Wide Lens - See the bigger picture. Find out where you fit into the minstry of Heartland according to your gifts, your experiences, and your interests.

There are excellent resources available for no charge at the Resource Center in the church lobby. There are also many good books in the Heartland library that you can check out and read.

Another great Bible resource is Bible Gateway