SOJO Rooted Guidebook

Name

Table of Contents
Introduction
Our History
Defining Rooted
In Us
Through Us
Beyond Us
One Fund
How We Get There
FAQ’s
Devotional
Week 1: Blessing and Breath
Week 2: Be Fruitful Trees
Week 3: Multiply — The Orchard
Week 4: Fill the Earth — Planting Orchards
Week 5: Subdue It — Embodied Identity
Week 6: Sacrifice — The Mountain Story
Conclusion
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2
4
5
7
9
11
13
14
16
17
20
23
26
29
32
35

Introduction
Dear SOJO Family,
There are moments in the life of a church where God invites us to take a deep breath, put down our roots, and grow
together in ways that will shape generations. ROOTED is one of those moments for us.
Psalm 1 paints a picture of a tree planted by streams of water—strong, flourishing, and fruitful. That’s the kind of church
and the kind of people we long to become. This guide isn’t just a workbook; it’s a roadmap for a spiritual journey.
Over the next several weeks, you’ll discover what it means to be deeply rooted in Christ, so that together we can grow
upward in worship, inward in discipleship, and outward in mission. As you walk through these pages, I want you to
see more than a series of teachings or events. This is about our shared vision for the future of SOJO Church. God has
placed us here to create spaces like a Table—where everyone has a seat, where grace overflows, and where lives are
transformed. Every prayer, every conversation, every act of generosity during this season is a way of preparing that
Table for those who don’t yet know Jesus.
My prayer is that as you journey through this guide, you will:
• Encounter God personally in a fresh, life-giving way.
• Experience authentic community as you walk alongside others in your group.
• Embrace your role in God’s mission, helping us build a church that impacts our city, our region, and the world.
Imagine years from now, looking back on this season and seeing how the seeds planted today have grown into a
movement of people who are deeply rooted and wildly fruitful. That’s what I believe God is doing in us.
So take a deep breath, open your heart, and let’s step forward together. Let’s become a church that is rooted in Christ,
reaching out in love, and bearing fruit that echoes in eternity.
With gratitude and hope,
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Our History
November 2018 February 24, 2019 March 8, 2020
SOJO Core Group
Begins Meeting
SOJO Church holds first
Public Worship Service
at Weddington Hills
Elementary
SOJO’s One Year
Anniversary Celebration
March 15th, 2020
Covid Shutdown Begins
2

May - November 2020 October 2020
SOJO meets at Papa SOJO Secures building in
Robb’s ice cream shop for Downtown concord
services
October 4, 2020
SOJO’s first service at
848 location
February 23, 2025
SOJO Celebrates
6th birthday
3

Defining Rooted
Rooted is a 2 year journey of spiritual formation.
We believe that God is going to do immeasurably more
than we can ask, think, or imagine in us, through us, and
beyond us.
COUNSELING MINISTRY 2024 & 2025
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IN US – BE THE TREE
This part of the campaign is about becoming spiritually rooted at every stage of life — from the youngest
baby to the most seasoned saint. Psalm 1 tells us the person who delights in God is like a tree planted by
streams of water, bearing fruit in every season. That’s our vision: a generational orchard where each person
is deeply rooted, spiritually nourished, and bearing fruit that blesses the next generation. This is how families
grow strong — not by accident, but by intentional investment in discipleship, care, and Christ-centered
community.
Babies & New Parents
- Support systems and discipleship for new parents through baby dedications
parenting classes, and milestone moments
- Loving, gospel-centered nursery environments led by trained volunteers
Kids (Preschool – 5th Grade)
- High-impact Sundays, midweek events, and creative moments to memorize
Scripture and practice worship
- Equipping parents to disciple their kids through devotionals and seasonal
family events
Youth (6th – 12th Grade)
- Weekly gatherings where middle and high schoolers grow in identity,
belonging, and purpose
- Retreats, camps, and mentorships to equip students as leaders in their schools
and homes
- Safe environments to ask hard questions and build a biblical worldview
5

Young Adults (18–25)
- Launch of SOJO University: discipleship and leadership development for college-aged adults
- Mentoring, mission trips, and ministry tracks to help them discern and live out their callings
- Community nights and small groups designed for life-stage connection and growth
Young Marrieds & Parents
- Resources and coaching to help couples build Christ-centered homes
- Marriage enrichment nights, parenting workshops, and connection points with peers
- Integration into multi-generational small groups and leadership pathways
Empty Nesters
- Re-engagement opportunities to serve as mentors, small group leaders, and spiritual parents
- Focused care for life transitions (aging parents, career shifts, grandparenting)
- Spaces to reflect, reimagine, and re-deploy their time, wisdom, and gifts
Seniors
- Honoring the legacy and voice of our elders while inviting them into deeper discipleship roles
- Intentional ways to pass on faith stories, prayers, and wisdom to the next generation
- Pastoral care, prayer teams, and connection events to keep them deeply rooted and actively
bearing fruit
Project Cost
Total: $1,200,000 over 2 years
6
$600,000 per year
Designed to grow a family of families into a flourishing, generationally rich church

THROUGH US – BE THE ORCHARD
This part of the campaign is about what happens through us. We’ve outgrown our current space and
are stepping into a new season at Gibson Mill. Here, we’re preparing an expanded spiritual home for our
growing family — with more space for worship, kids, hospitality, and connection. It’s not just about square
footage. It’s about planting a space in the middle of our city where thousands already gather. We’re building
a space where more people can encounter Jesus — now and for generations to come.
Ministry Impact:
- Move to Gibson Mill, a high-traffic
spiritually strategic location
- Renovation of 5,000 sq ft for a new
SOJO Kids environment (“The Garden”)
- Moving Sundays to The City Club with
400+ worship seats and 14 restrooms
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- Better access: covered drop-off, hospitality areas, and signage
- Ability to serve and reach thousands in the Gibson Mill district
- Establishing a second home base for mission and ministry
- $500K Legacy Fund to prepare for a future permanent home
Project Cost
Total: $1,000,000
8
$500,000 — Renovation and equipment for Gibson Mill worship and kids spaces
$500,000 — Legacy Project Fund to secure a permanent future home

BEYOND US - PLANT THE ORCHARDS
This is the multiplication side of the vision — the mission that moves beyond us. We don’t just want to grow
one healthy church. We want to plant orchards. In Acts 1:8, Jesus commissions us to go here, near, and far —
and this is how we answer that call. We are stepping into a future where new campuses, new languages, new
cities, and new churches will emerge — some with the SOJO name, and some without. We’re not building a
brand. We’re building the Kingdom. Whether it’s local impact, regional church planting, or global missions,
this is about sending people, planting churches, and seeing lives transformed everywhere the gospel goes.
Ministry Impact:
HERE — Local Multiplication ($500,000)
- Launch SOJO Español in 2026 to reach Spanishspeaking
families across our region
- Leverage 848 Union as a midweek, next-gen,
and sending hub by:
- Creating a dedicated space for SOJO Youth
gatherings and discipleship
- Launching Young Adult environments for
connection, worship, and mission
- Building out infrastructure to train and send
future planters, including churches that won’t
carry the SOJO name
- Long-term vision to develop a Dream Center
focused on family development, arts, education,
and community transformation — centered
around a coffee shop, gathering spaces, and
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NEAR — Regional Church Planting ($250,000)
- Launch SOJO Harrisburg in 2027
as a second full SOJO campus
- Support 10 new churches across North Carolina through
Carolina Movement
- Develop future kingdom missionaries through SOJO -
University and leadership residencies
- Invest in coaching, care, and catalytic partnerships that
multiply gospel presence
FAR — Global Missions ($250,000)
- Send 6+ mission teams to global partners in Ethiopia,
Guatemala, Scotland, and beyond
- Build strategic partnerships that plant churches, train
leaders, and serve communities
- Empower young adults and families to go and give as
part of long-term global missions
- Fund initiatives that bring tangible hope and eternal
transformation to unreached regions
Project Cost
Total: $1,000,000
10
$500,000 — Here (SOJO Español, youth/young adult ministry, Dream Center prep at 848 Union)
$250,000 — Near (SOJO Harrisburg, NC church planting, planter support)
$250,000 — Far (Global missions, partners, trips, and sending pipeline)

One Fund: One Vision, One Mission
Rooted is not a separate campaign or a short-term fundraiser.
For the next two years, everything you give to SOJO will go into
one unified fund that fuels our mission — In Us, Through Us, and
Beyond Us.
Instead of giving your tithe to one fund and an “extra gift” to
another, your regular giving and your Rooted commitment are one
and the same.
This one fund will sustain the day-to-day ministry of SOJO, make
space for the people God is bringing, and expand our impact
locally, nationally, and globally.
11

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This approach reflects our heart: we’re not running a project on
the side — we’re moving forward as one church, with one mission,
rooted in Christ. Every dollar given advances the vision God has
placed before us, not only for the next two years but for the
generations to come.

How We Get There
$3.2 Million Goal
Two-Year Gift Chart
As you pray about how God is leading you to give,
use this chart as a guide. Let it inspire and challenge
you to live generously as we step into the Rooted journey
together.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does this change my tithe and overall giving?
The tithe (giving the first 10% of our income) is the biblical starting point for generosity. Giving begins
with obedience — trusting God first with what He’s given us. Through Rooted, we’re inviting every person
to prayerfully consider giving above and beyond their current tithe for the next two years.
This isn’t about pressure or comparison; it’s about surrender. When we give, we’re proclaiming that God
can do more with little than we can do with much. As we step into obedience together, our combined
faith and generosity will create spaces where lives are transformed.
2. What are you asking me to do?
We’re asking you to join us on a two-year spiritual journey:
Pray first — Ask God what He wants to do in you and through you.
Commit to growing — Step deeper into worship, discipleship, and mission.
Give generously — Make a financial commitment that reflects your faith and God’s leading. This is less
about a number and more about allowing God to stretch our faith as we prepare a Table for those who
don’t yet know Jesus.
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3. What if I’m not in a position to give right now?
We believe giving is first and foremost an act of obedience, trust, and surrender to the Lord. When we
give, we’re proclaiming that God can do more with little than we can do with much. Everyone’s financial
capacity is different, but every follower of Jesus is invited to practice generosity as an act of faith.
If your situation feels tight right now, start where you are. Prayerfully ask God what obedience looks
like in this season and step forward in faith — even if that step seems small. Rooted is about growing
together. As you walk in obedience, trust God to provide and to stretch your faith along the way.
4. What if I’m new?
Welcome — we’re so glad you’re here. Rooted is the perfect opportunity to experience the heart of SOJO
Church. From day one, you’re invited to join us in building something that will impact generations.
Being part of a local church isn’t just about attending services; it’s about linking arms with a family of
believers, growing together in Christ, and joining a mission bigger than yourself. Rooted gives you the
chance to do exactly that — to put down roots, build relationships, and take part in creating spaces
where lives are transformed.
If you’re still getting to know SOJO, we encourage you to fully participate in the spiritual journey of
Rooted and prayerfully ask God how He wants you to support the mission — whether through serving,
giving, or both. This is your invitation to help prepare the Table and shape the future of this church family.
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Six-Week Devotional Series
Introduction
This six-week devotional is designed to help you slow down, root yourself in God’s
Word, and live out your faith with purpose.
Each week begins with a Big Idea that captures the theme, followed by six daily
devotionals (Monday–Saturday).
Every day includes:
• Scripture (CSB)
• A short thought to reflect on
• A simple prayer to guide your heart
At the end of each week, you’ll find a Weekly Challenge—a practical step to help
you live out what you’ve learned.
The rhythm is simple but powerful: hear God’s Word, let it shape your heart, pray it
into your life, and practice it in your daily walk.
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Take your time. Don’t rush. Let these truths sink deep. Like a tree planted by streams
of water, your life will bear fruit in season.

Week 1: Blessing and Breath
Big Idea: God blesses and breathes life into you before you ever perform—your identity is rooted in Him, not in your work.
Weekly Challenge: Pause each day for 2–3 minutes. Breathe deeply and thank God: “My blessing comes from You, not from
performance.”
Monday – Formed in His Image
So God created man in his own image; he created him in the image of God; he created them male and female.” — Genesis
1:27 (CSB)
From the start, your worth comes from God’s design, not your performance. You reflect His image—that is enough.
Prayer: Lord, help me see that my value is rooted in You, not my accomplishments.
Tuesday – The Breath of Life
“Then the LORD God formed the man out of the dust from the ground and breathed the breath of life into his nostrils, and
the man became a living being.” — Genesis 2:7 (CSB)
Every breath is a gift of grace from God. You are not self-sustained—life depends on Him.
Prayer: Father, thank You for the breath in my lungs. Teach me to live in gratitude.
Wednesday – Blessed Before Performance
“God blessed them, and God said to them, ‘Be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it. Rule…’” — Genesis 1:28 (CSB)
God’s blessing comes before your work. You don’t earn His approval—you live from it.
Prayer: Lord, remind me I am already blessed and loved by You.
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Thursday Six-Week – Rooted, Not Devotional Rushed Series
“He is like a tree planted beside flowing streams that bears its fruit in its season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever
he
This
does
six-week
prospers.”
devotional
— Psalm
is designed
1:3 (CSB)
to help you slow down, root yourself in God’s Word, and live out your faith with purpose.
Each week begins with a Big Idea that captures the theme, followed by six daily devotionals (Monday–Saturday). Every day
True includes: flourishing comes from being rooted in God’s Word, not rushing in your own strength.
Prayer: God, help me slow down and sink deep roots in Your presence.
Friday – Breath Before Mission
“Jesus said to them again, ‘Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, I also send you.’ After saying this, he breathed on
them and said, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.’” — John 20:21–22 (CSB)
Jesus breathed His Spirit before sending His disciples. Mission is only fruitful when Spirit-filled.
Prayer: Holy Spirit, breathe fresh life into me today and send me in Your power.
Saturday – Pause Before You Perform
“Be still, and know that I am God, exalted among the nations, exalted on the earth.” — Psalm 46:10 (CSB)
Stillness reminds you that your worth comes from God, not from output.
Prayer: Lord, teach me to be still and rest in You.
Generosity Challenge
God’s blessing always comes before performance—and part of that blessing is the gift of resources, time, and breath itself.
Generosity is simply exhaling what God has already breathed into us. When you give, you’re reminding yourself: “Everything I
have is from Him.”
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Sermon Notes — Week 1 - Life From Blessing, Not Striving
God’s blessing is not a ____________ — it’s a ____________ breathed into us.
To live rooted in Christ is to live from ____________, not ____________.
1. Formed & Filled
“Then the LORD God formed man from the dust and ____________ into his nostrils the breath of life.” — Gen 2:7
Your worth is ____________, not ____________. A balloon without breath looks right but has no life.
2. Blessed Before Work
“And God ____________ them…” — Gen 1:28
Blessing is the ____________, not the ____________.
You don’t work for God’s approval — you work from it.
3️. Planted, Not Pushed
“He is like a tree ____________ by streams of water.” — Ps 1:3
Healthy trees don’t chase fruit — they stay near the ____________.
Real fruit comes from deep ____________.
4. Breath → Mission
“He breathed on them… Receive the ____________ ____________.” — Jn 20:22
The same breath that formed Adam now ____________ the Church.
God’s Spirit in you is for ____________, not just survival.
Rooted Vision
In Us: Becoming a fruit-filled family.
Through Us: Gibson Mill — space for growth & future home.
Beyond Us: Impact Here, Near & Far.
Pray • Listen • Respond
1. Pray: “Lord, what would You have me do?”
2. Listen: This is about people & purpose.
3️. Respond: Write the number God gives you → Advance Commitment Night Nov 14.
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Week 2: Be Fruitful Trees
Big Idea: True fruitfulness comes not from striving but from abiding in Christ—fruit that feeds others and multiplies beyond
you.
Weekly Challenge: Ask God to ripen one fruit of the Spirit in you this week, then share it with someone in need.
Monday – Fruit Reveals Root
“I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do
nothing without me.” — John 15:5 (CSB)
Fruit is evidence of abiding. Genuine growth can’t be faked—it flows from Christ.
Prayer: Lord, keep me rooted in You so my life bears lasting fruit.
Tuesday – Blessed to Bless
“God blessed them, and God said to them, ‘Be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it.’” — Genesis 1:28 (CSB)
God blesses you to bless others. The Spirit’s fruit nourishes those around you.
Prayer: Father, let my life overflow as a blessing to others.
Wednesday – Fruit in Season
“He is like a tree planted beside flowing streams that bears its fruit in its season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever
he does prospers.” — Psalm 1:3 (CSB)
Spiritual growth comes in seasons—roots, pruning, and fruit in God’s timing.
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Prayer: God, help me trust Your timing in my growth.

Thursday Six-Week – Evergreen Faith Devotional Series
“He will be like a tree planted by water: it sends its roots out toward a stream, it doesn’t fear when heat comes, and its
foliage
This six-week
remains
devotional
green. It
is
will
designed
not worry
to help
in
you
a year
slow
of
down,
drought
root
or
yourself
cease
in
producing
God’s Word,
fruit.”
and
—
live
Jeremiah
out your faith
17:8
with
(CSB)
purpose.
Each week begins with a Big Idea that captures the theme, followed by six daily devotionals (Monday–Saturday). Every day
Deep includes: roots in God sustain us through droughts. Faith flourishes even in hardship.
Prayer: Lord, strengthen my roots so I remain fruitful in dry seasons.
Friday – Abiding vs. Achieving
“Remain in me, and I in you. Just as a branch is unable to produce fruit by itself unless it remains on the vine, neither can
you unless you remain in me.” — John 15:4 (CSB)
Achievements can be rushed, but fruit must grow. Abiding produces what striving cannot.
Prayer: Jesus, teach me to rest in You instead of chasing results.
Saturday – Fruit That Feeds Others
“My Father is glorified by this: that you produce much fruit and prove to be my disciples.” — John 15:8 (CSB)
Your fruit points others to Christ. It glorifies God when shared.
Prayer: Father, let my life feed others and glorify You.
Generosity Challenge
Fruit is never for the tree’s own consumption—it’s for others. In the same way, God grows generosity in you so others can be
nourished. Sharing your resources is one of the clearest ways your life bears fruit that glorifies Him.
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Sermon Notes — Week 2 - Be Fruitful Trees
Fruit isn’t forced — it flows from roots in Christ. Healthy roots produce lasting fruit for others.
Texts: Genesis 1:28 • Psalm 1 • John 15:1–8
1. Fruit Reveals Root
“Apart from Me you can do __________.” — John 15:5
Are you chasing __________ or cultivating __________?
2. Fruit Is for Others
God’s blessing was always __________, not just personal.
Your peace and patience become __________ for others.
3️. Fruit Grows in Season
“He is like a tree __________ by streams of water.” — Ps 1:3
Stop rushing growth; trust the __________ you’re in.
Pray • Listen • Respond
Pray: “Lord, plant me deep in Your purpose. What would You have me do in this Rooted journey?”
Listen: Where is the Spirit prompting you to trust Him more fully — with time, treasure, or heart?
Respond: Begin journaling what faith-filled obedience might look like. Let your number be an act of dependence, not duty.
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Week 3: Multiply — The Orchard
Big Idea: God designed your life and faith to multiply—through love, community, and seeds that outlast you.
Weekly Challenge: Invite, invest in, or encourage one person this week—plant a seed of multiplication.
Monday – God’s Design for Multiplication
“God blessed them, and God said to them, ‘Be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it. Rule…’” — Genesis 1:28 (CSB)
Like fruit with seeds, your life is meant to reproduce faith in others.
Prayer: Lord, help me share Your blessing so others find life in You.
Tuesday – Faith That Reproduces
“So those who accepted his message were baptized, and that day about three thousand people were added to them.”
— Acts 2:41 (CSB)
Faith multiplies through testimony, kindness, and witness. Every seed can grow.
Prayer: Holy Spirit, use my life as a seed of faith for others.
Wednesday – The Orchard Life
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayer.”
— Acts 2:42 (CSB)
Faith grows strongest in community—like trees rooted together.
Prayer: Lord, deepen my roots in the family of faith.
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Thursday – Fruit That Multiplies
Six-Week Devotional Series
“This is my command: Love one another as I have loved you.” — John 15:12 (CSB)
This six-week devotional is designed to help you slow down, root yourself in God’s Word, and live out your faith with purpose.
Fruit rots when kept but multiplies when shared in love.
Each week begins with a Big Idea that captures the theme, followed by six daily devotionals (Monday–Saturday). Every day
Prayer: includes: Jesus, help me share Your love generously.
Friday – Orchards in Our Cities
“Every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple, and broke bread from house to house. They ate their
food with joyful and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. Every day the Lord added to their
number those who were being saved.” — Acts 2:46–47 (CSB)
The early church transformed cities by multiplying households of faith.
Prayer: Father, make my home and workplace an orchard of Your love.
Saturday – Seeds That Outlast Us
“You did not choose me, but I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce fruit and that your fruit should remain…” — John
15:16 (CSB)
The seeds you plant today may bear fruit long after you’re gone.
Prayer: Lord, let me plant seeds that bless generations.
Generosity Challenge
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An orchard multiplies because one tree shares its fruit and seeds. Generosity is multiplication in action—your giving plants
seeds that can grow faith, bless families, and ripple out for generations. What you release today may become someone else’s
orchard tomorrow.

Sermon Notes — Week 3 - Multiply — The Orchard
One tree is beautiful, but an orchard changes a city. God designed faith to multiply through community.
Texts: Genesis 1:28 • Acts 2:42–47 • John 15:12–17
1. God’s Blessing Is __________
“Be fruitful and __________.” — Gen 1:28
Your faith is meant to reproduce.
2. The Early Church Was an __________
They shared meals, prayers, and life—and God __________ to their number.
3️. Fruit Multiplies When Shared
Your table becomes a place of __________ when you invite others in.
Pray • Listen • Respond
Pray: “Lord, show me who You want to reach through my obedience.”
Listen: Who is God placing on your heart to invite into your life, your group, or this journey?
Respond: Ask how your generosity could multiply impact. Begin praying over your Rooted commitment.
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
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Week 4: Fill the Earth — Planting Orchards
Big Idea: God’s blessing is meant to spread—small seeds of faith can grow into orchards that fill the earth with life.
Weekly Challenge: Ask God where to sow seeds of faith, generosity, or love—and scatter them freely this week.
Monday – Blessed to Fill the Earth
“God blessed them, and God said to them, ‘Be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it. Rule…’” — Genesis 1:28 (CSB)
Faith is not private—it’s a blessing designed to spread.
Prayer: God, use me to share Your blessing wherever You’ve placed me.
Tuesday – Small Seeds, Big Potential
“It’s like a mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field. It’s the smallest of all the seeds, but when grown, it’s taller
than the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the sky come and nest in its branches.”
— Matthew 13:31–32 (CSB)
Small acts of faith carry big potential. One seed can start an orchard.
Prayer: Lord, help me sow small seeds and trust You with the growth.
Wednesday – Rivers of Life
“Every kind of living creature that swarms will live wherever the river flows, and there will be a huge number of fish because
this water goes there. Since the water will flow there, and the sea’s water will be healed, everything will live where the river
goes.” — Ezekiel 47:9 (CSB)
God’s Spirit brings life wherever it flows. Through you, He refreshes dry places.
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Prayer: Holy Spirit, let Your living water flow through me.

Thursday Six-Week – Carriers of Devotional Living Water Series
“On the last and most important day of the festival, Jesus stood up and cried out, ‘If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me
and
This
drink.
six-week
The
devotional
one who
is
believes
designed
in
to
me,
help
as
you
the
slow
Scripture
down, root
has said,
yourself
will
in
have
God’s
streams
Word, and
of
live
living
out
water
your faith
flow
with
from
purpose.
deep within
him.’” Each — week John begins 7:37–38 with (CSB) a Big Idea that captures the theme, followed by six daily devotionals (Monday–Saturday). Every day
includes:
Believers don’t just receive life—they carry it. Your presence refreshes thirsty hearts.
Prayer: Jesus, make me a fountain of Your life for others.
Friday – Sent Into the World
“As they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to
which I have called them.’ Then after they had fasted, prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them off.” — Acts 13:2–3
(CSB)
The gospel spreads when we release, not hoard. Multiplication requires obedience.
Prayer: Father, help me open my hands to go or to send.
Saturday – Planting Orchards
“The fruit tree will grow on both banks of the river; their leaves will not wither, and their fruit will not fail. Each month they
will bear fresh fruit because the water comes from the sanctuary. Their fruit will be used for food and their leaves for
medicine.” — Ezekiel 47:12 (CSB)
God’s dream is not just one tree but orchards that heal nations.
Prayer: Lord, let my life help plant orchards of grace.
Generosity Challenge
God’s design has always been expansion—filling the earth with His life. Your generosity helps spread His kingdom further
than you could ever go yourself. Every dollar, every act of service, every open hand is a seed scattered into the world.
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Sermon Notes —Week 4 Fill the Earth — Planting Orchards
God’s Kingdom is a multiplying movement—every believer carries seeds that can plant orchards.
Texts: Genesis 1:28 • Ezekiel 47 • Matthew 13:31–32 • Acts 13:1–3
1. Blessed to __________ the Earth
Faith was never meant to stay __________.
2. Seeds Have __________ Potential
A single act of faith or generosity can __________ beyond what you see.
3️. Rivers Bring __________ Everywhere
Where the Spirit flows, __________ springs up.
Pray • Listen • Respond
Pray: “Lord, where are You calling me to plant seeds that outlive me?”
Listen: Ask the Holy Spirit what part you play in advancing this mission through Rooted.
Respond: Write down what you sense God leading you to give and bring it to Advance Commitment Night — November 14.
Step in early faith before the celebration to come.
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Week 5: Subdue It — Embodied Identity
Big Idea: True dominion starts with surrender—subduing our lives under Christ and embodying Him as
prophet, priest, and king.
Weekly Challenge: Choose one place—home, work, or community—where you will embody Christ this week.
Monday – Subdue Begins With Submission
“God blessed them, and God said to them, ‘Be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it. Rule…’” — Genesis 1:28 (CSB)
Subduing starts by surrendering our hearts to Christ. Leadership begins with being led.
Prayer: Lord, help me begin each day with surrender.
Tuesday – Renewed Minds for True Dominion
“Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the
good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.” — Romans 12:2 (CSB)
True dominion comes through renewed minds and transformed desires.
Prayer: Father, renew my mind to reflect Your will.
Wednesday – Embodying Christ as Prophet
“You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his possession, so that you may proclaim the praises of
the one who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” — 1 Peter 2:9 (CSB)
Speaking truth with grace reflects Christ the Prophet in everyday life.
Prayer: Jesus, help me proclaim Your truth in love.
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Thursday Six-Week – Embodying Devotional Christ as Priest Series
“Therefore, he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, since he always lives to intercede for them.” —
Hebrews
This six-week
7:25 (CSB)
devotional is designed to help you slow down, root yourself in God’s Word, and live out your faith with purpose.
Each week begins with a Big Idea that captures the theme, followed by six daily devotionals (Monday–Saturday). Every day
Prayer includes: is priestly intercession—inviting God’s mercy into others’ lives.
Prayer: Lord, teach me to intercede faithfully for others.
Friday – Embodying Christ as King
“If I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” — John 13:14 (CSB)
Christ redefined kingship as service. True leadership looks like washing feet.
Prayer: Father, help me lead with humility and love.
Saturday – Remaining in Christ
“I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do
nothing without me.” — John 15:5 (CSB)
Fruit flows only from abiding. We embody Christ by remaining in Him.
Prayer: Holy Spirit, keep me connected to the Vine.
Generosity challenge
True dominion isn’t about control but surrender. Generosity is a way of subduing our possessions under Christ’s authority,
declaring that He—not money—rules our lives. When you give, you embody His kingship by serving others instead of yourself.
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Sermon Notes — Week 5 - Subdue It — Embodied Identity
To subdue is not to dominate but to __________. We embody Christ as prophets, priests, and kings in
everyday life.
Texts: Genesis 1:28 • Romans 12:1–2 • 1 Peter 2:9 • John 15:1–11
1. Subdue Begins with __________
Our first dominion is over our own __________.
2. Prophets Speak __________ in Grace
Point people to Jesus with your words and witness.
3️. Priests Stand in __________
Pray for your family, coworkers, and neighbors.
Pray • Listen • Respond
Pray: “Lord, subdue my heart under Your authority. Shape me to live open-handed.”
Listen: Where is God inviting you to embody His Kingdom through surrender and generosity?
Respond: As you sense His voice, finalize what obedience looks like—your commitment becomes your declaration of identity
in Christ.
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Week 6: Sacrifice — The Mountain Story
Big Idea: Every move of God begins at an altar—surrender is the soil where His purposes grow.
Weekly Challenge: Build an altar of surrender this week. Offer one area of your life fully to God.
Monday – The Mountain of Testing
“Take your son… and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about.” — Genesis 22:2 (CSB)
Abraham’s altar showed surrender, not control. God provides when we release what we hold most dear.
Prayer: Lord, I trust You with what I struggle to release.
Tuesday – The Kingdom Altar
“I will not offer to the LORD my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.” — 2 Samuel 24:24 (CSB)
Costly worship shapes the future. Our surrender invites others to encounter God.
Prayer: Father, help me bring You offerings of true surrender.
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Wednesday – The Surrendered Yes
“See, I am the Lord’s servant,” said Mary. “May it happen to me as you have said.” — Luke 1:38 (CSB)
Mary’s “yes” brought life to the world. Ordinary obedience carries eternal weight.
Prayer: Lord, give me courage to say yes, even when it costs.

Thursday Six-Week – The Final Altar Devotional Series
“When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, ‘It is finished.’ Then bowing his head, he gave up his spirit.”
—
This
John
six-week
19:30 (CSB
devotional is designed to help you slow down, root yourself in God’s Word, and live out your faith with purpose.
Each week begins with a Big Idea that captures the theme, followed by six daily devotionals (Monday–Saturday). Every day
Every includes: altar points to Calvary. Christ’s finished work frees us to surrender in trust.
Prayer: Jesus, thank You for finishing the work. Teach me to live surrendered.
Friday – Families Built on Altars
“By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac.” — Hebrews 11:17 (CSB)
Families flourish through surrender, not control. Faith at the altar shapes generations.
Prayer: God, make my home a place marked by surrender.
Saturday – Leaders Who Sacrifice
“Whoever wants to become great among you will be your servant.” — Mark 10:43 (CSB)
Kingdom leadership means serving, not self-preserving. True greatness is sacrificial.
Prayer: Father, help me lead with humility and service.
Generosity Challenge
Every altar in Scripture involved costly sacrifice. Generosity is your modern altar—an act of worship where you lay resources
before God in trust. When you give with open hands, you join Abraham, David, Mary, and Jesus in saying, “Lord, all I have is
Yours.”
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Sermon Notes —Week 6 - Sacrifice — The Mountain Story
Every mountain leads to surrender. True worship costs something—but God always provides.
Texts: Genesis 22 • 2 Samuel 24 • Luke 1 • John 19
1. Abraham’s Test — The Family __________
Faith is proven when we place our __________ on the altar.
2. David’s Offering — The Kingdom __________
David said, “I will not give what costs me __________.”
3️. Jesus’ Cross — The Final __________
“It is __________.” — John 19:30
Pray • Listen • Respond
Pray: “Lord, thank You for providing. What would You have me release in worship to You?”
Listen: Let the Spirit confirm what you’ve prayed over these past weeks—His peace always follows obedience.
Respond: Today is Commitment Sunday and on — December 7, we will celebrate what God has done in us, through us, and
beyond us.
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Closing Reflection
You’ve journeyed through six weeks of blessing, fruitfulness, multiplication, filling, subduing,
and sacrifice. Together, they paint a picture of God’s original design for His people—lives
rooted in Him, bearing fruit, multiplying outward, living surrendered, and pointing the world
back to Christ.
This isn’t the end of the story—it’s the beginning of a lifestyle.
• Blessing and Breath remind you that your identity comes from God, not performance.
• Fruitful Trees show that abiding produces the kind of fruit others need.
• The Orchard reveals how community and multiplication transform lives and cities.
• Planting Orchards challenges you to spread God’s life wherever you go.
• Embodied Identity teaches you to live as prophet, priest, and king under Christ’s authority.
• The Mountain Story brings you to the altar—where surrender births God’s purposes.
Now, the challenge is simple: live this out. Not in your own strength, but in the Spirit’s power.
Keep abiding. Keep planting. Keep surrendering.
As Paul reminds us:
“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the
Lord’s work, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” — 1 Corinthians 15:58
(CSB)
Go live as blessed, fruitful, multiplying, surrendered people of God.
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Notes
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Contact Us
We’d love to answer any questions you have and help you
take your next step in the Rooted journey.
Email: info@sojourner.church
Phone: (704) 918-4144
Visit Us: Stop by the Welcome Center on Sunday
Online: sojo.church/rooted
Thank you for being part of what God is Building

In Us..
Through Us..
Beyond Us..