by David Ahn

This past fall represented a time of transition for the Single Life ministry at Lighthouse Bible Church, as it resumed after summer hiatus under the leadership of Pastor Patrick after previously being led by Pastor John. It also saw many actively serving single adults leaving to join the church plant or to join staff of the other ministries such as College Life and Youth Group (which I propose should be renamed HighLighters) as all three bible studies are held concurrently on Friday evenings.

Thankfully, God has used these changes to grow the singles ministry. In place of many of the familiar faces that have left for married life, San Jose, and other staff ministries, God has brought many newcomers into our midst and has given opportunities for new people to step up and serve. I am consistently amazed and challenged to see newcomers who are so eager to commit and invest in their spiritual walks when the world sees single life as a time to enjoy worldly pleasures and delay the maturing process. They often come from a variety of backgrounds: some are transplants from vibrant, healthy churches; some are recommitting after wayward college years; and some are newly seeking the gospel. However, all are exposed to the universal truth of God’s Word faithfully preached and the love of Christ’s Body.

The structure of our Friday night ministry has not changed dramatically, and still consists of an opening time of musical worship, welcoming announcements, and then a teaching time. New since the fall has been RAP groups, which is a dedicated time after the teaching for us to “lyrically freestyle” (aka “RAP”…reflection, application, and prayer) about the sermon, so that we can have some time to actively digest the truths that Pastor Patrick shared that night. Lastly, people are encouraged to spend time hanging out in the midst of refreshments and games.

I think most of the single adults would agree with me when I say that Friday Night Bible Study comes at a challenging time, when most of us have just completed a grueling workweek and are eager to usher in the weekend. Sometimes it seems almost counterintuitive to cap off the week by going to a bible study when our flesh yearns to kick back and “chillax.” However, I also believe that most would agree with me when I say that I often end up leaving Friday Night Bible Study more rejuvenated than before after having been challenged and encouraged by the gathering of believers.