OIKOS

At Gateway, we often talk about oikos—a Greek word meaning “household” but understood biblically as the people God has placed in our lives for a purpose. In the New Testament, we see how entire households came to faith through the influence of one person (Acts 16:31-34, Luke 19:9). Our oikos isn’t just our immediate family; it includes friends, coworkers, neighbors, and others we regularly interact with. These relationships are where we have the greatest opportunity to share Christ’s love, not just in words but through our daily lives. This month, we are focusing on how to be intentional with our oikos, recognizing that God has placed these people in our lives for His glory.

Resources

Below are some books on Oikos, along with past sermons that explore the Oikos conversation in greater depth.

    • The Oikos Principle: The Key to Semi-Organic Growth – Tom Mercer A practical guide to understanding and reaching your oikos with biblical principles.
    • Contagious Faith – Mark Mittelberg Helps believers find their personal style of evangelism to effectively share their faith.
    • Joining Jesus on His Mission – Greg Finke Focuses on seeing where God is already at work in your oikos and partnering with Him.

  • Oikos Introduction

    Pastor Tom Mercer of High Desert Church in Victorville, California, kicks off our Oikos series at Gateway. In this message, he explores the connection between fellowship and Oikos through 1 John 1:1-7.

    Oikos Refresh

    In this sermon, Pastor Bob revisits the biblical concept of Oikos evangelism. We'll review the foundational principles of the Oikos strategy and examine Luke 19:1-10 for a fresh example of how we can apply this powerful concept to our lives today.

    Oikos Refresher- 2012

    In this sermon Bob and Mathias discuss the importance of Oikos and Gateway's strategy to help you reach your world for Christ.

    Oikos- Prepare to Change Your World

    In this sermon, Pastor Mathias shares his perspective on how our relationship with God has the greatest impact on our Oikos. We can become powerful witnesses to the people in our everyday lives.

    Oikos - Know

    Pastor Bob begins by exploring Colossians 4:2-6, teaching us about praying for opportunities to share the Gospel, making it clear, and speaking with grace. In the second half of the sermon, we examine a practical and biblical method for presenting the Gospel effectively.

    Oikos- Grow

    Pastor Bob delves into Romans 12:10, John 13:34-35, Acts 2:46-47, Hebrews 10:24, and Colossians 3:16, emphasizing that we are designed to thrive together in community.

    Oikos-Show

    Pastor Bob explores John 13:1-15, 34 and John 15:5-10, highlighting that when Jesus is our root, love is the fruit.

Memorizing Scripture

In April, we are focusing on Oikos—the people God has placed in our lives where we have the most influence. Memorizing Scripture helps us to have God’s Word ready to share in conversations, offering truth, encouragement, and hope to those around us. Below, you’ll find resources to help you commit Scripture to memory and use it as a powerful tool for impacting your oikos.

  • Bible Memory App


    The “Scripture Typer” feature lets you type the first letter of each word, and the app shows whether your input is correct. This method helps reinforce memorization while tracking your progress.

    Verse Locker

    Includes features like a scripture typer tool and a word-blurring tool, which gradually conceals more of the verse to enhance recall. Unique features include: Audio playback of the verse being read aloud. First-letter prompts to assist with memorization.


    Verses App

    Features the innovative “Speak” tool, allowing you to speak the verse aloud while the app dictates and corrects you in real-time—perfect for practicing accuracy and fluency.




    Other Tools for Scripture Memorization


    Bible Memory Project Wristbands

    Wearable tools that keep scripture in front of you throughout the day.


    Bible Memory Project Digital Flashcards (Free)

    Downloadable and printable flashcards designed for systematic memorization.


    Dwell Differently Temporary Tattoos

    Creative temporary tattoos with scripture references and designs that serve as reminders of the verses you’re memorizing.


    Draw the Verse Family Memorization Book

    A resource for families that incorporates illustrations and creative activities to make scripture memorization fun for all ages.


    Memory Verse Cards

    A versatile tool for carrying verses with you—great for quick reviews during the day.


    Etsy cards

    Beautifully designed scripture cards available on Etsy, perfect for display or carrying in your Bible or wallet.

Prayer

At Gateway, we believe that prayer is essential in seeking God's guidance and direction for our lives.

  • As part of our commitment to prayer, we send out an almost weekly Prayer Update that includes requests from our ministry leaders and missionaries. This update provides an opportunity to join in prayer for upcoming events, celebrate the ways God has answered prayers, and lift up specific needs for our leaders and missionaries.

    Our pastors and leaders are dedicated to seeking the Lord's guidance each day, and they deeply value your prayers for them as they serve.

    To receive the Prayer Update, simply contact the church office by phone or email. You can also create a Realm account, which will not only give you access to the Prayer Update but also allow you to join the Prayer Update group, view church events, register for activities, and manage your volunteer opportunities.

  • In addition to the Prayer Update, Gateway offers the PrayerLine, where you can find occasional prayer requests from our church family and Oikos. This is a wonderful way to support one another in prayer and witness how God is moving in the lives of those in our congregation.

    To join the PrayerLine email group, please contact the church office.

  • Monday for youth and schools

    prayer shawl

    grow groups

    After Service Prayer

Join a grow group

Grow Groups are a vital part of life at Gateway. While our worship services provide an incredible opportunity to come together and praise God, they’re often too large to foster close, personal connections. That’s why we believe everyone at Gateway needs a smaller community—a group of faithful friends who love the Lord, can encourage one another, and pray for our oikos—those God has placed in our lives to reach with His love. Our goal is to help every person find a Grow Group where they can build meaningful, lasting relationships, strengthen their faith, and support each other!


Want help joining a Grow Group? Contact Pastor Gary. 

You can learn more about Grow Groups here