New from Rick Warren and Saddleback: What On Earth Am I Here For?

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I took some time this weekend to preview What On Earth Am I Here For?, the 2013 version of 40 Days of Purpose.  Before I say anything else, let me just say…Wow!  So powerful!  Whether you’ve never done 40 Days or it’s been several years, you’re going to want to consider taking your church through this powerful study.

I should note right at the top that this is a completely updated campaign.  Every component, even the Purpose Driven Life itself, has been completely retooled and updated to respond to today’s challenges.  For example, The Purpose Driven Life now includes video introductions and an online audio lesson at the end of each chapter as well as two new bonus chapters on the most common barriers to living the purpose driven life and access to an online community for feedback and support.

Like the previous versions, there are three participation aspects to this campaign.  Individual, group and weekend service.  The group experience is anchored by a great new version of the DVD.  Beyond the switch from hawaiian shirts to a slimmer, more trendy look, there seemed to me to be a new passion for the powerful principles that are embedded throughout.  I’m not sure I can explain it, but I found myself deeply engaged in the video as I imagined the members of my group watching for the first time.  Very, very, powerful stuff!

The study guide has a new look, too, with updated graphics and very contemporary look.  More importantly, two new aspects greatly enhance the experience.  I really like the addition of a catching up opener, designed to pull in new insights from the daily readings in the Purpose Driven Life.  That will help get the group off to a good start.  I also like the addition of recommended resources in the diving deeper section.  Might seem like small things, but in my mind these details make it easier for ordinary people to host groups.

As in the previous editions, there is plenty of help available to maximize the impact of the spiritual growth emphasis.  Sermon outlines, powerpoint, graphics, and much more are included (either on the resource disc or at www.saddlebackresources.com/campaigns).  In addition, the success guide is the blueprint for a great experience and it’s included in the campaign preview kit.

If you’re wondering what to do for your next church wide campaign, you’ve got to at least consider taking advantage of What On Earth Am I Here For?  So powerful and it addresses questions that everyone has.  An easy invite for neighbors and friends, this is a truly cross-cultural topic.  At the same time, it will take your congregation to a new place.  I really like this new edition and I think you will, too!

Need more information?  You can find out everything you need to know right here.

2 Comments

  1. Margaret Feinberg on January 14, 2013 at 2:45 pm

    Looks like an awesome, resource. Thanks for shouting out about it, Mark.



  2. markchowell on January 14, 2013 at 3:26 pm

    Thanks Margaret! I’m expecting a copy of the Wonderstruck Group DVD Kit from LifeWay any day now. Can’t wait to check it out!

    mark