Peacemakers want to bring peace to their world and the world around them. They are supportive; others feel accepted, heard and understood in their presence. Peacemakers are great mediators who can see everyone’s side but often don’t know what they want or think because they are so other-focused. Abraham is one biblical figure who exemplifies the Peacemaker. We see the best and worst of a Peacemaker through his: pleading with God for the city of Sodom, struggling and separating from his nephew Lot, dealing with the enemies he encounters in his travels, contending with strong-willed wife Sarai, and obeying the voice of the Lord. The Biblical truths that Type 9’s need to pursue include owning and resolving their feelings and making their needs known, embracing conflict in order to arrive at positive resolutions, and pursuing faith in action.
The Peacemaker
August 2, 2020 • Mark Rowland
The Challenger
July 26, 2020 • Mark Putman
Type 8 is a strong, independent and powerful force. Often described as having “presence,” people know when they are in the room either from their quiet strength or their verbal and direct communication. They have little patience with what they see as weakness in themselves or others but are defenders of those who are treated unjustly or powerless. Challengers are straightforward truth tellers, which rings true of John the Baptist. He was unafraid of standing up to others for the sake of a greater cause. He had no problem challenging the religious leaders and others in authority and used his confrontational preaching to get to the heart of matters. The Biblical truths that Type 8’s need to pursue include pursuing and extending mercy, submitting to others in humility, and acknowledging vulnerability and accepting discipline from the Lord.
The Enthusiast
July 19, 2020 • Mark Putman
Type 7’s tend to be enthusiastic, adventurous, and spontaneous in their behavior. They love seeking out new experiences, constantly thinking about “what’s next”. Enthusiasts are optimistic about what the future will bring and automatically reframe challenging things into positive opportunities, finding joy in all situations. They are spontaneous and playful, but this can result in being restless and distracted. King Solomon is a perfect example of a #7. He seemed to have it all, but it was not enough. Solomon, the son of King David, lived most of his life seeking the next thing that would bring him happiness or pleasure. The Biblical truths that Type 7’s need to pursue include learning to be content in all situations and to exhibit self-control, trusting God’s use of suffering and perseverance to form Godly character, and choosing their companions wisely.
The Loyalist
July 12, 2020 • Mark Putman
The Loyalists are always aware of the world around them and they are thinking about what can, will or might go wrong. They value security and relationships but are constantly questioning the strength of both. Loyalists are devoted to people and causes and are loyal to their relationships and the commitments they make. Peter, a Loyalist, found his mission in life through following Jesus; he worked hard and thought of himself as a loyal member of Jesus’ inner group of followers. He was loyal to the mission of Jesus and believed that he would defend it until the end. And after Pentecost, that’s exactly what happened. The Biblical truths that Type 6’s need to pursue include knowing the Lord is always with them, giving them courage and strength; seeing that others can be reliable too; and believing that God is for them and is trustworthy.