Brookside Baptist Sermons: Recent Episodes

Brookside Baptist Church

Teaching content from Brookside Baptist Church in Ottawa, Ontario

God Calls Leaders to LeadNovember 12, 2023 Sermon by Tim Strickland

Media Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts or watch on YouTube

Sermon Audio Life Group Discussion Guide Scripture:
Judges 4:1-10

Connect:
Who do you think is/was a ‘great’ leader, either living or dead, and why?
Share your thoughts with the group.

Explore:

Read Judges 4:1-10
1. In the story of Deborah and Barak, Barak is holding back from
leading, and has to be pushed to lead (v 6-8). Is this your natural
inclination too, or do you find leading an exciting challenge? Share
an example from your experience with the group.

Read Romans 12:6-82. Tim points out that leadership is both a Christian role and a Spiritual
gift. Does this surprise you? Can you think of other spiritual gifts that
should be part of all our lives as Christians?

If you do not consider yourself to be a leader, nor have the spiritual
gift of leadership, are there areas in your life where you have to adopt
this role? How does this make you feel?

Read Galatians 1:10
4. What are some obstacles or barriers you have thought of yourself, or
heard, against taking a leadership position for God?
God has given us encouragement in His word.

Read Acts 4:13, 1 Timothy 3:1, Joshua 1:7-9, Galatians 6:95. Discuss how you would know if you have the gift of leadership. Take
a moment to share ideas, then this week, reach out to anyone in your
group that you see with leadership skills, and give them some
affirmation and encouragement.

Read Matthew 20:25-28, Matthew 25:14-30, Psalm 78:726. The Biblical view of leadership can be very different from the reality
we see around us, privately or in public/institutions. As a leader, or
as one who has had to take a leadership role in an area of your life,
can you think of one thing you commit to doing differently this week
after reading of Biblical leadership?

Stretch:
What is God saying to you from His Word right now? What are you going
to do about it?

Pray

Destined for Greatness – Part 6 – A Great LoveNovember 5, 2023 Sermon by Greg MacRobbie

Media Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts or watch on YouTube

Sermon Audio Life Group Discussion Guide Series Theme

Destined for Greatness: Truly Great Love

This week’s Big Idea

“Love your enemies” seems like an impossible and foolish way to live in our day today. Protect yourself from your enemies, yes, keep your distance from your enemies, yes, but love your enemies? Not so much! Most of us have enough trouble really loving the people closest to us. How can Jesus make such a demand? What was he really saying, and why would we ever really want to follow his direction?

Scripture

Matthew 5:43-48; John 13:34-35.

Connect

Did you ever have someone you didn’t like surprise you by saying or doing something positive or helpful for you? How did you respond?

Explore

Read Matthew 5:43-44. How do we know Jesus isn’t talking primarily about how we feel toward our enemies here?
Think of someone you think of as an “enemy.” Without identifying them by name, what is one small practical thing you could do to show love to that person this month?
Read Matthew 5:45-47; John 13:34-35. Jesus gives us two main reasons for showing love to our enemies in these passages. What are they? Which one motivates you most?
Read Matthew 5:48. Jesus said this in the context of loving our enemies. What standard does Jesus set for us? How do we respond to this high standard?
We talk a lot at Brookside about becoming “fully engaged followers of Jesus.” How does loving your enemies fit into that goal?

Stretch

What is God saying to you from His Word right now? What are you going to do about it?

Pray

Destined for Greatness – Part 2 – Great with AngerOctober 8, 2023 Sermon by Greg MacRobbie

Media Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts or watch on YouTube

Sermon Audio Life Group Discussion Guide Big Idea

We live in a time when outrage culture, and its close cousin, cancel culture, are on the rise. Many are easily angered and often all too happy to share their outrage on any social platform they can. It is easy to see in others, and cancel them for it, but can it lurk in our own attitudes? Do others see it in us? What does Jesus have to say about anger and rage, and what does it mean for us?

NOTE: This is the second Life Group Conversation Guide of the season, but it may also be your first group study gathering. Welcome, or, welcome back!! Take some time today to talk about what you hope to experience in Life Group this season, and how you are going to function (The “Life Group Essentials” form is available to assist in this conversation)

Scripture

Matthew 5:21-26, Matthew 5:7-19

Connect

What types of things (either trivial or important) make you angry in everyday life? How do you usually express your anger? How do you get over it?

Explore

Read Mt 5:21-22. Anger is usually a response to an external provocation, hurt, or wrong, to us or those we care about. Why is it important how we respond? What are the consequences or results of different types of responses? To the person who wronged us? To ourselves?
Read Eph 4:26-27 (NASB). Is anger ever okay or even good? What causes for anger are justifiable? What kind of responses triggered by anger are acceptable to God?
What does letting go of anger look like? How do we do it? How will the resources Jesus provides help you change your thinking and responses the next time someone wrongs you?
- Comfort of God’s Mercy – v.7
- Confidence of God’s Adoption – v.9
- Hope of God’s Reward – v.11-12
- Anticipation of God’s Praise – v.16
- Expectation of God’s Reviews – v.19
- Read Mt 5:23-26. In this passage, you are the one who has done wrong to someone else. What’s your usual response when someone is angry with you? What is the result? Is there a better way to handle it?
- What if someone we’ve wronged refuses to forgive or be reconciled to us? What more do we need to do? A court settlement usually involves a payment or other kind of reparations to undo or compensate for a wrong that was done. Are reparations ever a valid expectation or demand, or should people be satisfied with an apology? When should we be willing to do more than just apologize to make up for a wrong we’ve done?
- How can we help and encourage each other to respond well when someone wrongs us, or when we’ve wronged someone else?

Stretch

What is God saying to you from His Word right now? What are you going to do about it?

Pray

   Open Our Doors – Part 1 – Opening Our Doors to New PeopleSermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, May 28, 2023

       Life Group Discussion Guide   **Big Idea:** One of the things we are good at as a church is opening our doors to new people. This is not

just a nice attribute of our church; it is a mission-critical necessity for any church family that wants to
survive and thrive in our world today.

The early church grew as quickly and as deeply as it did in part because they maintained a posture of
openness to new people, even when those new people came from the most suspicious of backgrounds.

NOTE: This is the second last Life Group Conversation Guide before we break for the summer. Don’t
forget to chat about what your plans are for the summer, etc.

Connect: What is the most memorable interaction you’ve had with someone of another culture or
language? Why was it memorable for you?

Scripture: Acts 9:1-31.

Explore:

1. Read Acts 9:1-14.
Saul was the last person anyone in the church would have expected to see join the church and
become part of the movement. He was a notoriously passionate persecutor of the church!
a. Is there anyone you know who you have written off as “unreachable” by the good news?
b. Think of the story from Ananias’s point of view. Is there someone you are afraid to talk to about
spiritual things because of how you think they’ll react?

2. Read Acts 9:15-25.
Saul went from being the biggest obstacle for the church, to being the biggest contributor to the
mission of the church! His contributions are still influencing the church today!
a. What are some of the things would the church have been missing if Saul had not turned to
Christ?
b. You were a new believer once. What difference have you made? What do you see as your
biggest role in your church family?
c. Can someone else in the group affirm another person’s contribution?

3. Read Acts 9:26-31.
Saul needed Barnabas to open the doors for him. The church was too afraid and too suspicious to let
Saul in without Barnabas’s endorsement.
a. Have you had a Barnabas in your life, someone who took you under their wing, encouraged you
and started you on a next step in your journey as a follower of Jesus? What kind of an impact
has that made in your life?

Stretch
What is God saying to you from His Word right now? What are you going to do about it?

Pray

    Media   Sermon Audio   Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts

Sermon Video

   The Great Exchange – Part 3 – Our Death for His LifeSermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, April 9, 2023

Jesus triumphed so that we could have hope!

       Life Group Discussion Guide   **This Week’s Main Idea:** “The Resurrection Makes all the Difference”

Big Idea: Easter is far more than an excuse for a holiday and some extra munching on chocolate. It
is a celebration of the death and resurrection of Jesus. Jesus died because he loved you and me so
much that he was willing to pay the price and serve the sentence for our crimes, even when the
sentence was death. When Jesus rose from the dead, he proved his word to be true, and he
accomplished so much more. In John chapter 21, we discover some of the practical ramifications of His return
to life.

Scripture
John 20:1-10; John 20:11-18; John 20:19-23; John 20:24-31

Connect
What childhood memories do you have of how your family celebrated Easter?

Explore
1. Read John 20:1-10. Jesus’s followers had trouble believing that Jesus had risen from the dead. Have
you ever struggled with believing that Jesus’s dead body came back to life on Easter morning? What
resolved your doubts?
2. Read John 20:11-18. How do you feel when you think about Jesus’s resurrection? Does it motivate
you? Does it bring you joy?
Why do you think Jesus showed himself to Mary Magdalene first among all his followers?
3. Read John 20:19-23. Jesus appeared to his followers after he rose. They went from despair to fear to
assurance in just a few days. We will also see the risen Christ one day. Do you ever think about what
that will be like? Do you ever dream about it?
4. Read John 20:24-31. Jesus said, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.” What do you
see as the significance of that statement? What does it mean to us who are followers of Jesus in the
21 st Century?

Stretch
What is God saying to you from His Word right now? What are you going to do about it?

Pray

    Media   Sermon Audio   Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts

Sermon Video

   The Great Exchange – Part 2 – His Betrayal, Our AcceptanceSermon by Lucas Roberts – Sunday, April 2, 2023

What happens when betrayal is willingly endured so that someone else will be accepted? Sound complicated? Let’s find out how that works.

       Life Group Discussion Guide   **This week’s Main Idea**

This week, we’re looking at how Jesus reacted to his betrayal, arrest and interrogation. What we find is that, even though he knew all the challenges that he was about to face, he trusted in God’s will and in his identity and showed grace and mercy throughout. We’ll unpack what grace and mercy are. Grace is getting a gift you don’t deserve. Mercy is not getting the punishment you deserve. Jesus gave himself over to the guards when they didn’t deserve that. He surrendered himself at that moment. And during his interrogation, he didn’t give the high priests and officers what they did deserve. What we come to understand is that Jesus’ reaction to his betrayal and arrest reflects God’s response to us. He accepts us and gives us mercy and grace when we truly don’t deserve it.

Scripture

Scripture: John 13:1-5, John 13:21-22, John 18:1-6, John 13:1-5, John 13:21-22, John 18:1-6, Luke 22:47-51, Romans 3:23-25, Matthew 26:37-44.

Connect

Lucas went on a funny tangent about Olive Garden this week. What are some food-related stories from your walk with Christ? Maybe a funny thing that happened at a meal at church, or maybe a heartwarming story of breaking bread with brothers and sisters in Christ?

Explore

Read John 13:1-5.

Jesus knew what was coming, and what the disciples were going to do, and yet he still washed their feet. It can be very difficult to maintain an attitude of showing grace to others when going through difficult times, but what does Jesus’ example show us about how we should act even then? What are some ways in your life that you could show more grace?

Read Luke 22:47-51, and John 21:15-19.

Jesus healed a man from the group that was going to arrest and torture him. He forgave Peter for disowning him. Take a moment to reflect on if there is someone in your life who you should forgive. Then discuss the connection between grace, mercy, and forgiveness.

Read Romans 3:23-25, and Matthew 26:37-44.

Jesus did not want to die, especially in such a horrible way. However, he knew his death was necessary for the ultimate act of mercy. Following his example, we should be merciful to others in our own lives, even when it is not easy. As we approach Easter Sunday, what’s an area of your life where you could be more merciful?

Stretch

What is God saying to you from His Word right now? What are you going to do about it?

Pray

    Media   Sermon Audio   Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts

Sermon Video

   The Great Exchange – Part 1 – His Suffering for Our ComfortSermon by Ken Allison – Sunday, March 26, 2023

“Hey, would you swap places with me?” Hmm, maybe… if I think I’m getting the better deal out of it. But what about when you know you are going to get the absolute worst of the deal? Would you still swap places? Would Jesus?

       Life Group Discussion Guide   **This Week’s Main Idea: “Comfort”**

Big Idea

The story of Easter is the record of an event that was pivotal in history, not just human history but in
the history of the Universe: The Son of God suffered and died! It isn’t enough to know what happened – we
must understand enough of what God was doing at that time that we can respond to it and benefit from it.
The Great Exchange this week is that Jesus suffered so that we could be comforted. Jesus suffered so that we
could have peace with God! Comfort and peace are two things our culture knows nothing about and
desperately needs! We think of Jesus’s death paying for our sins but He accomplished SO much more.

Scripture
John 14:27-29; John 16:5-11; John 19:9-21; Isaiah 53; 1 John 4:16-18

Connect
Share how you celebrate Easter.

Explore
1. Read John 14:27-29; John 16:5-11; John 19:9-21. Have you, or anyone you have known, chosen to
suffer on behalf of someone else? What would motivate you to do this?
2. Share your response to the reality that someone you love is dying, or had died? Where did you find
your peace and comfort?
3. a. Read Isaiah 53. In verses 10-12, how does Isaiah describe God’s plan being carried out in Christ’s life
and death?
b. While God’s plan was, in the short-term, horrific for Christ, what was the long-term result for
believers? V. 11
c. What do you think of Pastor Greg’s statement that “ignoring the offer of His plan is only a rejection
in disguise”? Have you ever done that? Please share if you feel comfortable.
4. Read 1 John 4:16-18. Do you ever feel judged by God? According to this passage in 1 John 4, how do
these words impact you? Do you believe it enough that it takes away your fear of God’s judgement?
5. Read 1 John 1:9. Do you practice frequent confession of your sins? Does this verse give you comfort
when you think of the reality that Christians still sin?

Stretch
What is God saying to you from His Word right now? What are you going to do about it?

Pray

    Media   Sermon Audio   Sermon Video  <iframe data-no-script src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yg70mEe80Zg?pip=1&playsinline=1&autohide=1&border=0&wmode=opaque" allow="accelerometer;encrypted-media;gyroscope;picture-in-picture" class="tf\_abs tf\_w tf\_h"></iframe>

   Follow that Dream – Part 4 – The Dream of Everyone Taking a Next Step in 2023Sermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, March 19, 2023

One step can start your journey. And that can lead to the start of a movement for your community.

       Life Group Discussion Guide   **This week’s Main Idea**

What turns dreams into reality? People with the means applying them passionately and consistently toward that same end, until it fully forms. What keeps dreams from taking shape? A lack of passion, capacity, or sense of personal responsibility to make the dream come alive. When it comes to the mission of God, our calling is clear, and our capacity to do our part is guaranteed by Jesus Himself. Where many dreams fall off the rails, and many churches drift off into irrelevance is where the individuals who make up the church family fail to see their own personal responsibility to do their part. When God’s people unite to pursue God’s dream in God’s way for God’s glory, nothing can stop them from accomplishing God’s will.

Scripture

Ephesians 4:11-12, 16, Exodus 18:13-18, Matthew 28:19-20, Galatians 6:9-10, Hebrews 10:23-25

Connect

At school or work, do you love or hate group projects? Why? What role do you usually find yourself taking on in the group?

Explore

Read Ephesians 4:11-12, 16. No one can do everything, even if we had the time. God gives different abilities to different people and it takes all of us working together to achieve the big goal. Do you believe that there is a “special work” that God has prepared you to do for the church? Why or why not? Do you have an idea what your “special work” is? Is there something that you can do, that you enjoy and feel that you’re good at, that could help the church family? If you don’t know the answers to these questions, ask what the other people in the group think.
How could this special work that you can do help the whole church body grow and be healthy? What do you feel God is calling you to do to help the church right now, at this place in your life? What should we do if it seems that we just don’t have any time to serve the church?
Read Matthew 28:19-20. How do you think the 12 disciples felt when Jesus told them to go to all nations? How did this small group of people tackle this enormous task? How did the work continue and spread beyond those first 12 people? What do you see as Brookside’s role in this world-wide mission? How far can or should our impact or influence extend? How do we make sure that our impact keeps expanding?
Read Galatians 6:7-10. Helping each other is good for the community as well as for us personally. What do we harvest for ourselves when we do good? How does doing good to each other help the church family achieve our dream of developing fully engaged followers of Jesus? Is this why it says we should do good “especially to those in the family of faith”?
Read Hebrews 10:23-25. How important is it to motivate and encourage each other to love and do good works? Does it really make a difference to how well we collectively develop fully engaged followers of Jesus, and to how well we individually live as fully engaged followers of Jesus? Why or why not?
Are you a person who needs and loves encouragement, or is it not that important to you? Why do you think that is? When do you find that you especially need encouragement? How do you feel when someone encourages you to love and do good works? Can you think of a time when someone did this for you? What did you do as a result of the encouragement?
How can we motivate and encourage each other more, to live as fully engaged followers of Jesus and to work together to help others become fully engaged followers of Jesus?

Stretch

What is God saying to you from His Word right now? What are you going to do about it?

Pray

    Media   Sermon Audio   Sermon Video  <iframe data-no-script src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0VeEk2orkNY?pip=1&playsinline=1&t=1861&autohide=1&border=0&wmode=opaque" allow="accelerometer;encrypted-media;gyroscope;picture-in-picture" class="tf\_abs tf\_w tf\_h"></iframe>

   Follow that Dream – Part 3 – Lean on MeSermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, March 12, 2023

How do you really grow deeper in your spiritual walk? There is beauty and value in leaning on others.

       MediaSermon Audio   Sermon Video  <iframe data-no-script src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BBMH9YFanYE?pip=1&playsinline=1&t=2022&autohide=1&border=0&wmode=opaque" allow="accelerometer;encrypted-media;gyroscope;picture-in-picture" class="tf\_abs tf\_w tf\_h"></iframe>   **This week’s Main Idea:**

We live in a world that values independence. We are happy to meet and greet, but we are terrified of truly needing others. God tells us that He created us to need each other, and that rather than being terrifying, it is an invitation to experience one of the most beautiful and life giving facets of the Christian life – Christian community. The problem is, we still have these negative views towards feeling dependent on anyone else, and we often see church relationships as superficial or unnecessary sources of potential pain. Is it worth the effort? Is it really necessary?

Scripture:

Ephesians 4:16; Proverbs 27:17; Hebrews 3:12-14; Proverbs 15:22; Proverbs 27:6; 1 Corinthians 12:15-27; 1 Thessalonians 5:11-15

Connect:

Did you ever play the Trust game where you fell back and trusted another person to catch you? If yes, what age were you? Do you think it would be more difficult to play as we age, or not? It can be difficult to admit to needing others, but it can also be difficult to trust others, especially as we experience life’s challenges and pain. We will look this week at how needing and relying on others is part of God’s design for His church.

Explore:

Read Ephesians 4:16; Proverbs 27:17.

Why do you think God designed the church the way He did? What benefits and/or challenges do you see?
Has there been a season in your life that you were less connected to the church family, or a time in your life before you attended church? Can you see or feel any differences in your life, growth or accountability during these times?
Did virtual services over the Covid pandemic (when we couldn’t meet together) change how connected you felt to your church family?

Read Hebrews 3:12-14; Proverbs 15:22; Proverbs 27:6.

Have you been through a time in your life when you sought many advisors for a decision or challenge? What benefit, or not, did your advisors bring? If you feel you can share, please do so with your group.
We need help to see our blind spots. Has there been a time in your life when someone pointed out one of your blind spots? What other aspects of the relationship were present to make this an easier process for you? If you were hurt at this time, reflect on how this could have been less hurtful for you, and if you can, would you share your thoughts with your group.

Read 1 Corinthians 12:15-27; 1 Thessalonians 5:11-15

Have you ever felt like an insignificant part of the church and its mission? What is God saying to you through the passage in Corinthians?
We live in a society where divisiveness is fast becoming the norm, and we can’t disagree without being personally attacked. This can be pervasive, and drift into our churches. How do you think we can “live peacefully with each other”, both inside and outside the church, at this time?
What do you think your role could be in contributing to God’s dream of His church displaying the glory of God and extending the kingdom of God on this earth? Is there something you can do this week to commit to this? If you don’t know what this will be, or where to start, can you ask someone to help you?

Stretch:

What is God saying to you from His Word right now? What are you going to do about it?

Pray

   Follow that Dream – Part 1 – The Dream of a Fully Developed Disciple-Making SystemSermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, March 5, 2023

God has something bigger in mind for you. The question is, how do you get there?

       MediaSermon Audio   Sermon Video  <iframe data-no-script src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hc4CzY2FuYQ?pip=1&playsinline=1&t=2056&autohide=1&border=0&wmode=opaque&start=34.17" allow="accelerometer;encrypted-media;gyroscope;picture-in-picture" class="tf\_abs tf\_w tf\_h"></iframe>   Life Group Study Content**This week’s Main Idea:**

For any dream to become a reality, you’ve got to have a plan that works, and you have to work the plan. If you work a plan that ‘doesn’t work’, all you’ll get is frustration. If you build a plan that works, but then fail to work the plan, you get the picture…

The greatest dream we could grab hold of is the dream of becoming fully engaged followers of Jesus… it is the only way to realize our full potential, experience deep relationships with God and others, and influence our world in ways that actually make a difference. That dream is attainable, and at Brookside, we’ve been working hard at developing the best plan we can to help us all make progress, but, it is up to each of us personally to put in the effort.

Scripture:

Ephesians 4:11-16

Connect:

Have you ever experienced first hand the saying “fail to plan, plan to fail”? What was the situation and how did it end up?

Explore:

Why does the church (body of Christian believers) exist? What purpose does it serve? Does it serve more than one purpose? Do you think the church is effective in serving its purpose?

Read Ephesians 4:11-12.

In this passage Paul discusses the apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers of the church. What is the role of these people and how does it differ from the roles of other people in the church? Is the work of ministry specific to only some people within the church?
What is the work that God’s people are equipped to do? What does that work look like at Brookside? Try to think beyond the most “visible” examples.
In what areas do you feel well equipped? In what areas do you feel that you are not well equipped? What would make you more equipped to do God’s work at Brookside?

Read Ephesians 4:13-14.

Paul’s vision for the church would see us “measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ”. Is this vision close to being realized? If you think it hasn’t been realized already, when will it be?
Why is it important for the church, and for us as individuals, to become more mature in the Lord? What is the risk if we remain immature?

Read Ephesians 4:15-16

What does it mean to speak the truth in love? Who are we called to speak it to? Do you sometimes find it challenging to live up to this call, and if so, why?
What is the role of Christ in the church? How do you see Christ’s role in practice at Brookside? Consider the entire passage we have read.

Stretch:

What is God saying to you from His Word right now? What are you going to do about it?

Pray.

   Follow that Dream – Part 1 – The Dream of Fully Engaged DisciplesSermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, February 26, 2023

God created us to be something and to do something. He’s had a plan all along. And we don’t want to miss out!

       MediaSermon Audio   Sermon Video  <iframe data-no-script src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cvKynLZxKxk?pip=1&playsinline=1&autohide=1&border=0&wmode=opaque" allow="accelerometer;encrypted-media;gyroscope;picture-in-picture" class="tf\_abs tf\_w tf\_h"></iframe>   Life Group Study Content**This week’s Main Idea:** “Fully Engaged Followers”

Big Idea: Not every dream becomes a reality, but no major accomplishment has ever come about without someone dreaming it. The CN tower wasn’t created overnight, nor was it developed by accident. The tower lived in the mind of its designer, and then in the drafters and directors, and finally in the hearts and hands of the foremen and crews who led the construction.
At Brookside we believe God is calling us to something that is even more inspiring that the CN tower. We believe that God is calling us to reach thousands of people across Ottawa West and help them become fully engaged followers of Jesus. Our vision, which we will unfold over the coming year, includes multiple sites serving strategic communities, and a fully developed home site with room for more, but the vision all starts here, with a dream of us becoming and helping others become fully engaged followers of Jesus

Scripture: Mark 12:30-31; Philippians 3:8-14, John 13:34-35; Mark 10:43-45, 2 Timothy 4:1-5; 1 Peter 3:15-16

Connect
What is a dream you’ve had for a long time that you would still like to see come true?

Explore
Read Mark 12:30-31.
In Mark, Jesus quotes two commandments from the Old Testament. Which of these two commandments do you find hardest to obey?

Read Philippians 3:8-14.
In verse 10, Paul talks about suffering with Christ and “sharing His death”. How do we do that?
In verses 12-14, Paul repeatedly uses the expression to “press on”. The Bible talks a lot about perseverance. What are you experiencing in your life that you must “press on” through?

Read John 13:34-35 and Mark 10:43-45.
The passage in John 13 is one of the key paragraphs in the New Testament. How are we supposed to treat other believers? How does this connect with Mark 12:30-31?
How are we to present ourselves to our world?
What does Mark 10 tell us about what it means to be a leader in the church?
Does this apply only to leaders?

Read 2 Timothy 4:1-5 and 1 Peter 3:15-16.
What are the four commands Paul gives Timothy in 2 Timothy 4:5?
What does Peter tell us about sharing the Good News with our world?

Stretch
What is God saying to you from His Word right now? What are you going to do about it?

Pray

   A Love Story – Part 3 – Your True LoveSermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, February 19, 2023

Many of us spend a lot of time trying to find our true love, our soul mate. But when we have an accurate understanding of who Jesus is and our relationship with him, that’s when we become free to truly love others.

MediaSermon AudioService livestream

Life Group study contentTHIS WEEK’S MAIN IDEA:

Jesus was once asked, ‘who is my neighbour?’ The question was meant to help identify who we are expected to love. Jesus answered in a way that turned the question upside down. The question Jesus answered instead was, ‘how do we live as a neighbour?’, and we were told, “go and do likewise.”

When people think of finding true love, many are looking for someone who will meet all their needs and fill them with life. The Bible tells us that our true love is found in God through Jesus Christ. He is the only one who can supply what we truly need. When we have a deep relationship with Christ, we will not be desperate to find someone to give us meaning and purpose and security. We can be free to truly love others, whether it is our spouse, family, church or neighbour.

SCRIPTURE: Philippians 2:1-16; 4:11-13

If this is a study week in the rhythm of your group, discuss the questions below from this week’s teaching. Be sure to reserve time at the end of to pray.

CONNECT

Did you ever make a list of what you were looking for in a church family? What were some of the characteristics?

EXPLORE

Read Philippians 2:1

a. Have you ever found yourself expecting someone to meet all your needs? How did that work out for you?
b. Who does Paul say can meet all our needs? Have you found this to be true in your life?

Read Philippians 2:2-4

a. What direction does Paul tell the Philippians to take in their relationships?
b. How do you feel when you have made someone else happy by meeting his or her needs –
especially if it involved sacrifice on your part?
c. Where do we get the desire, strength and courage to care for others as Christ wants us to?
d. What are the characteristics we are to display?

Read Philippians 2:5-11; 4:11-13

a. What should our attitudes and behaviours be like if we behave like Jesus?
b. Share an example of when someone has behaved like Jesus toward you?
c. Do you find it difficult to consistently act in the way that Paul describes in these verses?
d. How can we encourage one another to do this?

Read Philippians 2:12-16

a. When you think about Christianity, what are the first few things you think of?
b. Where does our Christ-like behaviour come on the list?
c. Would you say that your usual behaviour brings glory to God?
d. What can you do to increase that love?

STRETCH

What is God calling you to do? What will you do about it this week?

   A Love Story – Part 2 – ConflictSermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, February 12, 2023

Conflict can be destructive, even when it’s about the pettiest things or the simplest differences of opinion. But mutual respect, and yes, love for each other can smooth things out.

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Life Group study contentTHIS WEEK’S MAIN IDEA:

Everybody knows that conflict is a part of life, and that no relationship is immune from occasional conflict. What many of us do not anticipate is how easily and how deeply conflict can settle into even the strongest relationships, like our own. How we handle conflict is far more important than if or when conflict will arise. The Word of God provides wisdom we can put into practice, so we are ready to handle conflict constructively, and the Spirit of God provides the power and love that leads us to follow this wisdom and stick to it when we need it most.

SCRIPTURE: Colossians 3:12-14; Romans 12:17-21; Matthew 5:9; Matthew 18:15-17; Proverbs 14:29; Proverbs 15:1 & 18; Proverbs 16:28; Ephesians 4:26-27; 1 Peter 3:8-12; Philippians 4:8; 1 Thessalonians 5:11

If this is a study week in the rhythm of your group, discuss the questions below from this week’s teaching. Be sure to reserve time at the end of to pray.

CONNECT

Valentine’s Day is this week. Love and friendship doesn’t always go smoothly… Can you share your best or worst Valentine/friendship story or tale?

EXPLORE

Read Colossians 3:10-12

a. How easy are these life qualities for you to follow? Is there one you struggle with more than others?

b. Drawing closer to people exposes their faults and these can annoy/frustrate us, but also remind us that we are flawed too. We are instructed to make allowances for faults and to forgive others, just as Christ has forgiven us. For you, is it easier to forgive others or to forgive ourselves/accept forgiveness? Why do you think we have a hard time sometimes forgiving others or ourselves?

Read Romans 12:17-18, Matthew 5:9, Matthew 18:15-17

Have there been instances in conflict where you have made an effort to, or prayed for control of what you do and say, or other times when you know you have been out of control? Did you notice a difference in the outcome?

Read Proverbs 14:29, Proverbs 15:1, Proverbs 15:18, Proverbs 16:28, Ephesians 4:26-27, 1 Peter 3:8-12

a. Do you think it’s wrong for us as Christians to be angry? Why or why not?

b. Can you think of any relationships you have seen that model the Spirit leading their response to anger? What stuck out to you? Why do you think their anger response was effective?

c. Have you felt ‘Holy Anger’, when you were moved by an injustice? What did it drive you to do or change?

Read Romans 12:19-21

a. God not only instructs us not to take revenge, but instead instructs us to meet the needs and bless those who have wronged us. How do you feel about this? Have you done this exact thing? How did it go?

b. Do you believe that God will right every wrong and bring every person to perfect justice? Reflect on if there is someone/some situation you have to give to God and allow Him to deal with, in His time? (You don’t have to share this information if you don’t want to)

Read Philippians 4:8, 1 Thessalonians 5:11

a. There has been an effort through the pandemic for us to focus on positive moments and gratitude, rather than the negative, since having a negative mindset can impact our health and wellbeing. Have you had experience with either mindset recently, and how did it affect how you felt?

b. We are reminded through Scripture that God sees us worthy of His love, mercy, grace and forgiveness. Christ wants us to do the same for others, but it is far from easy. Can you think of at least one person this week that you can offer the same courtesy?

STRETCH

What is God calling you to do? What will you do about it this week?

   A Love Story – Part 1Sermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, February 5, 2023

Want a love that lasts? God provides the model. God provides the power. We should be taking notes.

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Life Group study contentTHIS WEEK’S MAIN IDEA:

Most of us know healthy communication is critical for any marriage or friendship. We also know it is hard to maintain, and even harder to restore when it has gone sour. The love of God for us gives us a model we can follow, and the love of God in us gives us the power to restore and strengthen our ability to communicate openly and honestly with those we care about most. God has made available to us the resources and tools we need to build lasting and satisfying relationships, but it is up to us to put them into practice.

SCRIPTURE: 1 Corinthians 13:4-7; Matthew 5:43-45; Ephesians 4:29-32; Matthew 5:23-24; Ephesians 4:14-16; Colossians 3:8-10; Colossians 4:6

If this is a study week in the rhythm of your group, discuss the questions below from this week’s teaching. Be sure to reserve time at the end of to pray.

CONNECT

Communication can be a big struggle in any relationship whether with a partner or friend. Today, with texting there are even more opportunities for miscommunication. Share a story of a situation caused by a miscommunication. Especially if it’s a funny story!

EXPLORE

Read Matthew 5:23-24, Ephesians 4:31-32 and 1 Corinthians 13:4-6.
It is often easier to hold onto times we’ve been hurt than to let them go. Discuss ways you can make forgiveness a habit in your life.
Read Colossians 3:8-10. Conflict can be scary, and it can be easy to agree with others when we shouldn’t to avoid conflict. Discuss how not telling the truth to avoid conflict can lead to greater conflict later on. What are some small ways you can be more honest in your day-to-day life?
Read Colossians 4:6, and Psalm 19:14. Sometimes in arguments we can be more focused on planning out what we are going to say next, over listening to and understanding the other person, because it is human nature to want to win the argument. Can you think of a time you have been hurt because the other person only wanted to win the argument? How can you practice being more mindful of what the other person is saying? What are ways you can practice approaching disagreements with an attitude of grace?

STRETCH

What is God calling you to do? What will you do about it this week?

  Blueprints – Part 5 – A New BoldnessSermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, January 29, 2023

Obnoxious. Insensitive. Pushy. That’s what many of us think of where we imagine someone ‘sharing the gospel boldly’. But confidently demonstrating the grace and love of Jesus is very different from that.

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Life Group study contentTHIS WEEK’S MAIN IDEA:

When I think of someone ‘sharing the gospel boldly’ it’s hard not to have thoughts of obnoxious or insensitive people pushing religion on others who don’t want to hear it. The early church experiences show us that this is far from the truth. As we find in Acts 3, sharing the gospel boldly doesn’t mean rudely, it means being intentional about demonstrating the love of Jesus to others, pointing them to Jesus when they ask why you’re being so gracious toward them, and helping them discern and take their next step toward Jesus.

SCRIPTURE: Acts 3, 1 Peter 3:15

If this is a study week in the rhythm of your group, discuss the questions below from this week’s teaching. Be sure to reserve time at the end of to pray.

CONNECT

How do we know that others love us? How do others know that we love them?

EXPLORE

1. Demonstrating the love of Jesus
a. Read Acts 3:1-8

i. Who is the beggar?
ii. Who are the “beggars” today? How do we recognize them?

b. Acts 3:4-8
i. The man was asking for a temporary fix – money. What did he receive instead?
ii. Compare the difference between what he was asking for and what he received.
iii. What did the lame man begin to do? What did he do when he realized he could walk?

2. Pointing people to Jesus
Read Acts 3:9-21, 1 Peter 3:15

a. How did Peter explain to the people the source of the miracle (vs.13-15) and how it came about (v.16) ? Although we may not perform miracles such as Peter and John did, how can we point people who are not believers to Jesus?

b. Share some stories of how you have pointed people in your circles of influence to Jesus?

3. Helping people take their next steps toward Jesus
Read Acts 3:19, 21–26
i. What are the first steps an individual needs to take in following Jesus?
ii. What should they do to mature in their relationship with the Lord? How can we help them?

4. Next Steps at Brookside
On Sunday, Greg explained what BBC offers to help people take the next step in following Jesus. (See below) Are you doing this? How can we help one another to do this?

NEXT STEPS AT BROOKSIDE: becoming aware of the faith, exploring faith, declaring faith (baptism), join the community of faith (Partnership), growing as a follower (consistent worship, connect to a group, serve on a team), growing as a disciple maker (Followers Made participant, Followers Made Host), and developing as a leader (if desired).

STRETCH

What is God calling you to do? What will you do about it this week?

  Blueprints – Part 4 – A New CommunitySermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, January 22, 2023

Just as we attempt to do today, the very early church tried their best to love one another as Jesus had told them to do. It’s just as compelling now as it was then to see people caring for each other, and through that, demonstrating the presence of God to the world.

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Life Group study contentTHIS WEEK’S MAIN IDEA:

The first attempt of the early church at obedience to the command of Jesus to love one another as He loves us is recorded in the opening chapters of Acts. The details of their experience may be descriptive (‘here’s what happened’) but the principles at play are prescriptive for us today (‘here’s what we also should do’). As we follow in their footsteps, we present the strongest argument to a skeptical world that God exists and is with us.

SCRIPTURE: Acts 2:41-47; John 13:34-35

If this is a study week in the rhythm of your group, discuss the questions below from this week’s teaching. Be sure to reserve time at the end of to pray.

CONNECT

What do you like most about being part of the Brookside family? What would you miss the most if you had to move away?

EXPLORE

Read Acts 2:41-44. In v41 it says “those who believed… were baptized and added to the church that day”, and according to v42 “all the believers” were active members of the group. Joining the group of people that were called the church seems to have happened almost automatically when someone became a Christian. Today, many people seem to see joining a church as a separate action from putting their trust in God, and maybe even an optional one. Can someone be part of “the Church” without being part of “a church”? What do we lose by not being part of a local church community? What do we lose by attending the weekly public gatherings of a church but having no other interaction with the community?
Read Acts 2:42, 46. God doesn’t tell us exactly how many hours a week we should spend with him or with his people. What principles or guidelines do you use to decide how to allocate your time? Does 2 Cor 9:7, which is talking about how much money we give to the church, give us any guidance on this question? Does the way your time is spent reflect how you think God wants you to use the time he’s given you? Is there anything you think needs to change?
Read Acts 2:44-46. Does this description sound like an unrealistic dream or an achievable and desirable way for a church to operate today? Why don’t people and churches do this more? Would you sacrifice something of your own to meet the needs of someone else in the church? Have you done it in the past? Share the story, if possible. What would it take for us to become more generous and more willing to sacrifice for others? What kinds of things hold us back from doing it?
Read Acts 2:47. Is the Brookside family welcoming to new people? What might someone encounter at Brookside that might cause them to feel unwelcome? What factors can contribute to someone being superficially welcomed but not fully accepted or treated as an equally loved and valued member of the family?
Read John 13:34-35. If we compare our love for our fellow believers to Jesus’ love for us, what are some ways that we might be falling short? What obstacles do we need to overcome to make our love more like his? How can we help and encourage each other in this?

STRETCH

What is God calling you to do? What will you do about it this week?

  Blueprints – Part 3 – A New MessageSermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, January 15, 2023

The message of Jesus is all about reconciliation. And Jesus asks us to take that message to the world through our words and our actions.

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Life Group study contentTHIS WEEK’S MAIN IDEA:

The message of Jesus the early church began to take to the nations was very different from the old teachings of obedience to laws and earning your salvation. In the very first outdoor church service on record, the apostle Peter shared the message of the need for, and the opportunity to gain, reconciliation with God. It’s the message we are called to take to the nations still, both by our words as well as our actions.

SCRIPTURE: Acts 21:1-41; John 13:34-35; Hebrews 11:6; Romans 3:21-24; Romans 10:11-13

If this is a study week in the rhythm of your group, discuss the questions below from this week’s teaching. Be sure to reserve time at the end of to pray.

CONNECT

The meme “I was today years old when I learned…” has taught many of us a thing or two, or changed our perception of what we thought something was for. Take the juice box, for example. The side flaps are for
kids to hold so the juice does not spill everywhere. Have you discovered something new or ‘mind-blowing’ recently?

EXPLORE

Read Acts 21:1-21
a. Have you ever experienced God’s presence in a real, tangible way? Would you be able to share with your group?
b. Speaking in tongues today can have disquieting connotations depending which denomination of the church you grew up in, if at all. Jews from all over the world heard their language spoken at the first pentecost. Have you ever received or heard the gift of speaking in tongues? The experience is obviously very personal. If you choose to, would you describe the events and the experience?
Read John 13:34-35
a. Jesus makes it clear how we can show others that God is present and we are His disciples. How do we do that? Why do you think we make it so complicated? What are some hindrances or barriers we encounter to living out ‘love’?
Read Acts 2:22-37, Hebrews 11:6
a. God gave Peter the power to speak boldly to his audience. Have you ever been aware of God’s power in you when sharing your faith with others?
b. Do you find it easy to share your faith? In which ways, mediums, or situations are you most comfortable sharing it?
c. Do you have any ideas of ways we can communicate the majesty and power of God in Christ in this day and age, in spite of the opposition and persecution that is present?
Read Acts 2:38-40, Romans 3:21-24, Romans 10:11-13
a. Why do you think there are so many today who feel they don’t need a Saviour?
b. The only way any of us, or our friends or neighbours, can save ourselves is by faithfully trusting in the mercy and grace of God and showing it by turning away from our sinful, self-serving way of life. What are some ways the Devil tries to deceive our thinking or actions, and detract from this truth?
c. Have you known someone that has shone brightly for God in your circle, or your workplace? Someone who daily repents and turns away from their sinful, self-serving way of life. How have they influenced you, or others?
Read Acts 1:12-22
a. Coming to faith in Jesus means becoming partners in the family of God, the church, with His vision and mission becoming ours also. Do you think it was easier for the early church to follow Jesus’ mission than today or not? Why or why not?
b. What are some barriers or obstacles to continuing the mission? How can we encourage one another?

STRETCH

What is God calling you to do? What will you do about it this week?

  Blueprints – Part 2 – A New LeadershipSermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, January 8, 2023

Soon after Jesus left his mission in the hands of his followers, it became clear that a new approach to leadership was necessary. And that lays out the pattern we are wise to still follow today.

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Life Group study contentTHIS WEEK’S MAIN IDEA:

Jesus calls us to a God-sized vision, to make disciples of all nations, to be his witnesses to everyone everywhere. A vision like that can only unfold by the power and grace of God working in and through his people. As churches grow and people are reached, new people must step up and take ownership of ministry. New leaders are needed if new people are going to be reached and served. The early church recognized this right from the beginning, and began the process of raising up new leaders, a process that needs to continue here among us at Brookside.

SCRIPTURE: Acts 1:12-26; 1 Timothy 3:1-10; Ephesians 4:11-16

If this is a study week in the rhythm of your group, discuss the questions below from this week’s teaching. Be sure to reserve time at the end of to pray.

CONNECT

We are heading into a new year. What is one goal or change you would like to make happen in 2023? Is there something new you want to try?

EXPLORE

Read Acts 1:12-22. In the context of the Church important things happen when people get serious about asking God what they should do next… and then acting on it! What were the disciples doing when this chapter began?

Peter stood up in their meeting. This didn’t happen in a vacuum. What motivated Peter to suggest electing a new apostle?

How can we position ourselves to hear from God in this way?

Is regular Bible study part of your life? How about a regular prayer time?

Do you ever ask God what He wants you to do or do you spend all your prayer time telling Him what you want Him to do?

Read 1 Timothy 3:1-10. This passage explains the qualifications for leaders in the church, particularly overseers and deacons. What are some of these qualifications?

Is there one (or more?) of the qualifications that surprises you?

What does the passage say about a calling to be a leader?

Read Acts 1:24-26 and Ephesians 4:11-16.

Why does God give people particular abilities?

STRETCH

What is God calling you to do? What will you do about it this week?

  Blueprints – Part 1Sermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, January 1, 2023

Life can feel pretty random – like there’s no set plan for us. But at some level, there definitely is a blueprint for how God wants us to live.

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Life Group study contentOur weekly Life Group content will return later in January.

  Candid Christmas – Part 5 – The Conflict of ChristmasSermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, December 25, 2022

A Christmas morning service, celebrating the coming of Jesus.

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Life Group study contentOur weekly Life Group content will return in January.

  Candid Christmas – Part 3 – The Pain of ChristmasSermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, December 18, 2022

There is a growing group of people who dislike the Christmas season. It’s just too painful, for a variety of reasons. Joseph and Mary experienced their own share of pain at the first Christmas. Imagine starting a new family while facing the prospect of living as outsiders, isolated from their community.

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Life Group study contentOur weekly Life Group content will return in January.

  Candid Christmas – Part 2 – The Scandal of ChristmasSermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, December 11, 2022

From the Christmas decorations, the music, the parties and so much more, just about the only thing that seems out of place about Christmas today is Jesus. For many, the true message of Christmas is a scandal they’d rather ignore. The birth of Jesus was a scandal from the beginning – it was a calling to a complete change of heart that continues to influence our lives today.

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Life Group study contentTHIS WEEK’S MAIN IDEA:

Canada loves to celebrate Christmas! Everywhere you look, you see decorations. Everywhere you go, you hear Christmas music. Everyone loves the parties and the presents under the tree. About the only thing that seems out of place in our culture today when it comes to Christmas is Jesus. For many, the true message of Christmas is a scandal they’d rather ignore. Followers of Jesus should be surprised by this. The birth of Jesus was a scandal from the beginning, confronting, and calling for a complete change of heart and way of life. This week we are going to explore how the scandal of Christmas affected those closest to it, and how it continues to influence our lives today.

SCRIPTURE: Matthew 1:18-25; Matthew 2:11, 19-23; John 8:31-59; Matthew 21:40-44; Acts 4:8-12

If this is a study week in the rhythm of your group, discuss the questions below from this week’s teaching. Be sure to reserve time at the end of to pray.

CONNECT

Have you ever been involved in or been on the sidelines of a ‘scandal’? If you are comfortable sharing, how did it make you feel? Have you ever thought of the first Christmas being scandalous before?

EXPLORE

Read Matthew 1:18-19.

a) What do you think Mary was thinking and feeling being part of this story? Has there ever been a time when your life took a turn you didn’t expect or plan for? If you feel you can share, how did that make you feel?

b) A recent law passed in Indonesia that people who are reported as having sex outside of marriage could be jailed for up to one year, a stark contrast to our own law and culture. But in Mary’s time there was the threat of death, and ostracization. Does thinking of the decisions Mary had to make, and the life she chose, at the young age she was, change your view of her?

c) Have you ever had a time in your life when someone misunderstood your decisions or choices? Have there been instances when you have been mistreated or ostracized for your choices, either by one or two people, or a group? How did that make you feel? Did it make you question your decision?

Read Matthew 1:20-25.

a) Joseph initially must have been devastated to hear that Mary was expecting. God sent His angel to comfort and guide Joseph. Have you experienced God with you and guiding you through difficult times? If you don’t feel comfortable sharing, take a moment to reflect and recall the support around you.

b) By obeying God, Joseph was enveloped in Mary’s scandal. Do you think it was a hard decision for Joseph to stay with Mary, and how do you think it may have affected their relationship?

Read Matthew 2:19-23.

Joseph encountered an angel twice more in this passage, as he is first guided to move from Egypt to Israel and then to Nazareth after he is afraid to go to Judea. Mary and Joseph both trusted God enough to follow Him through their ‘scandal’ but it is heartening to read that a stalwart in the Christmas story was also afraid at times. Does this give you comfort on your journey following God?

Read Mark 6:1-3.

Many in Jesus’ community in Nazareth were offended at his teaching, that he was anything other than the son of a local family. We are told that Jesus was amazed at their unbelief. Have you been faced with a friend or family member who cannot see Jesus as being anything other than a historical figure or completely irrelevant, despite hearing His good news? How do you think we should respond?

Read John 1:9-14; John 14:6, Acts 4:8-12, Philippians 2:8-11

The Bible tells us that at some point in our life we must respond to the reality of Jesus’s Kingship and Him being our only way to a relationship with God, or at death, be faced with this truth. Why do you think this is so scandalous in our culture today? Will you, or how will you incorporate this truth into your celebration of Christmas, and your interactions with those around you?

STRETCH

What is God calling you to do? What will you do about it this week?

  Candid Christmas – Part 1 – The Disruption of ChristmasSermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, December 4, 2022

The idealized Christmas experience today is one of close family, friends, crackling fires, gifts, decorations, and more food than you could possibly eat. But for many, the experience of Christmas falls far short of that ideal. And the first Christmas was no different – it brought about disruption, disappointment and frustration too.

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Life Group study contentTHIS WEEK’S MAIN IDEA:

The idealized Christmas experience today is one of close family and friends, gathered around the warm glow of the fire, exchanging beautiful gifts from beneath a breathtakingly beautiful Christmas tree, Christmas stockings overflowing with gifts and treats, and more delicious food than any family could possibly eat. But for many, the experience of Christmas falls far short of the ideal. This can leave us disappointed and frustrated, with ourselves, and with God.

Would it surprise you to know that the very first Christmas, the one we are gathering to celebrate, was nothing like the ideal picture we often carry? In fact, the first Christmas was a huge disruption for the original Christmas guests. Following Jesus often means embracing the disruption His mission brings, and reorienting our lives to pursue the things He considers important.

SCRIPTURE: Luke 1:26-38; Mark 10:28-31

If this is a study week in the rhythm of your group, discuss the questions below from this week’s teaching. Be sure to reserve time at the end of to pray.

CONNECT

Have you ever had your plans for Christmas or another celebration significantly disrupted by something you couldn’t control? How did you feel? How did you react? How do you wish you had reacted?

EXPLORE

Read Luke 1:26-33. God didn’t ask Mary whether she was willing to be the mother of Jesus, he just told her it was going to happen. Did she have a choice? What happened when Jonah tried to refuse God’s plan for him? What does Luke 1:38 tell us about Mary’s attitude towards God’s change to her plans? What is your attitude when God changes your plans?
Read Luke 1:34-37. We know that Joseph didn’t end up publicly accusing Mary of infidelity or even divorcing her quietly, but when she was talking to Gabriel she would have had to expect that the engagement would be broken and almost everyone, including her closest family, would believe she had been unfaithful and was telling incredible lies to cover it up. Does our reputation matter to God? Should it matter to us? Read Proverbs 22:1 and Matt 11:18-19. If doing what God seems to be telling us would result in people misunderstanding our actions or motives, and damage our reputation, does that mean we shouldn’t do it? How should we respond when people think badly of us even though we didn’t do anything wrong?
Read Luke 14:26. We know we’re not supposed to hate anyone – Jesus was intentionally exaggerating in this statement. What does this passage mean to you? Have you ever had to make a choice between someone who was close to you and obedience to God? What did you do and how did you come to that decision? Read Mark 10:28-31. What does this passage mean to you? Is it comforting, or not? Is it worth it to choose God over people we love?
Read Luke 1:38. Is it scary and claustrophobic to know that God has a plan for you that you may not know about yet, and that may be difficult and not what you would have chosen for yourself, or is it exciting and liberating? How easy or hard is it for you to accept God’s changes to your plans with faith and a good attitude? What are the internal and external factors that make this harder or easier to do?
What did Jesus give up for you when he came to earth to save us? Why did he do it? Was it worth it for him? How can we learn to respond to God’s plans for us the way Mary and Jesus did?

STRETCH

What is God calling you to do? What will you do about it this week?

Missing – Part 4 – Watching others go missing Sermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, October 23, 2022 When we lose sight of a passion to seek the lost, we often lose sight of our responsibility to the next generation. The church is always one generation away from collapse, but also one generation away from […]

A Legacy of Courage Sermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, July 31, 2022 Have you ever considered the powerful influence of a life on mission? What happens when you do what you do for the benefit of those who come behind? And what happens when things get scary and your world shouts at you to […]

Love Means Obedience Sermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, May 29, 2022 Jesus said that the greatest commandment was to “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and all your soul, and all your mind, and all your strength”. And he also said, “If you love me, you will obey my commandments.” The […]

Renewed – Part 3 – A New Community Sermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, January 16, 2022 Everybody longs for community. But almost everybody has given up on ever experiencing the community we are looking for. The invitation to a renewed life in Jesus is an invitation to true and life changing community. Is it […]

Christmas Re-examined – Part 5 – God serves us! Sermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, December 26, 2021

The Christmas season is far more than a nice way to pass long winter nights or a nice excuse to hang out with family and friends. Christmas is a celebration of one critical step in a whole series of steps initiated by God to rescue us and give us a hope and future with Him. Today we are going to look at some of the things that begin to change in us when we believe the Christmas story, things that set us up for the best year ever.

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Christmas Re-examined – Part 4 – Christmas Eve Sermon by Greg MacRobbie – Friday, December 24, 2021

Many today are so busy with Christmas shopping and plans that they miss out on the true source of wonder and amazement of the season. How does Jesus birth bring glory to God and peace on earth?

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Christmas Re-examined – Part 3 – God accepts us! Sermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, December 19, 2021

Many of us struggle to feel genuinely accepted. The great joy of Christmas is that Jesus came to make sure we are fully and unconditionally accepted by God! It sounds too good to be true, but it is! It is an amazing reason to celebrate this Christmas season!

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Christmas Re-examined – Part 2 – God understands us! Sermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, December 12, 2021

Christmas is a wonderful season for so many reasons! We decorate trees, light up the house, bake cookies, and so much more. Those who follow Jesus know that there is something far deeper at play in Christmas, but it’s easy to gloss over what that really means, and let it get lost in the hustle and bustle of the season.

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Life Group content SERIES THEME
The original reasons to celebrate

THIS WEEK’S MAIN IDEA A lot of people struggle today with a nagging sense that no one else really understands what they are going through, or that no one can fully relate. This feeling of separation is often intensified when it comes to God and his care for us. “Does he really get what my life is like?” “Does he really care?” This sense of separation can make celebrating Christmas a pretty empty experience. How great to realize that the coming of Jesus proves God understands us! He’s faced what we face, He’s walked more than a mile in our shoes, and rather than condemning us for our failures, He came to bear the consequences of them so we could be truly set free! SCRIPTURE Luke 2:12; Mark 1:11-13; John 2:15-16; John 4:5-7; Luke 13:34; Hebrews 2:16-18; Matthew 26:38; Matthew 8:20; 2 Corinthians 8:9; John 6:66-69; Luke 22:48; Mark 15:14-15; Hebrews 2:14-15; Isaiah 53:1-6; Hebrews 4:14-16 CONNECT

What comes to mind as the best gift you’ve ever received? How about the gift you were the happiest to give? Why do you think these gifts come to mind?

EXPLORE

On a scale of 1 (not at all) to 10 (completely), how strongly do you feel God identifies with you personally and understands what you go through day to day? Why?
Read Luke 2:12. What do you make of the idea that Jesus came as a baby, in part, to identify with and understand our weaknesses and struggles?
We are told in Scripture that when Jesus came, he set aside his divine powers and limited himself to the capacities of every human (see Philippians 2). In Sunday’s teaching, Greg touched on just a few of the many examples of Jesus sharing in our brokenness – he knows what its like to be tired, hungry, in pain, tempted, frustrated, and disappointed by others. Does knowing these things make Jesus more approachable to you? Why?
Read Hebrews 2:14-18. Jesus willingly experienced all the troubles we face so that he could genuinely represent us before God and take our place by suffering and dying to satisfy the justice of God. Rather than judge us for our failures, he stepped up and assumed responsibility for them… how can we best respond to this?
Read Isaiah 53:1-6. This is a beautiful prophetic description of why Jesus came as a baby rather than some full grown all-powerful, invincible god-like being. He did this for you! How can this truth change the way you celebrate Christmas and/or live your life?

STRETCH
What is God calling you to do? What will you do about it this week?

Christmas Re-examined – Part 1 – God with us! Sermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, December 5, 2021

Christmas is a wonderful season for so many reasons! We decorate trees, light up the house, bake cookies, and so much more. Those who follow Jesus know that there is something far deeper at play in Christmas, but it’s easy to gloss over what that really means, and let it get lost in the hustle and bustle of the season.

Media Sermon Audio Service livestream

Life Group content SERIES THEME
The original reasons to celebrate

THIS WEEK’S MAIN IDEA
Christmas is a wonderful season for so many reasons! Everybody tries to get into the Christmas Spirit! We decorate trees, light up the house, bake cookies, share meals, watch holiday movies, listen to Christmas carols, and drink eggnog. Those of us who follow Jesus know that there is something far deeper at play in Christmas than reindeer and presents under the tree, it is a celebration of the most valuable and unique gift ever given to humanity – Jesus, the Son of God. But even for us, its easy to gloss over what that really means, and allow it to get lost in all the hustle and bustle. As we begin this new series, re-examining the original reasons to celebrate Christmas, we begin with a re-examination of what is known as the incarnation. Christmas is a celebration of God coming to earth in human form. Today we are going to look at why the incarnation is such an amazing reason to celebrate. It answers three of our deepest and most existential questions.

SCRIPTURE Matthew 1:18-23; John 1:1-4, 10-14; Romans 3:21-26; 2 Corinthians 5:20-21 CONNECT

Do you have a favourite Christmas memory or tradition? Tell your group about it…

EXPLORE

Do you find the Christmas season to be a source of joy or a source of stress? Why?
Read Matthew 1:18-23. What do you think of when you think of God becoming a human and living among us?
In the Brookside Brief, Jim talked about how a major theme in Christmas movies is of people overcoming obstacles to be with the ones they love for Christmas. Have you ever thought of Jesus’ birth as God doing whatever it takes to be with the ones He loves?
Read John 1:1-14. In this week’s teaching, Greg talked about how the incarnation (God becoming human) is a reason to celebrate in part because it answers three of our deepest questions: Does God exist? What is God like? And what does it mean for me? Do any of these questions resonate more with you? Why?
Read Romans 3:21-26 and 2 Corinthians 5:20-21. How could Jesus pay for your sin? Why did he do it? What difference does this make?
How can we help others around us discover more of what Christmas truly means this year?

STRETCH
What is God calling you to do? What will you do about it this week?

Pray! – Part 4 – Living stronger through Prayer Sermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, November 28, 2021

For many people, prayer never progresses beyond a straight up list of requests or some basic formula. But Jesus shows us how to go deeper than that in our prayer life and tap into the grace and power of God through regular, private, natural, and confident prayer.

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Life Group content SERIES THEME
Learning to pray like Jesus

THIS WEEK’S MAIN IDEA
For many people, prayer never progresses beyond a formulistic repetition of requests. Jesus invited us to experience something far greater, and far more meaningful than that – a growing relationship with the living God, a relationship that grows deeper and more fulfilling as time goes by. In our last teaching in the series, Jesus shows us how to go deeper in our prayer life and tap into the grace and power of God: pray regularly, privately, naturally, and confidently. SCRIPTURE Matthew 6:5-8; John 17:3 CONNECT

Play ‘two truths and a tale’. Everyone come up with two obscure truths about yourself or your experiences, then make up a third that you think you can fool the rest of the group into thinking is true. Take turns sharing your two truths and a tale, and see how many people you can fool. The person who has the most people fooled wins (you might have to figure out a prize!)

EXPLORE

If you were to rate your personal prayer experience this past week for both quality and quantity, what would you give yourself out of 10? Why?
Jesus begins his teaching here with the statement, “When you pray…” Going deeper with God in prayer is impossible if you do not pray regularly. What daily prayer time would you be willing to commit to for the next 30 days – 5 min? 10min? more? How does committing to a regular prayer time feel to you? Do you think you will stick with it? Can we help?
Read John 17:3. This verse can remind us of two things: the Christian life is about knowing God, and prayer is ultimately about getting to know God better, not getting what we want from God. How would this shift in thinking change the way you approach prayer?
Read Matthew 6:5-6. Prayer may take place in the presence of others, but the essence of prayer is a personal conversation between you and God. Prayer in public is good, but it ought to be just the tip of the iceberg, and it ought to reflect your private time with God. Do you notice any difference between private and public prayer in your life? What do you see?
Read Matthew 6:7-8. Prayer is a genuine and honest conversation with your heavenly Daddy. He doesn’t need, want, or fall prey to grandstanding, manipulation, or incantation. How do you guard against falling into ‘babbling’ or pressuring God to act by your words?
Along with praying regularly, privately, and naturally, v.8 invites us to pray confidently. How does the knowledge that God already knows exactly what you need change the way you pray? How can if help build your confidence.

STRETCH
What is God calling you to do? What will you do about it this week?

Pray! – Part 3 – Pray with confidence Sermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, November 21, 2021

A lot of people have a love / hate relationship with prayer. We love the promise of answered prayer, but we hate the sense of futility and frustration when we feel like our prayers go unanswered. This can lead us to basically give up on prayer. Is there a better way?

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Life Group content SERIES THEME
Learning to pray like Jesus

THIS WEEK’S MAIN IDEA
A lot of people have a love / hate relationship with prayer. We love the promise of answered prayer, but we hate the sense of futility and frustration we feel when we do not see our prayers answered, at least not in the way we expect God should if he could. For many, this leads us to either give up on prayer, or to treat prayer as ritual without any expectation that God is really listening or even there. Is there a better way? Jesus says there is! Jesus tells us that there is a way for us to become confident and excited in our prayer relationship with God. Today, we are going to look at why and how persistence and expectation are key to seeing God answer SCRIPTURE Luke 11:5-13 CONNECT

Play ‘two truths and a tale’. Everyone come up with two obscure truths about yourself or your experiences, then make up a third that you think you can fool the rest of the group into thinking is true. Take turns sharing your two truths and a tale, and see how many people you can fool. The person who has the most people fooled wins (you might have to figure out a prize!)

EXPLORE

How are you affected personally by unanswered prayer?
Read Luke 11:1-10. In verse 5, Jesus shifted in his teaching from what to pray for, to how we can be successful in our experience of prayer. A big part of it is, pray persistently. Don’t give up! Talk about the story Jesus told. What is the point he was making? How do our perceptions of God and His grace influence how long we persist in prayer?
What prayer have you persisted the longest in praying? How long did you keep praying? Why did, or do, you persist? If you stopped, why
Read Luke 11:11-13. Jesus invites us to grow in confidence in our prayer lives by learning to trust the goodness and wisdom of God in how he answers our prayers. Jesus makes an interesting distinction at the end of v.13. Rather than saying that God will give the asker what they ask for, He says our heavenly Father will give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him. Some interpret this as Jesus’ subtle way of saying, “Just ask for the Holy Spirit, that’s what God wants to give you.” Others see Jesus’ statement here as alluding to the fact that the Holy Spirit brings with Him all the power, wisdom, and resources of God, so that when he shows up, He brings everything we could possibly need, or legitimately ask for. Read the verses again, and talk about how they could influence our level of confidence and expectation when we pray?
Talk about this statement: “God doesn’t invite us to pray because He needs our information or advice, He invites us to pray so that we will spend time with Him, and by doing so, His grace and character rubs off on us.” Do you agree? Disagree? Could this make any difference in what you pray for, and how often you pray?

STRETCH
What is God calling you to do? What will you do about it this week?

Pray! – Part 2 – Prayers worth praying Sermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, November 14, 2021

Jesus teaches us what we ought to be asking for when we pray. We tend to mostly ask God to protect us and give us what we want. But Jesus invites us to pray for much different things.

Media Sermon Audio Service livestream

Life Group content SERIES THEME
Learning to pray like Jesus

THIS WEEK’S MAIN IDEA
Jesus teaches us what we ought to be asking for when we pray. Although many are inclined to spend most of our time asking God to protect us from harm and give us what we want, whether for ourselves, or for those we are about, Jesus invites us to pray for much different things. After helping us focus on how we ought to pray, Jesus invites us to pray for provision of basic necessities, pardon for sin in the same way we pardon others, and protection from both internal and external evil influences. SCRIPTURE Luke 11:3-4; Matthew 6:11-15; Luke 12:16-21; Romans 12:18; James 1:14-15; Ephesians 2:1-3 CONNECT

Play ‘two truths and a tale’. Everyone come up with two obscure truths about yourself or your experiences, then make up a third that you think you can fool the rest of the group into thinking is true. Take turns sharing your two truths and a tale, and see how many people you can fool. The person who has the most people fooled wins (you might have to figure out a prize!)

EXPLORE

What are the first words or phrases that come to your mind when you hear the word, ‘prayer’? Why do you think these thoughts or impressions rise up first in you? What do you most commonly ask God for when you pray?
Read Luke 11:1-4 and Matthew 6:9-15. In these familiar verses, Jesus invites us to pray for three things. The first is for provision, not of anything we want to ask for – the luxuries of life, but for the basic necessities of life for as long as He wants us to live. What does this tell you about what we ought to be content with?
Greg mentioned that if we already have more than ‘our daily bread’, we need to decide what we do with the surplus. He mentioned that the Bible teaching on this can be summarized as gratitude, gut-check (am I letting what I receive come between me and Jesus?), and generosity. How much of a connection have you made between the request for our daily bread and our calling to be grateful and generous?
Read Luke 12:16-21. How do you balance generosity in contributing to building the kingdom, with your concerns about preparing for retirement, a holiday, or even a rainy day?
The second prayer request Jesus invites us to make is for pardon, ‘forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us”. How do you feel about the second part of that request? How does it influence your relationships today?
The third prayer request God invites us to make is for protection, no in the typical sense of ‘keep us safe on the roads’, or ‘don’t let anything bad happen to us’, but protection from our own inclination toward yielding to temptation, and protection for the lure of evil around us. How aware are you of the spiritual battle we live in? How does it affect your likelihood of praying this way?
Is there anything you want to change about your prayer life right now as a result of what Jesus teaches us here?

STRETCH
What is God calling you to do? What will you do about it this week?

Pray! – Part 1 – The right approach Sermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, November 7, 2021

We live in a world where prayer is seen as a tool to press God into giving us what we want, a ritualistic incantation we use for good luck, a relaxation technique, or an outdated relic of an obsolete world view. Jesus’ disciples saw something in the prayer life of Jesus that transcended all of this, leading them to ask, “Teach us to pray!”.

Media Sermon Audio Service livestream

Life Group content SERIES THEME
Learning to pray like Jesus

THIS WEEK’S MAIN IDEA
We live in a world where prayer is seen as a tool to press God into giving us what we want, a ritualistic incantation we use for good luck, a relaxation technique, or an outdated relic of an obsolete world view.
Jesus’ disciples saw something in the prayer life of Jesus that transcended all of this, and that created in them a thirst for more… “Teach us to pray!”, they asked. Jesus responded with an invitation to a kind of prayer life that will totally transform our lives, if we take it seriously.
As we begin examining the Lord’s Prayer, we find that it is an invitation to a life of prayer characterized by intimacy and respect, and that seeks God’s reputation, rule and reign, even ahead of our own. SCRIPTURE Luke 11:1-2; Matthew 6:9-10; John 3:30; Galatians 2:20; Acts 20:22-24; Mark 10:45; Matthew 26:39 CONNECT

What do you love the most about the Fall season?

Or

If you could travel anywhere next week, where would you go?

EXPLORE

How familiar are you with the Lord’s Prayer?
How do you react to the idea that Jesus did not provide the Lord’s Prayer as something to be regularly repeated, but as a model or scaffolding upon which we can build a healthy and satisfying relationship with God?
Read Luke 11:1-2 and Matthew 6:9-10. Both Matthew and Luke are reflecting on what they’d seen from Jesus and heard about Jesus. There was something different about the way Jesus prayed… Does that surprise you? Do you chalk that up to the fact that Jesus was the Son of God and had a special relationship, or to the fact that Jesus had committed himself to doing what any follower of Jesus could do? What difference does your answer make?
When Jesus began teaching his disciples to pray, he invited them to approach God with intimacy (Our Father) and respect (in heaven), and to seek as highest priority in our lives that God’s person and reputation would be honoured, and that God’s rule and reign would be obeyed, here on earth as it is in heaven (instantly, completely, gladly).

What place in your everyday prayer life (and everyday life in general) do these themes occupy?

Do you find it hard to pray without asking God for something? Why? 5. Read John 3:30; Galatians 2:20; Acts 20:22-24; Mark 10:45; Matthew 26:39. What do these verses reveal about the implications of truly praying as Jesus invites us to? 6. Talk about the statement: How we pray reveals more about what kind of relationship we think we have with God than anything else. 7. Is there anything you want to change about your prayer life right now as a result of what Jesus teaches us here?

STRETCH
What is God calling you to do? What will you do about it this week?

Won’t you be a neighbour? – Part 5 – What we have learned? Panel discussion and special presentation – Sunday, October 31, 2021

We’ve been learning about how to be neighbours the way Jesus taught us to be. Now it’s time to learn from our neighbours what they have learned about being neighbours!

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Life Group content SERIES THEME
Love your neighbour as Christ loves us

THIS WEEK’S MAIN IDEA
Loving your neighbour means more than reflection; it means acting on what we learn. Today, as we wrap up this series, we are going to reflect on the insights of our panel participants as well as our own, so we can be better prepared and active in loving our neighbour. CONNECT
How do you most typically interact with your neighbours?
When you think of neighbours you are to care about, who do you usually include in that category?

EXPLORE

“Love your neighbour”. A lot of Jesus’ followers struggle with putting this command into practice. Jesus’ message is simple, but challenging: When we follow the example of Jesus, we STOP making excuses for inaction, and START showing mercy to everyone we can.

What do you see as the greatest barriers to being a good neighbour, and do you move past them? 2. Loving your neighbour also means going out of our way to find and bless people on the margins of society, both around the corner, and around the world. Whether at a soup kitchen, a shelter, or through an organization like Compassion, as Joshua shared, we can make a difference in the lives of others who are in serious need of help.

Share how you are involved, or are planning to be involved, in caring for people in need. 3. Read Micah 6:8. Loving God and loving your neighbour means more than caring about their spiritual wellbeing, it also means caring about the social environment they (and we) live in. Standing against injustice and for reconciliation is an essential for followers of Jesus.

What justice or reconciliation causes do you resonate with most? Where do you long to see more action taken? What could we do as a next step? 4. Care for the environment is hard baked into care for the cause of Christ. While it is not the be-all and end-all, we cannot faithfully follow the God who is on a mission to restore all things, unless we also aim to restore all things. Fully engaged followers of Jesus care for the environment because we are accountable for it, and because we act like our heavenly Father when we do it. Caring for the environment simply means living sustainably and committing to be the change rather than complain that change isn’t happening fast enough.

How much of a connection has you made between following Jesus and caring for the environment? How do you care for the environment? 5. How has your understanding of loving your neighbour grown? How has your life changed? Are there changes you still plan to put into practice?

STRETCH
What is God calling you to do? What will you do about it this week?

Won’t you be a neighbour? – Part 4 – Caring for God’s Creation Sermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, October 24, 2021

Care for the environment is part of the cause of Christ. We cannot faithfully follow the God who is on a mission to restore all things unless we also aim to restore all things.

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Life Group content SERIES THEME
Love your neighbour as Christ loves us

THIS WEEK’S MAIN IDEA
Loving your neighbour extends beyond having a concern for their spiritual wellbeing, it includes caring for the environment in which they live. We are called by God to be good managers of His planet, caring for both plants, animals, and the earth itself.

SCRIPTURE
Genesis 1:26-28, 31; Genesis 2:15; Deuteronomy 20:19; Leviticus 19:9-10; Numbers 35:34; Psalm 24:1; 1 Corinthians 4:2; Hebrews 4:13; Revelation 21:1-5; 2 Peter 3:13-14

CONNECT
What do you like best about the Fall season? Do you like to get out and see the colour of the leaves?

EXPLORE

How closely do you associate “faithfulness to Jesus” with “environmental responsibility”? Why do you think this is so?
Greg mentioned that there is a tendency for followers of Jesus to lean toward one of two extremes: to obsess over the environment, or to neglect the environment. Have you seen this in your experience?
Read Genesis 1:26-28, Genesis 2:15, I Corinthians 4:2, and Hebrews 4:13. These verses point out the first of two reasons why we ought to take our environment seriously – we are responsible before God for how we care for our environment. The second reason Greg mentioned is this: God loves this world, is committed to restoring it, and we act like the One we say we follow when we care about the environment as well (Genesis 1:31, Psalm 24:1, Revelation 21:5, 2 Peter 3:13-14)
After looking at why fully engaged followers of Jesus care for the environment, Greg talked about how we can do it. This was pretty high level… live sustainably as an individual (Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose, Recycle) and look for ways to be the change, or come alongside and support the person trying to be the change, for larger scale environmental issues (Leviticus 19:9-10; and Numbers 35:34).

What do you do personally to help protect or improve our environment? What environmental cause are you fired up about, or perhaps think you ought to be more fired up about? 5. Is there something we can do either in our group, or as a group, to make our environment just a little bit better?

What do you think God wants to see in us personally, and as a group, as we live each day in response?

STRETCH
What is God calling you to do? What will you do about it this week?

Won’t you be a neighbour? – Part 2 – Caring for the lost, sick and marginalized Sermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, October 10, 2021

Sometimes, loving your neighbour means going out of our way to find and bless people on the margins of society, the forgotten people of our world. The example of Jesus shows that we must see and seek those who have been forgotten.

Media Sermon Audio Service livestream

Life Group content SERIES THEME
Love your neighbour as Christ loves us

THIS WEEK’S MAIN IDEA
When Jesus said, love your neighbour, he wasn’t only talking about the people around you in your neighbourhood or workplace. Some of the people God calls us to love are far removed from us not only by distance, but in status, life stage, culture, and more. Jesus calls us to see and to seek the forsaken in our world – the widow, orphan, poor, ill, elderly, immigrant, incarcerated, and forgotten?

SCRIPTURE
James 1:27; Luke 4:18-19; Luke 5:12-13; Luke 15

CONNECT
What did you do / will you do for Thanksgiving this year? What are you most thankful for?

EXPLORE

Have you ever been an outsider or felt forgotten where you lived? In what ways?
Read James 1:27-2:9. How do you think the statement James made in 1:27 is most often completed in the minds of most church goers today? (“pure and genuine religion in the sight of the Father means…”)
Why is James’ statement here so crucial to understand?
Read Luke 4:18-19. Jesus began his ministry with his eyes wide open. He came intentionally to see those who are on the margins of life, those who are easily forgotten. Can a person be a fully devoted follower of Jesus if they do not share this core passion for the lost and hurting? How would our lives be different today if we made this passage the theme of our lives?
The second thing Jesus calls us to do in loving our neighbour is to seek the forsaken. Read Luke 15:1-2. Why do you think the ‘nice’ people were so upset with who Jesus hung around with?
Read Luke 15:3-10. These are the first two stories Jesus uses to try and break through the hard hearts of his detractors. Both stories follow a simple progression: something valuable is lost, there is a search, the lost is found, and a celebration ensues. With this imagery in mind, now read the third story, Luke 15:11-32.

While many zero in on the first half of the story, it seems that it was only setting the stage for the real point Jesus was making in the second half… about a brother who was lost, an older brother who refused to search, and who refused to celebrate when the lost is found. Why do you think the older brother in this story had such a hard time celebrating the return of his younger brother?

The father’s final appeal (v.32) to the older brother stands as an appeal to us all, to not only celebrate the restoration of those who are lost, but to get in on the mission to seek them. How have you been able to experience following the Father’s invitation to serve and celebrate someone else being found?

What do you think God wants to see in us personally, and as a group, as we live each day in response?

STRETCH
Who might God be calling you personally, or us as a group, to be good neighbours to? What next step can you/we take this week to show Christ’s love to them?

Won’t you be a neighbour? – Part 1 Sermon by Greg MacRobbie – Sunday, October 3, 2021

Jesus said that one of the two most important commands is to love your neighbour. A lot of Jesus’ followers struggle with putting this command into practice. What does it really mean to love your neighbour? Who does God expect us to apply it to? And how can we stop making excuses and get better at showing mercy?

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Life Group content SERIES THEME
Love your neighbour as Christ loves us

THIS WEEK’S MAIN IDEA
When asked, what is the most important command, Jesus responded with two – two commands that are so intertwined it would be almost impossible to separate them: love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. And, love your neighbour as your self.” What does it really mean to love your neighbour? Who does God expect us to love? And what can we learn about how to love others as Jesus loves them?

SCRIPTURE
Luke 10:25-37; 1 Corinthians 13:1-3; John 3:16-17

CONNECT
Take some time to catch up with each other… perhaps have everyone share a high and a low from the week.

EXPLORE

Think of a time when you really needed help, and someone stepped in and helped you… What happened? How did it make you feel? Have a few share their story.
Read Luke 10:25-29. Greg shared two things we need to do if we are going to love our neighbours well. The first thing was “stop making excuses”. The religious guy in this Bible passage could quote the commands of God by heart, but when it came to actually living them out, he struggled. Why do we so often struggle with these fundamental commands? What are some of the most common reasons we use for not living them out? Talk about how valid those reasons really are…
Read 1 Corinthians 13:1-3. What do these verses add to the conversation?
The second thing good neighbours do is show mercy. Read Luke 10:30-37. What do you think Jesus meant by ‘go and do the same’? What do you think Jesus is really looking for from us, or in us?
Talk about the poem, “I am only one, but I am one, I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do.”
How does Jesus example in John 3:16-17 motivate you to be a good neighbour?

STRETCH
Who might God be calling you personally, or us as a group, to be good neighbours to? What next step can you/we take this week to show Christ’s love to them?