theCHURCH Sermon Podcast: Recent Episodes
Pastor Ernie Jaurique
Salvation restores God With Us by creating a new humanity where God is present through His Spirit.
Salvation is the gracious work of the King to rescue His people and restore His presence to His people in His place for His purpose.
We all know we need to be saved or rescued from something that has to do with each of us… We just don’t know what it is about us that needs to be saved. What exactly are we saved from?
Are you saved? It’s a common Christian question and most Christians want to know but are afraid to ask and to tell the truth, are not really sure what it means.
God is calling you to be His, all the way His. His people advancing His Kingdom, proving His presence in this world as He prepares His place… all for His glory. How are you doing with that?
Many biblical references mention “the Kingdom of God,” but few people seem to know what it is. Jesus preached about the Kingdom of God more than any other topic during His life and ministry. What is a proper view of the kingdom and why is it important?
Do you know why God put you on this planet? Cus He did. Or why He would put you in His church? Cus that's where He wants you. Why should you even care to know?
Faith in Jesus changes everything. Faith changes the way we see, the way we live, and even our future. However, faith demands a response today not tomorrow.
The Way of Jesus is a life marked bytrue worship, true obedience, true hope, true integrity, true generosity, and true courage.
Wherever God leads you in life whether it be family, work, ministry, or anything else, He will provide whatever is necessary to accomplish it. But it is up to us to stay close enough to recognise His guidance and see His provision.
There's only one church, it belongs to Jesus, and it is the church's job to preserve the unity of that church.
When it comes to the will of God, the Holy Spirit prepares us for the cost, He leads us in obedience, and He anchors us in faith.
Every Sunday we proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ and we challenge ourselves to stand firm, lead well, and model living like Jesus… to Kingdom building. What does your life look like after Sunday…
Do you remember the day you gave your life to Jesus? (or about the time) What is different about you today since that day? Since your day one...
Three essential elements every Christian needs in order to thrive in their relationship with Jesus.
Jesus always wins the battle because He already won the war. Jesus wins because He already won.
Jesus is confronting our counterfeits, he is calling us into costly repentance, and he is claiming victory.
Sacrifice is not only what Christ did for us on the cross but also how we live in response.
A Culture of Generosity is a movement of people who desire, are eager to, and are constantly looking for opportunities to live generously.
A full life in Christ is a life of trust that moves us from fear to faith, from Christ existing on the outside to Christ living on the inside.
Moving from control to dependance because you cannot surrender what you intend to keep.
When we turn our search for the living God into a destination of personal holiness and accomplishments empty of Jesus living on the inside- power of God we create a religion bearing the Name of Jesus but empty of the Spirit of Jesus…
The Kingdom advances through intentional gospel rhythms: plant seeds, strengthen disciples, and find rest.
Our text in Acts shows God encouraging Paul to keep preaching the gospel. We have been called to tell the world about Jesus and know that we are not alone.
Everyone one of us is living a life of worship. The question is do you really know who or what you are worshiping?
Paul is provoked to engage when he saw people who didn't know that they could know Jesus. What about us? Are we provoked to engage or are we provoked to withdraw? All of us are called to theCHURCH's mission of making it easier for people to know Jesus and to lead them into a growing relationship with him.
Today we have more bibles and more access to bibles than the history of the world and yet we are more biblically illiterate than ever. But I believe that you and I are here to change that.
God is always present but there is something way different about His presence when you are present with Him.
The Gospel demands a response... The big question is how will you respond to the Gospel? Will you partner with Jesus and make it easier for people to know Jesus?
When it comes to the advancement of the Gospel into the world, God is the One who opens the way, He often works on the fringes, and He always invites us to respond.
The Gospel message never changes, but the approach in sharing that message often needs to change.
In the Kingdom of God, every gift has a place, every disciple has a part to own, and every leader has room to grow.
If Jesus Himself made it easier for us to know Him, why should we make it harder for others to know Him?
The work of the church is to preach the gospel, train disciples, establish leaders, and give God the glory.
Life is complicated and it is really easy to lose ourselves in our own story. Give your story to Jesus, give Him credit for your story and your story will never lack purpose.
What does it look like to share the gospel in a way that gets the attention of everyone in your circle of influence?
The Bible is the Story of God’s redemption in Jesus Christ – and He’s inviting us into it.
As the Gospel of the Kingdom advances, it challenges rival powers – but God overcomes through truth, judgment, and salvation.
Different for you and different for the world. When Jesus makes a difference in you, make that difference in the world.
Jesus loves you Every Day, what does it look like for you to love Him back the same way He loves you... Every Day?
Why is God so jealous for His glory? Why do we have such a hard time giving up any of ours? What does it even mean to give glory to God?
Becoming a Praying Person calls for humility and for us to talk with, listen to, and look for God.
Prayer changes you before and if anything else changes. Will you continue to pray with equal passion, and intensity, consistently that ultimately when God does something else, you are conditioned through your prayer to be ready for that something else?
theCHURCH is the body of Christ intended to care for the body of Christ and make Christ known to those who are not yet part of the body Christ. But it's going to take all of us.
To own this family name is to not only be assured that you have been made worthy by the blood of Jesus Christ but to also commit to live a life that is worthy of the gospel of Jesus Christ for the glory of Jesus Christ.
Obedience paves the way for a deeper understanding of the Good News. Scripture shows those who listened, believed, and obeyed found a deeper understanding of how good the Good News really is for us.
For our sake God the Father made Jesus, God the Son, to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.
Unworthy, So often this thought paralyzes people and keeps them from knowing the Love of Christ… If they only knew… Jesus, the only one Who is Worthy, makes the unworthy worthy.
Only Jesus can make an unclean life clean. If you have been made clean by the blood of Jesus Christ our King it's now your job to share that truth.
What makes someone right before God? Only Jesus Christ, God the Son, can make you right before God because He is our righteousness.
We can trust in God’s restoration power, we are recipients of his restoration power, and we are active participants in his restorative work.
Following Jesus is not a spectator sport you can watch from your easy chair. It requires movement. Christ's sacrifice on the cross makes us world changers but will not change it lying down. Rise up.
As the church begins to experience a season of peace, we see a growing community of believers committed to walking and working with God.
Everybody who knows Jesus is here to live a life that shows and tells somebody that Jesus truly is Lord of all.
A disciple is someone who knows Jesus, lives like Jesus, and leads others to do the same.
Jesus is calling each one of us to a meaningful relationship with him. In our text today, we are going to see the most unlikely person to follow Jesus, meet Jesus.
God Himself made it easier for you to know Jesus through the cross and the resurrection of Christ; why then shouldn't we do the same for others? Make it easier for people to know Jesus.
People are literally dying to know and see, and maybe even feel the life Jesus died and rose again to give you. To know that it's real. You're the sign that points to Jesus.
With every advancement of the Kingdom of God there is both greatopposition and great opportunity.
Transformation comes when we not only see that this whole story is Jesus’ story but when we truly take our place in His story as well.
God gives everyone a story, His story. He also gives us a choice to own His story or give it to the enemy. Redemption or rebellion. What are you doing about that?
Knowing God's story is good, joining His story is way better, not getting ahead of God's story is essential.
God works in unexpected times/places, through unusual ways/circumstances, through unsuspecting people, to save and redeem the entire world.
When the men and women of the church are full of the Holy Spirit, God prepares the church for more than it might know.
The Christ follower does not receive the Spirit of the Living God, The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead, to just come and attend a service or watch online. You have a part in the church Christ gave His life for. What's your part?
The early church in Acts is facing intense opposition to the message of the gospel. Instead of shrinking back and being quiet, the church stays on point and boldly embraces living like Jesus.
Jesus is the life we were always intended to live. His story, His glory, Life with Jesus, in Jesus, to Jesus, because of Jesus and for Jesus.
God is calling us to lead the world to Jesus, to show them they are not forgotten but in fact truly loved. This is our witness to the world but it is going to take all of us.
Great Humility makes room for great power that enables the greatest testimony that is followed by a living picture of His great grace…
God is calling us to lead the world to Jesus, to show them they are not forgotten but in fact truly loved. This is our witness to the world but it is going to take all of us.
Every human being that walks this earth knows with certainty that God exists. Our sin is not that we do not know Him; it is that we refuse to acknowledge Him even though we do know Him. (RC Sproul)
Jesus is revealing Himself to be God, establishing His authority, and leading people to faithin His name.
The position you own as Christ's servant, one of submission, ready’s you for the work the Holy Spirit would do through you and prepares you for the work He chooses not to do through you.
A life that is truly in Christ is not a business as usual life it is a life that is never the same again. It is a transformed day to day life lived out in the home, the work place, friendships and more all for the Glory of Jesus Christ.
Our life consists of three major parts; body. soul, and spirit. Most people live according to only two; body and soul. You can only know God or the things of God when you reach for Him with your spirit leading the way for body and soul.
The believers in Acts are praying together and submitting to Scripture together. Through Scripture God leads believers to do the next right thing.
The church is at its most powerful position, even at its greatest potential, when it prays together.
We are given the Spirit of God not so we can feel more spiritual but so we can do the job that Jesus gave the church to do… Show them Jesus and change the world for His Glory.
More is coming…Jesus removes the disciple's doubts and tells them to wait. Power is coming and Jesus is going to build his church like he said.
Jesus was God, Jesus is still God, and Jesus will always be God. His eternal existence, His deity, His sovereignty, His involvement in the whole story of humanity Is what makes His cross sufficient and His resurrection trustworthy.
Remember when the story of Jesus Christ was fresh and brand new in your life? Remember how exciting it was, how ready you were to believe His story and make it yours? What will it take for you to believe like that again? To not only believe His story but to keep it? It's time to believe again.
The gospel message of the cross is a message of total provision,total victory, and total access.
We’ve been taught, and rightly so, not to rejoice in the suffering of others. And yet we are told to rejoice at the fact that Jesus, called The Christ, was nailed to a cross, Why?
Jesus was innocent and yet He stood in the place of the guilty in order that the guilty may stand with Him. Where do you stand?
Judas betrayed Jesus with a kiss and Peter followed at a distance, there is a huge difference but neither one is good. The enemy will gladly fill any space you leave between you and Jesus. So don’t leave him any space…
Jesus ultimate concern was fulfilling the will of the father through which Jesus reconciled the world to Himself.
You will never understand the life you’ve been given to live until you can truly know the life Jesus lived for you (The example he gave us), laid down for you (the sacrifice He paid for us), and picked back up so that you can truly live. (the power He gives us).
Jesus is the ultimate Passover Lamb. Todays message shows how God changed Passover forever and delivers the world through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross.
It is easy to get really scared when you hear Jesus speak about the last days but that is not what He wants. Jesus isn’t trying to scare you. He wants to prepare you.
We all know that this world has a "shelf life", basically it's gonna end. Jesus gave His disciples a warning concerning that end, to which if we pay attention will inform and prepare us for what's to come as well.
The poor widow is an amazing example of what trusting God and valuing His Kingdom looks like for a Jesus follower.
The most important decision you will ever make, by commission or omission, is who you worship. You will forever belong to that choice.
Everything we could ever believe about our faith and about this life hinges on the truth of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
We were created in the image of God so that our lives would honorGod and reflect His glory to the world around us.
God is not calling you to do things for Him once in a while, He is inviting you to be someone all the time.
It is critical that we understand that God is the ultimate authority in this life. We will never understand our position in this life until we accept His. If not we will serve, worship, and follow whatever we place in that position.
The life Jesus expects from us is one that trusts Him so much that their life becomes a testimony of the trust challenging others to do the same.
The crowd worshiped Jesus on his way into Jerusalem. Their worship was loud, but not long-lasting. What does your worship look like?
Somebody was bold enough to speak Jesus in to your life, God begins His work though you by simply challenging you to do the same.
No life is beyond the reach of Christ's love and salvation. The gospel of Jesus Christ is for the outcast, and quiet as it may be kept we were all outcasts before we knew Jesus.
The disciples did not understand Jesus’ prediction of his death and resurrection. However, after the fact, the disciples carried this message to the ends of the earth. Their work is our work today…to make it easier for people to know Jesus.
If you really want the kingdom of God, not second, not also, not and, but first and only, then you can have it. It all depends on your focus… Who or what is your King?
You never really need to talk a kid into believing in Jesus, but you also should never keep them from it. As a matter of fact, you can actually learn a lot from a childs faith.
Consistent prayer leads a life of faith. God has given us something to talk with Him about everyday, He's just waiting for you to continue the conversation.
Most everybody on the planet knows this world has an expiration date. Some aint trying to hear about it. And for others it's all they think about. What is the right balance?
Life is much fuller and a heart is much richer when it is marked with praise and gratitude for what God has done.
God doesn’t send anyone to hell. Everyone was already heading there. But He did send His Son Jesus so you don’t have to.
It's important for us to know how we move away from God so we can help others get close and stay close to God. The plan was never to just become a well behaving Christian.
The deepest most honest expression of true love ever was Jesus sharing His life at the cost of His life so we can see Him and experience Him. And He called the church to do the same.
Jesus turns to the crowd and says unless they are willing to give up everything, they are not able to be his disciples. Following Jesus is not easy. Following Jesus is at times even messy. But following Jesus is worth it.
Life in Christ is an invite only life and everyones invited, have you accepted the invitation? And if so, who are you letting know about the invite?
Jesus is calling us to be the kind of people who make it easier for the lost, broken, and hurting to know Him.
The entrance through the Narrow Door requires us to Believe, Repent and Strive after Christ.
The kingdom of God has been growing and will continue to grow until Jesus comes back. If you're a kingdom person then you have a relational responsibility to help it grow. If you're not, then what are you waiting for?
When you see pain and suffering do you look the other way? Jesus has called us to not only see people's pain and hurt but to move towards it.
When God looks at our life His desire is to see Jesus permeating every bit of our life.
If we are asking "Why?" when life gets hard; we are asking the wrong question. There's a better question to ask.
Living life fully alive means Following Jesus at all costs. But this isn't always easy. Following Christ can and will cause suffering and controversy, even in your own house.
If you are a follower of Jesus Christ then you are a leader worth following. And this leadership must always be led by love.
Jesus calls us to a life that is ready for Him at all times and in all situations. What does it look like for you to live that life?
Trading our anxiety for trust is characteristic of the people Jesus desires to call His kingdom people. If we can trust Jesus with eternity, we need to trust Him with our day to day living as well.
You know you are truly rich when you recognize that your life doesn't consist in the abundance of possessions but by your love for God and a commitment to Jesus that's expressed into the lives of others.
When our lives are "all in" with Christ the world around you will know it and be better for it.
Everyone has fears, there are a lot of scary things in this world. Jesus tells us His peace is the opposite of fear. But how do we receive and own that peace?
Seeing you should help others see Jesus. When it comes to following Jesus, do you make it easier people or harder for people?
Loving and living for God is not just something we do on Sundays, but is the core of our lives. The Pharisees had made worship a show and lost sight of what was really important--loving God with all of their heart. Are you the real deal?
A life that is lit up by Christ will challenge other lives to Christ. When your life's focus and expression is on what Jesus did and said throughout the whole of scripture it will cause others to wonder why your eyes are always on Him.
God’s word trusted and kept will lead to a life that can only be explained by the presence and power God Himself.
A life that is filled with The Spirit of God leaves no room for anything else. This is important because the enemy will gladly fill any space you leave between you and Jesus.
Asking God to give us His Holy Spirit will not only effectively lead our prayers but our lives as well.
Prayer is so simple that the smallest child can pray, but it’s so great that the mightiest man or woman of God will never truly have mastered it. Anyone can pray… And everyone has room to grow in their prayers… You just have to want to…
One of the biggest temptations in the church is to serve Jesus without Jesus. Many times this is not even done purposely but because we are such busy people we think He just wants us to get busy. The easiest way to avoid this is pretty obvious yet often ignored; spend time with Jesus and allow Him to lead the way forward. Sit before you serve...
The great desire of so many who seek after God is to have His power work in and through them. What is often misunderstood is that according to Jesus a secure position in Him is greater than any miracle He would work in or through you.
Jesus planted His church with the vision and intention that we never stop bringing Him glory by loving one another and making disciples. Our church is still moving forward in that call. What is your part? How is He using you to accomplish His mission?
A life that follows Jesus for real will set out to be truly like Jesus in every area of life. It will be a life that is prioritized after Jesus and not before.
There should be no competition for greatness in Jesus' church... Jesus people demonstrate their love for God by putting the people next to them in front of them. All for His glory.
We all want "mountain top" experiences with Jesus, and we should. But we should also know that most of life is lived in the valley where hurt, pain, and struggle is common. Both the mountain and the valley are necessary for life in Christ. On the mountain if we are paying proper attention we gain the “spiritual eyes and muscles” that we need to see like God sees and work and live fully alive in the valley. You may see and experience God's glory on the mountain top but it’s in the valley where He is glorified
Our job is to take the transforming power of the Gospel to those in need and let God do the work.
We are not here to make the world a better place, We are not here to show the world we are better than this place. We're here to make it easier for people to know Jesus and to lead them into growing relationship with Jesus. To go and make disciples of Jesus Christ.
The value of a person is determined not by our own perception, measurements, background or any other way the world measures it but is determined by God.
Authority in your life is either given or taken, the choice really is up to you… Jesus already has authority over all life but it is up to you to give Him Lordship of and in your life. Either you give it to Jesus or it’s taken by the enemy of your soul.
Authority in your life is either given or taken, the choice really is up to you… Jesus already has authority over all life but it is up to you to give Him Lordship of and in your life. Either you give it to Jesus or it’s taken by the enemy of your soul.
Point: The value of a person is determined not by our own perception, measurements, background or any other way the world measures it but is determined by God.
Scripture: Luke 8:40-56
Principles for studying a passage of Scripture: Comprehension: Asks - What does the passage say? Interpretation: Asks - What does the passage mean? Application: Asks - How should this passage change me?
Questions: Comprehension: What are some key facts about this story? Which of these facts stick out to you most and why? Comprehension: What did Jairus and the ill woman have in common? How are they different? Give some examples. Interpretation: What does this passage of Scripture teach us about faith? About desperation? About the gospel? Explain. Interpretation: How was Jairus’s faith in Jesus challenged? How did he respond? Application: How is your faith being challenged right now? How are you responding? How should you respond? Interpretation: Read verses 52-53. What did Jesus mean when He claimed that Jairus’s daughter is “not dead but sleeping”? Explain. Application: How is your view of life, death, and eternity challenged by this story? Explain your answer. Application: What about you needs to change after studying this passage? How can we as a group support and encourage you in this? Be honest and specific.
Point: Jesus never promised trouble free life but He did promise that no matter what He’ll always be with us in it.
Scripture: Luke 8:22-25
Principles for studying a passage of Scripture:
Comprehension: Asks - What does the passage say? Interpretation: Asks - What does the passage mean? Application: Asks - How should this passage change me?
Questions:
Comprehension: In your own words, summarize what is happening in this story. How would you describe this to someone who has never read it?
Interpretation: Why do you think Jesus asked them, “Where is your faith”? How did the disciples lack faith in this situation? Explain.
Application: Have you ever experienced a situation where you lacked faith? How did you respond? How did it turn out in the end?
Comprehension: Not every “life-storm” we face will turn out ok. What are some of God’s promises we can rest in, even when storms don’t let up?
Interpretation: What does this story teach us about the character of Jesus?
Application: After reading this passage, what are some ways your character needs to conform to the character of Jesus? Be honest and specific.
Application: How can this group be an encouragement to you this week as you work on conforming into the image of Jesus?
Point: We have been made family by a different blood: the blood of Jesus Christ.
Scripture: Luke 8:19-21
Principles for studying a passage of Scripture:
Comprehension: Asks - What does the passage say? Interpretation: Asks - What does the passage mean? Application: Asks - How should this passage change me?
Questions:
What is the difference between Jesus’ blood family and His spiritual family? Explain.
Jesus says that His family are those who “hear the Word of God and do it”. How does God’s Word make us family? Explain.
Read James 1:22-25. As God’s family, what does it look like to put ourselves under God’s Word in submission?
Read John 13:34-35. One proof that we are part of God’s family is our love for God and for each other. What should “family love” look like in the church? How is it different from your blood family? How is it similar?
How can we learn from Jesus about how to treat our church family? Explain/give examples.
What do you need to work on this week to be a better brother/sister in Christ? Be honest and specific. Give us a plan for change.
Is Christianity something you put on or Is Christ Someone you've allowed in? People need to see Jesus in you. It is way too easy to simply try and see what other Christians look like and follow the crowd rather than Christ. A life in Christ will reflect the Life of Christ.
Point: Kingdom People Produce Kingdom Fruit.
Scripture: Luke 8:4-15
Principles for studying a passage of Scripture:
Comprehension: Asks - What does the passage say? Interpretation: Asks - What does the passage mean? Application: Asks - How should this passage change me?
Questions:
Comprehension: In this parable, who does the sower represent? What does the seed represent? What do the different soils represent?
Interpretation: Explain the difference between each of the 4 soil/heart types. How would you describe these 4 types of people in your own words?
Application: Which of the 4 soil types best represents your heart right now? Be honest and specific.
Interpretation: Who or what is it that tills and shapes our hearts into good soil so that the Word of God can take root? Explain your answer.
Application: Practically, how can you go about examining your heart to see which type of soil you are?
Application: How can this group pray for you? How can we help you stay ready to hear and receive the Word of God?
Point: There are so many debates on who should be “allowed” to lead in and from the church and we can lose all kinds of time discussing and debating over it. There is a much easier way, look at Jesus then look in the mirror and ask the question, “What will it take for me to be a leader worth following?”. Answer the question and then lead.
Point: In Grace, we come to Jesus, love Jesus, and worship Jesus.
Scripture: Luke 7:36-50
Principles for studying a passage of Scripture:
Comprehension: Asks - What does the passage say? Interpretation: Asks - What does the passage mean? Application: Asks - How should this passage change me?
Questions:
Interpretation: What does this passage of Scripture tell us about the grace of God?
Comprehension: How does the woman in this story approach Jesus in boldness and humility?
Application: Practically, what does it look like for us to come to Jesus in boldness and humility? Give examples.
Interpretation: Read verses 41-43. What does this parable teach us about our sin and Jesus’ forgiveness?
Interpretation: How does understanding your sin and Jesus’ forgiveness lead to an authentic love for Jesus? Explain.
Interpretation: How does an authentic love for Jesus lead to a life of worship?
Comprehension: Read verses 44-47. How does this woman serve Jesus? Honor Jesus? Sacrifice for Jesus?
Application: Practically, what does it look like for us to serve Jesus? Honor Him? Sacrifice for Him? Give examples.
Application: Do you live a life of worship that serves, honors, and sacrifices for Jesus? (What needs to change and how will you? Be honest and specific.)
In our search for God, We still haven't found what we are looking for because we are constantly looking in the mirror to find Him. The more we try to create God in our own image the more we will be unsatisfied by God and disillusioned with God. Looking for the truth of requires more than you might think.
Point: When you think you’ve had enough, ask yourself: Is Jesus really enough?
Scripture: Luke 7:18-23
Principles for studying a passage of Scripture:
Comprehension: Asks - What does the passage say? Interpretation: Asks - What does the passage mean? Application: Asks - How should this passage change me?
Questions:
Comprehension: What is happening in this passage? What sticks out? Have each group member summarize the story in their own words.
Interpretation: What do you think John is asking Jesus in verse 19? What’s the point of his question? Explain.
Interpretation: Why is it so easy to question God or even doubt Him when in the middle of a crisis? Explain.
Interpretation: In verse 22, Jesus reminds John of all the ways He is working. Why is it important to remember everything that God has done when we are going through trials?
Interpretation: Why do you think Jesus says, “blessed is the one who is not offended by me”? Explain.
Application: How do you tend to respond when Jesus doesn’t come through the way you want Him to? Do you get offended? Do you worship? Explain your answer.
Application: What keeps you close to Jesus in all of your adversity? Why does that help? Explain.
Application: Ultimately, Jesus experienced what it was like to have His Father not come through the way He wanted Him to when He went to the cross. How can we better conform to the image of Jesus in times of trial and suffering?
God can be amazed at either our faith or our unbelief. His amazement at our faith & humility should be the goal. We should constantly be working towards increasing our faith and humility in response to what Jesus has done for us.
Point: Jesus sees us, shows compassion, and crosses the line.
Scripture: Luke 7:11-17
Principles for studying a passage of Scripture:
Comprehension: Asks - What does the passage say? Interpretation: Asks - What does the passage mean? Application: Asks - How should this passage change me?
Questions:
Comprehension: Read Luke 7:11-17. What do we know about the woman in this story? What was her circumstance? How would the death of her son have affected her economically and in this culture? Explain.
Comprehension: Jesus responded to this woman in three ways in verses 13 and 14. What were those responses and why are they important to consider? Explain your answer.
Comprehension: Jesus’ compassion on the widow led to a significant miracle in raising the dead boy to life. How did the two crowds respond?
Interpretation: When it says that Jesus saw the woman and had compassion on her, what do you think that means? What does Jesus’ compassion look like?
Interpretation: Why do you think Jesus told the woman not to weep over her dead son? Even Jesus wept over his friend Lazarus knowing he would bring Lazarus back from the dead (John 11:1-44). Explain your answer.
Interpretation: What can we learn from this story about how we should respond to Jesus Himself rising from the grave? Explain your answer.
Application: What does this story teach us about Jesus’ compassion and empathy for people? How should this change the way you see people? Explain.
Application: What is the difference between compassion and empathy? How does real compassion lead to true empathy?
Application: How will you go about pursuing Christ-like compassion that leads to Christ-like empathy for others this week? What in your life needs to change? How will you go about changing? Be honest and give us a plan.
Point: Jesus always has something to say. The question is: Are we listening?
Scripture: Luke 6:43-49; Matthew 15:18-20; Galatians 5:22-25
Principles for studying a passage of Scripture:
Comprehension: Asks - What does the passage say? Interpretation: Asks - What does the passage mean? Application: Asks - How should this passage change me?
Questions:
Comprehension: Read Luke 6:43-49. According to Jesus, how can you differentiate between one tree and another? How can you know if a house has a good foundation or a bad one? Why is this important? Explain.
Comprehension: Now Read Matthew 15:18-20. What does this passage teach us about our hearts? How does this passage relate to and support our passage in Luke 6? Explain your answer.
Interpretation: Jesus ends his tree/fruit parable with “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” What do our hearts, words, and actions have to do with fruit on a tree? Explain.
Interpretation: How do our words and actions reveal what we worship in our hearts? According to Jesus, if you want to change behavior where should you start?
Interpretation: Jesus talks about floods and streams in verse 48. How do our life circumstances and life pressures act as a “flood” that breaks against our “house” (i.e. our hearts)? How do tough situations reveal our worship? Explain your answer.
Application: What is the principle that Jesus is trying to get across to us in verse 46? How do we do what Jesus is telling us to do? How do we change our hearts? How do we build on a better foundation? Explain.
Application: Read Galatians 5:22-25. Who is it that changes your heart and creates “good fruit” in your life? How will you allow Him to work in your heart this week? Give us a plan and be specific (prayer, time in the word, community, etc.).
Application: Where is your heart producing “bad fruit”? Where do you need to surrender to God? Pray together as a group for changed hearts.
Point: As followers of Christ, we are called to live superior to the world in our love for the people of this world.
Scripture: Luke 6:27-36
Principles for studying a passage of Scripture:
Comprehension: Asks - What does the passage say? Interpretation: Asks - What does the passage mean? Application: Asks - How should this passage change me?
Questions:
- Read Luke 6:27-36 together as a group.
Comprehension: In your own words, how would you summarize what is happening in this story? What are the highlights as you see them?
Comprehension: What is the reward for living out this teaching (vs.35)? Explain.
Comprehension: What are five commands that Jesus gives in verses 27-31?
Interpretation: What do you think Jesus is trying to communicate to His disciples in this passage? What principles does He want them to learn? Explain your answer.
Interpretation: In what ways is Jesus being counter-cultural in this teaching?
Application: What does this passage teach us about God? His character? The way He works?
Application: What are some ways that God is kind and merciful to those who are “ungrateful and evil” towards Him? Give examples.
Application: How does your character need to change in order to reflect God’s character? How does your perspective need to change? Your actions? What is your plan for change? Be honest and specific.
Point: Everyone is looking for something, but TRUE blessings come when you seek first HIS Kingdom.
Point: God is calling you to something greater.
Scripture: Luke 6:12-17
Principles for studying a passage of Scripture:
Comprehension: Asks - What does the passage say? Interpretation: Asks - What does the passage mean? Application: Asks - How should this passage change me?
Questions:
- Read Luke 6:12-17 together as a group.
Comprehension: In your own words, how would you summarize what is happening in this story? Paint the picture for us - what does the scene and context look like?
Comprehension: Comprehension: Who are the three different “groups” of people in this passage?
Comprehension: What is a disciple? Explain.
Comprehension: What is an apostle? Explain.
Interpretation: Why do you think Jesus needed to get alone and pray all night before choosing His apostles? Explain.
Interpretation: What is the difference between followers of Jesus (great multitude of people - vs. 17), disciples of Jesus (great crowd of His disciples - vs.17), and apostles of Jesus (vs.13)? Explain.
Interpretation: How does someone move from being a follower to being a disciple to being an apostle? Explain.
Application: What does this passage teach us about God? His character? The way He works?
Application: What do you need to do (or be) differently in order to become more like Jesus? Explain.
Application: What is one thing you will do this week to become a better disciple of Jesus? Be honest and specific.
Application: What is one thing you will do this week to begin making disciples? Be honest and specific.
- Sermon Application (for breakouts):
Conviction: How has this Scripture (or this Sermon) challenged you personally? Be specific.
Character: What about you needs to change in light of what you’ve learned? Be honest and specific.
Competence: What is your plan for change? Share with the group what you are going to do, how you are going to do it, and when you are going to do it. Leaders – Write everyone’s plan down in a journal and come back to it next week during breakouts.
Point: Is there ever a wrong time to do the right thing? After being faced with the hurt or need of another, too often we look back wishing we would have done something different or even at all. How can we be sure to know what to do if anything, when the next opportunity to help comes along? Maybe one simple question might help...
Point: If you read the Word to understand the Word, you would be led by the Word instead of trying to lead the Word.
Scripture: Luke 6:1-5; Cross Reference - Mark 2:23-28, 1 Samuel 21:1-6
Principles for studying a passage of Scripture:
Comprehension: Asks - What does the passage say? Interpretation: Asks - What does the passage mean? Application: Asks - How should this passage change me?
Questions:
- Read Luke 6:1-5 together as a group.
Comprehension: In your own words, how would you summarize what is happening in this story?
Comprehension: Read Exodus 20:8-10. Do you see the Sabbath law being broken here in Luke 6? Explain.
Comprehension: What exactly were the Pharisees upset about? Explain.
Interpretation: When it came to reading God’s Law (His Word), how did the Pharisees miss God’s heart? Why were they reading it wrong? Explain your answer.
Interpretation: Read 1 Samuel 21:1-6. Why do you think Jesus used this story to make His point? What was the point Jesus was trying to make? Explain.
Interpretation: What do you think Jesus meant when He said, “The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath”?
Application: How do you read God’s Word? Do you try to apply it first? Understand the context first? Interpret the meaning first?
Application: What do you think the point of reading God’s Word is? Do you always read through that filter? Explain.
Application: After studying this passage, do you need to change the way you approach God’s Word? How should you read it differently?
Application: What is being revealed about God’s character in this passage? Explain your answer.
Application: How does your character need to change in order to better image God? Be honest and specific.
Point: Jesus never came to fix broken lives. He came to make them new.
Scripture: Luke 5:33-39
Principles for studying a passage of Scripture:
Comprehension: Asks - What does the passage say? Interpretation: Asks - What does the passage mean? Application: Asks - How should this passage change me?
Questions:
- Read Luke 5:27-32 together as a group.
Comprehension: In your own words, how would you summarize what is happening in this story?
Comprehension: Have a group member explain the Bridegroom parable in verses 34-35 in their own words.
Comprehension: Have a group member explain the Garment parable in verse 36 in their own words
Comprehension: Have a group member explain the Wineskin parable in verses 37-39 in their own words.
Interpretation: What is the common theme between all three of these parables? What is Jesus trying to teach? Explain your answer.
Interpretation: Why do you think the Pharisees had an issue with Jesus’ disciples eating and drinking? What were they afraid was going to happen? Explain.
Interpretation: Jesus both reassures the Pharisees and explains His purpose for eating and drinking with sinners in verses 36-39. What does Jesus want to accomplish by eating and drinking with sinners?
Application: How does Jesus make us new? Explain your answer.
Application: What does this passage tell us about God’s character? About who Jesus is?
Application: What about your character needs to change in order to better image God’s character?
- Sermon Application (for breakouts):
Conviction: How has this Scripture (or this Sermon) challenged you personally? Be specific.
Character: What about you needs to change in light of what you’ve learned? Be honest and specific.
Competence: What is your plan for change? Share with the group what you are going to do, how you are going to do it, and when you are going to do it. Leaders – Write everyone’s plan down in a journal and come back to it next week during breakouts.
Point: Our part is to call people who are apart to be a part of the body of Christ.
Scripture: Luke 5:27-32
Principles for studying a passage of Scripture:
Comprehension: Asks - What does the passage say? Interpretation: Asks - What does the passage mean? Application: Asks - How should this passage change me?
Questions:
- Read Luke 5:27-32 together as a group.
Comprehension: In your own words, how would you summarize what is happening in this story?
Comprehension: There are at least 4 different audiences of people in this passage. Who are those? What are the differences between those audiences? Explain.
Comprehension: Read verses 31 and 32 again. Why did Jesus choose to minister to tax collectors and sinners instead of the Pharisees? Explain your answer.
Interpretation: Why do you think it was such a big deal that Jesus called a tax collector to be his disciple? Why would the Pharisees, or maybe even some of Jesus’ disciples, have had a problem with it?
Interpretation: Why did Levi (Matthew) leave everything to follow Jesus, even throwing him a huge feast and inviting his co-workers and friends? Explain your answer.
Interpretation: In verse 31, Luke relates our sinful hearts and minds with physical sickness, and Jesus with a physician. What does this say about hearts and minds? What does this say about the hope we have in Christ? Explain.
Application: What does this passage tell us about God’s character? About who Jesus is?
Application: How does your character need to change in order to better image Jesus to your friends, family, co-workers, etc.?
Application: How do you view the people around you? Do you view them as “sick” or helpless and needy in heart and mind? Or as godless sinners who are outside the reach of Christ? Does this affect the way you share the gospel? Explain your answer.
Application: How should this story change the way you view and share the gospel with others? Explain.
Point: We theCHURCH exist to make it easier for people to know Jesus. Why? Because there are a lot of people who do not know they can know Jesus. And whether they know it or not they are relying on your faith to bring them to Him! A person can be led to radical change by friends with the courage to be radical in their faith.
Point: Jesus touched the untouchable, reached the unreachable, and loved the unlovable.
Scripture: Luke 5:12-16
Principles for studying a passage of Scripture:
Comprehension: Asks - What does the passage say? Interpretation: Asks - What does the passage mean? Application: Asks - How should this passage change me?
Questions:
- Read Luke 5:1-11 together as a group.
Interpretation: In your own words, what is God saying in this passage and why? What are the big ideas?
Comprehension: Read Leviticus 13:9-17. What are 2 differences between the priests in Leviticus and Jesus (our High Priest) in Luke? Explain.
Interpretation: Read Leviticus 13:45-46. What are some physical, emotional, and mental sufferings that a leper may experience?
Interpretation: What are 3 ways that leprosy and sin might have similar effects in a person’s life? Explain your answer.
Comprehension: Read Luke 5:12-16 again. How does Jesus heal the physical, mental, and emotional brokenness this leper is experiencing? Be specific and explain your answer.
Application: Have there been times in your life where you felt like a leper? Give examples. How has Jesus been the hope of your life in those seasons? Explain.
Application: What kinds of people do you tend to avoid or treat as “leperous”? Be honest and specific. How can you begin to see those people differently? What would it take to reach out and love them?
The story of God's kingdom soon to come is a story that everyone one on the planet needs to know. But before we can tell the story of His Kingdom coming we must show the story of His Kingdom here and now. How can your life tell this story? Come and see...
Point: God’s pursuit of us is not contingent on our pursuit of Him.
Scripture: Luke 5:1-11
Principles for studying a passage of Scripture: Comprehension: Asks - What does the passage say? Interpretation: Asks - What does the passage mean? Application: Asks - How should this passage change me?
Questions: 1. Read Luke 5:1-11 together as a group. Interpretation: In your own words, what is God saying in this passage and why? What are the big ideas? Comprehension: Read verses 1 and 6. There are two things in large numbers here in this passage. What are those? Interpretation: Read verse 10. What does the large number of fish represent in this story? Explain your answer. Interpretation: Do you think there was a connection between the crowds on the shore and the fish in the nets? Explain. Comprehension: Read verses 6-7 and Matthew 9:36-38 What are three things the large number of fish, the breaking nets, signaling for help and the sinking boat teach us about making disciples? Explain your answer. Application: How should this story (especially Peter’s response) create an urgency for discipleship in your own heart? Explain. Application: Since the harvest is plentiful (as seen by the large number of fish, the breaking nets, and the sinking boat), how will you join Jesus in His Kingdom work? Give specific examples.
- Sermon Application (for breakouts): Conviction: How has this Scripture (or this Sermon) challenged you personally? Be specific. Character: What about you needs to change in light of what you’ve learned? Be honest and specific. Competence: What is your plan for change? Share with the group what you are going to do, how you are going to do it, and when you are going to do it. Leaders – Write everyone’s plan down in a journal and come back to it next week during breakouts.
True healing is only found in Jesus. If you have been set free in Christ it's time to go share the good news!
Point: All Authority and All Victory is Found is Jesus our King.
Scripture: Luke 4:31-37
Principles for studying a passage of Scripture:
Comprehension: Asks - What does the passage say? Interpretation: Asks - What does the passage mean? Application: Asks - How should this passage change me?
Questions:
- Read Luke 4:14-30 together as a group.
Interpretation: In your own words, what is God saying in this passage and why? What are the big ideas?
Comprehension: Read Luke 4:18-19. How did Jesus fulfill these words in verses 31-37? Explain your answer.
Interpretation: Read Luke 4:43. If Jesus’ purpose was to preach the good news of the Kingdom of God, how does teaching in the synagogue and casting out a demon accomplish His purpose? Explain your answer.
Comprehension: Read Colossians 1:15-16, Colossians 2:9-10 and Hebrews 1:2-3. What authority does Jesus have? Explain your answer.
Interpretation: Read Psalm 2. Why is it important to recognize that Jesus is King?
Application: Read James 4:7-10. What are three ways we need to submit to Jesus? Which one stands out most to you? Why?
Application: What steps will you take to submit to Jesus in Lifestyle, Mind, and Action? Be specific.
- Sermon Application (for breakouts):
Conviction: How has this Scripture (or this Sermon) challenged you personally? Be specific.
Character: What about you needs to change in light of what you’ve learned? Be honest and specific.
Competence: What is your plan for change? Share with the group what you are going to do, how you are going to do it, and when you are going to do it. Leaders – Write everyone’s plan down in a journal and come back to it next week during breakouts.
Point: We are already changing the world: Are you doing it on purpose?
Scripture: Luke 4:14-30
Principles for studying a passage of Scripture:
Comprehension: Asks - What does the passage say? Interpretation: Asks - What does the passage mean? Application: Asks - How should this passage change me?
Questions:
- Read Luke 4:14-30 together as a group.
Interpretation: In 2-3 sentences, summarize the main ideas of this passage in your own words. What is God saying in this text and why?
Comprehension: Read verses 18-19. In these verses, there are five specific things that Jesus came to accomplish. What are those?
Comprehension: Read Luke 4:43. What is Jesus’ stated purpose for coming to earth as fully God and fully man?
Interpretation: How do the five things listed in verses 18 and 19 help accomplish Jesus’ stated purpose in verse 43? Explain your answer.
Application: How can you personally join in with Jesus’ work? What is one step you can take this week?
Interpretation: Practically speaking, who are the poor? Who are the captives? Who are the blind? Who are the oppressed? Explain your answer.
Application: Before Jesus, were you poor? Blind? Captive? Oppressed? What did that look like? How did Jesus change you? Be honest and specific.
Point: The Spirit of God and the word of God are sufficient for the people of God to accomplish the mission of God.
Scripture: Luke 4:1-13
Principles for studying a passage of Scripture:
Comprehension: What does the passage say? What are the details? Interpretation: What does the passage mean? Why did the events happen the way they happened? Application: How should this passage change me?
Questions:
- Read Luke 4:1-13 together as a group.
Interpretation: In 2-3 sentences, summarize the main ideas of this passage in your own words. What is God saying in this text and why?
Comprehension: What are the three ways the devil tempted Jesus? Explain your answer.
Comprehension: Read 1 John 2:16 and Genesis 3:6. Temptation all boils down to three specific things: What are those? Explain your answer.
Interpretation: Read 1 Corinthians 10:13 and Hebrews 4:14-16. Do you believe that Jesus was tempted in every way in which we are tempted? Explain why or why not.
Comprehension: Read Luke 4:1-13 again. How did Jesus combat the temptation from the devil? Give examples from the text.
Application: How can you begin to identify temptation? What is the best way to combat temptation when it comes your way? Explain.
Application: What is one thing you will do this week to ground yourself in the Word of God? Make a plan and share it with the group.
- Sermon Application (for breakouts):
Conviction: How has this Scripture (or this Sermon) challenged you personally? Be specific.
Character: What about you needs to change in light of what you’ve learned? Be honest and specific.
Competence: What is your plan for change? Share with the group what you are going to do, how you are going to do it, and when you are going to do it. Leaders – Write everyone’s plan down in a journal and come back to it next week during breakouts.
Point: Baptism in Jesus Christ is the sign of a new beginning for everyone who has made Him Lord of their life.
Scripture: Luke 3:21-38
Questions:
Comprehension: What does the passage say? What are the facts? What does it tell us about God? Interpretation: What does the passage mean? Why did the events happen the way they happened? Application: How can I apply what I’ve learned to my life? What about me needs to become more like God?
- Vs. 23-38 - Jesus is Greater
Comprehension: Why is the genealogy of Jesus so important? Explain.
Interpretation: How is Jesus greater than Adam? Noah? Abraham? Boaz? David? Explain.
Application: How does knowing Jesus is greater than those who came before and after Him give you hope in God? Explain your answer.
- Vs. 21-22 - Baptism is a New Beginning
Comprehension: Was Jesus’ baptism the beginning or the end of His public ministry? Why did Jesus need to be baptized? What does Jesus’ baptism reveal about who He is? Explain your answer.
Interpretation: Why is baptism important? What does it mean? Does baptism save you? Explain your answer.
Application: Have you been baptized? If not, what are you waiting for? If so, what have you been doing to advance God’s kingdom since then?
- Sermon Application (for breakouts):
Conviction: How has this Scripture (or this Sermon) challenged you personally? Be specific.
Character: What about you needs to change in light of what you’ve learned? Be honest and specific.
Competence: What is your plan for change? Share with the group what you are going to do, how you are going to do it, and when you are going to do it. Leaders – Write everyone’s plan down in a journal and come back to it next week during breakouts.
Point: Embracing the kingdom means preparing for the King, removing old kings, and pursuing a life of repentance.
Scripture: Luke 3:1-20
Questions:
Comprehension: What does the passage say? What are the facts? What does it tell us about God? Interpretation: What does the passage mean? Why did the events happen the way they happened? Application: How can I apply what I’ve learned to my life? What about me needs to become more like God?
- Vs. 1-6. Preparing for the King
Comprehension: How did John prepare the way for Jesus? Explain.
Interpretation: Why do you think God chose John for this job? Explain.
Application: How can you prepare the way for Jesus to be King of your life? Be specific.
- Vs. 7-9. Removing Old Kings
Comprehension: How did John expose the peoples idolatry (their functional “kings” and “kingdoms”) in these verses?
Interpretation: Why do you think John called the people a “brood of vipers”? What were they doing wrong? Explain.
Application: What are some functional “kings” or “kingdoms” in your own life? Identify and confess those.
- Vs. 10-17. Pursuing a Life of Repentance
Comprehension: John gives specific actions for the people to take in their pursuit of repentance. What are those?
Interpretation: Why do you think those actions are important when it comes to repentance? Explain.
Application: What specific steps you can take, personally, to pursue repentance and remove those old “kings” and “kingdoms”? Be honest and specific.
- Sermon Application (for breakouts):
Conviction: How has this Scripture (or this Sermon) challenged you personally? Be specific.
Character: What about you needs to change in light of what you’ve learned? Be honest and specific.
Competence: What is your plan for change? Share with the group what you are going to do, how you are going to do it, and when you are going to do it. Leaders – Write everyone’s plan down in a journal and come back to it next week during breakouts.
A life without questions is a life that will lack understanding. We must be the people of God who are not afraid to ask God what it means to be His people.
Point: Jesus in your life puts a target on your life.
Scripture: Luke 2:21-40
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Read Luke 2:21-40 together as a group.
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Why do you think that declaring Jesus as Lord puts a target on your back? Explain.
Further Discussion: What are some forms of opposition we face as Christians in our own community? Give examples.
Consider: Are you willing to follow Christ no matter the cost? Why or why not? Be honest.
- Read verse 34-35 again. Why is it important that Jesus reveals the thoughts in our hearts? Explain.
Further Discussion: Our greatest enemy is the sin that exists in our hearts. How does God’s Word reveal your sinful thoughts and desires?
Consider: Where do your thoughts and desires tend to oppose God’s Word? Be honest and specific.
- Sermon Application:
Conviction: How has this Scripture (or this Sermon) challenged you personally? Be specific.
Character: What about you needs to change in light of what you’ve learned? Be honest and specific.
Competence: What is your plan for change? Share with the group what you are going to do, how you are going to do it, and when you are going to do it. Leaders – Write everyone’s plan down in a journal and come back to it next week during breakouts.
Point: Faith in Christ was never meant to be a finish line or main accomplishment in life, instead it is the starting line where real life, real purpose, real identity begins.
Point: God uses common people to do the uncommon.
Scripture: Luke 1:26-2:21
Questions:
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Read Luke 1:26-2:21 together as a group.
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Why do you think God uses common people (like Mary, Elizabeth, and the shepherds) to accomplish His purposes? Explain.
Further Discussion: Why are common people better positioned to receive the abundant life that God promises us? Explain.
Consider: Are your hands open to being used by God? Or are they too full of other things? What do you need to give up? Be honest and specific.
- Read Luke 1:46-55 again. Why is it so important to magnify the Lord when faced with uncertainty? Explain.
Further Discussion: What are some things people tend to magnify above the Lord? Give examples.
Consider: How do you tend to handle uncertainty? What gets magnified most often, even above the Lord? Be honest and specific.
- Sermon Application:
Conviction: How has this Scripture (or this Sermon) challenged you personally? Be specific.
Character: What about you needs to change in light of what you’ve learned? Be honest and specific.
Competence: What is your plan for change? Share with the group what you are going to do, how you are going to do it, and when you are going to do it. Leaders – Write everyone’s plan down in a journal and come back to it next week during breakouts.
Point: Jesus told His church to go make disciples. In order to be obediently effective in this we must agree that a discipler to Jesus Christ must actively be a disciple of Jesus who is consistently being discipled in Jesus Christ.
Scripture: Matthew 28:18-20; Luke 1:1-4
Questions:
- Read Matthew 29:18-20. Are you being discipled right now? Explain.
Further Discussion: Who is discipling you and what does that look like?
Consider: If you aren’t being discipled, who do you know who could disciple you?
- Have you ever discipled anyone? If so, what did that look like? Explain.
Further Discussion: What are some hesitations you have when it comes to discipleship?
Consider: If you aren’t discipling anyone, who do you know who you could disciple?
- Why is discipleship so important? Explain.
Further Discussion: What is at stake if every person in the church doesn’t engage in discipleship - being discipled and making disciples?
Consider: What is at stake for you personally if you don’t engage in discipleship? Explain.
- Sermon Application:
Conviction: How did the sermon (or this Scripture) challenge you personally? Be specific.
Character: What about you needs to change in light of what you’ve learned? Be honest and specific.
Competence: What is your plan for being discipled and making disciples? Share with the group what you are going to do, how you are going to do it, and when you are going to do it. Leaders – Write everyone’s plan down in a journal and come back to it next week during breakouts.
Point: If you know what you will die for then you will know what you need to stand and fight for.
Scripture: Ephesians 6:13-23
Questions:
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How is each piece of the armor found in Jesus Christ? Explain.
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How does the armor of God allow you to stand firm? Explain.
Further Discussion: Read verses 10 and 13. How does the strength of God and the armor of God work together?
Consider: Where do you struggle to stand firm? What piece of armor can help you with that? Explain how.
- Read verses 18-20. How does prayer put you in the fight? Give examples.
Further Discussion: Why is prayer essential to a relationship with Jesus Christ? Explain.
Consider: Have you ever struggled with prayer? Why or why not? What are some ways we can see prayer working? Give examples.
- Sermon Application:
Conviction: How did the sermon (or this Scripture) challenge you personally? Be specific.
Character: What about you needs to change in light of what you’ve learned? Be honest and specific.
Competence: What is your plan for putting on the armor of God? Share with the group what you are going to do, how you are going to do it, and when you are going to do it. Leaders – Write everyone’s plan down in a journal and come back to it next week during breakouts.
Point: Engaging in spiritual warfare means recognizing the war, knowing our enemy, and remembering that victory is found in the strength of our God.
Scripture: Ephesians 6:10-12
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Do you believe that there is a spiritual war taking place all around us? Why or why not?
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What are some ways that the devil schemes against us? Explain.
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How do we tap into “the strength of our God and the power of His might”? Explain.
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Sermon Application:
Conviction: How did the sermon (or this Scripture) challenge you personally? Be specific.
Character: What about you needs to change in light of what you’ve learned? Be honest and specific.
Competence: What is your plan for engaging in the spiritual war all around us? Share with the group what you are going to do, how you are going to do it, and when you are going to do it. Leaders – Write everyone’s plan down in a journal and come back to it next week during breakouts.
Point: Creating a Jesus culture that doesn’t demand a Jesus response is exactly how Jesus began ganging the world one person at a time.
Scripture: Ephesians 6:1-4
Questions:
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What do you think it means to obey your parents “in the Lord”? Explain your answer.
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What is the difference between “obeying your parents in the lord” and “honoring your father and mother”? Explain.
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How can parents bring their children up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord? Give some examples.
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Sermon Application:
Conviction: How did the sermon (or this Scripture) challenge you personally? Be specific.
Character: What about you needs to change in light of what you’ve learned? Be honest and specific.
Competence: What is your plan for becoming a better parent and/or child? Share with the group what you are going to do, how you are going to do it, and when you are going to do it. Leaders – Write everyone’s plan down in a journal and come back to it next week during breakouts.
Point: Creating a Jesus culture that doesn’t demand a Jesus response is exactly how Jesus began ganging the world one person at a time.
Scripture: Jeremiah 29:4-14
Questions: There are 2 goals to these questions: Biblical Understanding and Heart Change. We want to understand God’s Word at an intellectual level, but we don’t want to just hold it at arms length as a concept. We also want it to change our lives and transform our hearts. Let these questions read you, challenge you, and convict you so that you can have the freedom to be the man or woman God has called you to be.
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Read verse 4. Why is it important to recognize that God has placed you in your town and your neighborhood for a unique purpose?
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Read verses 5-6. Why do you think God wants His people to multiply in the city they are in and not decrease? Explain.
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Read verse 7. What do you think God means when He says “In [the city’s] welfare you will find your welfare”? Explain your answer.
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Sermon Application:
Conviction: How did the sermon (or this Scripture) challenge you personally? Be specific.
Character: What about you needs to change in light of what you’ve learned? Be honest and specific.
Competence: How will you partner with theCHURCH or the RE:center in order to seek the welfare of our city? What are you going to do? How are you going to do it? When are you going to do it? Write it down in a journal and share it with the group.
Point: Your marriage might be the most vital gospel you ever preach.
Scripture: Ephesians 5:22-33
Questions:
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Read verses 22-24. Why does this command for wives seem to go against our culture today?
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Read verses 25-32. How is marriage a picture of the gospel? Explain.
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Read verses 25 and 33. How can a husband love his wife the way that Christ loved the church? Explain your answer.
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Sermon Application:
Conviction: How does Ephesians 5:22-33 challenge you personally? Be specific.
Character: What about your role as a husband or wife needs to change? Be honest and specific.
Competence: What is your plan for change? What are you going to do, how are you going to do it, and when are you going to do it? Write it down in a journal and share it with the group.
Point: Clarity can only be found in knowing and understanding God’s Will and being filled with the Holy Spirit.
Scripture: Ephesians 5:15-21
Questions:
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Read verses 15-16. Why is there such a desperate need for clarity in our world today? Explain.
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Read verses 17-18. According to what we’ve learned so far in Ephesians, what is “the will of the Lord”? Explain.
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Read verses 19-21. What are the three marks of a Spirit-filled life here in these verses?
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Sermon Application:
Conviction: How does Ephesians 5:15-21 challenge you personally? Be specific.
Character: What about your character needs to change? Be honest and specific.
Competence: What is your plan for change? What are you going to do, how are you going to do it, and when are you going to do it? Write it down in a journal and share it with the group.
Point: Progress over sexual sin will not be made by merely saying “no” to it but also by saying “yes” to something and even Someone much better.
Scripture: Ephesians 5:1-5
Questions:
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Read verses 1-2. What do you think it means to be an imitator of God? Explain.
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Read verse 3. What are some common manifestations of sexual immorality, covetousness, or impurity?
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Read verse 4. Why do you think talking and joking about sexual stuff is such a problem? Explain.
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Read verse 5. What is your plan for saying no to sexual immorality and pursuing inheritance in the kingdom of Christ instead?
Point: Anger may win the moment but it cannot win the day.
Scripture: Ephesians 4:25-32
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Read verses 25-27. What do you think it means to “be angry” but without sin?
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How does letting “the sun go down on your anger” give an opportunity to the devil? Explain.
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Read verses 28-29. How would you define “corrupting talk”? Give examples.
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Read verses 30-32. What is your plan for putting off bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, slander and malice?
Point: As much as we claim control over our lives, it’s very easy to allow ourselves to be controlled by life… A life in Christ will not be controlled by anything outside of Christ.
Scripture: Ephesians 4:17-24
Questions:
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Read verses 17-19. What is the progression of slavery to sin in these verses?
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Read verses 20-24. What is the progression of freedom in these verses?
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Read verses 17-24 again. Be honest, which progression controls your life? The progression of slavery or the progression of freedom?
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Read verse 23 one more time. What does it mean to be renewed in the spirit of your mind? Explain your answer.
Point: True leadership is servant leadership - from the ground up. You can’t lift people up if you’re always above them, and if you find yourself above the people you’re “leading” you’re not leading them… you’re using them.
Scripture: Ephesians 4:11-16
Questions:
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Read verses 11-12. Have you ever considered that it is your job, not just the pastor’s job, to do the work of ministry? Explain.
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Read verses 13-14. What should a mature Christian look like? Explain your answer.
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Read verses 15-16. What does it mean to “speak the truth in love”? Explain your answer.
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APPLICATION: What is your plan for (1) being discipled, (2) walking with other disciples, and (3) making disciples?
Point: The church is called to be a community of unity.
Scripture: Ephesians 4:1-10
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Read verses 1-3. Does your life give evidence that your identity is in Christ alone? Why or why not?
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Read verses 4-6. What do you think it means for you to be a part of the body of Christ - the church? Explain.
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Read verses 7-10. What gifts, skills, and passions has God given you? Name a few.
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APPLICATION: What can you do this week to be a part of the Community of God? Give us a plan for how you will serve.
Point: The life of a minister is a Jesus-Centered life that pursues deep relationships, lives with purpose and meaning, and is committed to the service of others.
Scripture: Ephesians 3:1-13
Questions:
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Read Ephesians 3:1-7. Have you ever considered yourself as a “minister” of the gospel? Why or why not?
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Read verses 7-8. How can you be intentional and purposeful about sharing the gospel news in your daily conversations with friends, co-workers, and family?
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Read verses 8-9. How can you purposefully live in a way that shines the spotlight on Jesus? Explain.
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Read verses 10-13. According to verse 10, why is it important to be involved in and a part of the church? Explain.
Point: The life of a minister is a Jesus centered life that pursues deep relationships, lives with purpose and meaning, and is committed to the service of others.
Point: Full humanity can only be experienced through the church of Jesus Christ.
Scripture: Ephesians 2:11-22
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Read verses 11-12. How does being separated from God, separated from God’s people, and separated from hope keep us from being fully human? Explain.
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Read verses 13-18. How does the gospel reconcile us back to our true humanity? Explain.
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Read verses 19-22. How does being a part of the church give us a new identity (as citizens), a new belonging (as a family), and a new purpose (as the dwelling place of God)? Explain.
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Will you commit to standing in grace right here in this Community Group? How can we make it easier for you to be open and honest about your sin and struggles?
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Will you commit to serving in theCHURCH? If you aren’t already, how will you serve regularly in theCHURCH in order to help build God’s Kingdom?
Point: The most powerful thing we can do in another person’s life is pray in the power that God has invited us to pray in.
Scripture: Ephesians 1:15-23
Questions:
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Do you pray often for the church? Why or why not?
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What can we learn from Paul’s prayer for the church in this text?
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Read verses 17 and 18 again. What kinds of things should we be praying into for the church? Explain.
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Will you commit to praying for the church this week? What is your plan to make that happen?
Point: Knowing and trusting the work that God has already done for you will lead you to, establish you in, and empower you for a Christ-centered life.
Scripture: Ephesians 1:1-14
Questions:
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Read Ephesians 1:1-6. Do you believe that God has chosen you for a new life - a life of holiness and commitment to Him? Why or why not?
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Read verses 7-12 again. What do you think it means to be “in Christ”?
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Read verses 13 and 14. What does it mean to be “sealed with the Holy Spirit”?
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Do you believe what Paul says in this passage (vs. 1-14)? If so, what needs to change in your life this week because of this passage?
Point: Though there will always be more to do, only true biblical rest will assure you of what needs to be done.
Scripture: Joshua 24:1-15
Questions:
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What do you think the difference is between leisurely rest and Jesus-centered rest? Is there a difference? Explain.
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Read Joshua 24:1-13. Why do you think it is necessary to reflect on what God has already done?
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Read Joshua 24:14. How does connecting with God through “Jesus-centered rest” actually get things done?
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Read Joshua 24:15. How does taking time to reflect on what God has done and connect with Him daily, lead to you projecting a commitment to God in your everyday life?
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Will you commit to a Christ-centered tomorrow? What does that look like? What needs to change? Give us a plan.
Point: God promises to answer our prayers.
Scripture: 1 John 5:13-15
Questions:
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Read 1 John 5:13-15. What do you think it looks like to have confidence in prayer?
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Do you believe that God hears and listens to your prayers? Why or why not?
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How do you know if you are praying according to God’s will?
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What needs to change in your prayer life in order for you to come to Him in honest, bold, confidence? Explain.
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What is your plan for making time to pray this week? How can we help?
Point: A Life Centered on Jesus Christ is a life that is committed to God’s Word.
Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Hebrews 4:12-13
Questions:
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Read 2 Timothy 3:16-17. Do you believe that the Bible is God’s Word? Why or why not?
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Do you trust that the Bible is for you and not against you? Why or why not?
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Read Hebrews 4:12-13. How is the Bible living and active? Explain.
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What steps will you take to get into God’s Word this week? Give us a plan.
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If your centeredness in Christ was measured by your quality time in God’s Word, what would be the result?
Point: Creating opportunities to hear from God is not something you try, it is something you determine to do on purpose.
Scripture: Psalm 23
Questions:
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Read Psalm 23:1-2. What does it take to have this type of satisfaction in God? Explain.
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Read verses 3-4. What does it look like to let God lead while being quiet and still before Him? Explain.
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Read verses 5-6. In what ways does creating a listening space lead to restoration of our souls? Explain.
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How will you cultivate a listening space this week? Give us your plan.
Point: The day you stop listening is the day you stop learning, the day you stop learning is the day you stop leading, the day you stop leading is the day you stop caring.
Scripture: Acts 18:24-28
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Read Acts 18:24-25. What was it about Apollos that made him stand out? How can you learn from Apollos?
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Read verses 25-26. Apollos needed strong Christians like Pricilla and Aquila to teach him how to better understand God’s Word. Who do you know who can help you understand God’s Word better?
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Read verses 27-28. Apollos took what he had learned and used it to teach others also. This is great leadership. How can you take what you are learning and use it to make disciples?
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How can we help you to stay centered on Christ this week?
Point: “If my private world is in order, it will be because I have determined that everyday will be a day of growth in knowledge and wisdom.” - Gordon Macdonald
Scripture: Acts 17:10-12, 22-34; Acts 18:8-11
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Read Acts 17:10-12. What did it look like for the Jews in Berea to think critically? How can we model the same type of critical thinking? Explain.
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Read Acts 17:22-34. God’s Word is relevant for every aspect of life. How can creative thinking help you apply God’s Word in every circumstance?
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Read Acts 18:5-11. How should the Word of God lead you to think compassionately about others? Explain.
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How can we help you to stay centered on Christ this week?
Point: “If your inner world (inside Jesus life) is in order it will be because you have made a Daily Determination to see time as God’s gift and worthy of careful investment.” - Gordon MacDonald (Parenthesis Ernies)
Scripture: Luke 10:38-42; Ephesians 5:15-17
Questions:
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Read Luke 10:38-40. Can you relate to Martha? What are some things that demand most of your time? What are some important things that get neglected?
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Read verses 41-42. What should be the top 5 priorities in your time management? Name them. Put them in Order: Put your top five in order from 1-5. How much time is spent on each of these in a 24 hour period?
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Read Ephesians 5:15-17. We all do it. What is the one thing you waste your time on? What is the reason you spend so much time there?
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Make a plan. When will you schedule time with God? How can this group hold you accountable to that schedule?
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How can we help you to stay centered on Christ this week?
Point: A life lived from Jesus will change the world for Jesus.
Scripture: Romans 8:5-11
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Read verse 5. What are some ways that you can set your mind on the things of the Spirit?
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Read verses 6-8. Why is the mind that is set on worldly things hostile to God? Explain.
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Read verses 9-11. How should your thinking change because of the Spirit of Christ inside of you?
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What are you going to do this week to set your mind on the Spirit? Give us a plan for how you will accomplish this.
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How can we help you to stay centered on Christ this week?
Point: When I am centered in the Gospel of Jesus Christ I live from the inside out for His glory regardless of the circumstances.
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 4:7-18
Questions:
- Read verses 7-12. How does believing and trusting in the gospel of Jesus Christ make our lives look different?
- Read verses 13-15. How should having the gospel centered in our hearts lead us to share the gospel with others?
- Read verses 16-18. How can we center and “renew” ourselves in the gospel “day by day”? What does that look like for you?
- How does the gospel’s promise of eternity give you perspective on your present circumstances?
- How can we help you to stay centered on Christ this week?
Point: If the central point, or the most powerful influence of your life is the redemption of Jesus Christ, then every aspect of your life will bear fruit for Him and will be honored because of Him.
Scripture: Colossians 3:1-17
- What do you think it means that “Christ…is your life”? Explain.
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What are some things that tend to motivate and lead you other than Christ? Explain.
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Where or what do you tend to turn to for relief or comfort when things go bad? Explain.
- Why is it important for Jesus to be the center of your life and nothing else? Explain.
- How can we help you to stay centered on Christ this week?
Point: Bring The Mountain Top With You
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Read verses 2-6. Have you ever had an unforgettable “mountain-top” faith experience? Tell us about that experience. What was so impactful about that experience? How did it change your life?
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Why do you think we always try to get back to (or stay in) those types of experiences, rather than bringing those experiences with us into everyday life? Comfort: Mountain-top experiences are comfortable. Nobody likes to be uncomfortable. If we could, we would just stay comfortable our entire lives - but God never calls us to comfort. Instead He expects us to take those experiences with us into the valleys of life, to reflect on them while we pursue His mission and purpose everyday.
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Read verses 14-27. Why do you think it’s so hard to believe that Jesus can and will answer prayer in our favor? Answers: We know that God always answers prayer, but His answer is not always in our favor. Sometimes His answer is “No”. Hope: God calls us to ask hopefully, like a child, undeterred by the answer we get. A child knows what he wants and will ask persistently, hopefully - regardless of the answer. Have we lost our childlike hopefulness in prayer?
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Read verses 28-29. Why is prayer oftentimes considered a last resort rather than our first and best option? Explain. False Sense of Security: Too often we have a false sense of security. We think we are in control and can take matters into our own hands. We don’t view ourselves as truly helpless, unable to do anything apart from Christ.
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Where is God challenging you to grow in prayer? How can we help you take that step?
Point: Your Life reveals your worship - who or what are you worshipping?
Scripture: John 4:7-26
Questions:
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Read verses 7-15. What do you think Jesus is talking about when He speaks of “living water”?
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Read verses 16-18. Why do you think Jesus asks the women to bring Him her husband?
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What do you need to bring to Jesus in order to truly worship Him alone?
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Read verses 19-26. What does it mean to worship God in spirit and in truth? Explain.
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How should a life of worship Monday - Saturday cause you to pour out praise and worship on Sunday? Explain what that looks like practically.
Point: Discipleship should be able to honestly say, walk with me as I walk with Him, Imitate me as I imitate Him and so be an imitator of Him and not me…
Scripture: Matthew 28:18-20; John 15:16-17
Questions: 1. Read John 15:16-17. What do you think Jesus means by, “go and bear fruit”?
- What would it look like for the disciples you invest in to “abide” in Christ? Explain.
- How and where are you creating an environment for discipleship conversations to happen? What does that look like?
- What should happen when you get up from the table?
Point: Cross Generational Discipleship Happens When It’s Anchored In Community.
Scripture: Matthew 9:10-13; Matthew 26:20,26-29; Psalm 23
Questions:
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Have two group members read Matthew 9:10-13 and Matthew 26:20,26-29. Why do you think God chooses to form His people around tables in Community?
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What would it look like for the church to invite the next generation to the table? What do you think that means to “invite them to the table”?
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Read Psalm 23. Would you say that community is an act of war? Why or why not?
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What is at stake if we don’t make community a priority?
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Who is one person, couple, or family you know that you could intentionally invest in? How can we help you take that step?
Point: Encouraging and preparing one another for the work of being a disciple even at work.
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 4:1-7
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Read verse 1 again. Why does it seem that the workplace is one of the hardest places to live out our faith?
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Read verses 2-4. What does it look like for you to live out your faith (identity and purpose) in the workplace, practically? Give examples.
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How old does someone need to be before you can start talking to them about a career?
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Read verses 5-7. How can we infuse the purposes of God into those career conversations? Explain.
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What would it look like for you to begin to encourage the next generation to live out their faith in their chosen (or desired) career?
Point: The best way to share faith is by making relationships meaningful.
Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 2:7-12
Questions:
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How can you know if a relationship is meaningful or not? Explain.
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Why do you think it’s so difficult to build lasting, meaningful relationships?
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Read 1 Thessalonians 2:7-12 again. What makes a meaningful relationship happen?
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What would it look like for you to build meaningful relationships across generational lines?
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What is one thing you can do to invest in Cross-Generational relationships? How can we help you take that step?
Point: Christ followers who continue to follow Christ usually have people in their lives to help them follow Christ
Life inside: Can’t give what you don’t have.
Point: Finding Jesus easy to identify with is much different than finding your identity in Jesus.
Scripture: Matthew 22:37-40
Questions:
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How is intimacy pursued in any relationship? Explain.
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What does it look like for someone to have an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ?
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What is wrong with identifying WITH Jesus rather than finding your identity IN Jesus?
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What are some practical steps you can take to know Jesus more intimately?
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How can we help you take that step?
Point: We must live the life we hope to give. We can’t expect the church to carry on if we refuse to pass it on.
Scripture: Psalm 145:1-13
Questions:
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Read verses 1-3. Why do you think that personal worship is a prerequisite for making disciples in every generation?
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Read verses 4-9. How can we (the church) help each generation follow Jesus in a way that connects with the world they live in?
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Read verses 10-13. How does worship + discipleship = a changed world? Explain.
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What would it look like for you to be Jesus to the next generation?
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Where is God challenging you to take the next step in generational discipleship? How can we help you take that step?
Point: Jesus sets us apart in this life to live a life that looks like His life, a different life that makes a difference in life.
Scripture: Luke 4:17-21; John 20:21-22; Acts 1:8
Questions:
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What is the purpose of pursuing holiness? What do you think we have been “set apart” for?
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Read John 20:21-22. What do you think it means to be “sent” as Jesus was sent?
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What are some practical ways you can show Jesus to the people in your life (Neighborhood, work, where you shop, eat, play, etc.)?
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What do you need to change in your life in order for you to represent Jesus to the world around you? How can we help you?
Point: The pursuit of holiness begins with the grace of God, is lived by the Spirit, and results in a life that is changed
Scripture: 1 Peter 1:13-16; Romans 8:5-6,9-11; Galatians 5:15-25
Questions:
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Read 1 Peter 1:13-16. Why do you think that living a holy life by the power and presence of the Holy Spirit requires us to stand in God’s grace first?
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Read Romans 8:5-6.9-11. What do you think it means to “Set your mind on the things of the Spirit”?
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Read Galatians 5:16-25. How does living by the Spirit change who we are? Explain.
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What is God teaching you through this sermon? Where is He convicting you to change
Point: A life changed by Jesus Christ on the inside that makes a difference in life on the outside.
Scripture: Acts 2:37-39; Matthew 5:14-16; Leviticus 20:22-26
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What is holiness? How would you define it?
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What does it look like to be holy rather than just do holy things?
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What is repentance? How is repentance the beginning of holiness?
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What needs to change in your life so that you can begin to lead the way forward as the church?
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What is God teaching you through this sermon? Where is He convicting you to change?
Point: When pleasure is your king, Christianity is nothing more than a feeling.
Scripture: James 4:1-10; Ecclesiastes 2:1-11
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In your life, what pleasures do you turn to for comfort?
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Read James 4:1-5. What happens when something or someone gets in the way of your pleasure?
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Read James 4:5-10. How can you personally replace worship of pleasure with the worship of Christ?
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How can we rightly balance enjoying the pleasures God gives us with worshipping Christ?
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What is God teaching you through this sermon? Where is He convicting you to change?
Point: When power is your king, Christianity is only a tool to be leveraged.
Scripture: Matthew 4:1-11; 1 John 2:15-17
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What are some subtle ways people try to exercise their “power” over others?
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How has the desire for power become a king (Idol) in your life? Explain. (Get personal with this question. Don’t just talk about what it might look like in someone else’s life. What does this look like for you personally?)
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How does surrendering to Jesus Christ kill the idol of power? What does that look like practically?
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Read Acts 1:6-8. How can we use our God given power to honor God?
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What is God teaching you through this sermon? Where is He convicting you to change?
Point: Point: When pride is your king, at its best, Christianity is only an accessory.
Scripture: 1 John 2:15-17
Questions:
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What is pride? How would you define it?
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Why do you think pride is at the center of idolatry? Explain.
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Why is it so hard to put God above ourselves? Explain.
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In what ways do you struggle with pride? How can you put Christ first instead?
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What is God teaching you through this sermon? Where is He convicting you to change?
Point: If the whole gospel isn’t transforming your life, you are asleep. It’s time to wake up!
Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, 5:6-11; Genesis 1; Matthew 21
Questions:
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Why do you think the return of Christ is so important to the gospel? Explain.
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In what ways does the promise of eternity offer us hope and purpose? How does it move us to action?
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In what ways are we guilty of sleeping and not staying awake and on guard?
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Why is it important for us to put our faith into action? Explain.
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What is God teaching you through this sermon? Where is He convicting you to change?
Point: We can’t grasp how good the good news is until we know how bad we need it.
Scripture: Luke 24:1-9
Questions:
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Why do you think Jesus had to die for our salvation? Explain.
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Why do you think it can be hard to trust that Jesus’ sacrifice is enough?
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How can you be assured that what you believe about Jesus is true?
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What are some of YOUR apprehensions about sharing the gospel with others?
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What is God teaching you through this sermon? Where is He convicting you to change?
Point: We can’t grasp how good the good news is until we know how bad we need it.
Scripture: Genesis 3
Questions:
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What do you think the intent was behind Eve’s sin? What did she want that she didn’t have?
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Read verses 14-24 again. What were the consequences of Adam and Eve’s rebellion against God?
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What is the gospel promise God makes in verse 15? Explain.
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Why do you think the story of the fall of mankind is so important to the gospel? Explain.
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What is God teaching you through this sermon? Where is He convicting you to change?
Point: Inspiration that doesn’t lead to transformation just becomes more information. Jesus taught for a response… He taught for life change… He didn’t come to just transfer information… but to challenge transformation…
Scripture: Acts 17:1-9; Matthew 13:1-9,18-23
Questions: 1. Read Acts 17:1-9. How does the gospel “turn the world upside down”? 2. Are you trying to turn the world rightside up while working upside down? What do you think needs to change? 3. Read Matthew 13:18-23. What type of soil best describes your walk with Jesus? (Be honest!) 4. How are you currently pursuing the mission to create a Jesus culture right here in the White Mountains? 5. What is God teaching you through this sermon? Where is He convicting you to change?
Point: Stay humble. Stay engaged. Stay close.
Scripture: 1 Peter 5-11
Questions:
- Why do you think humility within the church is so important? Explain.
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How do we humble ourselves? What do you think that looks like practically?
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Read verses 8 and 9 again. What does it look like for us to engage in “spiritual warfare”? Explain your answer.
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How can we know that God is restoring, confirming, strengthening, and establishing us?
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What is God teaching you through this sermon? Where is He convicting you to change?
Point: Inspiration that that does not lead the way forward will soon become wasted information.
Scripture: 1 Peter 5:12-14
Questions:
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How would you describe a faithful brother or sister in Christ? What would it take for you to own this position?
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What is the “true grace of God” Peter is referring to?
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What does it look like to “Stand Firm”?
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How can we take what we’ve learned and allow it to prepare us to move into the next season with a purpose?
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What is God teaching you through this sermon? Where is He convicting you to change?
Point: When you have the same expectations from leadership that God has, know that those same expectations will be expected from you.
Scripture: 1 Peter 5:1-5
Questions:
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What should a church look for in a pastor/elder?
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What do you think it means to “shepherd the flock of God”. Explain.
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How is Jesus an example for pastors?
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What can the whole church “aim to be the same” from this passage?
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What is God teaching you through this sermon? Where is He convicting you to change?
Point: God’s gift of Jesus is the only way to experience perfect peace in chaos.
Scripture: Luke 2:1-14
Questions:
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Why do you think God chose such a humble entrance?
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Why do you think God chose to announce Jesus’ birth to shepherds?
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What does it mean to call Jesus “Savior”?
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How does the birth of Christ give YOU peace even in the midst of a chaotic world?
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What is God teaching you through this sermon? Where is He convicting you to change?
Point: You can’t expect to bear the name of Christ and not expect to bear any of the sufferings of Christ.
Scripture: 1 Peter 4:12-19
Questions:
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Why do you think God allows us to suffer as Christians?
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What do you think it means to “share in Christ’s suffering? What are some examples of this?
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What do you think it means that “judgement begins at the house of God”? What is this judgement referring to?
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What are some practical ways we can “entrust our souls” to God daily?
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What is God teaching you through this sermon? Where is He convicting you to change?
Main Point: Are you living right now like today really matters?
Scripture: 1 Peter 4:7-11
Questions:
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Why do you think being “self-controlled and sober-minded” is an important prerequisite for prayer?
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As Christians, how should we “love one another earnestly”? Explain.
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How does love for one another “cover a multitude of sins”?
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How can you personally be a better steward of the gifts God has given you? How can we keep you accountable in this?
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What is God teaching you through this sermon? Where is He convicting you to change?
Main Point: In the middle of our suffering, we need to know that there is a much bigger picture going on before, during, and after our suffering.
Scripture: 1 Peter 3:17-4:6
Questions:
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Read 1 Peter 3:18-4:6. What is the gospel? Explain. How has the gospel impacted your life personally?
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How is baptism and “the flood” similar? Explain. Why do you think it’s important to be baptized?
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Peter commands us to live the rest of our lives pursuing God’s will instead of human desires. What does it mean to live for God’s will?
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Peter assumes that as Christians we no longer join in on the “flood of debauchery” in 4:3-4. What are some things you need to change in your life in order to be more like Jesus?
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What is God teaching you through this sermon? Where is He convicting you to change?
Point: In the middle of our suffering, we need to know that there is a much bigger picture going on before, during, and after our suffering.
Scripture: 1 Peter 3:17-4:6
Questions:
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Read 1 Peter 3:18-4:6. What is the gospel? Explain. How has the gospel impacted your life personally?
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How is baptism and “the flood” similar? Explain. Why do you think it’s important to be baptized?
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Peter commands us to live the rest of our lives pursuing God’s will instead of human desires. What does it mean to live for God’s will?
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Peter assumes that as Christians we no longer join in on the “flood of debauchery” in 4:3-4. What are some things you need to change in your life in order to be more like Jesus?
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What is God teaching you through this sermon? Where is He convicting you to change?
Point: Jesus followers should remember that they are designed to do good, honor Christ, and share their hope.
Scripture: 1 Peter 3:13-17
Questions:
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How do you think most people respond when their desire to do good is met with anger, hatred and animosity? How do you respond? According to the text, how should we respond as Christians?
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Peter says we should be prepared to give a defense for the hope that is in us, not necessarily to defend God or His Word. What do you think it means to defend your hope in Christ?
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What is the danger when we choose not to honor Christ and defend our hope with gentleness and respect?
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How will keeping Jesus the Lord of your heart prepare you for criticism, questions, and even suffering?
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What is God teaching you through this sermon? Where is He convicting you to change?
Point: If the church would own the position Jesus gave us it would change the world.
Questions:
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Read 1 Peter 3:8-12. Why do you think that unity in the church is so important?
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How should our conduct inside the church set the tone for our conduct outside of the church?
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What are some practical ways we can “keep our tongue from evil and our lips from speaking deceit”?
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What do you think it looks like to seek and pursue peace in all of our interactions - inside and outside the church?
(Permanent Question) What is God teaching you through this sermon? Where is He convicting you to change?
Point: Let your being lead your doing.
Scripture: 1 Peter 3:7; 1 Corinthians 16:13-14
Questions:
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Read 1 Corinthians 16:13-14. In our culture today, what do you think it means to “act like a man”? What should it mean?
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How should pursuing Jesus lead a man to be the greatest servant in his household?
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What do you think it means for husbands to “live with your wives in an understanding way”?
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How can a husband’s rocky or broken relationship with his wife “hinder his prayers”?
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What is God teaching you through this sermon? Where is He convicting you to change?
Point: Identity in Christ informs your role; Your role does not form your identity.
Scripture: 1 Peter 3:1-6
Questions:
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How should a woman’s identity as a daughter of Christ lead her as she fulfills her role as a wife, daughter, mother, or single?
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Peter tells wives to not let their beauty be merely external, but rather to focus on the beauty of the heart. What do you think it looks like to “adorn the hidden person of the heart”? Explain.
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What do you think biblical submission looks like? Why do you think when people are asked to submit they either look for an exception or they rebel?
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LADIES: How can submission to Jesus and His word make it easier for women to be subject to their husband or future husband?
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MEN: How can a man make it easier for his wife to submit to God’s word in this context?
Point: Opportunities to be offended are numerous; being mindful of God in the midst of offense is a choice.
Scripture: 1 Peter 2:18-25
Questions:
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Read 1 Peter 2:18-25. What does it mean to be “subject to your masters”?
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How does honoring your supervisors at work honor God?
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What would it look like for YOU to faithfully serve and honor God in your workplace?
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How can taking offense or holding a grudge derail God’s good purpose and plan for us?
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Read verses 24-25. What offenses in your life need to be healed by the sacrifice of Jesus Christ?
Point: How can theCHURCH be influential in times that need our influence? Influence begins with the life behind it. Live influential and you will be influential.
Questions:
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What do you think it means to “Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution”?
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Peter says in verse 15 that it is “The will of God” that we submit to governing authorities. How should we respond to this command when our leaders are Godless or corrupt?
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How does your submission to the governing authorities give you influence? Explain.
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What does it mean to live as people who are free? What are some ways we can use our freedom as a cover-up for evil?
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Do you think it’s ever ok to rebel against the laws of the land? Explain your answer.
Point: God calls us "a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession", these are “titles” He has given that require action on our part. We can't merely claim the title we must own the position of knowing Him and making Him known to the world.
Point: Our lives are no less than building material for a spiritual, sacrificial house of God and in Jesus Who is the Cornerstone of the building and the Builder that started the building. Without Him there is no building, there are no people that can be called His people, no assembly that can be called His assembly, no church that can be called His church.
Scripture: 1 Peter 2:1-8
Questions: 1. Read 1 Peter 2:1-8. Peter says that those who’ve “tasted that the Lord is good” will be “like living stones…built up as a spiritual house”. Do you consider yourself as a part of the house where God dwells? How should this change the way we live?
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We usually assume worship is something that we “go to church” to do. Why is worship something we bring to the church, rather than something we go to do? Rooted in Worship: Everything we do and say in every little moment of our lives is rooted in worship.
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Peter says that we are being built up into a “holy priesthood”. What do you think it means that you and I are now priests of God?
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Jesus is the cornerstone, the foundation for all of Christianity. Why do you think it is so easy to try to “build the building” without Jesus?
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Peter says in verse 5 that we are to “offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” How are you honoring God with your life? How are you allowing Jesus to live in and through you?
Main Point: You can’t live in deeper things, if you aren’t living deeper in the foundations
Scripture: 1 Peter 2:1-3; 1 Corinthians 3:1-3
Questions:
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Read 1 Peter 2:1-3. What do you think it means to be “like newborn infants”? Explain.
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How do you know if someone has “tasted that the Lord is good”? Explain.
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What makes “pure spiritual milk” pure? How would you describe “pure spiritual milk?
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Would you say you “long for the pure spiritual milk”? Why or why not?
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What would it look like for you to put away the things in verse 1 and to pursue the Lord instead?
Point: The closer I get to Jesus the more I get to know God and the easier it is to be like Him. The best opportunity we have for getting closer is by being in and praying through His word. Scripture: 1 Peter 1:22-25 Questions: 1. Read 1 Peter 1:22-25. Do you think the bible is the centerpoint of the Christian faith? Why or why not? Explain.
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Can anyone truly follow Jesus without the word of God? Explain.
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Look at verse 22. How does the word help you love others from a pure heart?
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Read verses 23-24. How is the Word of God living and active in and through you? Explain.
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Why must the good news of the Gospel be continually preached? How can you spread the good news to the people around you this week?
Point: The life God has called us to is so much bigger than the life we lived without Him. Live the life that God desires to live from you, one that looks more and more like Jesus everyday.
Questions:
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Read 1 Peter 1:13-19. Peter assumes here that we’ve already been preparing our minds for action. Is this true for you? If so, how do you go about preparing your mind each day?
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Look at verse 14 again. What do you think Peter means when he says, “do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance”?
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Read verses 15-16. The expectation in these verses is that we would be holy in the same way that God is holy. That command seems impossible! What do you think it means to be holy, and how can we pursue holiness?
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Why do you think so many people assume that holiness is just “observing the commandments” rather than a way of life?
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Look at verses 17, 18, and 19. Does Jesus’ sacrifice make you want to honor Him with your life? If so, what are some ways you can live for Jesus this week and why?
Point: We must not forget that being like Jesus must always precede going and making disciples of Jesus.
Scripture: Mt. 28:16-20; Jn. 17:15-18
Questions: 1. Why is it that so many people who claim to be sharing Jesus Christ with the world turn out to be nothing like Him?
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Why must a true understanding of who Jesus is always precede going and making disciples of Jesus?
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Why do you think most people assume that the people around them are not looking to have a “Jesus conversation”?
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What relational areas of our lives are most ignored for gospel sharing and why do you think?
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How can you tell when The Holy Spirit is working in someone else's life? Do you normally engage or ignore it? Explain.
Point: Not all suffering is to test your faith but all suffering will put your faith to the test
Scripture: 1 Peter 1:3-4
Questions:
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Read 1 Peter 1:6-9. Why do you think it would be “necessary” for Christians to be “grieved by various trials”? Explain.
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Why is it easy to believe in the infinite power of God and at the same time feel that He is unable to meet your personal needs?
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How do trials and the testing of our faith help us to know whether or not we have true faith in God?
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Why do you think we struggle with expressing faith in God, even though we live by faith everyday?
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How is praise established in rough times? How is God honored by your trust even if things don’t work out the way you want?
Point: When the Gospel is seen and felt it is way easier to hear and believe. Scripture: 1 Peter 1:3-4; Acts 5:12-33 Questions: 1. How is it that so many who hope in heaven refuse to trust their whole life to Christ? 2. What is Faith? How do you know whether your faith is just empty words or belief that leads to action? 3. How does a lack of faith limit God’s work in and through your life? 4. Why must the Gospel of Jesus Christ be not only be heard but also seen and felt in and through your life? 5. Read Romans 6:15-23. How does your lifestyle give evidence to the fact that we have an inheritance in eternity and that Jesus is coming back for us?
Point: Who or what you worship will determine how you live. Who or what you believe Jesus to be will determine what you do with what He said.
Scripture: 1 Peter 1:1-2; Matthew 16:13-20
Questions:
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What is the most important question you have ever been asked and why?
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Read 1 Peter 1:2. How would you explain the Trinity? Why do you think we should at least have a general understanding of the relationship and work of the Father, the Son, and The Holy Spirit?
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Who do you say Jesus is? How close does your everyday life match your answer?
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Do you find yourself trying to fight off sin more than allowing the Spirit to empower you to overcome it? How can you better allow the Spirit of God to work out of your life?
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How does rightly understanding who Jesus is and owning His position in your life everyday change not only your life but impact the lives around you?
Questions:
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Read Jn. 6:44; Jn. 15:16. Oftentimes we think we’re the ones who chose to follow Jesus. Do you believe that God chose you? Why or why not.
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Read Luke 5:1-11, 27-32. God uses regular, ordinary people to accomplish His mission. Do you believe that God will use you to accomplish His purposes? Why or why not?
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How can we own the position of being chosen by God with confidence as well as humility? Explain.
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Jesus chose His disciples to take part in the greatest story of all time: Redemption in Christ. How does your life as a disciple of Jesus require you to be more than just ordinary?
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As God’s chosen disciples, how can you use your life to focus on and build up the kingdom of God rather than just on your individual, personal relationship with Jesus?
Point: The bible is full of promises that we love to express and even claim for others but somehow have a hard time believing that they are ours.
Scripture: Psalm 91
Questions:
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Read Psalm 91. Name some of God’s promises found in this passage. Explain.
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Are there any prerequisites to obtaining the promises in Psalm 91? What does it mean to dwell in the shelter of the Most High? Explain.
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What are some of the ways in which the enemy tries to discount the promises of God?
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Does claiming God’s promises mean we will never suffer as Christians? Can you think of a time where God promises adversity? Explain.
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What can you do to dwell in the presence of God this week? How can your Community Group challenge and encourage you in this?
Main Point: What if you could know the one thing on earth that literally everyone else is dying to know?
Scripture: Genesis 3:1-6; Matthew 16:21-27, 19:16-22, 28:19-20
Questions:
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Read Genesis 3:1-6. Do you trust God to define what is good and what is evil? Why or why not? Explain.
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Is it possible that we have created a cultural Jesus and a cultural Christianity?
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Would you define yourself as a true follower of Christ? Are you living with the eternal kingdom in mind or is your hope and trust in the man-made kingdoms of this world?
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How do we change our hearts to be conformed into the image and likeness of Jesus Christ?
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Read Matthew 28:19-20. The call of the kingdom, and following Jesus, is defined by the work of making disciples of Jesus Christ. Are you actively involved in making disciples? How?
Point: We need to trust God to lead us beyond the bounds of what we know is safe and secure.
Scripture: Isaiah 43:16-21; Exodus 14:10-14
Questions:
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Read Exodus 14:10-14 and Isaiah 43:16-18. Do you find yourself longing for the “good old days”? What about the past do you desire?
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Read Isaiah 43:19-21. Why is it so hard to be perceptive of the ways God is working for our good and His glory?
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How can we allow uncomfortable and unknown circumstances to become a starting point for change?
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As God takes us beyond the bounds of what we know is safe and secure, will you trust God? Why or why not? Explain.
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Search your heart: In who or what do I place my safety and security? What would it look like to find my safety and security in Christ alone?
Point: Life is hazardous, but God’s goodness can shine through any situation or circumstance.
Questions:
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In what ways has our current pandemic strengthened your walk with Christ? In what ways has it challenged your walk with Christ?
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Read verses 11-13. What are some ways we can lift up our voices to God for mercy?
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Read verse 14. Do you find it easier to follow the commands of God or to believe in His promises? Explain.
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Read verses 15-19. How often do you allow God’s goodness to lead you into praise and worship?
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How can we as a community group choose to worship God this week, regardless of situation or circumstance?
Point: If the “side” you pick in any circumstance or issue is higher than Christ’s side then you are already on the wrong side.
Scripture: Philippians 1:21-30
Questions:
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Read Philippians 1:21-30. What does it look like to live a life worthy of the gospel?
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How can we as theCHURCH approach the world’s problems from the side of Christ?
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What does it mean to “stand firm in one spirit”? Explain.
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How can we become “one mind” striving “side by side for the faith of the gospel”?
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What can YOU do this week to allow God and His Word to be your filter for the different sides taking place around you?
Point: Jesus healed us and continues to heal us so we can join Him in healing others.
Scripture: Mt. 9:35-38; 10:24-25a
Questions:
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When you “see the crowds” today, are you moved with compassion or are you moved by some other emotion?
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What does it look like to be a “pre-responder” to the crowds in our society?
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Do you see yourself as a laborer in God’s harvest? How are you currently making disciples of Jesus Christ?
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Do you have a tendency to be more of a hider, hurter, or hater? What do you need to do to become a healer?
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What would it look like to bring healing to those who are isolated, depressed, jobless, afraid, and broken?
Point: The effectiveness of the church in the community outside highly depends on the church being a community on the inside.
Scripture: 1 Cor. 12
Questions:
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Read 1 Corinthians 12. Is unity possible even though the church is so diverse? Explain.
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Unity is often mistaken for uniformity. How do we overcome this? What is a better understanding of unity?
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How can people who are so different work together for the same purpose?
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When it comes to unity, why do you think it’s easier to talk about something or feel a certain way, rather than actually acting on it?
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How can YOU pursue and practice diverse unity here at theCHURCH? What is an easy next step to get connected?
Point: Jesus didn’t die on the cross so we could make a point, He died so we could make a difference.
Scripture: Luke 10:25-37
Questions:
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What kind of approach or attitude do you have when considering racial injustice in our society? How can we align our hearts and our attitudes with Jesus?
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Read Luke 10:25-37. Have you ever witnessed something that was wrong but didn’t know what to say or what to do in that moment? What could you have done differently?
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Right now, what is it that is happening on the “other side” that you don’t understand? What is preventing us from moving towards those things we don’t understand?
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What will it take for us to move towards others? What would it look like to allow someone else's pain to become your concern? Their healing to become your hope? Their joy to become your happiness?
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What does it look like for YOU to love first? Respect humanity? Take no part in negativity? Make a difference?
Point: We are better together when we agree to love one another
Scripture: Philippians 2:1-11
Questions:
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Read Philippians 2:1-11. What does it look like to be “One Mind” as theCHURCH family? How can we agree, even when we don’t see eye to eye?
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When it comes to relationships in the church, where do we tend to put our preferences before considering others? How do our preferences stand in the way of loving each other?
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What does true brotherly love look like? How can we practically “count others more significant than yourselves”?
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Love is the natural expression of loving Christ. When you look at your life this past week or month, are you growing in love and patience toward the people in your life? If so, in what ways? Explain.
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What is one way YOU can put away your preferences and fight for others THIS week?
Point: Jesus sent the church to change the world but first the church must be a changed world itself
Scripture: Romans 12:9-21
Questions:
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Read Acts 2:42-47. What does a thriving Gospel-Centered Community look like and why do you think there are very few expressions of one?
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Read Romans 12:9-21. How can we turn Gospel-Centered Living into Gospel-Centered Community?
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When it comes to Gospel-Centered Community, what do you think is the difference between the church today and the New Testament church (Acts, Romans, Ephesians, Philippians, etc.)? How can we become a church that is more involved and engaged in each other's lives?
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How is it possible to live others-centered when our world is so me-centered? What does this re-centering require?
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What are some practical steps YOU can take to genuinely engage in Gospel-Centered Community? How can you practice this in your Community Group this next week?
Point: Life in Christ was never intended to be lived alone. But in order to pursue this life the way He intended we must love each other the way He commanded.
Scripture: Jn. 13:34-35; 1 Peter 1:22-23; Romans 12:1-2
Questions: 1. Read 1 Peter 1:22-23. What are the requirements of good, even great, friendships/relationships? Explain.
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When Christians truly love one another how is life in Christ better and sometimes even easier?
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What are some of the roadblocks to doing life together with other brothers and sisters in Christ? Why do you think it’s hard to get involved?
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Read Rom. 12:1-2 How does allowing God to renew the way you think about others in His church help create a pathway to loving them the way Jesus loves you?
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Right now the term social distancing is taking a toll on our world and the church especially. What are some ways we can be intentional and engaged in our relationships, while at the same time respecting others' space and not putting people in danger?
Point: When you pray do you seek answers more than you seek God? If all you seek is answers you probably won’t find them, but if you seek God, the answers just might find you. (M. Batterson)
Scripture: Psalm 116:1-9
Questions:
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Read verses 1-2. Do you believe that God hears your prayers? Why or why not?
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How can we know that we are actually praying, as opposed to just thinking good thoughts about God or practicing self-help meditation? What elements of prayer are absolutely necessary? Explain.
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Read the passage again. Why do you think prayer tends to consist of demands to change our circumstances, rather than requests for God to align our souls with Him? Which does this Psalm reflect?
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Read verses 5-9. How does a conversation with the Living God encourage and strengthen us, even in the midst of our challenging circumstances? Explain.
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How does the practice of prayer (true and honest conversation with God) strengthen our walk right here, right now? How does it lead others to Jesus?
Point: We cannot know God if we refuse to listen to Him, nor will we understand the life He created us to live if we choose not to hear from Him.
Scripture: Colossians 3:1-4; Psalm 119:9-16
Questions:
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Read Colossians 3:1-4 and Psalm 119:9-16. What does it look like to “set your mind on things that are above”?
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Why do you think it’s so hard for people to read God’s word? Explain.
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Why do so many people allow “the preacher” to do all the heavy lifting of reading and understanding God’s Word? What problems does this create?
\4. What is necessary for someone to become a student of God's word or even have interest in reading it continually?
- What are some practical ways to make reading the Word a habit? What keeps you in the Word? What keeps you away?
Point: Life IN Christ means you have a new life, a new mission, a new purpose, even a new identity. It’s living the life you were created to live, a life that is made fully alive by Christ for Christ.
Scripture: Colossians 2:6-10
Questions:
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Read Verses 6-7. What does it mean to “Walk in Christ”? How can we be certain that we are IN Christ, not just around Him?
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What does it look like to be “rooted”, “Built up”, and “Established” in your faith? Explain.
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Read 2 Corinthians 13:5. What are some ways we can evaluate ourselves to see if we are in the faith?
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Read Verse 8. What are some worldly “philosophies” and “traditions” that are popular right now? How can we keep ourselves from being taken captive by these empty, worldly, and deceitful ways of thinking?
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Read Verses 9-10. What does it mean to be “filled in Christ”? Explain.
Point: Now I would remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand, and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you—unless you believed in vain.
Scripture: 1 Cor. 15:1; 2 Cor. 13:5
Questions:
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How must a person’s life, heart, mind, and soul be prepared to know God personally?
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What do you think it means to receive the gospel of Jesus Christ? Why must we follow up with standing firm in it and how does that happen?
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What do you think “vain belief” is and how is it contagious?
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Read 2 Cor. 13:5. What is repentance and why do you think it is continually necessary in a life that pursues Jesus?
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In a world that is constantly changing how can we truly “hold fast” to God’s word and what good can it really do?
Title: The greater story
Point: Life is filled with stories and it seems that the loudest ones or the ones we like best are the ones we let lead our lives. There is only one story that is above all stories, the story on which all of creation is subject to, and that is the story of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Scripture: Gen. 1-3; John 1:1-5,9-14, 17; Acts 17:22-31; Acts 4:12
Point: Though the world may shake, and though it may shake you with it, your honest working faith in an unshakable God can and will give you focus and lead you back to center.
Scripture: Isaiah 43:1-2; Jeremiah 29:3-14
Questions:
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Read Isaiah 43:1-2 and Jeremiah 29:3-14. What makes these promises ours as well as Israel’s?
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Read Jeremiah 29:3-14 again. How can we trust God’s promise of “welfare and a future” even when we can’t see any good in the present?
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Read Hebrews 11:1. What is Faith? In what way(s) is faith continually being developed in us?
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How does our everyday life of faith in God prepare us for times of trial and hardship?
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Would you say your faith in God has increased, decreased, or been steady over the last few weeks? Explain. How can we better encourage you in this season?
Point: We the church are to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. Times like this require creative response rather than a careless reaction.
Scripture: Luke 10:25-37
Questions:
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Read Luke 10:25-37. It’s easy to use this pandemic as an excuse to hide away and not get involved in other people’s lives. Do you think this is what God is calling His church to do? Why or why not?
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Read Luke 10:30-35. What does it mean to be a good neighbor? Right now, what is the greatest challenge to being a good neighbor?
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Read James 3:13-18. How can we continue to serve people while still being wise and reasonable?
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How do you think Jesus would respond to our current situation? What would be different or unique? How can you truly challenge that question with personal responsibility to it?
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What can YOU do to stay connected to the people around you this week?
Point: Throughout history the church never allowed adversity and chaos to cause it to crumble. In fact it grew in adversity and thrived in chaos.
Scripture: Acts 4:32-37,5:42
Questions: 1. Read Acts 4:32-37. The church was born in adversity, yet there was not a needy person among them. How can/should our church respond in the midst of the Coronavirus adversity?
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Right now, Today, what does it look like to be one heart and soul, having everything in common?
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What do you think people need right now?
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How can we as the church offer real practical help both spiritually and physically?
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What is one way YOU can serve during this time? What is one thing YOU can give (supplies, money, resources, etc)?
Point: There are people all around you that really want to believe what you believe but they need to see that you really believe it. Scripture: Luke 10:25-37 Questions: 1. Why is it easy to avoid people in your own neighborhood even though you see them every week? Should we? Why or why not? 2. What does it mean to be a good neighbor? What is the greatest challenge to being a good neighbor? 3. What is the difference between tolerance of someone's life and respect for their humanity? Which would you rather have, tolerance or respect, and why? 4. What is the hardest part about serving people you don’t know that well, or at all, with the love of Christ? 5. What would it look like if Jesus moved into your neighborhood? What would be different/unique? How can you truly challenge that question with personal responsibility to it?
Point: The best way we can possibly love our family and friends is to show them Jesus. Scripture: Acts 10 Questions: 1. What is the hardest thing about living out your faith among your extended family and or friends who are not Christian?
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Why is perfection usually the expected standard when your family and friends hear about your faith?
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Have you ever invited your friends and family to know Christ better? How do you do that? How did it go?
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Why is it easier to just invite friends and family to church than take the time to explain your faith?
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What kind of follow up do you think is necessary after inviting family and or friends to hear the word and experience the church?
Point: We will spend almost half of our lives either at work or in school. Jesus called us to "GO… All the time" We are not merely educated and employed, but rather - CALLED to GO. Scripture: Matt. 22:37-40; Colossians 3:22-25; Matt. 5:13-16 Questions: 1. Why do we look at places we find ourselves (work, school, etc.) as places we just need to go and BE, rather than a mission field?
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What does it mean to be “called?” What does it look like to be called vs. employed?
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Why should a Christian be the best employee on the job?
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Why is the work place one of the hardest places to be a Christian?
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Read Matt. 22:37-40. What is a practical 1st step YOU can take to LOVE GOD and LOVE OTHERS while “going” into your workplace or school?