Gospel-Centered Messages: Recent Episodes
North Central Church
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Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-234862.htmlContinuing the ConversationWhat does your tongue reveal about your heart? What are some practical steps you can prayerfully take to control the tongue?Would others say I regularly use life-giving words that encourage them and help them to grow?Think of someone whose words have inspired or encouraged you to grow. What did they say to help you grow and why has it been important to you?In what practical ways will you make every effort, prayerfully, to speak more life-giving words this week and in the future?
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Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-233609.htmlContinuing The ConversationWhy do you thinking its so difficult for us to humbly accept Gods word?Think about a recent moment of conviction, correction, or encouragement from Scripture. Are you open to it, or brushing it aside?When you look into God's Word like a mirror, what do you seeand what needs to change?Are you relating to the Bible more like a set of rulesor a relationship with the Living Word, Jesus Himself?a. How would your Bible reading change if you saw it as time spent with Jesus, not just checking off a task?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-233011.htmlContinuing The Conversation1. Whats your first reaction when life gets harddo you ask God for wisdom or a way of escape? Why do you think that is?2. When you face trouble or temptation, are there any lies you tend to believe about God or yourself?3. Have you ever had any temptation experiences that verify this statement: The bait is fake, but the hook is real.4. What would it look like for you practically to come boldly to the throne of grace to help you face trouble overcome temptation?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-232283.htmlContinuing The ConversationWere there ever any hopelessness or heavy obstacles that you needed divine intervention to overcome? Did you ever look for hope or help in the wrong place?What does the empty tomb mean to you personally and your life of faith?Jesus promised predicted that after his resurrection he would meet them there. He then appeared to over 500 people. Whats the story behind how or when Jesus came alive enough to you that he met you there?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-231844.htmlContinuing The Conversation1. Have you felt completely alone during a tough time?How does knowing Jesus also felt abandoned in His suffering change how you see those moments in your life?2. When Jesus was overwhelmed, He fell to the ground and cried out to the Father (Mark 14:3536). What does that teach you about how to handle your own pain or fear?Do you usually run to Jesus first?3. Abiding means staying close full dependence on Jesus when life gets hard through prayer, Scripture, community or worship.What might need to change so your connection with Him grows deeper during trials?
Fill:In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-231075.htmlContinuing The Conversation1. Could you describe what the monthly communion experience is like for you?2. Which of these points resonated most with you a. Jesus rescues us (covers our debt).b. Jesus unites us (same need, same grace).c. Jesus reminds us (our flaws, his forgiveness)3. Can you think of any practical ways to make your monthly Communion experience a more meaningful act of worship remembrance?4. The Lords Supper points us to the heavenly banquet where all who trust in Jesus will feast together. And Jesus said the next time Hed drink the cup again it would be with us in His Fathers kingdom (Matthew 26:29, NLT). How does this promise influence the way you think of your future?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-230605.htmlContinuing The ConversationWhen you picture Jesus promised literal return, does it make you feel apathetic or anxious or _______________ ? Jesus commands His followers to "be on guard", "stay alert" watch for him regarding his return (v33,37). What are some distractions that can cause us to fall asleep into apathy or pulled into anxiety?In v34, Jesus describes a master who entrusts his servants with specific responsibilities before leaving. What work has God given you a talent for while you wait for his promised return?
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Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-229360.htmlContinuing The ConversationJesus was passionate about removing barriers that kept people from worshiping God. What are some ways we (personally and as a church) might unintentionally make it harder for others to encounter Jesus? How might we change that?Describe why or how important is it to you that our church leaders focus on centering their worship on Jesus rather than seeking attention for the church brand or for themselves?Think about the people in our community who might feel unwelcome or out of place in a church service. What steps can we takeindividually and as a churchto ensure they feel seen, loved, and included?Whats your response to this statement: Jesus is the new final temple where people meet God, so there's no more need to go somewhere to make sacrifices, only to know trust in his.
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-228852.htmlContinuing The ConversationHave you ever been exposed to a leaders use of dominance, authority, power position to motivate or control someone? What impact did that approach have?If you were transparent for a minute, where in your life do you catch yourself fishing for or hoping for more recognition or a higher position?Where are the opportunities in your life to serve others more sacrificially?How does Jesus willingness to give His life as a ransom for many deepen your gratitude for the gospel?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-228154.htmlContinuing The ConversationSince the disciples view of Jesus was transformed on the mountain, how has your understanding of Jesus grown or changed over time? Were there any key moments that shaped your faith?How might you train yourself to listen to Jesus (v. 7) above the competing voices of culture, fear, or personal desires?In what areas of your life do you struggle to trust that suffering (cross) and sacrifice can lead to greater glory (crown) in Jesus?How does seeing Jesus in His glory change the way you worship, pray, and live daily?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-227508.htmlContinuing The Conversation1. What are some of the more common things people seem to be building their identity on instead of Jesus?2. What might it practically look like to "give up your own way" in your daily life?3. Has following Jesus ever cost you something?4. How might Jesus two questions help you continue on carrying your cross?a. 29 But who do you say I am? 36 What do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-226278.htmlContinuing The ConversationHave you ever experienced a church, family or friend who imposed or enforced Chrisitan rules or traditions (not sin) to take the place of genuine love and obedience to God?How might we guard against hypocrisy and cultivate a relationship with God based on authentic love rather than surface performance?How might understanding that Jesus purifies our hearts lead to greater joy and freedom in your daily life?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-226278.htmlContinuing The Conversation1. Timothy Keller teaches that If we dont have the true Shepherd, we will look for substitutes. But every substitute will ultimately leave us unsatisfied.a. Have you ever come across any real life examples of someone who was left unsatisfied with a substitute?2. How have you learned to nourish yourself with the "Bread of Life" (Jesus)?3. In what ways could you let Jesus provide THROUGH you to help nourish others on him (the Bread of Life)?4. Describe our reaction to this promise of our future wedding feast:a. Isaiah 25:69 (NLT) 6 In Jerusalem, the Lord of Heavens Armies will spread a wonderful feast for all the people of the world. It will be a delicious banquet with clear, well-aged wine and choice meat. 7 There he will remove the cloud of gloom, the shadow of death that hangs over the earth. 8 He will swallow up death forever! The Sovereign Lord will wipe away all tears. He will remove forever all insults and mockery against his land and people. The Lord has spoken! 9 In that day the people will proclaim, This is our God! We trusted in him, and he saved us! This is the Lord, in whom we trusted. Let us rejoice in the salvation he brings!
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-225693.htmlContinuing The Conversation Group QuestionsHave you ever been in a desperate situation like Jairus or the unclean woman? How did you respond?How does knowing that Jesus wants a personal relationship with you not just to "fix" your problems affect how you approach Him in prayer?Have you ever experienced a season where Gods timing felt delayed How did that impact your faith?How could Jesus power over death give you hope in difficult circumstances?What step of boldness, patience, or trust might you take this week to grow your faith in Jesus?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-225276.htmlContinuing The Conversation Group Questions1. Do you know anyone whos abandoned their faith after a fierce storm caused them to ask God dont you care? Why did they doubt Gods care?2. How have you navigated your fiercest storms with a faith in God? 3. Whats your reaction to these two quotes?a. I have learned to kiss the wave that throws me against the Rock of Ages. ~ Charles Spurgeonb. If the sight of Jesus bowing His head into the ultimate storm is burned into the core of your being, you will never say, God, dont you care? ~ Timothy Keller
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-224449.htmlContinuing The Conversation Group QuestionsTell Your Story. Has your family been impacted in some way by your choice to follow Jesus? (Or how have they reacted supportive? concerned? intervention?!!)In what way does this quote resonate with you?A growing obedience is the evidence of a genuine faith. Are there areas in your life where you need to more fully obey submit to Jesus words or authority? AKA Any aspects that are not yet surrendered to him?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-223734.htmlContinuing The Conversation Group Questions1. Are you able to trust in Jesus power to heal transform your friends lives enough to overcome obstacles (fear of rejection, discomfort, or busyness) to boldly sharing your faith story or to pray for them with expectation?2. Are there any areas of your life where: a. youre in desperate need for what only Jesus can provide?3. Do you ever catch yourself pridefully comparing your righteousness to the brokenness of others in what ways?4. Are there any ways this prophecy about Jesus stirs up your awareness of your surrender to him?a. Daniel 7:1314 (NLT) 13 As my vision continued that night, I saw someone like a son of man coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient One and was led into his presence. 14 He was given authority, honor, and sovereignty over all the nations of the world, so that people of every race and nation and language would obey him. His rule is eternalit will never end. His kingdom will never be destroyed.
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-223347.htmlContinuing The Conversation Group Questions1. Read these two contrasting descriptions out loud. Write down, circle or highlight any word or phrase that strikes you and explain why:God's Kingdom: In Gods Kingdom, the full and final authority is God Himself, who rules sovereignly and justly. Jesus, as the King of this Kingdom, is the ultimate authority. All decisions, actions, and values are governed by God's Word and His eternal purposes. The Kingdom is shaped by God's will, His love, and His justice. Key Verse: "Your Kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." (Matthew 6:10)My Kingdom: In my kingdom, I am the ruler. I decide what is right, what is important, and how things should unfold. The authority is self-derivedwhether it's based on personal desires, experiences, or societal norms. This can lead to subjective decisions that prioritize my happiness, security, or success over God's purposes. Key Verse: "Everyone did what was right in his own eyes." (Judges 21:25)2. Describe any of the reasons why you decided to (or not to) leave your nets and follow Jesus?3. Which of these kingdoms listed do you find most distracting to your focus on following Jesus in God's Kingdom? The Kingdom of:Career Success, Comfort Leisure,Relationships, Self, Control, Materialism,Family, Religion, Popularity Influence, Causes or Activism4. How might you intentionally reprioritize your time resources to reflect a more radical surrender to God's Kingdom, rather than your own?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-222720.htmlContinuing The Conversation Group Questions1. Self-Examination: What specific fears, anxieties, or patterns of discontentment are recurring in your life, and how might they reveal a false belief about God?2. Preaching Truths to Yourself: Which Scripture truths about Gods greatness, glory, goodness, or grace can I meditate on to replace lies Ive been believing? ( see message notes)3. Cultivating Daily Practices: How can I incorporate the Four Gs into my prayer gratitude habits?a. For example, how have I experienced Gods greatness, glory, goodness, and grace in my life today?4. Church Family Immersion: In what ways can I share my struggles more openly with others in my church community and encourage them with gospel-centered truths?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-221779.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION1. What stands out to you in the traditional Christian Christmas story?a. Why do you think its not learned as a story of faith (ex: Zechariah, Mary, Joseph) ?2. Whats your faith story a. What compelled you to take your step of faith to trust Jesus as your rescuer from sin separation from God? ORb. Whats holding you back from taking that step?3. Does the following straight talk seem helpful to battle any doubt?a. If you have trouble rooting your confidence in Gods past faithfulness loving character, ask yourself : what more could he do to prove to you that he can be trusted?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-221779.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION1. God uses the ordinary or humble for his extraordinary purposes to build his kingdom.a. Have you ever been surprised with who hes able to use? (explain)b. Why would God favor the humble ordinary?2. Jesus is supremely worthy of ruling over your own life both now forever.a. But what seems to draw you into ruling over your own life and building your own kingdom instead?3. Unlike temporary worldly leaders who fail, Jesuss rule reign offers us his promise of eternal life, lasting joy, and inner peace.a. Has this promise ever been real for you? (When how?)
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-221224.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION1. Why do you think humans have such a difficult time accepting that Gods perfect timing is better than their own?2. Which of these statements resonates with you the most?a. Gods silence is never His absence.b. While youre waiting, God is working.c. Unbelief leads to suffering.3. Have you ever had an experience or need that led you to Jesus?a. What happened?4. Is there any specific area of your life that requires you to believe this verse more deeply?a. Hebrews 10:23 Let us not waver, for He who promised is trustworthy.
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-220588.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION1. Centuries after God promised to save the human race from sins destruction and condemnation, Jesus fulfilled that promise by rescuing us.a. Does this strengthen your trust in God to keep His promises? Why or why not?2. In light of Gods faithfulness to fulfill His promise of salvation, you can trust every one of His promises while you wait for something.a. Which of these promises do you find easiest to trust? Why?b. Which of these promises challenges you to grow in trust? Why?1. God promises eternal life.2. God promises never to leave or abandon you.3. God promises to cause everything to work together for good.4. Gods promises rest for the weary.5. God promises peace that will guard your heart and mind.6. God promises to provide for your needs.7. God promises wisdom to those who ask.8. God promises to answer prayer.9. God promises Jesus will return.
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-220149.htmlCONTINUE THE CONVERSATION 1. Individual FlourishingHow has (or could) living according to Gods design lead to your personal growth and flourishing?Are there areas in your life where obedience to God has brought unexpected joy or fulfillment?2. Family FlourishingCan you share an example of how following Gods principles has positively impacted relationships within your family?3. Community FlourishingHow might living in obedience to God help build healthier and more stable communities?
Fill-in Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-219461.htmlCONTINUE THE CONVERSATION 1. In what ways do you think this statement could help people in our society, if they could start living it out? Our identity is received, not achieved. ~ Jonathan Holmes2. READ Ephesians 1:3-14 [NLT] together. What seems to resonate most about your restored and God-given identity described in this passage?3. If you were to preach to yourself these gospel truths about your union with Jesus (by faith), which of these 5 would you start with (and why)?Youre defined by Gods love, not by your flaws failures.Youre fully accepted as a child of God.You have a new purpose mission.Youre being transformed, not just fixed.You cannot be defined by earthly labels.
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-219006.htmlCONTINUE THE CONVERSATION How might the Im doing it my own way autonomy of Adam Eve mirror the human struggle with determining ones own identity?If youre being transparent, are there any subtle lies you believe about yourself because of sin? If so, would you share one?Instead of seeing yourself as someone who has to prove worthiness or carry the weight of past regrets, you can live freely, knowing that God views you through the lens of Jesuss perfection.How might this forever change your view of yourself?In what ways might you actively embrace the truth that you are a deeply loved child of God?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-218451.htmlCONTINUE THE CONVERSATION 1. Which of these 5 As of secular humanist identity formation have caught your attention how?Actualization * Autonomy * Achievement * Appearance * Affiliations2. Why do you think some continue living in identity confusion instead of conforming to Gods design for their identity formation (to mirror His character purpose) ?3. How might it transform your life to accept believe the truth in this quote?The gospel of Jesus is not about choosing or constructing an identity, but receiving an identity that is given. ~ Timothy Keller4. When a human heart is remade restored by God, it then belongs to Jesus in order to become like Jesus. Jesus is described as the visible image of the invisible God.What is one way you might help make God more visible by becoming more like Jesus?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-217768.htmlCONTINUE THE CONVERSATION How might recognizing Gods ownership of everything you have change your perspective on how you manage your finances, abilities and time?Have you ever experienced the joy of seeing how your faithful management has contributed to Gods Kingdom? What was that like?Are there any time, talent, treasure areas in your life where youve been playing it too safe with what God has given, rather than stepping out in generous faith?Answer any of the 3 questions below:What is one area of your lifetime, talent, or treasurewhere you feel challenged to be more intentional in your stewardship?What are some obstacles that keep you from fully investing the gifts God has given you for His purposes?How do you balance the tension between using your resources wisely and taking risks for the sake of advancing Gods Kingdom?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-217768.htmlDone with Part 1? Go on to Part 2 HERECONTINUE THE CONVERSATION How might recognizing Gods ownership of everything you have change your perspective on how you manage your finances, abilities and time?Have you ever experienced the joy of seeing how your faithful management has contributed to Gods Kingdom? What was that like?Are there any time, talent, treasure areas in your life where youve been playing it too safe with what God has given, rather than stepping out in generous faith?Answer any of the 3 questions below:What is one area of your lifetime, talent, or treasurewhere you feel challenged to be more intentional in your stewardship?What are some obstacles that keep you from fully investing the gifts God has given you for His purposes?How do you balance the tension between using your resources wisely and taking risks for the sake of advancing Gods Kingdom?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-217290.htmlCONTINUE THE CONVERSATION What is your biggest obstacle when it comes to giving freely?In what ways do you live out the value of generosity as part of your lifestyle?If you inspected your spending statements, what might it reveal about your hearts priorities?What is one step you could take to help you move forward on the generosity journey for the Gods kingdom?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-216766.htmlCONTINUE THE CONVERSATIONCONTINUE THE CONVERSATION1. Why do you think discontentment (or malcontentment?) is so common in our modern culture?2. In your personal life,a. how do you define what a need is?b. how would you rate yourself on trusting God to meet your needs? 3. For anyone who is comfortable being transparent with the group for a moment do you ever sense any symptoms of underlying discontentment youd be willing to confess?a. (Ex: jealousy, envy, bitterness / resentment, greed, failing to rejoice w/those who rejoice, ungrateful, thoughts of entitlement, depression hopelessness, _______ other?)4. Reflect on this statement: My contentment is found in who I have (Jesus), not in what I have. AKA True contentment comes from knowing cherishing Jesus, not from collecting comforts.a. What do you cherish about Jesus?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-216305.htmlCONTINUE THE CONVERSATION1. If you slow down enough to inspect your life right now for Gods generous provision, what are you most grateful for?a. (Ex: Our living essentials, our physical needs, our intellectual wisdom, our every spiritual need)2. What are some specific challenges you are facing and how can you view them through the lens of gospel-fueled gratitude?3. Can you think of any tangible actions you might take in response to Gods provision blessings to you?4. Take a minute to study this quote. What strikes you about it?The cross is the blazing fire at which the flame of our gratitude is kindled. But we have to get near enough to it for its sparks to fall on us. ~ John Stott
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-215682.htmlCONTINUE THE CONVERSATION1. What comes to your mind when you think of the word discipleship?2. Pickout a phrase or idea in this definition that strikes you for any reason.a. Discipleship: Learning to increasingly reflect the image of Jesus by moving from unbelief to belief in the gospel in every area of life, changing what you love and how you live.3. Amy listed these three ways we can grow as a disciple disciple-maker. Which of these areas seems to need the most attention for you ( why)?a. Intentional Discipleshipb. Grow in Gospel-centered Fluencyc. Life-on-Life
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-215065.htmlContinue The Conversation1. Pastor Dan listed a handful of losing battles that people are fighting. Did any of those listed resonate with you ? Why ?2. In what way might it help you to stand firm rest through your present battles when you know the final outcome?3. Believers will be with the Lord forever. This verse in Revelation describes it:a. Revelation 3:5 (NLT) All who are victorious will be clothed in white. I will never erase their names from the Book of Life, but I will announce before my Father and his angels that they are mine.b. How might we encourage each other with this ending?
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Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-207560.htmlCONTINUE THE CONVERSATIONWas there ever a time in your life (or someone you love) where you hit rock bottom, a dark place or felt desperate? if so how did God get your (their) attention?When you think of a dark time when you were desperately struggling, were you slow to repent of your self reliance and turn your life choices back over to God? If so, why so slow?Which of these true better resonates with you most?a. Jonah was thrown into sea as a result of his own disobedience, but Jesus willingly went to cross for our disobedience.b. Jonah spent three days in belly of fish, emerging to continue Gods mission but Jesus spent three days in tomb, rising to bring us eternal life fulfill Gods ultimate mission of salvation.c. Jonahs deliverance points to Gods grace mercy, but Jesus resurrection secures it for all who believe.
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-206976.htmlCONTINUE THE CONVERSATIONWhat kind of people have you come to believe are too evil or wicked to receive Gods mercy?Have you ever experienced (or seen) the way God sometimes uses affliction to get our attention? What happened?a. v4 the Lord hurled a powerful wind over the sea, causing a violent storm that threatened to break the ship apart.3. Its easy to believe that God was punishing Jonahs rebellion by arranging a fish to swallow him. How is it more accurate to interpret the fish as Gods mercy instead?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-206618.htmlCONTINUE THE CONVERSATIONHave you (or someone you know) ever had a came to his senses experience while feeding the pigs estranged from your Father? What happened?In what ways might you be at risk of enjoying what your Father gives you more than you enjoy the Father himself?What do you think about the portrayal that both brothers were lost one in rebellion (rule breaking) the other in religion (rule keeping w/wrong motives) ?Can you remember any of the ways that Jesus is our true better elder brother?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-206005.htmlCONTINUE THE CONVERSATION1. If youre being honest, who is your enemy? (political, at work, at home)2. How does it strike you that your love for the least of these or your enemy, proves out your love for God?3. In what ways could you neighbor (as a verb) those God gives you proximity to?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-205688.htmlCONTINUE THE CONVERSATION1. What strikes you most about this parable inMatthew 25:1-13?2. If youre honest, what distractions or distortions might be in the way of living ready for Jesus return?3. How does this part of the parable hit you?Vv 10and the door was locked. 11 Later, when the other five bridesmaids returned, they stood outside, calling, Lord! Lord! Open the door for us! 12 But he called back, Believe me, I dont know you!
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-204983.htmlCONTINUE THE CONVERSATION1. When you hear this parable, is there anything it provokes you to imagine, feel, learn or rethink?Luke 7:41-43 (NLT) 41 Then Jesus told him this story: A man loaned money to two people500 pieces of silver to one and 50 pieces to the other. 42 But neither of them could repay him, so he kindly forgave them both, canceling their debts. Who do you suppose loved him more after that? 43 Simon answered, I suppose the one for whom he canceled the larger debt.2. How do you think it impacted a self righteous religious leader to hear Jesus say that in Gods Kingdom, his sin is the same as an immoral woman AND that she loves God more?3. Which of these could be true for you?a. I tend to:focus on the sins of others, not my own.diminish the severity of my own selfish sin.misinterpret the significance of Jesus.b. I need to grow my affection for Jesus and enjoy HIS FORGIVENESS by seeing confessing my OWN sin.
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-204551.htmlCONTINUE THE CONVERSATION1. The apostle Pauls strategy for transforming corruption in the public community is humble submission winsome heart transformation.a. What approach do you perceive to be our modern churchs strategy to subvert corruption?2. Paul wants our church leaders to remain hyper-focused on both teaching this good news doing good works for the benefit of everyone.a. Why do you think its so challenging to avoid all the things Paul warns about? (slandering, quarreling, foolish discussions, divisive people)3. The people who are in power over our society are slaves to many lusts pleasures. Their lives are full of evil and envy.a. How could (or is) Gods kindness love toward you help(ing) you deal more humbly gently with them?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-203955.htmlCONTINUE THE CONVERSATIONIn our American culture, what seems to be the focus of our typical households?What do you think our culture might find attractive about older Christians training encouraging younger Chrsitians to live wisely?Did someone older than you ever train encourage you to thrive in any of your life phases?Titus 2:13 (NLT) we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed. a. To find the power you need to turn from selfish autonomy and toward wisdom, friendship with devotion to God, you have to look forward with hope. How might you turn more of your attention on savoring Jesus glory instead of striving for your own?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-203563.htmlCONTINUE THE CONVERSATION1. When youre among the church, pay close attention and listen for true gospel messaging. (God saves you by your faith, not by your faithfulness.)a. How might church members learn to do this better?2. Before following any church leader, focus on inspecting their character credibility, not on their charisma.a. Why do you think this is so hard for most people?3. The New Testament consistently instructs us to show patient grace with deeply flawed church members in order to restore them back to God. But it instructs the elders to reprimand or reject corrupt church leaders sternly.a. Would you feel comfortable in a church that reprimanded one of the leaders? (Why / Why not?)
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-202915.htmlCONTINUE THE CONVERSATIONWhat strikes you about this definition of Discipleship: learning to increasingly reflect the image of Jesus by moving from unbelief to belief in the gospel in every area of life, changing what you love and how you live.Who discipled you and what seemed to work (or NOT work?) that you could learn from?Which of these 3 aspects of following Jesus needs more of your attention ( why?)a. Trust treasure Jesus reordered loves.b. Live give in community freed from isolation aloneness.c. Go show them Jesus accept your everyday mission.
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-202418.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION1. Which of these best describes your reaction to Jesus resurrection from the tomb?a. Come see.b. Go tell.c. Both fear doubt.2. To transform lives and continue on, the resurrection event had to overcome so many obstacles. Which of these is the most compelling argument for you to believe the Resurrection event literally happened?a. It overcame the credibility of women sources.b. It overcame the deliberate coverup.c. It overcame the need for eye witnesses.3. Can you relate to having both fear AND joy when thinking about your future death resurrection?4. Whats it mean to you personally that death has lost its sting now that we believers can live on even after we die?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-201802.htmlContinue the Conversation1. Whats your favorite story about Jesus restoring someone back to God?2. In your opinion or personal experience, what keeps us from taking on a missionary lifestyle?3. Who might be in your circles (Family, Friends, Vocation, Neighborhood) because God wants them to experience his love grace through you?a. How might you share or show them Jesus?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-201248.htmlCONTINUE THE CONVERSATION1. Here is the contrasting difference between relating to God in a spirit of slavery or in the spirit of Sonship. Which of these aspects of your sonship is most meaningful to you?2. How has your intentional step to get out of isolation and into a small group of believers impacted your life?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-200627.htmlFinished with Part 1? Move on to Part 2 HERE.CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION1. If you (or anyone you know) have ever witnessed something like this, what happened?a. a church disrupted or damaged because of a deceptive teacher. ORb. a life disrupted or damaged by a storm because of their own disobedience.2. In what ways can you relate to the trap of being a suspicious church cynic rather than using wise discernment?3. In what area of your life might (or has) your own bedrock building obedience to Jesus teaching help(ed) you hold up in a life storm?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-200627.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION1. If you (or anyone you know) have ever witnessed something like this, what happened?a. a church disrupted or damaged because of a deceptive teacher. ORb. a life disrupted or damaged by a storm because of their own disobedience.2. In what ways can you relate to the trap of being a suspicious church cynic rather than using wise discernment?3. In what area of your life might (or has) your own bedrock building obedience to Jesus teaching help(ed) you hold up in a life storm?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-200195.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATIONHave you noticed any dominant philosophies that seem to drive the way people treat people in our current society?Can you think of a way your life might change if you were able to treat that someone the way you want to be treated?The few whove elected to follow Jesus have chosen to reject the easy popular hell-path full of lust, pride and self glory (7:13-14). How why have you chosen the more difficult narrow path AKA whats your story?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-199607.htmlFinished with Part 1? Move on to Part 2 of this message HERE.CONTINUING THE CONVERSATIONAre you (or someone you care about) praying about anything that has required perseverance?Are there any ways your view of God (aka: theology) has shaped or reshaped your expectations?How might it help you (or someone you care about) to accept that God is infinitely good as demonstrated by giving you Jesus?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-199607.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATIONAre you (or someone you care about) praying about anything that has required perseverance?Are there any ways your view of God (aka: theology) has shaped or reshaped your expectations?How might it help you (or someone you care about) to accept that God is infinitely good as demonstrated by giving you Jesus?
Fill- In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-199117.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATIONWhy do you think its so natural for Christians to harshly judge or condemn another Christians sinful failures flaws?Have you ever had to confess repent for the log in your own eye before confronting someone else for the speck (sinful failure flaw) in theirs?Is there anyone youve shared Jesus with who reacted with hostility?a. How does it feel to know Jesus frees you to move on before they turn on attack you?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-198442.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION1. Are you aware of anyone whos life has been damaged by chasing what their heart treasures? (Matt 6:21)2. Which of these two problems might best describe the source of some of your worry anxiety?a. Problem 1 Youre trying to serve two masters. (God money)b. Problem 2 Your trust in God is too little.3. What could it look like for you toa. Jesus: Seek the Kingdom of God above all else,and he will give you everything you need.
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-198044.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATIONHow do you feel about the idea that Jesus warned people about praying the wrong way for the wrong reasons?Think of a time when you prayed your most meaningful prayers. What were they like short, long, in crisis, focused, solitude, private, etc.? How might it help you to remember rest in this truth while in private prayer: my Father sees me and knows exactly what I need even before I ask him.
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-197363.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATIONWhats your typical reaction when you hear leaders boasting about themselves?In your opinion, how much do motives matter when someone is giving to the needy?Jesus teaches us to give our gifts in private (instead of in public) in order to avoid taking credit from God. If youre honest, how much does it bother you when you dont get the credit for something good youve done for someone?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-196824.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION1. What have you noticed about the way Chrsitians typically treat their enemies & react to persecution?2. True children of God live in contrast by dealing with antagonists enemies differently:a. Jesus: love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven.b. Whats your gut reaction to hearing this is his expectation for true disciples?3. The power we need to live in contrast ( salty bright ) to the world comes from trusting treasuring Jesus. In order to be more like Jesus, how might you focus on being with him more?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-196468.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATIONWhen you think of how Christians are acting in our modern culture, does it appear theyre living salty bright to win people over to Jesus?Jesus says his disciples live the good life. As an example, he says that they repent run from lust adultery. What kind of pain suffering are they able to save themselves by living that way?If theres anyone youre estranged from, how do you feel about Jesus urging to prioritize reconciliation above all other spiritual activities?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-195870.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION1. Why dont think its hard for people to give up hoping for positive change through politics or military force?Read Matthew 5:3-12 aloud.2. What part of these Blessed are the strikes you the most ?3. What might it look like for you personally to take up the good life of humble hearted change?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-195260.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION1. Whats your reaction to these two ideas?a. Missions exists by Gods character, not by his commands.b. You can only understand your mission rightly, if you understand your God rightly.2. When you inspect your life your values, conversations, bank account, weekly habits, etc what might need to change in order to be more engaged in Gods mission to tell people everywhere about Jesus?3. For you personally, which of these three actions might be the most appropriate response to Gods value of missions pray, give, or go?
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Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-194475.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATIONIn what ways has the curse impacted you (corruption, disease, death) ?How does it help you to know and believe that Jesus will one day make all things new? (Revelation 21:5)Are there any specific ways you feel you could better participate in Gods renewing work in your family, workplace or community?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-194042.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATIONHave you (or even someone you know) ever felt the effects of the curse condemnation, separation death?If youve ever tried to overcome the curse with something other than faith in Jesus what was that like?In what ways could you experience a deeper joy rest in Jesuss reversal of triumph over condemnation death?Do you own the Jesus Storybook Bible ? WHY NOT?? ; )
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-193676.htmlContinuing The Conversation:1. Why do you think so many humans are hyper-focused on focusing their life on their individual autonomy or self sufficiency?2. What is it that youve discovered about Jesus that makes you willing to submit to him as your King?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-193141.htmlContinuing the Conversation1. What has been your experience with Christians who are focused on living holy?2. As worshipers, how can it help us to remember the supremacy of Gods holiness?3. When youre trying to live more holy, how might it help you to remember that its God who pursues you covers your unholiness?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-192748.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATIONHow do you feel about serving worshiping a God who is utterly beyond your ability to comprehend. Comforting?Are there any ways youve learned to enjoy God by enjoying Jesus?How might living as were directed in this scripture verse change your approach to your daily life?a. 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NLT) So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-192291.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION1. How do you think our culture defines or understands what love is?2. What type of person (enemy?) do you struggle most to love? ORa. Have you ever come across disciples of Jesus who are so unloving that you doubted they could be Christians?3. How might it help you love people better by focusing on real love aka the self-sacrificing love Jesus showed for you?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-191847.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATIONHas there ever been a time when it was hard to believe God is good?In what way(s) have you been able to taste see that God is good?Why do you think most people misunderstand human discomfort, suffering hardship to mean God CANNOT be good?Can you describe how much your gratitude attitude has grown since learning that Gods goodness is expressed most vividly in giving us Jesus?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-191218.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATIONWhats your reaction to the idea that the God of the Bible is supremely happy?Can you recall a period in your life when you experienced the deepest happiness (or UNhappiness) and describe where is/was it coming from?What could you do to access Gods joy even while your heart aches?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-190647.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATIONWhy do you think its so hard for humans to trust that God both sees every injustice in the world hears the cries of the suffering?Jesus confronted warned hypocritical religious people for ignoring the more important aspects of Gods law justice, mercy faith. Where would you rank justice on your list of faith-based priorities?When you inspect your faith for purity authenticity youll notice that God expects us to care for orphans widows in their distress. Youre then challenged (James 1:27) to intentionally refuse to let the world corrupt you. How are you dealing with the subtle corruption of self-centered greed materialism?
FIll-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-190255.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION1. If God's knowledge is infinitely beyond human comprehension, why do you think some of us are so quick to question God?2. Which of these aspects of Gods omniscience strikes you the most?a. God knows all things in the physical universe.b. God knows all human thoughts.c. God knows all things that are not done.d. God knows all future events.3. Gods knowledge of both himself and that which hes created is infinite perfect (omniscience). How might it help you to believe remember that God knows about every sparrow that dies and about the number of hairs on your head?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-189702.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION1. If you believed in a god as a child, what do you recall learning about its character or attributes?a. Or what was your strongest impression of what God is like?2. The prophet Isaiah announced that God is incomparable to the nations, idols, world rulers, humans, stars which of these strikes you most why?3. Why do you think skeptical humans are still using their limited words, philosophies or comparisons to explain or diminish the God of the Bible?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-188704.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATIONCan you describe a phase (or moment) of your life when you decided to pursue Gods plan for your life instead of your own?What is one of your natural passions or most special abilities?Jesus remained hyper-focused on seeking saving the lost. Even though it nourished him, it cost him his life to glorify His Father.a. How has (or might) your life change if you lived with more focus on making disciples with this purpose : whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. ?
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Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-188285.htmlContinuing the Conversation Questions:Have you ever believed that worship is primarily corporate music/singing? In what ways does worship continue on Monday-Saturday?Spirit and Truth worship rests solely on Jesus, which means we can worship the father knowing that despite our sin, He fully loves and accepts us. Has there ever been a time where you were apprehensive to approach God? How do you believe God views you, both then and now?Having a hungry-heart is a result of the fall, and it means were constantly in search-mode. Are you prone to try and find fulfillment in even the good-things of life? (job, achievement, reputation, bank account, spouse, familyetc). Why will that work/not work?
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CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION QUESTIONS1. Have you noticed what or who you spend your money on most easily? (Self, home, tech, kids, car, savings, etc) 2. Why do you think Jesus says that if youre enslaved to your money, it's impossible to serve God? 3. How have you been (or how could you start) relocating your time, talent or treasure into Gods church family? 4. Jesus forfeited his heavenly wealth to pursue rescue you (whom he treasures) and to make you eternally rich. Have you ever noticed that as you discover this eternal meaning value you become less addicted to the meaning value found on earth?
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Continuing The Conversation: 1. How do you feel about being a part of a church thats continuing the Book of Acts story rather than building our own kingdom? 2. Do you tend to lean towards an insider mentality or a cultural-engagement mentality? 3. Why would you want to be a part of a church that is focused on: Make disciples, not happy customers and send missionaries, not just good vibes? 4. Would you ever consider getting involved in a church plant if the opportunity surfaced? a. Why not or in what way?
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Continuing The Conversation 1. When you think about showing sharing your faith, do you tend to be more easily held back by fear or more fearless with love? 2. When the apostle Paul was teaching believers who were both persecuted exiled, why do you think he specifically instructed them to share their faith with gentleness respect? 3. What circle of people has God given you influence with for showing sharing your hope in Jesus? a. How would you describe to them your hope in Jesus?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-181270.htmlContinuing The Conversation1. How important do you think it is to serve & give to a church with the proper motivation?2. How might it help someone to serve in response to Gods infinite mercy?3. If youve been serving the faith family with your gift, what value has it added to your life?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-180724.htmlContinuing The Conversation1. Have you ever personally experienced a need that was met by your church family? What was that like?2. What types of burdens might a church family member be carrying that are within your power to lift?3. Why do you think some churches might resist the biblical instructions to help meet the material needs of their Pastors (teachers)? (Galatians 6:6)
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-180218.htmlContinuing The Conversation1. In the early church, Christians neglected their regular gathering with other believers because they were scattered persecuted. In contrast, what are some of the reasons American Christians might be neglecting the weekly Sunday gathering?2. In what way has God used a weekly gathering of believers to nourish your soul or strengthen your faith?3. Is there any lifestyle patterns that you might need to reset to help you better prioritize the weekly Sunday worship gathering?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-180218.htmlFinish Part 1? Go on to Part 2 here.Continuing The Conversation1. In the early church, Christians neglected their regular gathering with other believers because they were scattered & persecuted. In contrast, what are some of the reasons American Christians might be neglecting the weekly Sunday gathering?2. In what way has God used a weekly gathering of believers to nourish your soul or strengthen your faith?3. Is there any lifestyle patterns that you might need to reset to help you better prioritize the weekly Sunday worship gathering?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-179818.htmlContinuing The Conversation:1. Do you remember who helped welcome you into our church?a. What was that like?2. Why do you think faith in Jesus and favoritism in the family are completely incompatible?3. Has God ever convicted you about showing partiality or favoritism?4. QUOTE: Our proper response to the grace shown toward us in Jesus is the extension of grace to others.a. In what way might you place more focus on being the warm welcome our church portrays every Sunday?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-179422.htmlContinuing The Conversation1. What might help you start thinking of the church as a family of people instead of a place to go on Sunday?2. In your opinion (or experience) why isnt it wise or safe to be apart from the accountability and oversight of the church pastoral leaders who will give an account to God (Hebrews 13:17)?3. If you told yourself the truth about what hinders you from more fully immersing yourself in your church family, are any of these obstacles responsible?a. Sensationalism.b. Mysticism.c. Idealism.d. Individualism.4. What could we pray for when praying for our church regularly?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-179422.htmlFinish part 1? Watch/listen to part 2 here.Continuing The Conversation1. What might help you start thinking of the church as a family of people instead of a place to go on Sunday?2. In your opinion (or experience) why isnt it wise or safe to be apart from the accountability and oversight of the church pastoral leaders who will give an account to God (Hebrews 13:17)?3. If you told yourself the truth about what hinders you from more fully immersing yourself in your church family, are any of these obstacles responsible?a. Sensationalism.b. Mysticism.c. Idealism.d. Individualism.4. What could we pray for when praying for our church regularly?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-178959.htmlContinuing The Conversation1. How do you tend to respond when it seems Gods church is facing persecution prayer or panic protest? (Or other?)2. What are some ways youve feared your earthly government?3. How might it help you to rest in Gods perfect justice?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-178959.htmlFinish part 1? Continue on to part 2 here.Continuing The Conversation1. How do you tend to respond when it seems Gods church is facing persecution prayer or panic protest? (Or other?)2. What are some ways youve feared your earthly government?3. How might it help you to rest in Gods perfect justice?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-178465.htmlContinuing The Conversation1. In your experience, what are some of the divisions in the Christian church that might be caused by incorrectly labeling them as unacceptable to God ? (AKA unclean)2. Have you ever heard of a church that offers something different (or requires something more) than the Gospel as a means of life transformation?3. In what ways have you (or might you) had opportunities to promote or protect the unity of your gospel centered church?4. In what ways do you feel like our church is open (or not) to including outsiders? Can you think of any examples?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-177996.htmlContinuing The Conversation1. From your viewpoint, what kind of person seems so hostile to God that you sometimes feel God cant or wont ever save them?2. Sauls life change was the result of meeting obeying the real Jesus for himself. What have you personally experienced or learned about the real Jesus that helps you to obey him?3. What do you think about the idea that the same grace of God that leads you toward salvation also leads you toward suffering?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-177451.htmlContinuing The Conversation1. Do you think most people in your life would find our resurrection from the dead message appealing?2. How did you come to trust Jesus treat him as a King?3. What kind of things (or kings) have you rejected in order to more fully rely on Jesus?4. Since making Jesus your King, what things have you received from him?
On Good Friday, we remembered the demonstration of the deepest kind of love - the suffer love of Jesus on the cross in preparation for Easter Sunday.
Vision Sunday 2023 | April 2, 2023 Find out where we're headed as a church family in 2023 to help make Jesus famous.
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-177048.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION1. Gods gospel church are for every different race, rank and religion. Is there any particular kind of person who you struggle to believe could be saved? (Ex. Occultist, addict, govt official, trafficker, Red Sox fan, ethnicity, family member, etc.)2. What might our church family need to do differently in order to expand beyond our borders include everyone?3. What aspect of the vision for our church to LIVE TO GIVE is most inspiring to you?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-176481.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION1. Have you ever come across powerful religious people who seemed willing to fight to the death over following their sacred rules protecting their sacred buildings?2. What part of the persecution martydom of Stephen struck you most?3. Which of these WHAT NOWs might you need the most?a. Overcome the fear of death by believing that persecution death for Jesus can only end this life but it begins our eternal life with Jesus.b. Keep refocusing yourself on following Jesus rather than following more religious rules
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-175935.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION:1. What do you perceive to be the modern day threats to the church?2. Would you be willing able to tell your own Jesus story to your group? (Focus on salvation or healing)3. Whats your favorite aspect of the holiness of God?4. Read Acts 4:23-31 together.a. What did you notice about their reaction to the threats against their church that we could learn from?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-175935.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION:1. What do you perceive to be the modern day threats to the church?2. Would you be willing able to tell your own Jesus story to your group? (Focus on salvation or healing)3. Whats your favorite aspect of the holiness of God?4. Read Acts 4:23-31 together.a. What did you notice about their reaction to the threats against their church that we could learn from?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-175483.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION:1. What are some of the typical things that modern people seem to be wanting when theyre browsing for a new home church?2. In what way(s)have you noticed that Jesus has become the supreme source of your deepest satisfaction gratification for all your longings, desires appetites?3. The awe of God generates whole life devotion to generosity worship. Have you ever experienced what Paul Tripp describes here:a. When awe of God has captured your heart, ministry will fill your schedule. You wont need the church to schedule ministry for you; you will approach work, marriage, parenting, extended family, friendships, and community with a ministry mentality. ― Paul David Tripp
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-175028.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION1. In your opinion, what seems to be the prevailing purpose most American Christians are living for?2. What sort of adjustment to your lifes purpose mission would require you to depend more on Holy Spirit power instead of your own natural power?3. How does it feel when you take time to remember that:a. Jesus is going to return someday?b. Some, like Judas, will be separated from God forever?
Fill In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-174587.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION1. Describe how easy it might be to view your family or parenting through either the Pharisee or the Tax Collector lens.2. Is there anything specific you feel guilty about as a parent or family member?3. How do your children or family see you deal with sin and failure?a. How might this verse help you better use the Grace approach ?b. Romans 5:12 (NLT) Therefore, since we have been made right in Gods sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. 2 Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing Gods glory.4. Are there any parenting mistakes or family issues that might need for you to repent OR to trust in the transforming grace of God?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-173867.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION1. Do you have any personal experience with someone (yourself included) who demonstrated good behavior, but was corrupted with evil desires under the surface?2. In your opinion or experience, why might it be easier to only correct the behavior of your family children than to concentrate on their heart?3. How might a child or family member behave when they dont believe each of these heart-level truths?a. God is great so we dont have to be in control.b. God is glorious so we dont have to fear others.c. God is good so we dont have to look elsewhere.d. God is gracious so we dont have to prove ourselves.
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-173518.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATIONCan you detect any tendencies towards legalism (AKA performance based acceptance) in your own life?If you focused on rooting out legalism in your family, where might you start? (Grudges, rejection, bribery, comparing)In Jesus story about the prodigal son, the Fathers love for his two boys was rooted in their Sonship, not their good behavior. How might this kind of gospel love love help transform your family during discipline or disagreements?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-173168.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION1. What do you think about this idea: the family is the primary place for training children to submit to authority.a. Have you noticed what happens to people who dont learn to live under authority? (How they cope in society (school, work, officials, the policeHow they relate to God?)2. PARENTSa. Think about the sort of things you say to your children (or your parents said to you) as you discipline them.i. Could you use this line with your children/grandchildren?1. God has placed you under my authority to teach you to live under His authority?b. Can you see why allowing children to obey with delay, excuse, or challenge is really just willful disobedience?c. How might it help you to think of your parental role as showing them what our gracious Father in heaven is like ?3. ADULT CHILDREN: What is so challenging about honoring your mother father (especially if you think they dont deserve it)?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-172592.htmlCheck out this overview of how God's Spirit is understood in the New Testament: https://bibleproject.com/podcast/holy-spirit-part-3/Continuing The Conversation1. The Holy Spirit raised Jesus body up out of the grave. This same Spirit made you alive is renewing all true believers. Have you ever sensed this Spirit living in you?2. Have you ever experienced a pain or loss so deeply that you couldnt even find any words to express it? If so, what was that like?a. How do you feel knowing that the Spirit who knows what you need was praying to God on your behalf?3. In what area of life might you need to start following the Spirits leading more deeply?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-172123.htmlCheck out this overview of how God's Spirit is understood in the New Testament: https://bibleproject.com/podcast/holy-spirit-part-3/Continuing The Conversation1. Why do you think Paul told the Church at Corinth to prioritize the churchs love over the use of our churchs spiritual gifts? (1 Cor 14:1)2. Have you ever been among a church meeting where the improper use of the gifts of the Spirit seemed to generate enough disorder that people may have thought youre crazy or Im confused ? What was that like?3. Have you ever been among a church meeting where the proper use of the gifts of the Spirit seemed orderly enough to generate the Im convicted response?4. Paul says we should eagerly desire spiritual gifts. Have you ever done a spiritual gift discovery assessment? What did you discover?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-171843.htmlCheck out this overview of how God's Spirit is understood in the New Testament: https://bibleproject.com/podcast/holy-spirit-part-3/Continuing The Conversation:1. If you have a faith background, what did it teach you about experiencing the power of the Holy Spirit in the local church?2. Do you feel like youre open to receiving the Holy Spirit baptism or being continually filled as described in the Book of Acts? a. Why or why not? 3. Our church uses this phrase to protect our unified harmony: a. In essentials, unity. In non-essentials, freedom. In all things, love. b. How do you feel about this idea?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-171843.htmlCheck out this overview of how God's Spirit is understood in the New Testament: https://bibleproject.com/podcast/holy-spirit-part-3/Continuing The Conversation:1. If you have a faith background, what did it teach you about experiencing the power of the Holy Spirit in the local church?2. Do you feel like youre open to receiving the Holy Spirit baptism or being continually filled as described in the Book of Acts? a. Why or why not? 3. Our church uses this phrase to protect our unified harmony: a. In essentials, unity. In non-essentials, freedom. In all things, love. b. How do you feel about this idea?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-171337.htmlContinuing The Conversation1. When you look at whats happening in the world, its easy to see so much darkness chaos. Are there any ways you can see the work of the Spirit bringing life order?2. Do you or anyone you know struggle to see, believe or trust that Jesus is fully God? ( Why or why not? )3. If Jesus so fully depended on the empowering of the Holy Spirit, what causes you to get so stuck in self-reliance?4. Reaction to this statement?a. God's Spirit continues to hover over a dark and chaotic world, slowly healing and working toward the day when it will be made new. ~ The Bible Project
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-170841.htmlContinuing The Conversation:1. When someone says theyre wanting to rely on their higher power more what exactly do you think theyre referring to?2. In your mind, does thinking of God as breath, wind, or animating energy depersonalize God or make him seem closer and more intimate with us?3. Which of these might be the more urgent application you need?a. Let the Holy Spirit lead you into all truth.b. Look for the Holy Spirits work.
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-170188.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION1. Have you ever detected any created thing that your heart was pursuing peace in?2. How might resting in your inner peace with God liberate you from that exhausting pursuitreordering your loves and redirecting your allegiance to the Prince of Peace?3. What would it take for YOU to be the one who pursues peace with someone you dont presently have shalom/wholeness peace with?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-169868.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION QUESTIONS1. What are your main sources of joy?2. Jesus expressed joy in selflessly obeying His Father even into his own execution (cross). How do you feel about the idea that his overflowing joy came from lovingly obeying his Father rather than by favorable circumstances?3. Are there any examples you can think of where living more like Jesus might increase your overflowing joy?a. or maybe an example of how disobedience lead to unhappiness?4. Which of these might be the best command for you to focus on?a. Repent.b. Love one another.c. Go and make disciples.
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-169279.htmlCONTINUING THE CONVERSATION QUESTIONS1. The coming of King Jesus means the coming of a rival to the throne of your life. For some, the arrival of King Jesus initiates a fearful response.a. Have you ever been reluctant or fearful to fully trust Him in specific areas of your life?b. Would you say that the fear of fully trusting Him is an attempt to retain control (or the throne) of your life?2. Looking back on Gods faithfulness can inspire hope for the future, but sometimes when God sends provision or deliverance, it doesnt look the way we thought it might. Can you think of times in the past when God has been faithful, but in a different way than you expected?3. Looking forward with anticipation is another way to inspire sustained hope. Is there anything you're anticipating that fills your life with hope?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-168961.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION QUESTIONS1. Why do you think that its such a challenge for Christians to accept believe that contentment is more valuable than material wealth? 2. Are you familiar with any stories about someone whos craving for (or love of money) led their life into a disaster? 3. Lets personalize these truths. Which of these 4 essentials might you focus on to help build your life of generosity?
simplicity (focused on my needs) gratitude (receive everything as Gods generosity ) contentment (satisfied with essentials) generosity (actively giving more time/talent/treasure)
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-168585.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION QUESTIONS:1. Have you noticed what or who you spend your money on most easily? (Self, home, tech, kids, car, savings, etc) 2. Why do you think Jesus says that if youre enslaved to your money, it's impossible to serve God? 3. How have you been (or how could you start) relocating your time, talent or treasure into Gods church family? 4. Jesus forfeited his heavenly wealth to pursue rescue you (whom he treasures) and to make you eternally rich. Have you ever noticed that as you discover this eternal meaning value you become less addicted to the meaning value found on earth?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-168159.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION QUESTIONS:1. In view of His mercy, God expects true believers to surrender sacrifice their whole life to him as worship.
Why might some people say believe theyve given their whole self to the Lord to his Church, yet not literally in their personal finances?
- How might your generosity grow by rooting your trust in Gods ability to provide what you need?
- What might be your next step toward getting rich in generosity good works?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-167752.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION QUESTIONS: 1. Where or when have you learned about giving? 2. The apostle Paul says that church members should excel also in this gracious act of giving. (2 Corinthians 8:7)
How do feel about learning to become an excellent eager giver?
- How might it help you become more generous by focusing on how spiritually rich Jesus has made you? (2 Corinthians 8:9)
- Which of these giving attributes needs more excelling in your generosity?
sacrificially willingly proportionately expectantly cheerfully
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-167280.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION QUESTIONS: 1. What do YOU think of this paradox?
It is because Jesus experienced cosmic thirst on the cross that you and I can have our spiritual thirst satisfied. ~ Timothy Keller
- Jesus is saying : if Im not the one thing you live for, your other one thing will fail enslave you. Have you or anyone you know ever experienced any of the following outcomes:
Everybody has got to live for something Whatever that thing is, you will tell yourself that you have to have it or there is no tomorrow. That means that if anything threatens it, you will become inordinately scared; if anyone blocks it, you will become inordinately angry; and if you fail to achieve it, you will never be able to forgive yourself. If you do achieve it, it will fail to deliver the fulfillment you expected.
- Which of these might be your best next step to respond to this story ?
Reflect why did losing what I love hurt so much? Refocus what / who do I really need? Repent is it time to turn around make Jesus my one thing
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-166855.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION QUESTIONS:1. Jesus deliberately crosses all the barriers to initiate a conversation with the Samaritan woman. Can you think of any modern day equivalents to help us understand how much this meant to a woman like this? 2. Are there any ways this quote resonates with you?
And Jesus says, Unless youre worshipping me, unless Im the center of your life, unless youre trying to get your spiritual thirst quenched through me and not through these other things, unless you see that the solution must come inside rather than just pass by outside, then whatever you worship will abandon you in the end. ~ Timothy Keller
- Can you think of any specific routines or rhythms that have helped you hold your focus on what Jesus did why he did it in a way that turns your heart away from the things that enslave you toward him in worship.
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-166470.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION QUESTIONS:1. Are you comfortable hearing or using the phrase born again? a. Would you be willing to tell your own personal born again experience? 2. Why do you think Nicodemus might be shocked to learn from Jesus that he needed to be born again to join Gods kingdom?3. For you personally, which of these two versions of becoming your own savior lord are you present prone to struggle with? a. breaking moral boundaries to pursue personal happiness orb. building a moral reputation to earn acceptance 4. What is it about Jesus that youd want someone you care about to taste see?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-165932.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION QUESTIONS: 1. In this wedding party encounter, Jesus saves a family from a life altering humiliating social catastrophe. Can you think of any modern day equivalents to this potential social disaster? 2. Unlike anyone else, Jesus served their wedding party guests the best wine at the end. How might it help you face today's hardships by looking forward to the end; where Jesus brings out the best joy to enjoy for all eternity (marriage supper of the Lamb)? 3. How does it hit you to consider that God sees himself as your groom (not just your King), who proves his forgiveness to you with his lasting self-substituting love and desires a lifelong relationship with you?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-165637.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION QUESTIONS 1. Why do you think people in our modern society have contempt for Christianity? 2. Nathanael the skeptic openly declared his faith after discovering that Jesus had seen known him personally (Jn 1:49). Do you remember anything about why or what it was that compelled you to openly declare your faith in Jesus? 3. Can you think of anything about knowing growing in Jesus that's been greater than you thought it would be?
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION 1. Think about ways other people have discipled you and invested in your life. Are you able to share a story from your childhood or teen years about how a life-on-life relationship with an adult positively impacted you? a. Share why and How? b. How could you reproduce this by doing something similar for someone else? 2. Everyone has limits in what they are able to do to invest in our faith families. But when you think about the time\talents/tresure God has given you how might you use any of them to help impact the next generation in your church family?
Main Idea || Enjoying God will one day be our primary purpose, fully realized. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-164749.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Have you ever had an experience in creation that made you think more highly of the Creator? If so, describe it. 2. God made men and women in His image, and imprinted them with his creative Spirit. In what ways can the arts (music, film, painting, poetry etc...) help us know and enjoy God. 3. Has your work ever been something you either endure (does it even matter) or adore (find identity in)? What perspective shift might need to occur for you to enjoy God through work. 4. Jesus satisfied God's wrath, and the demands of the law (perfection) at the cross. Now we're invited into rest. How can both physical rest and spiritual rest help us enjoy God?
Main Idea || God has given us the church to help us enjoy him. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-164220.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION 1. When you think of the action words describing your relationship with God, do you ever think of the word enjoy? If not why? 2. Are there any ways you can think of that Gods love for you was seen enjoyed in the way someone loved you?
a. 1 John 4:1112 (NLT) But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us.
- Whats your most natural way of loving people?
- In what ways are you most satisfied gratified in God?
BIG IDEA || Jesus is the source of true joy. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-163840.html
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BIG IDEA || To redeem the people he loves, God made a plan and kept his promises. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-161722.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION Paused for the Summer
BIG IDEA || Jesus is our true & better Boaz who redeems helpless outsiders at full cost to himself. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-161468.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION Paused for the Summer
BIG IDEA || We can always rest because God never rests. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-160889.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION Paused for the Summer
BIG IDEA || Through the obedience of his people, God creates an attractive community of kindness. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-160513.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION Paused for the Summer
BIG IDEA || God rules over His hurting people even if His actions are normally hidden from them. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-160180.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. How did we see Gods hidden hand changing the circumstances of Naomi and Ruth? 2. What encouragement might this story give you for your present or upcoming life circumstances? 3. Who are the people God seems to be sending you to express his lovingkindness providence?
Main Idea || Jesus made us friends with God, so we can now live in joy instead of fear. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-159800.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. How would you describe your view of God before learning of his justification by grace? a. Cosmic Cop confronting your mistakes b. Vending Machine dispensing your desires c. Angry Judge condemning your past failure d. Mysterious Force communicating in the distance by hidden code e. Your Friend forgiving, receiving relating to you just as you are f. Other _______ ? 2. Where, other than God, are you tempted to seek or sustain your joy? a. What could you remind yourself about God in order to rejoice in him instead? 3. So how might you grow your friendship with God w/more focused time attention on Jesus justification? 4. Try to express to your group the joy this truth brings you :
a. Romans 5:21 (NLT): 21 So just as sin ruled over all people and brought them to death, now Gods wonderful grace rules instead, giving us right standing with God and resulting in eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Main Idea || The God who brought us into our new friendship with God will keep us going in our faith and ensure that we arrive in heaven with him. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-159248.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Was there ever a time when you doubted Gods love for you? If so, a. what were the circumstances around your doubt? b. have you overcome them? 2. As an assurance of Gods love for us, whats been more compelling for you your personal experience or Jesuss death? 3. Our joy surges when we see believe gospel truths. How might this one help you sustain your joy no matter what life brings you?
a. Romans 5:11 (NLT) So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God.
Main Idea || It is when we suffer that we discover what we are really trusting and hoping in: ourselves, or God. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-158983.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Consider a specific difficulty or hardship you have experienced as a Christian (it may be something you are experiencing right now). Were any of these true for you? a. It led you to focus, to single-mindedness. b. It led you to a deeper experience of Gods presence and love. c. It led you to a greater closeness, a sense of nearness. d. It helped you sift out the unimportant from the important. e. It helped focus your attention more on prayer and on what God has done for you. 2. Was there ever an area of suffering or disappointment in your life which you are seeing as punishment from God, instead of God working to bring you closer to him? 3. It is when we suffer that we discover what we are really trusting and hoping in: ourselves, or God. Why do you think that might help us more than our own uninterrupted affluence?
Main Idea || We can have peace with God because of what Jesus has done for us. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-158456.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Saving faith is a trust transfer the removing of ones hopes trust from other things to place them on God as Savior. Do you remember when how you first made that trust transfer? 2. Justification is not merely the removal of a negative (hostility)it has a positive aspect: relationship. This is friendship w/God. We can now go to God continually with our requests, problems, failures; and he hears us relates to us. How is that friendship developing in your life? 3. If Jesus took our rap sheet (guilt) and gave us his resume (righteousness), why might we still be so self-confident in our own righteousness or self-condemning of our own unrighteousness?
Main Idea || All new human employees employers will serve each other in the same manner attitude they would serve God. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-158126.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. This passage in Ephesians neither condones nor condemns the dehumanizing cultural system of slavery. Does that bother you? (Why or why not?) 2. We who belong to Jesus are to do our jobs with excellence and work with all our hearts with contrasting attitudes not as resentful people-pleasers, but as representatives of Jesus whos rewarded in a future heaven. Would you consider this instruction difficult to execute in your line of work? 3. Have you ever had an authority figure (employer?) who motivated you with sincere respect instead of making threats? What was that (or would be) like? 4. Of all of these descriptions of what our Jesus has done, whats your favorite? a. JESUS is our true better Master and King of all the Universe. He chose i. to become a slave to set humans free from spitritual slavery ii. to call his disciples a friend of God wash their smelly/dirty feetto iii. accept our best effort while overlooking our inadequacies iv. to demand our work of perfect obedience, knowing wed fail, and willingly do it himself in our place.How might this passage help you translate transform all the evil in this world thats damaging human lives?
12 For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.
Main Idea || Our new human identity is so deep thorough, it even transforms the way authorities exercise their power over subordinates and how subordinates respond to positional authority. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-157717.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. If youre a parent, whats the best advice youve received (or lesson youve learned) about parenting? 2. Can you think of a way that your own faith in Jesus has helped you parent more effectively? 3. In what way do you think genuine Christians should be a different employer or employee than non-Christians? 4. How might our Christian faith be on display more brightly by submitting to the rule of Jesus in our everyday homes and workplaces from Monday to Saturday than by our devotion to worship on Sunday?
Main Idea || Our marriage relationship is designed to shine as a bright & attractive reflection of Jesus humble self-giving love. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-157120.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. If youre married, do you remember why you got married or even what your expectations for marriage were? 2. Which of these seems more challenging for expressing love in a marriage: willingness to give up control or a willingness to give up ones own life? 3. How have you or someone you know struggled with the self-centeredness generated by prioritizing ones own individual happiness or woundedness? 4. Which of these Christian principles seems to stir in you the most Spirit-generated selflessness? a. Dont think less of yourself or more of yourself but think of yourself less. b. In Jesus your needs are being met so that you dont look at your spouse as your savior. c. Self-centeredness by its very character makes you blind to your own while being hypersensitive, offended, and angered by that of others. But the gospel, brought home to your heart by the Spirit, can make you happy enough to be humble. 5. Which of these 3 responses might be the best place for you to start seeing more transformation in your life or marriage? a. Seek humility. b. Seek forgiveness. c. Seek help.
Main Idea || Our marriage relationship is designed to shine as a bright & attractive reflection of Jesus humble self-giving love. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-157120.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. If youre married, do you remember why you got married or even what your expectations for marriage were? 2. Which of these seems more challenging for expressing love in a marriage: willingness to give up control or a willingness to give up ones own life? 3. How have you or someone you know struggled with the self-centeredness generated by prioritizing ones own individual happiness or woundedness? 4. Which of these Christian principles seems to stir in you the most Spirit-generated selflessness? a. Dont think less of yourself or more of yourself but think of yourself less. b. In Jesus your needs are being met so that you dont look at your spouse as your savior. c. Self-centeredness by its very character makes you blind to your own while being hypersensitive, offended, and angered by that of others. But the gospel, brought home to your heart by the Spirit, can make you happy enough to be humble. 5. Which of these 3 responses might be the best place for you to start seeing more transformation in your life or marriage? a. Seek humility. b. Seek forgiveness. c. Seek help.
Main Idea || Two ways the Gospel changes our perspective of motherhood. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-156800.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Was there ever a time you got caught up in trying to pursue perfection more than Jesus? 2. The Gospel says,
Jesus did what I could never doJ esus lived in perfect obedience to His Father every moment of every day Jesus completely paid for my past, present, and future sin with His death; He satisfied Gods wrath for my rebellion and sin Jesus is my substitute in life and death Through faith in Him, so
I am His daughter I belong to Him and He is at work transforming my life to reflect His character
After reading the above list of what the gospel says, think of your different roles/responsibilities. Can you think of any ways the Gospel has impacted the way you live out these roles/responsibilities? 3. God accepts us as we are but he doesn't leave us as we are. What aspect of Gods character (intimate, patient, forgiving) do you struggle to reflect? How could meditating on His character help you?
Main Idea || Gods new family counters the culture by adopting boundaries behaviors that protect them and promote His reputation. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-156455.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Instead of being known primarily for what they are against, Christians should be known for what they are for.
How does it make you feel when you see or encounter Chrsitians who imitate God well by their self-sacrificing love, thankful attitude or wise decisions?
- Which of these three areas might need more of your focus to help you shine more brightly and reflect Gods image more clearly?
self-sacrificing love thankful attitude wise decisions
- Can you relate to having either of these two experiences?
being full of and influenced by
i. the Spirit OR ii. alcohol (or something else)? 4. During Sunday worship services, what circumstances seem to help your singing overflow out of your love for Jesus?
Main Idea || God provides the power to exchange our old life for a new one. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-155915.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. What part of the message resonated with you? 2. If you have your own story of how the truth about Jesus transformed you from a former way of life into a new nature, would you be willing to share it? 3. Looking back over your spiritual journey, have you noticed any ways in which youve let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes? 4. Which of these 4 Gs means the most to you?
If I truly believe God is good, I dont have to look for my comfort in other things. If I truly believe God is great, I dont have to manipulate people or control circumstances. If I truly believe God is glorious, I dont have to fear others. If I truly believe God is gracious, I dont have to prove myself or pretend Im someone else.
Things Jesus Never Said Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-155627.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Why do you think people are afraid of death? 2. How does it make you feel when you think about God making you alive instead of giving you the wrath death you deserve? 3. Why might this statement change someones view of the Christian faith?
Jesuss resurrection doesnt help people change from bad to good, it helps dead people come alive.
- Whats your favorite part of the quote from Timothy Kellers Op-ed NYT Piece?
Main Idea || In light of Gods story, we now effort to maintain our unity, contribute our ministry and grow in our maturity. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-155002.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. In v2, Paul describes a life worthy of our calling as one of humility, gentleness, patience, and lovingkindness. a. Why do you think these attitudes are sometimes hard to maintain within the church, of all places? b. Why might you personally need Pauls reminder? 2. Jesuss purpose for gifting some believers to be church leaders is to equip the church members for working, building and maturing. a. How is this purpose different from other purposes of leadership you have encountered outside the church? b. In your opinion, why should leading Jesuss church be marked by a different kind of leadership? 3. Paul teaches us that the difference between a believer who is like a child (v. 14) and one who is growing up (v. 15) is discernment and Christlikeness. a. Is there anything youve found thats helped you grow in those two areas?
14 Then we will
no longer be immature like children. We wont be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth.
15 Instead, we will
speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.
Main Idea || There is only one love that is better than life, is enough to meet our needs, satisfy our longings, that will never let go of us: Gods love for us in Jesus. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-154698.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Whats the greatest misconception about love that youve come across? 2. While reading Ephesians 3:1421 aloud, notice the phrases Paul uses to pray. If you were to borrow one phrase from Pauls prayer to use in your own prayers, which would it be, and why? 3. Whats been your experience trying to grasp experience Jesuss love (described below)? a. wide enough to encompass all humanity (especially Jews Gentiles), b. long enough to last for eternity, c. deep enough to reach the most damaged sinner, and d. high enough to exalt us to heaven. 4. Do you think its rare for Christians to love people (both insiders outsiders) the way Jesus did? If so, why do you think that might be?
Main Idea || Through Jesus, all rejected outsiders have been reconciled & reinvented into a new family. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-154329.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Why do you think it is that despite all our social, medical, technological and scientific advances, our world hasnt moved any closer to unity. Even worse, it seems to be suffering from such extreme disunity? 2. READ ALOUD: Ephesians 2:13 (NLT)13 But now you have been united with Christ Jesus. Once you were far away from God, but now you have been brought near to him through the blood of Christ.
Before trusting Jesus were all excluded outsiders who are without hope and without God. Describe how it feels to be brought near with God through the work Hes done rather than through the work youre doing.
- God makes us one new people (v15). So reconciling with others from a different culture or race doesnt force us to renounce our distinctions. Instead, it forces our humble willingness to
Recognize our shared need for Jesus Reject our own exceptionalism beyond Jesus.
a. Explain in your own words what this means for you (or why its so important).What seems to make it difficult for you to reject resist self-supremacy self-righteousness?
Main Idea || We are made alive with Christ. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-153821.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Have you ever thought through what it means to be "alive with Christ?" If so,
how have you contextualized that? Physically? Spiritually?
- Being "alive with Christ" means our past is forgiven and our present is meaningful.
How could really believing that change the way you view your story and the new purpose God's given you?
- The Bible is full to the brim with garden imagery.
How might leaning into Spring (seeds, soil, sunlight, new growth) help us see a more complete picture of God's story? How might it help prepare you to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus in a few weeks?
- Being "alive with Christ" means our future is glorious.
When you think about your forever life, do you picture a renewed/restored earth? What "signposts" have you experienced that look/feel/smell/taste/sound "new-earthy?.
Main Idea || We grow as the Holy Spirit makes the truths of the gospel understandable to our minds and beautiful to our hearts. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-153355.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Look closely at Pauls prayer and identify what he asks God to do for the Ephesians.
How do his requests compare with prayer requests you typically hear among believers?
- What do you like best about what Paul asks God to do for the Ephesians?
- Why do you like it?We need both an experience of Jesus and a theology of Jesus.
Which do you have more of? How might you get more of the other, and how would that be good for you?
- How much do you think of eternal life in terms of quantity (living forever) instead of quality (knowing God)?
Main Idea || To be #blessed, theres nothing more we need than the gospel. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-153009.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Pastor Dan mentioned a few ways our culture seems to define blessed. What are some other ways you (or our culture) have defined #blessed? 2. Which of these gospel #blessings resonated with you most?
PAST BLESSING. EVERYDAY KINDNESS. FUTURE INHERITANCE. FOREVER WORSHIP.
- Its a constant battle to avoid distorting why these gospel blessings are coming to us according to Ephesians 1:3 :
3 every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ.
Whats your reaction to the implications of vv1:3 listed here:
They are coming to you because you are united with Jesus by your faith, not because you are living like Jesus by your faithfulness. They are not ending if or when were losing everything else, we will ALWAYS have the infinite never ending forever blessing of Jesus.
Main Idea || For our faith to be irresistible, we Christians must turn our faces outward and join Jesuss movement of loving people, places, and things back to life. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-152495.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. After all the advances in technology and research, what are we to make of a world that still seems more tired than energized, more hurting than whole, more sick than healthy, more life-sucking than life-giving, more divided than united, and more bent toward decline than toward progress? a. Do you agree with his assessment? Whats the answer? 2. In the Christian world view, a universal Christian job description is leaving people, places, and things better than they found them. a. Can you think of some ways weve succeeded or failed to do that? 3. What if Christians were known for their life-giving parties, generosity, insightful discourse, quality workers, thriving marriages, grace-giving communities and love for their enemies a. How might we be able to salt light the world with that reputation?
Main Idea || For our faith to be irresistible, we Christians need to operate with a sense of joy, purpose, and mission in our work. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-152133.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Do you feel that your work is meaningful? a. Can you think of anything your work has to do with your faith, and your faith has to do with your work? 2. Sauls reminds his church family that their daily work is just as much Gods work as is the work of missionaries and pastors that the sacred and the secular must never be seen as separate. a. In what ways do you see this reflected in your own work and in the work of those around you? 3. Christians should remember that the good work they do now will go on into eternity. a. When you reflect on this, whats your reaction?
Main Idea || For our faith to be irresistible, Christians must demonstrate active concern for our least of these neighbors an inseparable aspect of a true faith. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-151668.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. The early Christians who shared their homes, their tables, their time, and their material wealth liberally, in such a way that no one claimed his possessions were his own. a. What do we have to learn from these Christians in Acts? b. What could that look like today? 2. Some factors that might hold us back from unexplainable, eager generosity, including feeling overwhelmed, wanting to avoid the messiness of things like homelessness and mental illness, politics, etc. a. How have you seen these factors at play in your own life and in your community? 3. Many people build their lives on a religious behaviors and sound doctrine but lack an essential sign of Gods transformation loving their neighbors and those Jesus called the least of these. Reflect upon this in your own life and the life of your church community. a. Are there any changes you could make?
Main Idea || For our faith to be irresistible, we must be confident convinced that the story is true.
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-151279.html
Oftentimes it seems people distance themselves from the claims of Christ for reasons that seem less intellectual and more emotional. Do you agree? Why or why not? In the encounter between Mary Magdalene and the angel at the empty tomb, the angel (according to the gospel of Mark) tells Mary and the other women with her to go tell the disciples and Peter that Jesus is going to Galilee. Author Scott Sauls says he believes that the words and Peter are two of the most hopeful words ever spoken. Do you also find this hopeful? What if the flaws failure of Christians, in the end, is the thing that makes the Christian movement irresistible to billions of souls all over the world?
a. Is it? Why? b. If we believe this, how could we do a better job of sharing that with others?
Main Idea || Cultivation of our irresistible faith requires from us a level of humility that invites others to resist us whenever we get out of step with the gospel.
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-150622.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Author Scott Sauls states that most of us dont value confrontational truth-telling. Why do you think thats true? 2. Sometimes we avoid confrontation because were afraid of negative reactions, being hypocritical or being judged. Which of those might keep you from practicing loving confrontation in your life? 3. Author Scott Sauls says that encouraging words that build up and corrective words that steer away from sin are both essential. When we willingly do both of these, our relationships, families and church communities become stronger and more irresistible. Can you think of an important relationship in your life that has a balance between the two? 4. If you can answer this and in your experience, in what way(s) has Jesus carefully corrected you with a scalpel instead of a sword?
Main Idea || Christians use words that put courage back into each others souls.
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-150381.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Often the surface appearance of our lives presents a more connected, relationally full, emotionally satisfying picture than the reality of our lives.
How is this true in your life? Do you see any way social media and technology contribute to this?
- Is there any way youve ever been intentional about nurturing healthy relationships and fighting loneliness in your life?
- We all can be chameleons, changing to conform to different social situations and to protect ourselves.
How or when does your human chameleon show up? What have been the consequences in your life?
- If we all chose kindness over criticism and giving one another the benefit of the doubt over assuming the worst, what kind of difference do you think this would make?
- Affirming encouraging words turn down the volume on shame and turn up the volume on grace and put courage back into my soul.
If youd be willing to practice speaking the truth in love now with your group, lets take turns offering a word of
i. encouragement, or ii. appreciation or iii. affirmation.
Main Idea || Only fools focus on gathering earthly treasure at the cost of growing rich in God. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-149968.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Have you ever struggled with setting your mind fixing your heart on things above and not on earth? 2. How do you find a balance between tending to the details of this present early life and fixating on God?
If youre willing to talk transparently, do you have any unhealthy fixations in your life that cause your attention to stray from Christ?
- Author Scout Sauls writes, Possessing what the world has to offer only becomes problematic when possessing what the world has to offer starts to possess you.
How do you find a balance between pursuing and enjoying success in the worlds eyes and preventing it from becoming your Precious?
- What is it about Jesus that causes you to cherish him as your true and only treasure?
Main Idea || To become more like Jesus, invest in being with Jesus more. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-149691.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Do you sometimes struggle with the Bible? How? 2. Whatever we may think about the Bible, we simply cannot separate life in Christ from a life in which Scripture dominates our thoughts, beliefs, words, and actions. Fulfilling our calling to love and enjoy God with everything we are and to love our neighbor as ourselves that is, becoming irresistible stands or falls on whether or not we become people of the Book. ~ Scott Sauls
How have you (or might you) overcome your struggles or challenges with the Bible to become a person of the book?
- Being with Jesus through the Scripture is how the Holy Spirit empowers us
to understand him, to enjoy him, to desire him.
Have you ever felt empowered for any of these? (understand him, enjoy him, desire him)
Main Idea || Becoming the kind of christian the world can't resist starts from the only place that we have any chance of growing into the version of disciple Jesus desires: humility.
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-149230.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. In our culture, the word Christian can evoke as many negative reactions as positive ones. a. Have you faced any negative reactions to Christianity? b. How did it make you feel, and how did you respond? 2. Author Scott Sauls writes, We are meant to be neither holier-than-thou enemies of the culture on the one hand, nor lawless and avaricious products of the culture on the other. Instead, we are to become culture-shapers for the good and flourishing of all. a. In your opinion, whats the difference between being enemies of culture, products of culture, and sweet perfume culture-shapers? 3. Scott Sauls also describes a vision for Irresistible Faith. After reading through these images tell the group about your gut reaction: a. What would it look like for Christians to become the
first place people go for comfort when
a life-altering diagnosis comes, when anxiety and depression hit, when a child goes astray, when a spouse files for divorce, or when a breadwinner loses a job?
a woman with a crisis pregnancy to see the local church, not the local clinic, as her trustworthy source for love, non-judgment, practical support, wise counsel, and much-needed encouragement? the local church to become the most diverse and welcomingrather than the most homogeneous and inhospitablecommunity on earth? not only the best kind of friends, but the best kind of enemies, returning insults with kindness and persecution with prayers? the ones who, en masse, to start loving and following the whole Jesus and the whole Scripture, the whole time, into the whole world?
- Pastor Dan suggested To be like Jesus, invest yourself in being with Jesus.
What does (or might) investing yourself into being with Jesus look like for you?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-148894.html
Main Idea || Live like youre the only good news someone gets. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-148429.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Do you know anyone who deconverted from Christianity? a. What reason(s) did they give? b. Have you been tempted to give up on faith because of an encounter with a person of faith? 2. (Read Philippians 2:18) Have you ever met a Christian whose approach to relationships reflects Pauls instructions in these verses? 3. Is anyone gathering with you for Christmas who needs to see and experience the good news through you? a. Is there one unexpected thing you could do for that person that would cause your light to shine a little brighter than expected?
Main Idea || Its good news because were not all that good. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-148044.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Growing up, when you heard the term sin, what came to mind? 2. Did Billy Grahams response to his daughter mirror the way you were taught God views and responds to sinners? 3. When (if ever) did it first strike you that you needed a Savior? 4. What part(s) of this verse have come alive to you? Why?
24Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins.
Main Idea || If its not good news, you may have the wrong version of Christianity. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-147631.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Youve likely never felt compelled to document the life of someone you knew personally. What does the fact that Luke and others documented the life of Jesus imply to you? 2. Some people have struggled with Jesus. Has anything about Jesus or his teaching ever struck you as less than good news? a. If so, what? Why? 3. In what ways... a. has the church made the good news not so good? b. have you made the good news not so good? c. has the good news become good for you?
MAIN IDEA || Gospel transformation takes place way deep down in our hearts where we express our worship. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-147296.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: READ PSALM 145 ALOUD 1. What is one distraction I can remove from my life which could help me see Jesus more clearly? 2. Are there any idols I might be worshipping that are preventing me from fully worshipping Jesus? 3. What daily habit can I create which will help remind me of the beauty of the Gospel?
MAIN IDEA || God's people find the comfort they need in both knowing him and being known by him. Fil-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-146901.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION:1. Feeling alone while were hurting is fairly common. a. How might it help someone to discover that God has an infinite knowledge of every intimate detail of their being.b. How could you remind yourself daily that you are living within the literal presence of God (even while hurting)? 2. Can you think of any reasons that help us understand why we might resist praying a prayer like this?
Psalm 139:23-24 NLT23 Search me, O God, and know my heart;test me and know my anxious thoughts.24 Point out anything in me that offends you,and lead me along the path of everlasting life.
- Jesuss robes of righteousness allows us to open ourselves afresh to the God who searches and knows us, that he may again search and know us. a. Are you willing to share any offensive way that youve ever asked God (past or present) to remove from your heart, your mind or your life?
MAIN IDEA || God alone is working as the source of our everyday peace, joy and prosperity so we can flourish rest by applying his wisdom. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-146590.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Psalms (122,126-128) inspire us to express our worship and apply Gods wisdom as an everyday life routine. Why do you think thats such a challenge for us to live this every day? 2. After carefully considering this Psalm, can you think of how it might change the way you worked or rested if you trusted more deeply that God is always at work building all the good things you need?
Psalm 1271 Unless the Lord builds a house, the work of the builders is wasted. Unless the Lord protects a city, guarding it with sentries will do no good. 2 It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones.
- According to the Psalmist (128), joyful prosperous people are those who fear the Lord follow His ways. Are there any examples youve experienced where rebelling against God or living selfishly has undermined someones joy or prosperity?
MAIN IDEA || God provides wisdom to help us rest with contentment even when unbelievers unfairly seem to get along get ahead in the world. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-146143.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Is your faith in God ever shaken by injustices? 2. Does any part of the psalmists description of that feeling resonate with you?
Psalm 73:1-2 [ NLT ]A psalm of Asaph. 1 Truly God is good to Israel, to those whose hearts are pure. 2 But as for me, I almost lost my footing. My feet were slipping, and I was almost gone.
- Do you ever see reasons for discouragement in Gods church?
- How does the psalm help you or strengthen your faith or answer your questions?
MAIN IDEA || Since God has anointed and appointed a beautiful king to bring his justice & joy to all people, you should abandon all other loves to adore Him alone. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-145875.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. READ Psalm 45:2-9 (NLT)
Does the description of the bridegroom in verses 2-9 fit the way you tend to picture Jesus? Why or why not?
- READ 1 John 2:1517 (NLT)
15 Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. 16 For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. 17 And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.
What have you left behind, or what might you need to leave behind, to become part of the bride of Christ?
- How has (or might) the Book of Psalms inform or change your own prayers?
Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-145425.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. What you do always flows out of who you are. What might daily life look like when we are flowing from our new identity in one of these four ways (pick one): a. We are children of God who live and care for each other as a family. b. We are sent by God as missionaries to restore all things to himself. c. We are servants of God who serve others as a way of life. d. We are disciples of Jesus who take responsibility for our own development and the development of others. 2. Which of the aspects of our new identity do you feel most comfortable in? Why? 3. Which of the aspects of our new identity do you need the most growth in? Why?
MAIN IDEA || When God feels distant, the reading and rejoicing in the Psalms are a practical way in which he makes himself near to us. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-145066.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. If there was ever any phase of your spiritual life where you felt dry, distant, discouraged or depressed; what did that feel like? 2. Whats your favorite part of this passage ? Whys that?
Romans 8:3139 (NLT) 31 What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us? 32 Since he did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, wont he also give us everything else? 33 Who dares accuse us whom God has chosen for his own? No onefor God himself has given us right standing with himself. 34 Who then will condemn us? No onefor Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and he is sitting in the place of honor at Gods right hand, pleading for us. 35 Can anything ever separate us from Christs love? Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death?
- If you routinely added an everyday reading to stir up your spiritual affection and a sense of Gods nearness, do any of these uses of the Psalms seem useful to you?
Express yourself. Remember rehearse Gods favor faithful salvation. Talk to yourself tell yourself the truth.
MAIN IDEA || While youre in trouble, you can entrust yourself to Gods unfailing love faithfulness as Jesus did. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-144621.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. If youve ever felt like you were in big trouble, where did (do) you instinctively turn for help? 2. Why do you think God cares so much about replacing our heartless sacrifices with our joyful obedience? 3. Its recorded by eyewitnesses that while being crucified and just as he was dying, Jesus raised his voice and shouted this prayer from Psalm 31:5 ,
...Father, I entrust my spirit into your hands! (Luke 23:46 NLT).
Based on the timing, words and source of his prayer, what are some things we might learn from Jesus about prayer?
MAIN IDEA || The Book of Psalms has been designed as a prayer & song book for Gods people as they wait for the arrival of the Messiah and the fulfillment of Gods promises. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-144311.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. So many Christians have a favorite Psalm. Is there any that you can identify or that are special to you in some way? 2. The Psalms have the power to resonate with our deepest human emotions. But God intends to do even more through them. See if you can talk through and grasp this idea together:
It is not so much that the Psalms resonate with us as that they shape us so that we most deeply resonate with the God-given yearnings they so movingly express.
- Psalms 2 expresses that submission to Jesus brings us joy and rebellion against him ends in destruction. Why do you think it might be so hard for people to believe and submit to Jesus?
12 Submit to Gods royal son, or he will become angry, and you will be destroyed in the midst of all your activities for his anger flares up in an instant. But what joy for all who take refuge in him!
Hear from Kid Ministry Director, Amy Jennings, and Student Ministry Director, Jim Dewolf as they speak about how to love and care for our kids and students. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-143828.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Do you remember someone from your family (or faith family) who helped disciple you? What did they do that helped you learn about grow in Jesus. 2. Read1 Thessalonians 2:8-12 together. Pick out a portion you like and explain why it resonates with you. 3. If you have ever made a disciple (not only a child or teenager), whichS.T. E. P. S.have you done or could you start doing? S:Storiesfrom the Bible. Read them. Tell them. Repeat.T:Talkabout apply your faith w/ passion sincerity in real life situations.E: Be anexample. Embody who you want them to be. Expect more from yourself than you do from them.P:Prayover with them (especially your children) routinely.
MAIN MYTH || I can find true satisfaction in this world apart from God. Fill-In Notes: https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/39900/note-143443.html
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Where have you noticed people most commonly looking for satisfaction? 2. Where have you seen the results of this failure to find IT showing up in peoples lives a in the following ways?
Perpetually Frantic (looking for better but finding exhaustion) Perpetually Angry (looking for freedom by becoming activists) Perpetually Self-Hating (blaming self for failing to find IT) Deeply Cynical (repressing the thirst and becoming bitter)
- How does knowing God, through Christ, change the way we pursue satisfaction in this world?
What are some specific examples of this from your life in this?
- How can we love and lead the people we know who are trying to find IT, apart from God?