INTERACTING WITH THE SERMON
SYNOPSIS OF THE SERMON
John Cook opened the sermon with a childhood story highlighting the significance of “home field advantage”. He related that illustration with the present circumstances in which Christians now find themselves – we’re living as citizens of another kingdom (the Kingdom of God) yet our enemy, Satan, still retains a degree of power in this age. John also warned that we don’t want to fall into two extreme camps; the first is one of ignorance and avoidance of spiritual matters, the second is one of unhealthy interest and obsession of the enemy and his “schemes”. We want to be somewhere in the middle, aware there is a battle but dependent on Jesus’ power to rescue and deliver. So therefore, lesson #1 is “be on the alert”. We can become distracted and unaware of the battle raging around us (1 Peter 5.8). John said there are three things that can distract us. First, we are distracted by the mundane (Matthew 6.25, 31-33). Second, we are distracted by spiritual lethargy (Proverbs 6.9-11, 15). Finally, we are distracted by over-stimulation (Psalm 27.4-6a). Lesson #2 is “resist the devil” as he seeks to devour you (1 Peter 5.8-9). The verb for devour means “swallow whole”, which makes one think of a drastic and aggressive encounter. While we don't want to live in fear we need to understand that there is a battle for our minds, for our appetites, and for our emotions. John’s 3rd lesson in spiritual warfare is that “God will make you immovable” because God, not the devil, is all-powerful (1 Peter 5.10-11). God may do it after you have suffered a little while but he always works by grace – only by grace. In the Epilogue, John refers to 3 passages about our longing and hope for God’s redemption; 1 Peter 5.13, Psalm 137.1-4, Psalm 126.1-3.
No Sermon Study this week
Suggestions for small group discussion and teaching: Use one of the texts and prepared questions on the back of the sermon outlines available below:
November 27, 2011
November 20, 2011
Being a Healthy Church (in a World Crying Out For Leadership)
Click here to download the Study Guide in PDF
Click here to download the Study Guide in WORD
INTERACTING WITH THE SERMON
SYNOPSIS OF THE SERMON
In this weekends sermon Rich continued in his series from 1 Peter. He taught about some of the things that make for a good Christian leader. We desire good leadership because we live in a world that is constantly faced with adversity, continuous change and leaders who often lose the faith of their followers. One of the most important gifts that Christians can offer to the world is a healthy functioning church with good leadership. So what are the qualities that make a good pastor? A pastor should have the heart of a shepard, someone who has a sincere intimate and loving concern for God’s people. A pastor should also be a watchman, someone who is concerned about the moral, spiritual and social currents that could sweep the people of Jesus away. Finally, a pastor should be an example to those he or she is overseeing, someone that followers can look to as an example for how to live a life of obedience to the Lord. Christian leaders also should have the right motivations for there position. A Christian leader should never feel compelled to lead others, but they should want to lead others. Pastoring is not a career but a deep calling. And Pastors should not be seeking control but they should be people who are willing to sacrifice and pay the price for leadership.
In 5 minutes or less, briefly give a synopsis of this week’s sermon. What insight, principle, or observation from this weekend’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.
GETTING THE CONVERSATION STARTED
These questions can be used as ice-breakers in the beginning OR interwoven between the questions below to draw the group into the discussion.
•What were one or two things that resonated with you about this weekends sermon?
•Share about one person in your life who really modeled the Christian life well?
SCRIPTURE STUDY
Read 1 Timothy 3: 1-13:
1 Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task. 2 Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, 3 not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. 4 He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect. 5 (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?) 6 He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil. 7 He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s trap.
8 In the same way, deacons are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. 9 They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.
11 In the same way, the women are to be worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything.
12 A deacon must be faithful to his wife and must manage his children and his household well. 13 Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.
•V. 1 Paul says that to be a Christian leader is a noble task. Do you ever feel like you are underestimating the influence you have as an ambassador of Christ? What can happen when we forget about this “noble task?” What are some ways we can stay focused on this?
•Read through this passage and list all of the qualities that Paul says should be the qualities of a good leader. Which one or two are the most difficult to uphold today and why?
•Do you agree that everyone in Christian leadership should possess these qualities? What do you think would result from a leader who lack’s these qualities? Do you think that Paul sets to high a bar here?
•Think of one leader in your life, past or present who had these qualities and one who did not? What kind of influence did they have on your life? What about them had a positive or negative influence?
•V. 5 Why would good management of family be required for overseers? In his sermon, Rich describes pastors as people who bring there entire lives to bear and can not live compartmentalized lives. How did you react to his statements about this? Do you allow your whole self to be seen by those around you or do you feel your life is compartmentalized?
•Many of us struggle with having lives that are in some way compartmentalized. What are some practical ways we can “de-compartmentalize” our lives?
•V. 7 Paul mentions that it is important for overseers to have a good reputation with outsiders. Why is it important to have a life that is respected not just by Christians, but by those outside the Church? In this series we have been talking about many of the things that make us Resident Aliens (remaining distinct and set apart from many of the forces of our culture). But what is the line between being set apart but still maintaining a good reputation and having a positive influence on the wider culture?
•V. 13 What does Paul say happens to those who serve well? How does this verse relate to the motivations of a leader that Rich talks about in his sermon? Think of some times when you were in leadership. What were your motivations?
•Motivation can be a real balancing act when it comes to positions of leadership. The line between having Godly ambition and worldly ambition is not always so clear to us. How have you been able to continue to seek the favor of the Lord instead of the favor of other people?
MINISTRY APPLICATION
•Pray for those who feel a sense of calling into Christian leadership.
•Pray that the attributes laid out in Rich’s sermon and in 1 Timothy would be strengthened in your church’s pastors and leaders and ask Jesus to protect them from the schemes of the enemy.
Click here to download the Study Guide in WORD
INTERACTING WITH THE SERMON
SYNOPSIS OF THE SERMON
In this weekends sermon Rich continued in his series from 1 Peter. He taught about some of the things that make for a good Christian leader. We desire good leadership because we live in a world that is constantly faced with adversity, continuous change and leaders who often lose the faith of their followers. One of the most important gifts that Christians can offer to the world is a healthy functioning church with good leadership. So what are the qualities that make a good pastor? A pastor should have the heart of a shepard, someone who has a sincere intimate and loving concern for God’s people. A pastor should also be a watchman, someone who is concerned about the moral, spiritual and social currents that could sweep the people of Jesus away. Finally, a pastor should be an example to those he or she is overseeing, someone that followers can look to as an example for how to live a life of obedience to the Lord. Christian leaders also should have the right motivations for there position. A Christian leader should never feel compelled to lead others, but they should want to lead others. Pastoring is not a career but a deep calling. And Pastors should not be seeking control but they should be people who are willing to sacrifice and pay the price for leadership.
In 5 minutes or less, briefly give a synopsis of this week’s sermon. What insight, principle, or observation from this weekend’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.
GETTING THE CONVERSATION STARTED
These questions can be used as ice-breakers in the beginning OR interwoven between the questions below to draw the group into the discussion.
•What were one or two things that resonated with you about this weekends sermon?
•Share about one person in your life who really modeled the Christian life well?
SCRIPTURE STUDY
Read 1 Timothy 3: 1-13:
1 Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task. 2 Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, 3 not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. 4 He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect. 5 (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?) 6 He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil. 7 He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s trap.
8 In the same way, deacons are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. 9 They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.
11 In the same way, the women are to be worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything.
12 A deacon must be faithful to his wife and must manage his children and his household well. 13 Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.
•V. 1 Paul says that to be a Christian leader is a noble task. Do you ever feel like you are underestimating the influence you have as an ambassador of Christ? What can happen when we forget about this “noble task?” What are some ways we can stay focused on this?
•Read through this passage and list all of the qualities that Paul says should be the qualities of a good leader. Which one or two are the most difficult to uphold today and why?
•Do you agree that everyone in Christian leadership should possess these qualities? What do you think would result from a leader who lack’s these qualities? Do you think that Paul sets to high a bar here?
•Think of one leader in your life, past or present who had these qualities and one who did not? What kind of influence did they have on your life? What about them had a positive or negative influence?
•V. 5 Why would good management of family be required for overseers? In his sermon, Rich describes pastors as people who bring there entire lives to bear and can not live compartmentalized lives. How did you react to his statements about this? Do you allow your whole self to be seen by those around you or do you feel your life is compartmentalized?
•Many of us struggle with having lives that are in some way compartmentalized. What are some practical ways we can “de-compartmentalize” our lives?
•V. 7 Paul mentions that it is important for overseers to have a good reputation with outsiders. Why is it important to have a life that is respected not just by Christians, but by those outside the Church? In this series we have been talking about many of the things that make us Resident Aliens (remaining distinct and set apart from many of the forces of our culture). But what is the line between being set apart but still maintaining a good reputation and having a positive influence on the wider culture?
•V. 13 What does Paul say happens to those who serve well? How does this verse relate to the motivations of a leader that Rich talks about in his sermon? Think of some times when you were in leadership. What were your motivations?
•Motivation can be a real balancing act when it comes to positions of leadership. The line between having Godly ambition and worldly ambition is not always so clear to us. How have you been able to continue to seek the favor of the Lord instead of the favor of other people?
MINISTRY APPLICATION
Below you’ll see some options for ministry time with your group. We always encourage you to reserve time in your group to pray for one another and wait on the Holy Spirit.
•Pray for those who feel a sense of calling into Christian leadership.
•Pray that the attributes laid out in Rich’s sermon and in 1 Timothy would be strengthened in your church’s pastors and leaders and ask Jesus to protect them from the schemes of the enemy.
November 13, 2011
Living as Joy-Filled People (in a World Marked by Trials)(1 Peter 4.12-19)
Click here to download the Study Guide in PDF
Click here to download the Study Guide in WORD
INTERACTING WITH THE SERMON
SYNOPSIS OF THE SERMON
If asked the question “what do you think of when you think of average church-goers”, would joyful be at the top of the list? Pastor Rich read many verses that remind and command Christians to have joy, and to rejoice. Yet, when we often think about Jesus we forget that Jesus was fully “human” as well as fully divine. In fact, not many somber religious-types were attracted to Jesus but rather children, fisherman (blue-collar workers), farmers, and non-religious types. As followers of Jesus, let’s not lose this very human quality of joy, but possess it to the degree Christ and scripture command.
Peter reminds his hears in vs. 12 “don’t be surprised…[by trials]…as if something strange were happening”, and Pastor Rich began by speaking to our expectations. First, what do we expect from the world regarding our faith? The Doctrine of Total Depravity essentially says “every part of humanity has been stained by sin”. We will face opposition, even persecutions, when we align our lives with Jesus and His standards. Second, Rich asks, what do we expect personally? Our relationships may be strained because of saving faith in Jesus. Lastly, Rich asks, what do you expect as resident aliens? We will constantly face “a rub” (morally, materialistically, sexually, and ethically) with our present American culture when we genuinely live as followers of Jesus.
So why should we rejoice? Remember that joy does not equal happiness. “Hap” is the root of happiness and it means “good fortune or luck”, similar to happenstance. Joy can be present, no matter what happens. Pastor Rich said we can rejoice because we participate in Christ’s sufferings. Another way of saying it is we partake in “fellowship of His sufferings” (Philippians). This practically means that through our active choice to yield and give away, ourselves as a sacrifice to Christ we connect to Christ in a new and profound way. We can also rejoice because we will see His Glory revealed – suffering is not the last word, in Christ or for us. Finally, we can rejoice because God is with us (v. 14). In the Kingdom of God, we can experience parts of Heaven, here and now through the Holy Spirit.
In 5 minutes or less, briefly give a synopsis of this week’s sermon. What insight, principle, or observation from this weekend’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.
GETTING THE CONVERSATION STARTED
These questions can be used as ice-breakers in the beginning OR interwoven between the questions below to draw the group into the discussion.
• What are one or two things from this weekend’s sermon that really stood out to you?
• Can you name someone close to you who is an example of joyfulness in the midst of suffering or trials? How did they do it? Please share briefly.
• Is being joyful something you think is important? Why or why not.
SCRIPTURE STUDY
Read Philippians 4:4-9:
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Context: Remember that Paul is writing from prison. Read Chapter 3, especially 7-12.
• What should we always do (v. 4 is a highlight of Paul’s letter – cf 1:4, 1:18, 2:17,18, 3:1)? Is this a suggestion or an imperative? In what do we rejoice, our circumstances? What does that mean? What are some ways you could rejoice in the Lord always, even while in crisis?
• What should be evident to all (v. 5)? Why (v. 5)? What’s the opposite of gentleness (what do other versions say?)? Some versions say forbearance – how does joy relate to forbearance?
• Instead of being anxious, what should we do (v. 6 - cf. Matt 6:25-34)? What’s the antidote to worry? What’s your prayer life like when you’re in the midst of a trial, or experiencing pain? What may be missing from our petitions (a. thanksgiving)? Why would fostering a spirit of thankfulness, even amidst trials, be encouraged? What’s been your experience?
• Describe the peace of the Lord (v. 7). Understanding in Greek is the “thinking intellect and mind” – peace that passes all our own calculations and considerations – have you ever experienced that kind of peace? Please share briefly. How does your life prove the peace of God transcends all understanding?
• (v. 7b) From whom does this peace come? What does it protect us from – make it practical? In what realm will it work (a. “in” Christ Jesus)? Apart from Him there is no guarantee of peace – how do you live, day in and day out, in Christ so as not to become unplugged from His peace? Please share briefly.
• What are the things we should think about (v. 8)? Why does right thinking, make any difference whatsoever? What’s a practical list of things that fulfills the requirements of this admonition, what practical things might be excluded based on the requirements of this admonition? How do your thoughts get in the way of your ability to experience joy?
• Not only does Paul want us to think and ponder certain things, but what else (v. 9)? Why (v. 9)?
• Why do you think Paul describes two different ways to experience the peace of God?
MINISTRY APPLICATION
• Which of Paul’s exhortations is most-needed in your life? Why? Ask Jesus for guidance and strength to embody this change.
• Are there places where you have only experienced your “own understanding” of how life works, absent of the peace of God which transcends understanding? Share with one or two others and ask the Holy Spirit to move your heart and mind.
• How does your group demonstrate joyfulness together? Think of one or two things you can do together to share this vital aspect of the Christian life.
• If you are feeling oppressed by your own thoughts, or feel disconnected from the peace of God, read and pray through 2 Corinthians 10:5. Talk with another group member and invite God to break in.
Click here to download the Study Guide in WORD
INTERACTING WITH THE SERMON
SYNOPSIS OF THE SERMON
If asked the question “what do you think of when you think of average church-goers”, would joyful be at the top of the list? Pastor Rich read many verses that remind and command Christians to have joy, and to rejoice. Yet, when we often think about Jesus we forget that Jesus was fully “human” as well as fully divine. In fact, not many somber religious-types were attracted to Jesus but rather children, fisherman (blue-collar workers), farmers, and non-religious types. As followers of Jesus, let’s not lose this very human quality of joy, but possess it to the degree Christ and scripture command.
Peter reminds his hears in vs. 12 “don’t be surprised…[by trials]…as if something strange were happening”, and Pastor Rich began by speaking to our expectations. First, what do we expect from the world regarding our faith? The Doctrine of Total Depravity essentially says “every part of humanity has been stained by sin”. We will face opposition, even persecutions, when we align our lives with Jesus and His standards. Second, Rich asks, what do we expect personally? Our relationships may be strained because of saving faith in Jesus. Lastly, Rich asks, what do you expect as resident aliens? We will constantly face “a rub” (morally, materialistically, sexually, and ethically) with our present American culture when we genuinely live as followers of Jesus.
So why should we rejoice? Remember that joy does not equal happiness. “Hap” is the root of happiness and it means “good fortune or luck”, similar to happenstance. Joy can be present, no matter what happens. Pastor Rich said we can rejoice because we participate in Christ’s sufferings. Another way of saying it is we partake in “fellowship of His sufferings” (Philippians). This practically means that through our active choice to yield and give away, ourselves as a sacrifice to Christ we connect to Christ in a new and profound way. We can also rejoice because we will see His Glory revealed – suffering is not the last word, in Christ or for us. Finally, we can rejoice because God is with us (v. 14). In the Kingdom of God, we can experience parts of Heaven, here and now through the Holy Spirit.
In 5 minutes or less, briefly give a synopsis of this week’s sermon. What insight, principle, or observation from this weekend’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.
GETTING THE CONVERSATION STARTED
These questions can be used as ice-breakers in the beginning OR interwoven between the questions below to draw the group into the discussion.
• What are one or two things from this weekend’s sermon that really stood out to you?
• Can you name someone close to you who is an example of joyfulness in the midst of suffering or trials? How did they do it? Please share briefly.
• Is being joyful something you think is important? Why or why not.
SCRIPTURE STUDY
Read Philippians 4:4-9:
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Context: Remember that Paul is writing from prison. Read Chapter 3, especially 7-12.
• What should we always do (v. 4 is a highlight of Paul’s letter – cf 1:4, 1:18, 2:17,18, 3:1)? Is this a suggestion or an imperative? In what do we rejoice, our circumstances? What does that mean? What are some ways you could rejoice in the Lord always, even while in crisis?
• What should be evident to all (v. 5)? Why (v. 5)? What’s the opposite of gentleness (what do other versions say?)? Some versions say forbearance – how does joy relate to forbearance?
• Instead of being anxious, what should we do (v. 6 - cf. Matt 6:25-34)? What’s the antidote to worry? What’s your prayer life like when you’re in the midst of a trial, or experiencing pain? What may be missing from our petitions (a. thanksgiving)? Why would fostering a spirit of thankfulness, even amidst trials, be encouraged? What’s been your experience?
• Describe the peace of the Lord (v. 7). Understanding in Greek is the “thinking intellect and mind” – peace that passes all our own calculations and considerations – have you ever experienced that kind of peace? Please share briefly. How does your life prove the peace of God transcends all understanding?
• (v. 7b) From whom does this peace come? What does it protect us from – make it practical? In what realm will it work (a. “in” Christ Jesus)? Apart from Him there is no guarantee of peace – how do you live, day in and day out, in Christ so as not to become unplugged from His peace? Please share briefly.
• What are the things we should think about (v. 8)? Why does right thinking, make any difference whatsoever? What’s a practical list of things that fulfills the requirements of this admonition, what practical things might be excluded based on the requirements of this admonition? How do your thoughts get in the way of your ability to experience joy?
• Not only does Paul want us to think and ponder certain things, but what else (v. 9)? Why (v. 9)?
• Why do you think Paul describes two different ways to experience the peace of God?
MINISTRY APPLICATION
Below you’ll see some options for ministry time with your group. We always encourage you to reserve time in your group to pray for one another and wait on the Holy Spirit.
• Which of Paul’s exhortations is most-needed in your life? Why? Ask Jesus for guidance and strength to embody this change.
• Are there places where you have only experienced your “own understanding” of how life works, absent of the peace of God which transcends understanding? Share with one or two others and ask the Holy Spirit to move your heart and mind.
• How does your group demonstrate joyfulness together? Think of one or two things you can do together to share this vital aspect of the Christian life.
• If you are feeling oppressed by your own thoughts, or feel disconnected from the peace of God, read and pray through 2 Corinthians 10:5. Talk with another group member and invite God to break in.
November 6, 2011
Living as Others-Centered People in a Me-Centered World (1 Peter 4:8-11)
Click here to download the Study Guide in PDF
Click here to download the Study Guide in WORD
INTERACTING WITH THE SERMON
SYNOPSIS OF THE SERMON
In his message this weekend, Insoo talks about the importance of being others-centered in a self-centered world. He begins by unpacking 3 ways the passage in 1 Peter 4 tells us we can live others-centered lives. The first thing we must do is love others deeply (v. 8). We must love others with a radical love like Hosea gave to his cheating wife. Loving others is especially important when we’ve been hurt or sinned against. Love allows us to be free from bitterness and hurt regarding others’ sins. The second thing we must do to be others-centered is offer hospitality to others. Hospitality was one of the great hallmarks of the early Christians, but many of us have lost sight of its importance. One way we can begin to offer hospitality is to share a meal with someone. Relationships are formed over meals and we may even be able to share our faith with someone because we have shared a meal with them. Thirdly, we must serve faithfully in order to live others-centered lives. We have all received gifts from God and it is essential that we use those gifts and talents to serve others. The only way that the body will function properly is if we are all using our gifts together for mutual benefit. Insoo taught us about serving others in really practical ways and gave several ideas for how we can serve one another. Everyone got a scratch off ticket (an idea from the Cincinnati Vineyard) with a really specific task to serve one person this week. Finally, Insoo taught that the reason we serve others is not to earn God’s love but to glorify God. We want people to praise and know Christ through our actions of service.
In 5 minutes or less, briefly give a synopsis of this week’s sermon. What insight, principle, or observation from this weekend’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.
GETTING THE CONVERSATION STARTED
These questions can be used as ice-breakers in the beginning OR interwoven between the questions below to draw the group into the discussion.
• What are one or two things from this weekend’s sermon that really stood out to you?
• Have you ever received incredible hospitality or service in your life? How did that affect you? Have you ever served someone else in a self-sacrificial way? How did that impact you?
SCRIPTURE STUDY
Read Matthew 25:31-46:
31 “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
34 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’
37 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’
41 “Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’
44 “They also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’
45 “He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’
46 “Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.”
• VV. 31-34 What is Christ claiming about himself in this passage? What is the role of the Son of Man in this passage? (This is the only passage in scripture where Jesus speaks of the Son of Man as a King.) (observation) What is the significance of this? (interpretation)
• VV. 34 Discuss the idea of “inheritance.” What does it mean that the kingdom blessing is an inheritance? (this concept draws attention to the grace aspect of salvation in this passage. Inheritance is something that comes to one as a gift, not as the result of one’s own earnings.) (interpretation)
• VV 34-46 What are the specific areas of service mentioned? Notice the repetition; what reason would such strong repetition be used? (Observation)
• VV. 35-36 Discuss these specific areas. What kind of people were hungry, thirsty, strangers, lacked clothing or prisoners? What does it mean when Jesus calls them “the least of these brothers and sisters?” What is the picture that Jesus is painting of the kind of person we should serve? (interpretation)
• What is the significance of the kind of people those are today? How is our role in serving others different or the same as people in the first century? How can you individually or we as a group express service in these ways? (application) Context: In the first century, hospitality was a way of life. If a stranger came into a town, there were no hotels for them to stay in. If they didn’t want to sleep outside, they had to be taken in by a private household. There we’re social programs like welfare or unemployment. If someone was in need, they remained in need until an individual in the society met that need.
• VV. 37 What is the reaction of the “righteous?” Why would they be surprised about when they saw the Lord? What does this attitude say about their reason for doing these deeds? (This attitude implies that they were not thinking about doing enough good deeds in order to merit salvation, but that they were living out of what Christ has done in them and through them and they wanted to glorify God.) (interpretation)
• VV. 41-46 What does this passage teach about the sin of omission? What does the absence of good works prove? In v. 44, they are also surprised, what does this reaction tell us about their heart attitude and orientation towards themselves vs. others? (interpretation)
• Take a look back at Matt 25:14-30, the parable of the Bags of Gold. What is the heart attitude that is painted of the servant who hid the gold? How is that attitude continued in this passage about the “goats?” (Interpretation)
• Do you know what gifts God has given you? Have you been burying them in the ground? Revisit 1 Peter 4:10. How can we be faithful with the specific gifts God has given us? (application)
• Is this passage about lining up good deeds vs. bad ones? What is Matthew’s belief about salvation and grace? (See Matt 11:25-30, 20:28) Is service a way to eternal life? Why or why not? How are our actions connected with our salvation? (application)
• How do we become people like the “sheep” in this passage? How do you struggle with being others centered? When do you find it easy to serve others? How will this heart attitude effect different aspects of your life? (time, money, ways of speaking/acting, etc.)
• How can we as a community encourage each other to be like those Jesus called “blessed by my father” in v. 34? (application)
MINISTRY APPLICATION
• Read Matt 16:24-27. Take some time to pray for each other that the heart attitude of Jesus would thrive inside you. Ask Jesus to take your whole life again. Go through specific aspects of your life you’ve been holding back and offer them to Him.
• What was your task on your scratch off ticket from the service this weekend? Have you done it yet? Share your story with the group or receive prayer/encouragement to accomplish it! Pray for your community, the people living around you, working with you, interacting with you daily. Ask Jesus to break your heart for them. Pray that Jesus would open your eyes to see the “least of these brothers and sisters” and give you the heart to reach out to them.
• How have you tried to earn your way into Christ’s affection? Meditate on the attitude of surprise the righteous had in the passage then read Matt 11:28-30. Commit it to memory. Receive prayer for “rest for your soul” in Jesus.
Click here to download the Study Guide in WORD
INTERACTING WITH THE SERMON
SYNOPSIS OF THE SERMON
In his message this weekend, Insoo talks about the importance of being others-centered in a self-centered world. He begins by unpacking 3 ways the passage in 1 Peter 4 tells us we can live others-centered lives. The first thing we must do is love others deeply (v. 8). We must love others with a radical love like Hosea gave to his cheating wife. Loving others is especially important when we’ve been hurt or sinned against. Love allows us to be free from bitterness and hurt regarding others’ sins. The second thing we must do to be others-centered is offer hospitality to others. Hospitality was one of the great hallmarks of the early Christians, but many of us have lost sight of its importance. One way we can begin to offer hospitality is to share a meal with someone. Relationships are formed over meals and we may even be able to share our faith with someone because we have shared a meal with them. Thirdly, we must serve faithfully in order to live others-centered lives. We have all received gifts from God and it is essential that we use those gifts and talents to serve others. The only way that the body will function properly is if we are all using our gifts together for mutual benefit. Insoo taught us about serving others in really practical ways and gave several ideas for how we can serve one another. Everyone got a scratch off ticket (an idea from the Cincinnati Vineyard) with a really specific task to serve one person this week. Finally, Insoo taught that the reason we serve others is not to earn God’s love but to glorify God. We want people to praise and know Christ through our actions of service.
In 5 minutes or less, briefly give a synopsis of this week’s sermon. What insight, principle, or observation from this weekend’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.
GETTING THE CONVERSATION STARTED
These questions can be used as ice-breakers in the beginning OR interwoven between the questions below to draw the group into the discussion.
• What are one or two things from this weekend’s sermon that really stood out to you?
• Have you ever received incredible hospitality or service in your life? How did that affect you? Have you ever served someone else in a self-sacrificial way? How did that impact you?
SCRIPTURE STUDY
Read Matthew 25:31-46:
31 “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
34 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’
37 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’
41 “Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’
44 “They also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’
45 “He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’
46 “Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.”
• VV. 31-34 What is Christ claiming about himself in this passage? What is the role of the Son of Man in this passage? (This is the only passage in scripture where Jesus speaks of the Son of Man as a King.) (observation) What is the significance of this? (interpretation)
• VV. 34 Discuss the idea of “inheritance.” What does it mean that the kingdom blessing is an inheritance? (this concept draws attention to the grace aspect of salvation in this passage. Inheritance is something that comes to one as a gift, not as the result of one’s own earnings.) (interpretation)
• VV 34-46 What are the specific areas of service mentioned? Notice the repetition; what reason would such strong repetition be used? (Observation)
• VV. 35-36 Discuss these specific areas. What kind of people were hungry, thirsty, strangers, lacked clothing or prisoners? What does it mean when Jesus calls them “the least of these brothers and sisters?” What is the picture that Jesus is painting of the kind of person we should serve? (interpretation)
• What is the significance of the kind of people those are today? How is our role in serving others different or the same as people in the first century? How can you individually or we as a group express service in these ways? (application) Context: In the first century, hospitality was a way of life. If a stranger came into a town, there were no hotels for them to stay in. If they didn’t want to sleep outside, they had to be taken in by a private household. There we’re social programs like welfare or unemployment. If someone was in need, they remained in need until an individual in the society met that need.
• VV. 37 What is the reaction of the “righteous?” Why would they be surprised about when they saw the Lord? What does this attitude say about their reason for doing these deeds? (This attitude implies that they were not thinking about doing enough good deeds in order to merit salvation, but that they were living out of what Christ has done in them and through them and they wanted to glorify God.) (interpretation)
• VV. 41-46 What does this passage teach about the sin of omission? What does the absence of good works prove? In v. 44, they are also surprised, what does this reaction tell us about their heart attitude and orientation towards themselves vs. others? (interpretation)
• Take a look back at Matt 25:14-30, the parable of the Bags of Gold. What is the heart attitude that is painted of the servant who hid the gold? How is that attitude continued in this passage about the “goats?” (Interpretation)
• Do you know what gifts God has given you? Have you been burying them in the ground? Revisit 1 Peter 4:10. How can we be faithful with the specific gifts God has given us? (application)
• Is this passage about lining up good deeds vs. bad ones? What is Matthew’s belief about salvation and grace? (See Matt 11:25-30, 20:28) Is service a way to eternal life? Why or why not? How are our actions connected with our salvation? (application)
• How do we become people like the “sheep” in this passage? How do you struggle with being others centered? When do you find it easy to serve others? How will this heart attitude effect different aspects of your life? (time, money, ways of speaking/acting, etc.)
• How can we as a community encourage each other to be like those Jesus called “blessed by my father” in v. 34? (application)
MINISTRY APPLICATION
Below you’ll see some options for ministry time with your group. We always encourage you to reserve time in your group to pray for one another and wait on the Holy Spirit.
• Read Matt 16:24-27. Take some time to pray for each other that the heart attitude of Jesus would thrive inside you. Ask Jesus to take your whole life again. Go through specific aspects of your life you’ve been holding back and offer them to Him.
• What was your task on your scratch off ticket from the service this weekend? Have you done it yet? Share your story with the group or receive prayer/encouragement to accomplish it! Pray for your community, the people living around you, working with you, interacting with you daily. Ask Jesus to break your heart for them. Pray that Jesus would open your eyes to see the “least of these brothers and sisters” and give you the heart to reach out to them.
• How have you tried to earn your way into Christ’s affection? Meditate on the attitude of surprise the righteous had in the passage then read Matt 11:28-30. Commit it to memory. Receive prayer for “rest for your soul” in Jesus.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)