Luke 2:25-35 // The Cost of Yes: Outsiders Wk 5

Introduction // 5 minutes

What is your all time favorite game show and what do you like about it?

Leader Note: After you’ve made room for everyone in the group to answer transition to the next section by saying something like… “One of the greatest parts of any game show is the element of risk and reward.  Every decision, every answer often has a cost associated with it.”

 

Observation // 25 minutes

Read Luke 2:25-35

What warnings does Simeon give to Mary concerning her son, Jesus?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • He would cause division in Israel (v34)
  • People will speak against him (v34)
  • He blesses Mary while at the same time warns her of the suffering that is ahead of her… “A sword will piece your own soul too.” (v34-35)

Commentary: Luke continues to highlight the dichotomy between the outsiders and insiders in this passage.  Simeon makes it clear that Jesus is for all while at the same time emphasizing that many on the inside (the people of Israel) would fall because of their rejection of the Messiah.  Jesus would become a lightning rod that would divide cultures, nations, and families. 

It should also be noted how culturally shocking it would have been for Simeon to directly address Mary, a woman, in front of her husband.  What he says to Mary in verse 35, (“A sword will piece your soul too”) is equally shocking.  Mary, the highly favored one, is given a very clear warning of the road ahead of her and the suffering that it is to come.  Her yes would come at great cost.

Leader Note: Take time with your group to look at a few of the key narratives that illustrate the cost of Mary’s yes.

 Read… Luke 2:41-52, Luke 4:16-21, 28-29, Luke 8:19-21

Leader Note: Select three people from your group to read a passage in order to move through the readings faster.

What do you discover about the cost of Mary’s yes? What might some of her emotions been in these situations?

Commentary: There is a temptation to view Mary as some kind of picturesque symbol in the Christmas story rather than a real person who actually had to endure quite a bit in her journey as “Mary, the mother of Jesus.”

Sample Answers May Include…

  • She would have been made to feel embarrassed, ashamed or even like a bad mother
  • Frustation over not understanding her son’s actions
  • Probably would have felt rejected, isolated and frustrated, like no one could understand her
  • Perhaps she felt like a “bad mother” like she did something wrong, not good enough

 

Understanding // 10 minutes

Where have you seen someone live out a costly yes?

Leader: There is always a cost associated in following Jesus.  By saying yes we also have to say no to great number of things.  Where have you seen someone do this well?

 

Application // 25 minutes

Where have you heard something from God and then questioned it based on the circumstances you were in?

Leader Note: Allow space for personal stories at this point.  Most of us have had the experience at some level of responding in obedience to God’s call and then experiencing the struggle and trials of the in-between our yes and the fulfillment of what God calls us to.

How do you tend to respond in those costly “in-between” moments?

What do you need to be reminded of in those moments?

Where is God currently calling you to a “costly yes?”

 

Live It Out // 5 minutes

Who could you impact in your life and community by living out a costly yes well?

Prayer: Father we thank you for all the ways you continue to protect and guide us.  We ask that you would cause us to see the great and eternal rewards that wait for those who say yes and follow your ways through all seasons of this life.  We pray for strength when following because burdensome and for wisdom when we are meet with doubt.  Be our source of life and may the way we live reflect your glory so that others may come to see you.  Amen.

Luke 1:26-38 // Faith and Doubt: Outsiders Wk 4

Introduction // 5 minutes

The Word Game

Start your group off with a little friendly completion. Divide up in two teams however you like. Each team will be given 60 seconds to write down (pen and papers needed!) as many antonyms (opposites) as they can to the following two words.

Winners are proclaimed the vocabulary champions and must read the passage!

Afraid: (Sample Answers) Brave, calm, unworried, composed, cool, courageous, fearless, intrepid

Faith: (Sample Answers) Disbelief, doubt, denial, distrust, uncertainty, skepticism

 

Observation // 25 minutes

Leader Note: We will be contrasting Zechariah and Mary this week.  Re-read last week’s passage about Zechariah in Luke 1:5-22 before reading on about Mary.

After reading review the following things discussed last week about Zechariah.

About Zechariah…

  • He was a priest (v5)
  • His wife Elisabeth also came from a priestly line (v5)
  • Both were righteous and blameless in God’s sight (v6)
  • They were both very old, Elisabeth was barren (v7)
  • He was selected out of a great number of priests to perform a once in life time duty in the temple (v9)
  • Zechariah had prayed continuously for his wife’s barrenness (v13)
  • Zechariah still doubted despite all the signs given to him, i.e. being selected to perform this task in the temple, an Angel appearing before him and announcing that Elizabeth would give birth to a son (v18)
  • Zechariah was fixated on what he could see and knew to be true, mainly that they were past the age child bearing (v18)
  • There is a cost to unbelief (v20) Note: The cost was silence. He would not be able to exit the temple and proclaim not only the good news of the coming birth of his son but also the good news of what his son was prophesied to do, that is prepare the way for Jesus, the Messiah.
  • God’s plan was accomplished despite Zechariah’s doubt (v20)

Read Luke 1:26-38

What similarities do you see in Zechariah and Mary? What differences?

Leader Note: Prompt your group to think in terms of their circumstance or status and in their reaction to what Gabriel spoke to them.

Sample Answers May Include…

Similarities

  • Gabriel the Angel appears to both of them
  • Both have favor with God. Mary is called highly favored, Zechariah is called righteous and blames
  • Both are told not to fear
  • Both are promised to receive children through miraculous circumstance for God’s purposes and glory

Differences

  • One is old one is young
  • One is male one is female
  • Zechariah would have been highly respected in the community as a priest
  • As a young (12-15) year old woman Mary would have been seen as powerless and without rights
  • Mary is from an insignificant town, Nazareth. Zechariah is in Jerusalem the cultural and religious hub of the day
  • Zechariah has a position and reputation to protect, May has nothing
  • Zechariah demands prof, Mary ask for help in understanding
  • Zechariah wants to know with certainty that this is really going to happen while Mary ask how will this happen
  • Zechariah would have been well acquainted with the all the stories in the bible where God intervened to give an old or barren couple children (Abraham and Sarah, Isaac and Rebekah ect…) yet he still doubted
  • Mary was promised something that had never happened (virgin birth) yet she believed
  • Mary shows humble surrender and willingness while Zechariah shows skepticism and doubt

Leader Note: Lead your group to see the contrast between Zechariah who seemingly had it all together and every reason to believe God’s word and Mary, the powerless teenager from a “nowhere” town.  One has great influence the other had none.  One could be said to be an in-sider and the other an out-sider.  Zechariah demands an explanation while Mary surrenders without knowing all the details.

 

Understanding // 10 minutes

Where have you seen healthy doubt?

Where have you seen unhealthy doubt?

What’s the difference?

Commentary: Healthy doubt comes from genuine place of needing help to understand something. Healthy doubt asks questions but does not demand the answers before acting.  Unhealthy doubt is often rooted in defiance, cynicism or entitlement. Unhealthy doubt says I will trust you if you show me everything that will happen so that I can ensure that I will be safe and “blessed.”

 

Application // 20 minutes

What is something God has said to you?

Leader Note: Think in terms of a promise or perhaps a purpose that God is calling to.

How are you responding like Zechariah?

How are you responding like Mary?

 

Live It Out // 5 minutes

How would those around you be impacted if you lived out Mary like faith?

Prayer: Pray at the end of your time for an increased trust and faith to follow God’s leading and respond to His voice when he calls.  Pray that whatever currently hinders that (self righteousness, entitlement, cynicism) to be removed by God’s spirit.

Luke 1:5-25 // While You Were Waiting: Outsiders Wk 3

Introduction // 5 minutes

When was the last time you were forced to wait for something?

Leader Note: Have your group think through unusual or comical situations.  Examples may include getting stuck on a ride at Disneyland or accidentally walking into the wrong movie theatre ect….

How did you respond? How did those around you respond?

 

Observation // 20 minutes

Read Luke 1:5-10

What do you observe about Zechariah and Elizabeth?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • Zechariah was a priest (v5)
  • Elizabeth was a descendent of Aaron.  Note: She also came from a priestly line (v5)
  • They were righteous and blameless in God’s sight (v6)
  • Elizabeth was barren (v7) Note: baroness was a sign of cursing and cause for shame. This creates a tension as God calls them righteous and blameless.
  • They were both very old (v7)
  • Zechariah was singled out amongst a great number of people (there were upwards of 20,000 priest at this time) for a once a lifetime task (v9)

Commentary: Zechariah was selected for the task of offering up the prayers of the people through the burring of incense in the Holy of Holies within the Temple.  The most common prayer offered was for the Lord to Come.  It was a prayer of hope for the promised Messiah to come and deliver His people.  The Jewish people were under Roman occupation during this time, which would make the cry of that prayer all the more passionate and immediate. 

Read Luke 1:11-25

What do you learn about faith and doubt from Zechariah and Elizabeth?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • Zechariah had prayed continuously for his wife’s barrenness (v13)
  • Zechariah still doubted despite all the signs given to him, i.e. being selected to perform this task in the temple, an Angel appearing before him and announcing that Elizabeth would give birth to a son (v18)
  • Zechariah was fixated on what he could see and knew to be true, mainly that they were past the age child bearing (v18)
  • There is a cost to unbelief (v20) Note: The cost was silence. He would not be able to exit the temple and proclaim not only the good news of the coming birth of his son but also the good news of what his son was prophesied to do, that is prepare the way for Jesus, the Messiah.
  • God’s plan was accomplished despite Zechariah’s doubt (v20)
  • Elizabeth, viewed as shameful and cursed by society was now given the privilege to announce the great news of God’s favor to her and His people (v25)

Commentary: Zechariah an Elizabeth’s waiting for their own child is set in the context of an entire people who had been waiting for the arrival of their Messiah.  The prophets of the Old Testament spoke about God’s promised Messiah and then suddenly there was silence.  400 years had passed between the age of the prophets and the time of the New Testament.  God amazingly fulfills his promise to Zechariah and Elizabeth and also begins to bring the manifestation of the promised Messiah to His people through the life and ministry John the Baptist who is sent to prepare the way of the Lord. Both parties had to endure a prolonged time of waiting to receive what had been promised.

What do you learn about God through the way he answers Zechariah and Elizabeth’s prayer?

Commentary: God often works in the middle of despite and seemingly impossible situations when there appears to be no other way.

 

Understanding // 10 minutes

What keeps people from believing God’s promises today?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • When their prayers go unanswered
  • They don’t believe in God in the first place
  • Doubting in His goodness
  • Believing that He’s too busy for them

 

Application // 20 minutes

Where have you seen God answer your prayer?

Where are you still waiting for a prayer to be answered?

What has waiting for that prayer to be answered looked like for you?

Leader Note: Allow room the spectrum of answers here.  Some in your group will be holding on with great belief and faith while others may be in a place where they are ready to give up.  Hold both in tension while pointing to the reality of God’s goodness.

 

Live It Out // 10 minutes

How might the way we wait be a testimony to those around us?

Prayer:  Ask God to give strength and peace in the middle of waiting.  Pray that we may be able to learn something about God’s nature and have Christ’s character further developed in us through waiting. 

Luke 1:1-4 // Stepping Off: Outsiders Wk 2

Introduction // 5 minutes

Which decade had the best style?  Give examples and reasons.

Leader Note:  You may want to use a transitional statement after this question such as… “Isn’t funny how quickly things change? We can be so sure of one thing in a moment and then find ourselves thinking and believing the exact opposite!”

 

Observation // 20 minutes

Read Luke 1:1-4

A Brief Background On Luke

As we begin to look at Luke’s Gospel there are few key points, which would be beneficial to highlight with you group.  This information is intended to create a deeper understanding of Luke and enrich your discussion during the course of the series. 

  1. Luke Was An Outsider: Luke’s Gospel was written around 30 years after Jesus’ earthly ministry (about 60 AD).  Luke was not a direct eyewitness to the accounts of Jesus.  Additionally, he is the only author in the New Testament who was not Jewish.  He writes as an outsider primarily to other outsiders (Gentiles) to give them assurance and confidence in who Jesus is and the things they have heard and been taught about Him.
  2. Luke Was Well Schooled: A trained doctor, Luke took a very detailed almost investigative approach of writing in his gospel.  Although not personally an eyewitness, he was very well acquainted with the persons and works of those who were with Jesus.  Luke carefully examined all other accounts of Jesus and set out to give an “orderly” and historical account of His life and teaching.  (Orderly meaning a complete historical account as opposed to a complete and chronological historical account).  Ancient historical biographers did not record events in the same way that modern historians do.  While the events recorded in Luke are historical, he pieces them together in the fashion of a narrative as to emphasis his purpose for writing.
  3. Luke Wrote With A Very Specific Purpose In Mind: Luke writes to give believers (mainly Gentile believers as himself) a foundational confidence in the person and Deity of Jesus Christ.  Luke wants his readers to have certainty in the things they have heard and have been taught concerning Jesus.  This certainty is more than an intellectual assent or knowledge-based certainty. It is the kind of certainty that leads one to place their entire life in something and expresses that conviction through their actions.  It is a belief or conviction that is lived out no matter what the cost.  Theophilus, to whom the book is addressed, was most likely Roman official who commissioned Luke to give him an account of Jesus so that he himself could be certain in what he had been taught about Jesus.

Read through the passage again and ask…

What are the phrases that stand out to you the most?

What is it about those phrases that intrigue you?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • Many have undertaken: Many were not only aware of Jesus but were so intrigued with Him that they set out to document His life and teaching.
  • Things that have been fulfilled: Jesus was seen as the fulfillment of biblical prophecy.  He validates the Old Testament and backs up the promises of God.
  • Carefully Investigated: Luke is intentional in what he records.
  • An Orderly Account: Accurate, clear and concise historical narrative on Jesus.
  • The certainty of what you have been taught: Certainty that does more than inform thought. It is a certainty that directs action.

Leader Note:  Sample answers are not only things you may expect to hear from your group but are provided for you as a leader to help guide and lead the conversation as needed.

 

Understanding // 15 minutes

Leader Note:  The next question will need some set up.  You may wish to say something along the lines of… “Belief is typically divided into three categories, public, private and core convictions.”  Go on to define each category and ask for as many examples as possible for each.

What are all the examples you can think of for these three types of conviction?

Public Conviction: The things I say even if I don’t really believe it

Sample Answers May Include…

  • Does this make me look fat?
  • Politicians playing the game of politically correctness
  • Calling a child’s drawing the best piece of art you’ve ever seen!

Private Conviction: The things I think I believe but can change over time

Sample Answers May Include…

  • Falling “in” and “out” of love
  • My favorite food, movie, city ect…

Core Conviction: Not what I say or think but what I actually do

Commentary: Luke’s aim is to make us a people who live out what we say we believe.  He wants us to place all certainty in the person of Jesus and live lives that fully reflect our trust in who He is and what He has called us to become.

 

Application // 20 minutes

Read James 2:14-20

An Exercise In The Apostles Creed

Read the following statement to your group…

The Apostles Creed is one of the earliest doctrinal statements on Christianity. It stands this day as one of the most complete and concise declarations on Christian belief.  These statements have stood the test of time and are held as truth across a large number of denominations and churches… including Mariners Church!

Read the Apostles Creed…

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, he is seated at the right hand of the Father, and he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic (catholic meaning universal) Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

Leader Note: Kenton poised a challenging question in his message this weekend, which we encourage you to now put forth to your group.  This section will require a great deal of honesty and vulnerability.  As the leader we encourage you to take some time before hand with this question so that you can answer first, leading by example and modeling that it is safe to share for others to answer.

Where in your life have you seen a disconnect between your convictions and actions?

If a person were to record your actions and turn them into a creed, what might it say?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • I believe that power and success are the most important things in this life
  • I believe that I earned my money and it is mine to do with what I please
  • I believe it’s ok to seek out revenge on those that mistreat me
  • I believe that I’m owed certain pleasures and that they can bring me happiness
  • I believe that the better I am, the more God will love me

What prevents you from fully living out the “certainty” of your faith?


Live It Out // 10 minutes

How might the world around you be influenced by you living out your convictions?

Prayer:  Lord we know that you alone are holy and worthy of the praise of our lives.  We thank you for Jesus.  We thank you that in seeing Him we have seen you and can know you.  We ask that you would help us by you Holy Spirit to be a people who live out what we say we believe in confidence and with great conviction so that others may see and know you through our lives.  We confess that we don’t always get this right and that we are daily in need of your strength to empower us and to remind us of what we are called to be.  Help us we prayer.  Guide us and lead us into your truth, Amen.

Colossians 1:15-20 // Snow Snakes: Outsiders Wk 1

Introduction // 5 minutes

What’s Changed?

Select a few people to be observers and others to be the changers.  The observers are given 30 seconds to survey the room after which they are instructed to close their eyes for another 30 seconds. During that time the “changers” change things around the room.  Challenge the “observers” to identify all the changes.

Leader Note: The purpose of this game is to set up the idea that it is very easy to forget or loose sight of our surroundings.  We often need time to refocus and remind ourselves of the things and people around us.

 

Observation // 10 minutes

Read Colossians 1:15-20

What does this passage say about Jesus?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • He is the image of God. We see and know God through Jesus (v15)
  • He is supreme over all creation (v15)
  • All things were created through him and for him (v16)
  • He comes before all things and holds all things together (17)
  • He is the head of the church (v18)
  • He is the firstborn, the heir over creation (v18)
  • The fullness of God is representing in him (v19)
  • He reconciles all things to himself (v20)
  • His sacrifice brings peace to everything (v20)

Commentary: The most impactful truth to keep in the forefront from this passage is that in seeing Jesus we see and know God.  Jesus is the fullness of God on display.  He fully embodies and represents the character and nature of God.  Any discussion on what God is like must be rooted in who Jesus is.

 

Understanding // 15 minutes

Where have you, or someone you know, been told and believed a “made up” story?

Here are a few childhood examples to use if you need help with this question

  • “My mom told me there was a little man who lived in the fridge that would turn the light on for you.  I believed her and I was terrified of that little man!”
  • “My parents told me about Santa and how he’ll eat me for Christmas if I wasn’t a good kid.”
  • “When the ice cream truck plays music, it means they’re out of ice cream.”

What was the effect or outcome of believing that story?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • Embarrassment and being tricked into believing a lie
  • Broken trust
  • Loneliness, everyone else knew the truth
  • Stupid, other people knew what I didn’t
  • Betrayed and vulnerable, causes us to ask, “What else am I stupid about?”
  • Anger at the one who told me the lie

Leader Note: While the majority of stories your group will share are lighthearted there can be negative effects on the person who becomes the “butt of the joke.”  Those stories have a way of robbing our trust and can cause us to question reality and our own intelligence.

 

Application // 25 minutes

Where has your image of God become distorted?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • God is an overbearing and controlling father
  • God is a policeman, waiting for you to break the law
  • Powerless but loving grandfather
  • A genie in a bottle
  • Angry raging father
  • A distant uninvolved creator

What things led to that distorted view?

Commentary: The enemy works in all these things to cause us to challenge the fundamental question of God’s goodness. Past and present hurts, negative church experiences, a world in crisis and destruction.  All of these things lead us to question God’s goodness. 

As in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3), Satan comes after our view of God and tempts us to believe that we know best and that God is holding back from us in some way making him less than good.

Leader Note: For many of us our distorted views on God are birthed out of tragedy and loss. Shepherd your group through this portion of question with care and sensitivity.  Lead with listening and avoid the temptation to offer correction or answers during this time.

What could it look like for you to reclaim a right view of God?

Commentary: Colossians tells us that in seeing Jesus we come to see and know God.  Jesus is the full representation of God on display.  Jesus must be our starting point and ultimate authority and understanding God.  Starting at any other place, whether it be our experiences or some philosophical concept of divinity will never lead us to an accurate depiction of God.  We start with Jesus and we are lead to see exactly what God is like.

What’s one image of God you need to hold on to today from the passage?

 

Live It Out // 10 minutes

How might an accurate picture of God through Jesus change your relationships?

Prayer: Lord we are grateful that you have made yourself fully known through Jesus.  We thank you for choosing to reveal yourself and inviting us into relationship.  Help us to maintain a right view of you as we look to your Son, Jesus.  We pray that our lives would be forever impacted through what we see in Jesus and that the impact of that view would be expressed in every area of our life.  Help us to be a people who live with certainty and boldness and point to your glory and kingdom with all that we are. Amen

Matthew 25:14-26 // Together: Welcome Home Wk 3

Introduction // 10 minutes

You’ve been given a free ticket to 3 destinations anywhere in the world. Where do you go and why?

 

Observation // 20 minutes

Read Matthew 25:14-26

What do you learn about the servants who invested what they had been given?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • They saw the master as generous and trusting
  • They believed that they would have to answer for what was given
  • They lived out of thankfulness
  • They understood that what was given didn’t belong to them
  • The master counted them as faithful and rewarded them with more responsibilities
  • They were invited to celebrate with the master

What do you learn about the servant who buried what he had been given?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • He saw the master as harsh and unfair
  • He was motivated by fear and selfishness
  • He wanted to protect himself
  • He had a lack of trust in the master
  • The master calls him called lazy
  • He loses everything and is left in isolation and darkness

According to this passage, what is the one way to miss out on what God has given you?

Commentary: There are only two types of people in the passage… those that try and those who do not.  The only way to fail and miss out on what God has for you is to not try. There is no failing in trying.

 

Understanding // 15 minutes

Where have you seen a person not live up to their full potential?

Leader Note: This question can be a tricky one to answer as measuring ability and potential can be a both subjective and sensitive discussion.  It may be helpful to think in terms of athletic ability or some other kind of skill, like musical ability, that is often associated as a “God given” talent.  Also, ensure that this question is answered by looking out in our world and not within the group.

What contributed to that person’s inability to maximize their gifts?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • Lack of risk taking
  • Lack of discipline to develop/work hard at that skill
  • Inability to dream big
  • To hard on themselves, couldn’t live up to their own expectations
  • Fear of failure, fear of success

 

Application // 20 minutes

What treasures have you been given?

How are you using what God has given you?

Where are you “burying” what has been entrusted to you?

Leader Note: Many of us tend to hide the shame or brokenness in our life as something that God heals, but cannot use.  The reality is that people learn just as much if not more from our stories of failure and brokenness than from our stories of triumph.  Lead your group to see that every aspect of their story is significant and has the ability to impact others for His Kingdom.

Others of us may hold on to what we have been given because we have a false view on stewardship versus ownership.  We have been called to steward what we have for God’s glory not our own.  All we have and are belong to Him.  We are entrusted with what we have, good and bad, not for our sake but for the sake of others.

When we burry our treasures (for whatever reason we do so) we burry the value of our lives.  God is not concerned with how much we have and what we keep but with what we do with what we have been given.  The value of a life is always measured by how much is given away.

What causes you to hold back on using all that you have given?

 

Live It Out // 10 minutes

How might God be calling you to use all of who you are to impact those around you?

Prayer: We thank you Lord that you are generous, kind and entrust us with so much.  Help us we pray to understand more fully what it means to steward all we have for the purpose of your Kingdom. Free us from fear where it is present.  By the power of your Spirit build trust and risk in us where it is lacking.  Further develop our passion to share your gospel through the whole of lives as a response of worship for all that you are and all that you have done.  We pray these things to you our Father, through the name of Jesus and by the power of the Holy Spirit.  Amen.

Luke 18:1-8 // Serious: Welcome Home Wk 2

Introduction // 5 minutes

What habits does your significant other have that drive you crazy?

Leader Note: Use roommates, co-worker, family member or friends those not currently in a relationship.

 

Observation // 10 minutes

Read Luke 18:1-8

What do you learn about the Judge?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • He doesn’t know God (v2)
  • He is compassionless  (v2)
  • He is motivated to action by his own selfish desires (v4)

What do you learn about the widow?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • She’s in a desperate situation where someone is opposing her (v3)
  • She has nowhere else to turn for help (v3)
  • He has power (v3)
  • People come to him for help (v3)
  • She is extremely persistent (v3)

Commentary:  Widows are identified throughout scripture as hopeless, vulnerable, and poor.  They stand in isolation without rights, with no advocate or anyone to provide for them. (Exodus 22:2-24, Isaiah 1:17, 1 Timothy 5:3, James 1:27)

 

Understanding // 20 minutes

What is the difference between this judge and our God?

Leader Note: The judge has no honor; he is unrighteous and lacks compassion.  He appears to be annoyed with her request, has no time for her.  He finally acts but only to appease himself.  While he has power to “fix” certain things he does so in a disengaged and self-seeking manner.  God on the other hand is involved with us.  He is compassionate, righteous, kind and full of love.  God is more than a “problem fixer.”  He is someone that we can trust in.  He is quick to act, gracious and just.

Why is it important to understand the difference?

Leader Note: If we view God as a (this) judge we may conclude that He doesn’t have time for us and that He only answers our request when He has something to gain by it.  We may also come to believe that God can be persuaded by our hopeless begging versus our prayers that our full of faith.  This judge is distant and is viewed as someone that we get something out of while our God is near and is someone we come to know.  God is not a means to an end for us.  He is our creator and sustainer and He desires to give good gifts to His children (Matthew 7:7-11).

What do we have in common with the widow? What’s different?

Leader Note: We are both helpless and incapable of rescuing ourselves.  We need the saving power of someone to intervene and make us whole.  Lead your group to see that the most crucial difference is in whom we cry out to for help!  We do not have a bad judge and we are not alone.  We have a loving Father who is not annoyed by our cries but draws near to us with His loving kindness.  God, although moved by our faith and persistence, does not ask us to beg or make deals.  He asks us to prayer to Him, to let go of worry and trust in His peace, which will guard our hearts and minds (Philippians 4:6-8).

 

Application // 25 minutes

What in your life are you currently concerned about?

Where are you turning to with that concern?

How might you be more persistent or serious in seeking God’s help?

Leader Note: Lead your group to see that God has called us all to a persistent, faith filled relationship of prayer (Luke 11:8-13).

What happens when we pray?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • Shifts our perspective
  • Teaches us more abut surrender
  • Aligns our hearts with God’s heart
  • Gain more insight into what I am praying about
  • Teaches us to hear God’s voice
  • Gives us hope
  • Builds relationship
  • Calls to remembrance the ways we’ve seen God work
  • Prayer gives peace
  • Keeps us from temptation
  • Extends God’s power to us
  • Right sizes God and right sizes our problems

 

Live It Out // 10 minutes

How might your increased relationship with God in prayer affect those around you?

Prayer: Father we thank you that we are no longer widows or orphans but have become your sons and daughters.   We thank you that you are not far off but are near and intimately involved in each of our lives.  Help us by your spirit to prayer to you wither greater faith, power and consistency.  Teach us to be concerned about the things hat you are concerned about and help us to grow in our dependence on you when we face the difficulties of this life.  Be with us, guide us and have your way in us we pray… Amen. 

2 Timothy 2:1-8,13-14 // Get In The Game: Welcome Home Wk 1

Introduction // 5 minutes

What most excites you about fall?

Leader Note: This question is designed to get everyone talking and engaged early in the discussion.  Make sure that you leave time for everyone to play here as it will be that much easier to keep them involved in the rest of the discussion.

 

Observation // 15 minutes

Read 2 Timothy 2:1-8,13-14

Commentary: Written by Paul while in prison during the final years of his life and ministry, this letter or his “final words” serves as an encouragement to young Timothy to stand firm in the faith and walk into God’s calling with confidence, courage and boldness.

What are the things Paul encourages Timothy to walk in?

  • His genuine faith (v5)
  • His heritage of faith (v5)
  • Remember his calling and gifts (v6)
  • Live out his calling with boldness (v8)
  • Hold on to the teachings of the faith (v13)
  • Live through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit (v14)
  • To guard truth (v14)

What warnings does he give?

  • To actively steward and grow in his gifts (v6)
  • To combat fear with power, love and self-discipline (v7)
  • To be prepared for suffering (v8)

 

Understanding // 15 minutes

Have you ever been on the receiving end of a mentor relationship? Describe that relationship.

Commentary: Be it a coach, teacher or parent many of us have had people in our lives that have helped shape us.  A great mentor speaks encouragement with love and offers wisdom that comes from experience.

 

Application // 25 minutes

Commentary:  Paul’s overarching statement to Timothy is this… Do Not Be Afraid! Don’t be afraid because you have been called.  You are equipped and empowered to live out your God designed purpose.  Don’t be afraid because God will strengthen you, even in the face of suffering.  Paul reminds Timothy that with God’s spirit he already has all that he needs.  He calls him to remember. Remember what God has done.  Remember who He is and who He has called you to be.

Does fear hold you back in living out you purpose? If so, how?

Leader Note: Fear works it way into our lives in many ways.  For some of us it is masked in our need to control, or in our resistance to forgive others.  Fear could look like holding on to the pass and avoiding jumping into new things.  If given way, fear has the potential to rob us from community and stifle our effectiveness for God’s kingdom.

What things do you need to be reminded of in living out your purpose?

Leader Note: Like Timothy we often need to be reminded first that God has a calling or a purpose for our lives.  We may also need to be reminded that we are to live out that calling in the power of God’s spirit and not our own.  We experience more of that power as we root ourselves in discipline to a greater connection with God’s spirit.

Where is God calling you to live with greater boldness?

How might you experience suffering as result of living more boldly?

Leader Note: With greater boldness comes increased power and freedom.  It also has the potential to bring moments of suffering.  Timothy could look at Paul and see this.  He could also see that through suffering Paul came to know Christ in a richer way.

Suffering may look very different for each of us.  Very often it is connected with our fear.  God calls us to meet that fear head on with His power.  That process may bring suffering but ultimately reveals more of God’s kingdom to us and through us.

 

Live It Out // 10 minutes

How can your group collectively embrace this “bold” living?

Prayer: Pray that your group will be reminded of the ways that God has already worked in their lives.  Pray that they will be able to recall how He has, and continues to equip them for what he Has called them in to.  Ask God’s spirit to fill them with a fresh power and love to combat whatever fears they may be facing; and prayer for greater discipline to stay connected in their walk with God’s spirit.

Make Labor Day, “Neighbor” Day!

A note from Pastor Kyle…

“What if we took this week, the last week of summer, and used it as a unique opportunity to reach out and love our neighbors? For some of us, it may mean introducing ourselves to the people on our street, in our workplace, or at school–people we see routinely, but perhaps have never engaged in conversation. What if we took the time to not only learn more about who they are, but find out more about their stories? What if we invite some neighbors into our existing plans for the weekend? Throw one last BBQ, picnic, beach or street party? For some of us, it may mean reaching out to those we were once close to, but have now drifted away. Neighbor Day gives a beautiful reason to initiate a conversation that’s long overdue, one that might allow for healing and restoration to begin. Just tell them your pastor had this crazy idea called “Neighbor Day,” where we all love and serve (maybe even meet our neighbors. And what if it’s not for just one weekend…but is instead a launching pad for a spirit and posture that moves with us through the entire fall season?

I believe people in our communities, in our lives, are desperate for a hope that transcends the circumstances of this world– a hope that provides a way through the confusion and emptiness this world can create. I believe they are longing for the grace and truth found in the gospel of Jesus. It’s a truth that is most profoundly on display in the people of Jesus – YOU! I believe that God has given you unique relationships for Him to be seen in and through your life. I’m praying you can see the opportunities He’s providing and that you have the courage and trust in the Holy Spirit to lean into them with the freedom and confidence that God is at work!

So, let’s make Neighbor Day real in our lives and in OC. This is a great season when people naturally recalibrate the rhythms of their life, creating the perfect opportunity to invite someone to church. I can’t wait to hear about all the stories from the parties, the conversations, the relationships being built, and ultimately the life transformation that takes place because we all decided to meet, love and serve our neighbors!”

Here are a few questions to consider with group this week…

Summer Recap

  • How did you find rest this summer? How did you experience God in that rest?
  • What’s the most fearless thing you did this summer?
  • Where did you see God at work this summer?
  • How did God speak to you?
  • What are the ways you learned to trust Him more this summer?

Looking Ahead

16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matt 28:16-20

These familiar words of Jesus remind us of our call to live as sent people on mission whose lives point to the work and power of our Savior.  Jesus sends us as His Kingdom representatives in the power of spirit with all the authority in heaven.  He is saying here that I have power, I am in control and in that power and authority I commission you.  Commissioned for what?  Well, first we are commissioned to go.  And then as we go, or in our going, meaning in the normal rhythms of life (where you work and play) make disciples and cause others to follow as a result of how you go/live.

This call has never changed.  These words are just as true today for us as they were as Jesus spoke them to His disciples.  In light of this call consider these questions with your group.

  • What if anything, prevents you from sharing your faith?
  • Who is God calling you to share your story, the gospel story, with?
  • How can you become more intentional about sharing your faith with others?
  • In what new ways may God be calling you to use your gifts for His Kingdom?
  • What are things your group can do to embody the call to “go” and “make” disciples?

John 14:16-20, 26-27 // The Bible Wk 11

Introduction // 5 minutes

Who was your closest friend growing up?  Briefly describe that relationship.

 

Observation // 20 minutes

Read John 14:16-20, 26-27

What are all the “I Will, He Will, You Will” statements in the passage?

  • I will ask the Father (v16)
  • He will give you another advocate (v16)
  • He (the Holy Spirit) will be in you (v17)
  • I will not leave you as orphans (v18)
  • I will come to you (v18)
  • You will see me (v19)
  • Because I live, you also will live (19)
  • You will realize that I am in my Father and you are in me, and I am in you (v20)
  • The Father will send the Holy Spirit in my name (v26)
  • He (the Holy Spirit) will teach and remind you all that Jesus has taught (v26)

What do you learn about the Holy Spirit?

Sample Answers May Include…

  • That he will help and never leave us (v16)
  • The world doesn’t see or accept him (v17)
  • We already know him (v17)
  • He will live in us (v17)
  • He is by the Father in the Son’s name (v26)
  • He teaches and reminds us of Jesus’ teachings (v26)
  • He embodies the peace that Jesus promised to leave us with (v27)

Leader Note: Lead your group to see that all the “I will” statements are made possible through the presence of the Holy Spirit, who will now be with and in us forever.

Commentary: Jesus promises the gift of His Holy Spirit as He is preparing for the cross and untimely His physical departure from this world.  Later in John 16:7 He tells His disciples that it is actually for their benefit that He go in order that the Spirit may come and be with them.  What He leaves them with is not some cheap imitation or mere copy of Himself but “another of the same kind.”  In other words another of Himself to be with them and serve as an empowering advocate (translated comforter counselor, helper, encourager, intercessor and companion) wherever they go.  The Holy Spirit provides us with comfort and power to live for God’s Kingdom in a world that is directly opposed it.

The Holy Spirit exists in relationship with the Father and Son. He is the spirit of God not created by Him, but sharing in God’s very nature.  He is not an impersonal force.  He is not an “it” but a he who possess unique characteristics and personalities traits. 

Leader Note: You may wish to take a deeper look at the Holy Spirit with your group using the following categories and verses as a guide.

 

He Is God

  • He was present at creation (Genesis 1:2, Job 26:13, Ps 104:30)
  • Omniscient, He understands all things, (Isaiah 40:13, 1 Cor 2:10-12)
  • Omnipresent, ever present (Ps 139:7-10)
  • Omnipotent, all powerful (Job 33:4, Ps 104:30, Romans 8:11)
  • Distributes and works through spiritual gifts of the (1 Cor 12:4-6)
  • Works along side the Father and Son (2 Cor 13:14)
  • He is one with the Father (Ephesians 4:4-6)
  • He is eternal (Hebrews 9:14)

He Is A Person

  • He can be lied to, resisted, grieved and insulted (Isa 63:10, Acts 5:3-4,
  • Acts 7: 51, Heb 10:29, Eph 4:30,)
  • Intelligence (Romans 8:27, I Cor 2:13)
  • Emotion (Ephesians 4:30, Hebrews 10:29)
  • Will (1 Cor 12:11, Acts 16:6-11)
  • Capacity for relationship (2 Cor 13:14)

He Has Specific Roles

  • He comforts (John 14:16)
  • Teaches and instructs (Neh 9:20, Luke 12:12, John 14:25-26, John 15:26, 1 Cor 2:13, Eph 1:17)
  • He convicts (John 16:8-11)
  • He guides (John 16:13, Acts 11:12, 15:28, 21:4)
  • Commissions and empowers and believers for ministry (Isa 48:16, Acts 1:8, 4:31, Acts 13:2, Acts 20:28, 1 Cor. 2:4-5, Eph. 3:16; 1 Tim. 1:6-7)
  • Gives us strength to stand against sin (Rom. 8:4; Gal. 5:16, 25)
  • Inspires prophecy  (Num. 9:30, 11:25, 29; 2 Sam. 23:2-3; Acts 21:4, 28:25; 2 Peter 1:21)
  • Distributes spiritual gifts (1 Cor. 12- 14; Rom. 12)
  • Gives us supernatural strength (Eph 3:16)
  • Capable of preforming miracles (Acts 8:39)
  • Intercedes/aides our prayers (Romans 8:26, Jude 1:20)
  • Pours out God’s love (Romans 5:5, 15:30)
  • Sanctifies the believers

 

Understanding // 10 minutes

Where have you seen God’s power at work in the lives of others?

Leader Note:  Life transformation, healing and restoration glorifies the Father and reveals the Son.  The Holy Spirit supplies the power, which makes that transformation possible.

 

Application // 25 minutes

How do you currently view the Holy Spirit?

Have you always had that view?

What’s changed in your understanding of Him?

Commentary:  God the Father and God the Son are typically easier for us to understand than God the Spirit.  We receive the Father, Son and Spirit at the moment of our conversion (Eph 1:13-14, 2:22, 4:30).  The primary role of the Spirit is to empower us to live the life to which we haven been called.  Without the Holy Spirit’s presence, power and peace we would be left to live that life in our own futile strength.  That life leads either to a religious false sense of pride or guilt filled misery.

How have you seen the Holy Spirit at work in your life?

Leader Note: Revisit the list of the Holy Spirit’s specific roles listed above as a jumping off point.  You may wish to frame the question based off a few of those roles, i.e.…

  • Where have you have you experienced God’s comfort?
  • When was a time you heard God’s voice?
  • Where have you had a sense of God’s empowerment?

Where are you presently in need of the Holy Spirit?

 

Live It Out // 10 minutes

How might your life and the life of others be impacted through your relationship with the Holy Spirit?

Prayer:  Pray a prayer of thanksgiving for the gift of the Holy Spirit.  Pray that your eyes may be opened to his work in our life and your passions further developed for a deeper relationship with him.