Main Thought
The two greatest commandments are to love God and to love other people. If the Church is categorized by love - by relationship - then the Enemy will do everything in his power to oppose meaningful connection. This is why Pastor John Mark Comer said, “If the devil can’t make you sin, he’ll make you busy.” How should God’s people behave differently than a culture that has become a “digital Babylon?” We can start by being set apart: fully Human, and fully His. We shouldn’t outsource our humanity by relying on devices to replace our thoughts, feelings, and the excitement that comes from connecting authentically. We can also be useful to God and His Kingdom by serving Him together. This process allows us to bond while building together. An attitude of readiness keeps our eyes outward, looking for opportunities to bring people further into the family of God. These things can help us fight the cultural current and fulfill God’s greatest commandments.
Main Passages
"Now in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for honorable use, some for dishonorable. Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work.”
- 2 Timothy 2:20-21
So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.
- 2 Timothy 2:22
“Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will."
- 2 Timothy 2:23-26
Discussion Questions
What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?
Pastor Neli Atiga presented three keys to “being ‘we’” in a highly digital culture. Which one of them stood out most to you? As a reminder, they were:
Set apart: fully Human, fully His.
Useful: vessels for the Master of the household.
Ready: for every good work.
What’s one thing you can do, outside of your normal circles and routines, to connect with someone authentically for God’s Kingdom this week?