Mental Illness and the Christian

Main Thought

“Mental illness” is one of the most misunderstood struggles we’ll face, even as Christians. It’s very important that we understand the nature of the battle, how to help one another, and how we can overcome. Christians need to understand that the battle for our mental health and wellness is fought on three fronts. Those three fronts are the mental, the physical, and the spiritual. Godly and gentle help can help us figure out which front (or fronts) needs care. Furthermore, we can all expect to struggle with one of three big issues to some extent: anxiety, depression, or control (OCD). Our responses to these things can help or hurt one another. Finally, we must use God-given strategies to overcome. Knowing the truth, believing the truth, and speaking the truth can help us live with mental wellness.

Main Passages

Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself. 2 Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. 3 If you think you are too important to help someone, you are only fooling yourself. You are not that important. 4 Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else. 5 For we are each responsible for our own conduct. 6 Those who are taught the word of God should provide for their teachers, sharing all good things with them. 7 Don’t be misled—you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant. 

- Galatians 6:1-7

6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. 8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. 9 Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.

- Philippians 4:6-8

Discussion Questions

1. What stood out to you from Pastor Bret Holman’s sermon, or from the Main Thought above?

2. Pastor Bret shared the following three terms and definitions. Which, if any, do you struggle with most and why?

   1. Anxiety: divided with distracting worries and outcomes.

   2. Depression: weighed down with anxiety and discouragement.

   3. Control (OCD): grabbing for control due to anxiety and fear.

3. Did you see something in one of the Main Passages, or hear something from the sermon, that can help you practically? If so, what?

Fixing Frustration

Main Thought

Frustration is an unavoidable part of life. We will find ourselves frustrated often, because there will always be cause for frustration in the world we live in. Our frustration can even reach a breaking point. It can affect us spiritually, emotionally, and physically. But God invites us to “pour our souls out” to Him! Praying honest prayers can help us pour our souls out to God one-on-one. Journaling helps too. Then, we can put our faith in God by moving in the direction He’s called us. We will eventually find God’s favor if we continue to follow Him even when we’re frustrated. God’s favor can be found in us; for us; and through us, as we see our perseverance make a difference in the lives of others.

Main Passages

10 She was deeply distressed and prayed to the Lord and wept bitterly.

- 1 Samuel 1:10

15 But Hannah answered, “No, my lord, I am a woman troubled in spirit. I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but I have been pouring out my soul before the Lord. 16 Do not regard your servant as a worthless woman, for all along I have been speaking out of my great anxiety and vexation.”

- 1 Samuel 1:15-16

17 Then Eli answered, “Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition that you have made to him.” 18 And she said, “Let your servant find favor in your eyes.” Then the woman went her way and ate, and her face was no longer sad.

- 1 Samuel 1:17-18

Discussion Questions

1. We can respond to frustration - and other difficult emotions - improperly when we attempt to A) deny it; B) distort it (which can include mislabeling our negative emotions); or C) disengage from it with distractions.

   1. Do you have a tendency to do any of these three things? Which one and why?

2. Do you think it’s important to “pour our souls out to God” one-on-one? Why or why not?

3. What can you do practically to either pour your soul out to God, or put your faith in Him and move forward?

Living in the Balance

Main Thought

A lot of us go through life with “a full plate.” We’ve got lots of responsibilities and things to do. But what happens when you have a full plate and lose your balance? Things get messy! God wants us to live our lives with balance. This starts when we put Jesus first. Then, we need to be intentional about making space for ourselves and for others. These first three things can already take significant energy, which is why it’s important to “stay full.” We need to partake of habits, activities, and resources that fill our tanks and prepare us for life’s challenges. We can’t assume everything will go well; therefore, it’s wise to make room for disruptions. To live with margin. These principles are a great start - but it’s impossible to prepare for everything. This brings us back to following the lead of Jesus Christ.

Main Passages

34 Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. 35 One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: 36 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 37 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

- Matthew 22:34-40

8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9 What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. 

- Philippians 4:8-9 

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 

- Ephesians 4:1-3

Discussion Questions

1. Do you feel like your life is balanced? Why or why not?

2. Balance begins with intentionally making room for God, for ourselves, and for others. Which of these things is easiest for you? Which is the hardest for you?

3. Think about the Main Thought and Passages above. What can you do to regain (or gain even more) balance this week?

The Yoke’s on You - Rest for your Soul

Main Thought

The Pelicano was a freighter (a ship) loaded with 28 million pounds of toxic ash. It went from port-to-port, but only to refuel. No country would allow it to unload its toxic ash. This can be a picture of Christians. We’re “refueled” with things like church, Life Group, worship music and podcasts. But we might not stop long enough to empty our souls of toxicity we accumulate simply by living in this world. How do we get rid of these burdens? Through rest. Jesus teaches us to rest. This starts as we accept His invitation to rest without fear, excuses, or pride that comes from busyness. Choosing to rest is a matter of submission to God that can reveal how much we trust Him. Jesus wants to transform us into His image. He teaches us to live from a posture of gentleness and humility like Him. Our souls find rest when these things happen in our lives; rest from the chaos around us, and from the chaos inside us.

Main Passages

Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.

- Proverbs 4:23

28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

- Matthew 11:28-30

Discussion Questions

1. The word “labor” can refer to the burdens we put on ourselves, and the phrase “heavy laden” can refer to the burdens placed upon us by other people or by the world. Do either of these things (or both of them) apply to you in this season?

2. What makes rest effective vs. ineffective? How can God be involved in finding effective rest?

3. Rest looks different for us as the seasons of our lives change. What does “rest” look like for you? What practical adjustments need to be made for you to find rest?

Empowered Living

Main Thought

God wants to give us power! God’s power does different things in us and through us. First, God gives us power to live holy lives before Him. He transforms our desires, our actions, and our habits. Transformed habits - in our thinking and behavior - eventually transform our lives. We’re also empowered to be witnesses for God. Witnesses tell people about what they’ve experienced in God. But we don’t stop at witnessing. We also receive God’s power to continue the work of discipleship, helping others follow Jesus. We walk with people until their lives are transformed too. 

Main Passages

“And while staying with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “you heard from me; for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.””

- ‭‭Acts‬ ‭1:4-8‬ ‭ESV‬‬

“I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor and gather his wheat into the barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.””

- ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭3:11-12‬ ‭ESV‬‬

“And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.””

- ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭28:18-20‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Discussion Questions

1. Have you ever experienced God’s power to live a holy, transformed life? If so, how?

2. Think about Acts 1:4-8. What do you think it means to “wait” on God? Are you doing that consistently?

3. God empowers us to live transformed, holy lives for Him; to be witnesses for Him; and to make disciples for Him. Where do you need God’s power to help you most in this season?

How Do We Do It?

Main Thought

The Bible tells us that everyone has sinned, choosing some selfish desire over a relationship with God. One consequence of sin is shame. But Jesus came to us in the midst of our sin and shame. He lived a perfect life, died in our place, and rose again to do so. We go as witnesses to others because God came to us first! We can all start by reaching the people around us. Yet reaching other regions and countries is a daunting task. How do we do it? In the Every Nation family, we reach the ends of the earth by prioritizing Church Planting and Campus Ministry. We advance God’s Kingdom as a movement when we systematically participate and invest in those things.

Main Passages

6 So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate. 7 Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked. And they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves loincloths. 8 And they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden. 9 But the Lord God called to the man and said to him, “Where are you?”

- Genesis 3:6-9

8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” 

- Acts 1:8

Discussion Questions

1. Has shame ever caused you to hide from God and others? What can help you overcome that shame?

2. Have your positive, personal experiences with God ever moved you to share Him with others?

3. Why are Church Planting (starting new churches) and Campus Ministry strategic and effective ways to reach the world for Christ?

The Socially Responsible Church

Main Thought

Becoming more like God often means becoming more compassionate. For that reason, the Every Nation family strives to be socially responsible. But it’s important to remember that people’s primary need is spiritual. Only Jesus can meet our deepest needs, and Jesus chose the Church to deliver that message. No one else can do it! This mindset frames our understanding of social responsibility. We can then begin to identify needs around us and respond in faith. God has given us more than enough to get started. He will make a way for us to make an impact when we move with intentionality and faith.

Main Passages

30 The apostles returned to Jesus and told him all that they had done and taught. 31 And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. 32 And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves. 33 Now many saw them going and recognized them, and they ran there on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. 34 When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. And he began to teach them many things. 

- Mark 6:30-34

35 And when it grew late, his disciples came to him and said, “This is a desolate place, and the hour is now late. 36 Send them away to go into the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat.” 37 But he answered them, “You give them something to eat.” And they said to him, “Shall we go and buy two hundred denarii worth of bread and give it to them to eat?” 38 And he said to them, “How many loaves do you have? Go and see.” And when they had found out, they said, “Five, and two fish.”

 - Mark 6:35-38

39 Then he commanded them all to sit down in groups on the green grass. 40 So they sat down in groups, by hundreds and by fifties. 41 And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing and broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples to set before the people. And he divided the two fish among them all. 42 And they all ate and were satisfied. 43 And they took up twelve baskets full of broken pieces and of the fish. 44 And those who ate the loaves were five thousand men.

- Mark 6:39-44

Discussion Questions

1. Why is it important for Christians to serve others while continuing to keep Jesus front-and-center?

2. Have you ever served someone practically as a representative of Christ?

3. Is there a practical need that you, your Life Group, or another group of fellow believers can meet while sharing the love of Jesus?

What's at the Center?

Main Thought

Most of us are searching for a “center,” whether we realize it or not. We want someone or something that’s worthy of our attention, time, and even love. The Bible tells us that Jesus is worthy! Jesus is worthy because of who He is: the powerful co-Creator of the Universe and prophesied Messiah, among many other things. He’s also worthy because of what He’s done. Jesus lived a perfectly moral life by God’s standard, died in our place on the Cross, and rose again. We know that Jesus won’t fail us because of who He is and what He’s done. He’s worthy to be at the center of His Church locally and globally. Jesus is also worthy to be the center of our lives. When Jesus occupies the center of our lives, everything else will find its proper place and serve its proper function.

Main Passages

Then I saw in the right hand of him who sat on the throne a scroll with writing on both sides and sealed with seven seals. 2 And I saw a mighty angel proclaiming in a loud voice, “Who is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll?” 3 But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth could open the scroll or even look inside it. 4 I wept and wept because no one was found who was worthy to open the scroll or look inside. 5 Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals. 6 Then I saw a Lamb, looking as if it had been slain, standing at the center of the throne, encircled by the four living creatures and the elders.”

- Revelation 5:1-6

33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

- Matthew 6:33

Discussion Questions

1. What makes something worthy of our attention, time, love, etc.? 

2. What’s at the “center” of your life right now?

3. Do you think Jesus is worthy to be at the center of your life? Why or why not?

4. If you do, then what needs to be removed from the center of your life so that Jesus can take His proper place?

Honor God

Main Thought

One of our primary goals in the Every Nation Family, both locally and globally, is to honor God. Honor expresses itself practically through our priorities and focus. King Solomon started out honoring God. But, as he became successful, his honor shifted to other things. He wantonly pursued women and wealth. Solomon lost his sense of meaning after misplacing his honor. King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon was insane. Eventually, he “lifted his eyes toward heaven.” He changed his focus and honored God, who is the highest authority. Then his sanity returned. As Christians, we follow the example of King Jesus. Jesus honored God the Father above His own desires. (Matt. 26:39; Mark 14:36; etc.) As a result, God honored and blessed Him. When we honor God, He honors us in return!

Main Passages

1 The words of the Teacher, son of David, king in Jerusalem: 2 “Meaningless! Meaningless!” says the Teacher. “Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless.” 3 What do people gain from all their labors at which they toil under the sun?

- Ecclesiastes 1:1-3

34 At the end of the days I, Nebuchadnezzar, lifted my eyes to heaven, and my reason returned to me, and I blessed the Most High, and praised and honored him who lives forever…

- Daniel 4:34

“In the beginning was the Word (Reason), and the Word (Reason) was with God, and the Word (Reason) was God.”

- ‭‭John‬ ‭1:1‬

Discussion Questions

1. Who, or what, are you honoring most with your life? Questions that might help you process this include...

   1. What’s your greatest focus or priority? What occupies your thoughts most?

   2. Does your schedule and/or spending align with who or what you’d like to honor most?

2. Honor is connected to purpose or reason. Does your answer (or answers) to Question One provide a purpose worth living for?

3. Is there a change you can make in your life to honor God, or prioritize Him, practically?

   1. Can something change in your: Schedule? Habits? Attitude? Relationships?

Empowered to Make Disciples

Main Thought

Christians are meant to be like Christ. Jesus Christ empowered people! He empowered people when He walked the earth, and continues to do so through His Holy Spirit. Jesus empowers us confidently. This is striking because no one is more aware of our failures and flaws than Jesus. Yet our victory in Him is secure, which gives us the confidence we need to try, fail, and “grow as we go.” Jesus empowers us supernaturally. We aren’t limited by our natural abilities. We’re supported by God’s supernatural power. Our efforts for God can be even greater than we expect. Finally, Jesus empowers us immediately. Anyone can be a witness who tells others about what Jesus has done for them. 

Main Passages

21 Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” 22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit…”

- John 20:21

8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

- Acts 1:8

17 And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized. 19 So when he had received food, he was strengthened. Then Saul spent some days with the disciples at Damascus. 20 Immediately he preached the Christ in the synagogues, that He is the Son of God. 21 Then all who heard were amazed, and said, “Is this not he who destroyed those who called on this name in Jerusalem, and has come here for that purpose, so that he might bring them bound to the chief priests?” 22 But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who dwelt in Damascus, proving that this Jesus is the Christ.

- Acts 9:17-22

Discussion Questions

1. Which of the three main points (Jesus empowers us confidently, supernaturally, and immediately) excites you the most? 

2. Which of those three things challenges you the most?

3. How can you step out in faith and obedience in a way that challenges you, based on this discussion?

Make Disciples. Make a Difference.

Main Thought

We need strength for life. It’s a marathon. On top of that, a life in which we partner with God to make disciples has its own unique set of difficulties. But God wants to empower us! He wants to strengthen us as we “wait” on Him. Waiting on God means taking the time and turning to Him, even if we’re experiencing tension. That’s where we find the supernatural strength we need to make a difference. We’re also called to empower others. This process takes perseverance, but there are earthly and eternal prizes to be won by those who press on. We make a difference when we make disciples.

Main Passages

You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, 2 and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also. 3 Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4 No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him. 5 An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. 6 It is the hard-working farmer who ought to have the first share of the crops.

- 2 Timothy 2:4-6

29 He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. 30 Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; 31 but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.

- Isaiah 40:29-31

Discussion Questions

1. What does it mean to you when we talk about being empowered by God? How does God’s empowerment help us?

2. Have you ever been empowered by God or a leader to make a difference, or have you empowered someone else? What was that experience like?

3. What’s the hardest part about waiting on God for you? Why?

Making an Impact

Main Thought

Everyone wants to make an impact. As Christians, we get to make an impact that’s felt for all eternity! Jesus sends us out to go as the Church, His representatives in the world. Revealing Jesus to the world is a part of every Christian’s purpose while living on earth. We should also go according to the Great Commission. The Great Commission is a command that comes with a basic plan of action. We engage nations, or “people groups,” for Christ. There are big “people groups,” like countries, and small ones, like groups of friends. We’re called to baptize people who respond to the gospel and teach them to obey God. This is a tall task - but we can go with confidence. Jesus promised to be with us as we set out to answer His call.

Main Passage

“Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.””. ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭28:16-20‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Discussion Questions

1. Do people see Jesus through you? Why or why not?

2. What’s the easiest part of answering the Great Commission (Christ’s command to make disciples) for you? 

3. What’s the hardest part of answering the Great Commission?

Pray that God’s Holy Spirit would be present with everyone this week, and present opportunities for us to make disciples.

EQUIPPING > TEACHING

Main Thought

EQUIPPING is an essential part of discipleship! Every Nation Church Las Vegas believes every member should be a minister. (Biblically, the word minister was used to describe anyone who served God and made disciples - not a word that described “professional Christians.”) Everyone should be equipped with skills to do basic ministry: things like praying for others, making invitations, sharing the gospel and our faith stories. We are often equipped in the context of intentional relationships. In our relationships, we can see and set good examples. We can receive and give clear assignments. Then, after the work is done, we can have accurate assessments. If we want more people to make disciples, then we need to equip and be equipped to make a difference.

Main Passages

After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them on ahead of him, two by two, into every town and place where he himself was about to go. And he said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.

- Luke 10:1-2 (ESV)

The seventy-two returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in your name!” 18 And he said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. 19 Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you. 

- Luke 10:17-19

11 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, 12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.

- Ephesians 4:11-12

Discussion Questions

1. Who has been an example of faith for you? What have you learned from them?

2. What’s one “skill” that every Christian should have? How did you learn it?

3. What’s one way you’d like to grow as a minister for Jesus? What’s one skill of habit you’d like to develop, and who can help you learn it?

Dictator, to Disciple, to Disciple-Maker

Main Thought

As disciples, we follow Jesus into transformation and life change. The life of Saul - who became the Apostle Paul - displays this clearly. Saul started as an opponent of Christianity who sanctioned persecution against early believers. Then, he had his own life-changing encounter with Jesus. He became a disciple and grew in faith around other disciples. Eventually, Paul was empowered to make a difference while in community with other believers. God calls us to experience these three things as we follow Jesus as well.

Main Passages

3 As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. 4 He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” 5 “Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked. “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. 6 “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”

- Acts 9:3-6

10 In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, “Ananias!” “Yes, Lord,” he answered. 11 The Lord told him, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. 12 In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.”

- Acts 9:10-12

19 and after taking some food, he regained his strength. Saul spent several days with the disciples in Damascus. 20 At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God. 21 All those who heard him were astonished and asked, “Isn’t he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among those who call on this name? And hasn’t he come here to take them as prisoners to the chief priests?” 22 Yet Saul grew more and more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Messiah.

- Acts 9:19-22 (NIV)

Discussion Questions

1. Have you ever had your own life-changing encounter or moment with Jesus. What happened? How has your life changed since then?

2. Our goal is for “each one to reach one” this year. Is there an unchurched person around you that you can engage for Christ this year? If not, then how can you begin to form those connections?

Establishing Strong Foundations

Main Thought

Foundations are essential for physical buildings and our spiritual lives. They predict future growth. They allow us to endure difficult circumstances. We need to beware of bad foundations that can’t bear the storms of life. They’re built when we do the opposite of what Christ says (bad activity), or when we do nothing about what Christ says (inactivity). Only God can give us the opportunity to establish a foundation strong enough to last into eternity. Strong foundations are built when we’re established in the Faith; this includes faith in Christ, baptism, and repentance. We must also establish a habit of Bible reading and prayer. Strong, spiritual foundations are impossible without this. Finally, God wants us to be established in a community of believers. These things won’t make our lives storm-free, but they can help us become storm-proof. 

Main Passages

24 “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. 26 And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. 27 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.”

- Matthew 7:24-27

37 Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” 38 And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

- Acts 2:22-24, 37-38

42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.

- Acts 2:42

Discussion Questions

1. Do you feel that you have a strong spiritual foundation? Why or why not?

2. When it comes to being established in the Faith, the Word (and prayer), and Community, where are you strongest? Where can you improve?

3. How can these three things help us develop storm-proof lives?

Family Questions

1. Do you believe in Jesus?

2. Do you read the Bible and pray?

3. Do you have Christian friends?

Engage the Lost

Main Thought

What do most of us do when we’ve discovered something we love, or when we’ve received good news? We share! The story of Jesus Christ is good news - and we’re called to share. In Every Nation, we call this “engaging” people with the gospel. One method to engaging lost people (those who are unchurched  or dechurched) is to remember the acronym B.L.E.S.S. The letter “B” stands for begin with prayer. Evangelism is a spiritual act as much as it is a practical one. We need God’s help! The letter “L” stands for listen to them. As the old saying goes, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” The letter “E” is a crowd favorite - eat a meal with them! The first “S” stands for serve a need (which allows us to impact their lives), and the second “S” stands for share a story. This is our chance to communicate how Jesus impacted our lives. It’s a lot easier to be a witness for Christ to others when we want to B.L.E.S.S them.

Main Passages

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 

- John 15:1-2

8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. 9 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. 11 These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. 

- John 15:8-11

18 As he was getting into the boat, the man who had been possessed with demons begged him that he might be with him. 19 And he did not permit him but said to him, “Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” 

- Mark 5:18-19

Discussion Questions

1. Which letter in the B.L.E.S.S. acronym is easiest for you to do? Which is the hardest?

2. How might using the B.L.E.S.S. approach make you a more effective and consistent witness for Christ?

3. Who can you look to B.L.E.S.S. this week? Which letter from that acronym will you apply?

Family Questions

1. What does it mean to bless someone? Can blessing someone help them learn about God?

Church on a Mission

Main Thought

While ascending into Heaven, Jesus declared: “All authority in Heaven and on earth has been given to me.” If we believe in Jesus, then we need to believe in His authority too. Jesus told us to go and make disciples! Disciples follow God, fish for others by sharing Jesus with them, and fellowship with other believers. It’s our mission to do this and to help others do it too. This is challenging, and might make us uncomfortable. But Jesus made a promise. If we believe that He has all authority and make disciples of all nations, teaching them to obey all that Christ has commanded, then He will be with us always. God will be with us when we go.

Main Passages

16 “Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. 17 And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

- Matthew 28:16-20

19 And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”

- Matthew 4:19

Discussion Questions

1. What’s the most challenging or uncomfortable part of following Jesus, or helping others follow Jesus?

2. Have you ever experienced God’s presence or power when you stepped out in faith? What happened?

3. What can you do this week to grow as a disciple, or to help someone else become or grow as a disciple?

Family Questions

1. Have you ever thought of inviting one of your friends to church? Who is it? How can your family help you?

A Problem with Love?

Main Thought

A lot of people are familiar with the famous “Love Chapter” in 1 Corinthians 13. It’s read at weddings and written on greeting cards. Unfortunately, the love we see around us - in the real world - doesn’t measure up to the standard of love portrayed by 1 Corinthians. Is there a problem with love? We, as people, fail to meet the high standard set by this famous text. But God’s love sets the standard! He chose to love us, even when He knew we’d fall short. We can receive God’s love and learn from it, so that our love (for God and others) can continue to grow and mature.

Main Passages

“4 Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant 5 or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; 6 it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. 7 Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”

- 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

9 In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. 10 In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.

- 1 John 4:9-10

11 When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways. 12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.

- 1 Corinthians 13:11-12

Discussion Questions

1. Look at the qualities of love listed in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. Have you failed to exhibit any of those qualities recently? What negative effects might that have had on you, or on those around you?

2. Has learning more about God’s love for you ever impacted the way you love God, or the way you love other people?

3. How can you practically demonstrate love for God or others this week?

Family Questions

1. What is love? How would you describe it?

2. What does it mean when someone says, “God loves you”?

Game-Changing Gifts

Warm-Up Question

Have you ever received a gift that changed your life in a significant and/or positive way? 

Main Thought

Some gifts have the power to change lives. They’re “game-changing gifts,” and God wants us to have them! He empowers us with “spiritual gifts.” Spiritual gifts are God-given abilities, whether natural or supernatural, that produce miraculous results. These gifts give us access to God’s purpose and power. We should desire these gifts! But we must always operate in them with an intent to love and build people up. We’ll also stay on a path of healthy Spirit Empowerment when we avoid “the Ditch of the Dead” (an absence of the Holy Spirit’s presence due to fear or misunderstanding), and “the Ditch of the Weird” (caused by a pursuit of spiritual experience rather than a pursuit of love). If we can do this, then our God-given spiritual gifts will truly change the game for us and for others.

Main Passages

For the kingdom of God does not consist in talk but in power.

- 1 Corinthians 4:20

Pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts

- 1 Corinthians 14:1

So with yourselves, since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church.

- 1 Corinthians 14:12

39 So, my brothers, earnestly desire to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. 40 But all things should be done decently and in order.

- 1 Corinthians 14:39-40

Discussion Questions

1. Why is it important to be led by love, and a desire to build people up, when operating in spiritual gifts?

2. Do you think you lean more toward the “Ditch of the Dead,” or the “Ditch of the Weird?”

3. We can act on our desire for spiritual gifts and activate them by 1) asking in faith, 2) being in the right atmosphere, and 3) attempting to use our gifts in faith. What can you do next to activate or grow in your own spiritual gifts?

All Hands on Deck

Main Thought

God loves to give His people gifts. If you believe in Him, then YOU are gifted too! God has given us “spiritual gifts”: abilities that lead to miraculous results, either in a natural or a supernatural way. We often discover our spiritual gifts when we consider the ways in which we are able or excited to serve. We “see the room” through our gifts. What can be improved? How do you want to contribute? Community forms as each member of God’s church finds their place and gets involved. We wind up in a position to love God by loving others practically.

Main Passages

1 Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed… 5 There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. 6 There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. 7 Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. 8 To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, 10 to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues.11 All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.

- 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 NIV

So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, 12 to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. 14 Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. 15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. 16 From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.

- Ephesians 4:11-16

Discussion Questions

1. Has anyone ever used a spiritual gift in a way that positively impacted your life? Who was it, and what happened?

2. What are your spiritual gifts? If you aren’t sure, then what do you think those gifts might be? (For those who don’t know, be sure to sign up for our Equip class in the future!)

3. How are you using your spiritual gifts right now, or how can you use them regularly in the near future?

Family Questions

1. What are you good at? Can you use that to bless someone, encourage them, or make them happy this week?