The DNA of Our Church | Encountering Jesus
How to use it: After watching/listening to this week’s message, from October 30, 2022, use the questions to go deeper into the message, with your group…or on your own. The questions will introduce you to the topic, reflect content from the sermon, go ‘Beyond the Message’, & get you thinking about practical applications for your life.
Share about a time you caught yourself imitating another person, or a time you caught someone imitating you. (i.e. a catch phrase, mannerism, way of doing something)
This week, Pastor Mark walked us through the story of Peter & John healing a crippled man and being arrested. Take the time to read this story again, found in Acts 3:1 – 4:13.
a. List examples of how Peter & John had “woven Jesus into their stories” revealed through their words and actions.
b. Why were the people so willing to listen and believe in Peter’s message?
c. Why were the religious leaders so resistant to Peter’s message?
d. Why are some people in our current world resistant to our message of truth about Jesus while others eagerly embrace it? Is there anything we can learn from this story of Peter & John to help us more effectively reveal Jesus to others?
In many ways, we can be considered “ordinary people” just like Peter & John (Acts 4:13). As you consider how we may increasingly become “little Christs” (Christians), discuss some practical examples and personal experiences for how you could:
a. Learn more about Jesus (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
b. Pray to Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7)
c. Serve others in the name of Jesus (1 John 4:8)
This week we are focused on the core value of Encountering Jesus: we weave Jesus into our story, so others experience him through us. Read 1 Corinthians 11:1 and consider:
a. What characteristics or activities of Jesus did Paul want the Corinthians to see in him?
b. How have you seen evidence of Jesus being woven into the story of West Meadows and the people of our congregation?
c. What could you commit to doing that would further “weave Jesus into your story” so others may experience him through you?
Prayer: Read all six values found here. Reflect for a moment on the value of Encountering Jesus, and then while you pray for one another, also ask God to provide opportunities to live this out this value in the coming week.