Disciple | Unexpected Expectations

Follow Along with the Message

1. Doing Life

As a church family, we care about each other’s lives: what we’re celebrating, what we’re mourning, what decisions we are praying through, and everything in between 

(1 Thessalonians 2:8, Romans 12:10, 15). Suggested time: 10-20 minutes 

• How are you doing? 
• What can you thank God for this week?
• When were you most aware of Jesus’ presence this week? When were you least aware of Jesus’ presence this week?
• Do you have any practical needs?

2. Jesus Centered

God uses His Word to reveal Himself to us, equip us to live the good life He’s designed for us, show us our sin, and strengthen us as we follow Him (2 Timothy 3:16-17, Colossians 1:9-12, and James 1:22-25). Suggested Time: 20-40 minutes 

Sermon Questions:

1. “Come Ready?” In what ways are you preparing to come to church each week? 
2. Pastor Phil answered the question, “Why are there wars?”  How does this answer relate to the “Kingdom of light crashing into the darkness of Life?” Mark 1:14-15 - Jesus preaches that the kingdom of God is at hand…

3. Jesus came to preach an unexpected message…” My kingdom liberation starts with your heart”.  What does that liberating look like? 
4. [Option] Read Psalm 139:21-24 together and discuss the humility that it takes to pray this prayer every day. 
5. Think of a time you were in an argument or frustrated with some injustice.  Think back to where your focus was. Was it the other person(s) that wronged you?  What would it look like to slow down and pay attention to what is happening in your own heart? 

Challenge- slow down this week and ask God to humbly show you where he is working in your own heart.  

3. Engaging the Heart

Jesus calls us to walk in the light, confessing our sins to God and each other. God’s Spirit works through confession and community to lead us to repentance. (Romans 3:23-24, James 5:16 and 1 John 1:5-10) Suggested Time: 10-20 minutes 

• How are you doing abiding with Jesus this week in Scripture and prayer? 
• What sin do you need to confess to God? What are you struggling to trust Jesus with this week? How can you give Him control of it? (As people confess sin, make sure to remind one another of the good news Jesus offers.)

4. Expanding the Kingdom

Just like God the Father sent Jesus on a mission of reconciliation for us, Jesus sends us out as ambassadors of His reconciliation. We are called to make disciples wherever we go. (John 20:21 and 2 Corinthians 5:18-20) Suggested time: 10-20 minutes

• People: Who in your life can you be building with right now? What does that look like during this season? 
• Plan: Are there any rhythms planned (virtual or in-person) that we can invite these friends into? What spiritual conversations do you want to initiate with them soon? 

Pray: Let’s pray for our people by name; pray for their needs, opportunities to connect, and opportunities to have spiritual conversations that help them take next steps toward Jesus.