May 16

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

Primary Passages: Acts 15

● Did Mike's walk through the OT and understanding of God's covenant with His people
bring a clearer understanding of who God is and His heart for us as His chosen people?
● Do you find it difficult to grasp that this promise is all about God and His love for you?
He never forgets His promise to us. There is nothing we have to do to earn His love.
● Do you have any questions on why God gave us the law? God gave laws but the
Pharisees made fences. What does that statement mean to you?
● Mike brought up some interesting thoughts and facts on the Pharisees. Were you
surprised to hear that the Pharisees were so knowledgeable in regards to God's word?
● In what ways are we perhaps as well-meaning Christians like the Pharisees often adding
fences to God's Law? What fences do you put up for yourself? for others?
● The definition of a fence is a barrier, an obstacle, a wall, it separates one thing or person
from another person or thing. After Jesus' death it states in Matthew 27: 50a "At that
moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom". The curtain was
what kept people from getting close to God, Jesus destroyed that curtain through His
death. Jesus destroyed the fence that kept us from God through His death and now we
can come close to God. The barrier (fence) is removed, Jesus is now the doorway in

which we can approach God. How can we as God's covenant people be doorways for
people to approach God?
● Is your doorway welcoming? Are there signs up (obstacles) that only allow some people
to enter and cause others to feel unwelcome? Perhaps you only welcome those you
agree with or those who look like you do.
● Think of someone you can welcome and share that person's name with your life group.
Commit within your Life Group to pray for one another. Ask God to show you how your
Life Group can be a doorway to share the love of God.

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.