September 27th
September 27th
Jumping In: From Consumer to Contributor
The prevailing messaging so often imprinted into our minds and souls is that the things of this world are for us to consume. That, fundamentally, our objective is to shape the world in such a way that it serves us. This is not the truth. Another message we receive is that, as a byproduct of our efforts we can manipulate our lives into wholeness and healing. This can even sneak into our faith. It’s also not the truth. The truth is that we are dead in our sins and have no resources to pay the price required to save ourselves. The gospel is that, out of God’s limitless riches of grace and mercy, has sent Jesus to save us! We aren’t saved by good works, we are saved by the work God does on us. However, we are saved for good works, that our lives would move from being consumers of this world to contributors to the kingdom of heaven and the things of Christ. God works on us, and then he works through us.
- You may want to read Ephesians 1, Ezekiel 36, and Jeremiah 18 as well!
What are the things in life (accomplishments, etc.) that you are most proud of? If your group is comfortable, maybe pair that with discussing things or seasons that have come with shame or difficulty?
When is doing ‘nothing’ an okay thing, and when is it the wrong thing? What’s the distinction between the two?
Can you describe a time when you’ve been given a fresh start? What was it like, and how did you respond?
How might you communicate to someone new to faith the idea that we aren’t saved by good works, but we are saved for good works?
Who is your example when thinking of someone who really lives up to your idea of ‘letting God work through you’? What is it about their faith that you can learn from?
In your groups, discuss the ways you feel God may be uniquely working through you, and how cooperatively you may all work together.