The Divine Doorkeeper

Main Thought

Almost all of us have felt the frustration of “closed doors.” Maybe we don’t have the opportunities we want because of things like distractions, delays, and denials. When doors begin to close in our faces, it’s important for us to remember that God is the Divine Door Keeper. He opens doors that no one shut! Nothing can stop God’s perfect will. Knowing this can inspire us to faithfully obey God even when faced with closed doors. If we want His guidance, then we need to faithfully follow His instructions. We’ll eventually encounter open doors when we walk with Jesus. Open doors often have open hearts waiting on the other side. We’ll find incredible opportunities to know God more, and to make Him known.

Main Passages

6 Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. 7 When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. 8 So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas. 11 From Troas we put out to sea and sailed straight for Samothrace, and the next day we went on to Neapolis. 12 From there we traveled to Philippi, a Roman colony and the leading city of that district of Macedonia. And we stayed there several days.

-  Acts 16:6-12

13 On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer. We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there. 14 One of those listening was a woman from the city of Thyatira named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth. She was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message. 15 When she and the members of her household were baptized, she invited us to her home. “If you consider me a believer in the Lord,” she said, “come and stay at my house.” And she persuaded us.

- Acts 16:13-15

7 “And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: ‘The words of the holy one, the true one, who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, who shuts and no one opens. 8 “‘I know your works. Behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one is able to shut.

- Revelation 3:7-8a

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought or Passages above?

2. Are you facing the frustration of a closed door right now?

3. What might it look like for you to faithfully explore, follow, or obey God while waiting for the right doors to open in your life?

What’s Missing in the Mission?

Main Thought

Barnabas and Paul brought God’s message of salvation to people who had never heard it before. As their team made disciples, they took their place in the mission of God. We’re invited to discover purpose as we participate in God’s mission. If we want to do that, then we can learn from the example of these men. There are at least five elements of effective mission present as their mission trip began in Acts 13:1-5. 

• Church: Paul and Barnabas were a part of a local church, and they started churches at every stop along the way. The primary way that God advanced His Kingdom in the New Testament was through local churches. 

• Community: Jesus called a community to be His followers and “fishers of men.” (Matthew 4:19.) We can engage the mission together.

• Consistent prayer and fasting: The first missionaries recognized that they would bear much fruit in God by abiding in God (John 15), so they prayed and fasted regularly.

• A course of action (or a strategy): One reason they began with Cyprus is because Barnabas was from that island. He knew the roads, culture, and people well.

• Connections: Starting their mission in each city by visiting Jewish synagogues made it easier to connect with people. These connections turned into discipleship relationships as they preached and met with people.

If each of us improves in just one of these elements of mission individually, then our collective effort and impact would multiply greatly.

Main Passages

1 Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a lifelong friend of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off. 4 So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus. 5 When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews. And they had John to assist them.

- Acts 13:1-5

“‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’”

- Acts 13:47

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 28:18-20

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?

2. Which one of the five elements of effective mission are you currently strongest in?

3. Which one of the five elements of effective mission can you improve on?

Disrupting the Darkness - Paul’s Encounter With The Light

Main Thought

Acts 9 presents a contrast of Saul’s life. (Saul would eventually come to be known as Paul.) We see him before Christ and after his conversion in Christ. What happened between verses 1 and 31? Saul encountered the presence and power of God in the form of a divine light. During this encounter, he experienced three things which would change him for the rest of his life. First, Jesus confronted Saul with the truth of the gospel. The gospel message points out our sin, and it reveals that the hope we need is in Jesus Christ. Next, we see that Saul reaches the point of conversion. He becomes a Christian, which is recognized outwardly by water baptism. Finally, we see that Saul answered the Great Commission and shared Christ with others. When we do this, we disrupt the darkness and help others encounter the light.

Main Passages

But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. 3 Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. 4 And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” 5 And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. 6 But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.”

- Acts 9:1-6

17 So Ananias departed and entered the house. And laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he rose and was baptized; 19 and taking food, he was strengthened.

- Acts 9:17-19

For some days he was with the disciples at Damascus. 20 And immediately he proclaimed Jesus in the synagogues, saying, “He is the Son of God.” 21 And all who heard him were amazed and said, “Is not this the man who made havoc in Jerusalem of those who called upon this name? And has he not come here for this purpose, to bring them bound before the chief priests?” 22 But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that Jesus was the Christ.

- Acts 9:19b-22

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and/or Passages above?

2. Mirror Saul’s story in Acts 9 by reflecting on your Faith Story (or testimony) with God.
   a. What was you life like before Christ?
   b. How did you come to know Christ? (Confrontation and conversion)
   c. How has your life changed for the better since coming to know Christ?

3. Pray for at least one person to share your Faith Story with by name, then try to set up time to spend with that person within the next month!

Simon Says

Main Thought

In Acts 8, we read about an interesting individual: Simon the Magician. Simon’s magic captured the attention of Samaritan people for a long time. He had a great deal of influence until Philip the Evangelist arrived. Philip preached the gospel of Jesus Christ in Samaria. Many believed, including Simon. The Bible tells us that Simon went through the motions of being a Christian for a while. Yet his underlying motives remained unchanged. Simon still wanted the power, control, and approval that came from being viewed by others as “great.” Ultimately, we don’t know what became of Simon. He might have faded into history. He might have even become an early enemy of the church. How can we avoid ending up like Simon? By learning to search our hearts.

We can ask ourselves questions to reveal where our hearts stand before God, like:

1. Why do I feel this way? How can I surrender to the Lordship of Christ?

2. What motivates me?

3. Who am I becoming? Who, or what, is helping me get there?

Main Passage

9 But there was a man named Simon, who had previously practiced magic in the city and amazed the people of Samaria, saying that he himself was somebody great. 10 They all paid attention to him, from the least to the greatest, saying, “This man is the power of God that is called Great.” 11 And they paid attention to him because for a long time he had amazed them with his magic. 12 But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13 Even Simon himself believed, and after being baptized he continued with Philip. And seeing signs and great miracles performed, he was amazed. - Acts 8:9-13

14 Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John, 15 who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit, 16 for he had not yet fallen on any of them, but they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit. 18 Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money, 19 saying, “Give me this power also, so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” - Acts 8:14-19

20 But Peter said to him, “May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money! 21 You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is not right before God. 22 Repent, therefore, of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that, if possible, the intent of your heart may be forgiven you. 23 For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity.” 24 And Simon answered, “Pray for me to the Lord, that nothing of what you have said may come upon me.” - Acts 8:20-24

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?

2. Is there an area in which you currently feel that you’re “going through the motions?” How might God want to inspire or motivate you in that area?

3. Search your heart by picking one of the three questions listed above that stands out to you most, then answering it in conversation with your group.

Even When It Doesn't Make Sense

Main Thought

We all know that we’ll face different obstacles and opposition throughout our lives. These things come in all shapes and sizes. They often make us feel like we’ve been pushed off-course. We may even wonder whether or not we’re living in God’s will. When this happens, it’s important for us to remember that God can use the things we face to position us for opportunity. If we want to experience this, then we need to obey God - even when it doesn’t make sense! God leads us through His Word, His Spirit, and His people. We may discover incredible open doors of opportunity when we follow God in faith.

Main Passages

4 Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word. 5 Philip went down to the city of Samaria and proclaimed to them the Christ. 6 And the crowds with one accord paid attention to what was being said by Philip, when they heard him and saw the signs that he did. 7 For unclean spirits, crying out with a loud voice, came out of many who had them, and many who were paralyzed or lame were healed. 8 So there was much joy in that city.

- Acts 8:4-8

26 Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Rise and go toward the south to the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” This is a desert place. 27 And he rose and went. And there was an Ethiopian, a eunuch, a court official of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was in charge of all her treasure. He had come to Jerusalem to worship 28 and was returning, seated in his chariot, and he was reading the prophet Isaiah. 29 And the Spirit said to Philip, “Go over and join this chariot.”

- Acts 8:26-29

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?

2. How might God call us to obey Him in a way that doesn’t make sense? Give one or two examples.

3. How do you currently process God’s will in the face of a difficult decision? What can you do to get better at this process?

Fathers and Faith

Main Thought

In Acts 7, as Stephen addresses the crowd, he references a handful of the “fathers of the faith.” These are men who helped form the foundation of Christianity. We can learn a lot from their example. While these lessons can apply to every believer, they have a unique emphasis for fathers who want to live as God intended. Fathers are called like Abraham. God calls fathers to reflect the love of Christ to their spouses, and to demonstrate God’s love to their children. Fathers contend like Moses. Fathers contend for their families through things like prayer, consistency, and hard work. Fathers pay the cost like Stephen. Fathers are called to sacrifice; when they do this with joy, it reveals God’s love in a profound way. Finally, fathers are called to continue like Saul, who eventually became Paul. There may be moments in which any of us - fathers, mothers, everyone - feel like failures. The temptation in that moment is to give up or check out. But the grace of God gives us the opportunity to continue, and that’s exactly what we should do.

Main Passages

“Brothers and fathers, hear me. The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham when he was in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Haran, 3 and said to him, ‘Go out from your land and from your kindred and go into the land that I will show you.’

- Acts 7:2-3

35 “This Moses, whom they rejected, saying, ‘Who made you a ruler and a judge?’—this man God sent as both ruler and redeemer by the hand of the angel who appeared to him in the bush. 36 This man led them out, performing wonders and signs in Egypt and at the Red Sea and in the wilderness for forty years.

- Acts 7:35-36

…for though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again…

- Proverbs 24:16

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?

2. Why is it important for the people we lead or influence to see us pay the cost, or sacrifice, in our leadership? In what ways do you try to apply this principle?

3. Have you ever felt like giving up or checking out because you failed in some way? What’s the best way for you to continue by God’s grace?

What Does it Mean to Fear God?

Main Thought

The Bible has a lot to say about “the fear of the Lord.” But that concept can be difficult to understand. How can we fear God and love God at the same time? The fear of the Lord and God’s love can - and should - coexist. It can be said that the fear of God is reserved for those who reject the love of God. He prefers to extend His grace and love. But God is also just, so He exercises His power in opposition to sin. 

God’s power can be a blessing to us. He protects us. He also warns us of sin’s consequences, and may discipline us when we disobey. In this way, being aware of God’s power can instill a healthy sense of fear in us. It’s a fear that prevents us from experiencing or causing greater pain. Ultimately, the motive behind the exercise of God’s power is God’s love. To fear God, then, is to live with an awareness of God’s power and an appreciation of God’s love. This awareness causes reverence and awe; it inspires us to be holy; to worship, and to know God more. We should fear God.

Main Passages

9 But Peter said to her, “How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Behold, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.” 10 Immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. When the young men came in they found her dead, and they carried her out and buried her beside her husband. 11 And great fear came upon the whole church and upon all who heard of these things. - Acts 5:9-11

28 And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. 30 But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. 32 So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, 33 but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven. 

- Matthew 10:29-33

6 The Lord passed before him and proclaimed, “The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, 7 keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, but who will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children and the children's children, to the third and the fourth generation.” - Exodus 34:6-7

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought or Passages above, and why?

2. Do you tend to think more about God’s power or love? Do you think that reveals anything about your relationship with God, or your understanding of Him?

3. What’s one way fearing God (as described above) can impact your daily life?

For All to See

Main Thought

Some sporting events or concerts are only available to those who purchase a pay per view or a ticket. They’re limited by nature. On the other hand, other events - like the Super Bowl - are available more widely on cable television. They’re meant to be experienced by as many people as possible. They’re “for all to see.” The movement of God’s Spirit is something that’s meant for all to see! The Holy Spirit wants to be as real to us as if Jesus Himself were present in our midst. We’re meant to experience the Spirit’s presence privately (in our own time with God) and publicly (in settings like a Sunday worship service). When the Spirit moves, He changes lives. What will you do in order to see God move?

Main Passages

When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. 2 And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. 3 And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.

- Acts 2:1-4

On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 20 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. 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 20:19-22

16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise prophecies, 21 but test everything; hold fast what is good. 22 Abstain from every form of evil.

- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-22

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought or Passages above?

2. What do you think it means to experience the presence of God? What makes you say that?

3. Reflect on the passages from 1 Thessalonians 5. Can you do any of these things as you spend time with God, in order to experience Him more?

Power to Advance God's Kingdom

Main Thought

An acronym that has become popular throughout culture in recent years is FOMO. It stands for “Fear Of Missing Out,” and refers to the worry that we’d miss out on special opportunities or experiences. Thankfully, God offers an incredible experience to ever Believer - and we don’t need to worry about missing out. In the Book of Acts, the Holy Spirit comes to earth. It can be said that the Holy Spirit’s purpose is to bring the reality of God’s Kingdom into our present experience. God’s Kingdom advances as the Spirit moves. We are meant to be a part of this: God’s will is for every believer to experience the moving of the Holy Spirit. How can we experience this for ourselves? This happens as we engage Him (through the Word, in prayer, through spiritual gifts, etc.) and submit to His will in our actions and lifestyles.

Main Passages

6 So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7 He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. 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

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. 39 For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.”

- Acts 2:38-39

16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do.

- Galatians 5:16-17

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?

2. How do you engage God on a regular basis? What can you add or improve?

3. Is there anything you need to submit to God in order to experience Him more?

The End

Please read through this guide and use it as a tool in your Life Groups in whatever way suits you best.

Read the Word.

1. Think about what you read in the Book of Matthew recently, OR;

2. Briefly read through Matthew 25:14-30.

What stands out to you from your Bible reading and why? How can you apply that to your life?

Reflect on the Sermon.

The ending of something - like a movie or a book - has the power to capture our attention. In Matthew 24-25, Jesus tells us a little bit about what the end of the world will look like. How do we respond appropriately to what the Bible teaches us about the end times? We should not obsess over it or ignore it. Instead, we should be aware of the season we’re in and live with purpose. We do that when we endure, excel, and evangelize. Jesus won’t return until every “people group” has heard the gospel. We can be a part of that!

1. What does it mean to you to “endure and excel?” How are you trying to do that?

2. How can you be involved in bringing the gospel to the world?

The Compelling Faith of a Mother

Please read through this guide and use it as a tool in your Life Groups in whatever way suits you best.

Read the Word.

1. Think about what you read in the Book of Matthew recently, OR;

2. Briefly read through the Main Text from Pastor Roland’s sermon last Sunday.

21 And Jesus went away from there and withdrew to the district of Tyre and Sidon. 22 And behold, a Canaanite woman from that region came out and was crying, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David; my daughter is severely oppressed by a demon.” 23 But he did not answer her a word. And his disciples came and begged him, saying, “Send her away, for she is crying out after us.” 24 He answered, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” 25 But she came and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, help me.” 26 And he answered, “It is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs.” 27 She said, “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table.” 28 Then Jesus answered her, “O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire.” And her daughter was healed instantly.

- Matthew 15:21-28

What stands out to you from your Bible reading and why? How can you apply that to your life?

Reflect on the Sermon.

In Matthew 15, Jesus leaves Jerusalem and goes on an extended journey into the area of Tyre and Sidon before returning to the Sea of Galilee. The Book of Matthew only tells us about one encounter He had while there. A Gentile woman approached Jesus, asking for him to heal her daughter. Jesus initially resisted her to test her faith. She responded with compelling faith that impressed Jesus! This woman had a problem, like we all do at times. But she had a plan - and that was to persistently seek Jesus as the provider for her needs.

1. Have you ever felt like God might be testing your faith? If so, then how?

   1. What do you think God wanted you to learn?

2. What stands out to you about the Canaanite Mother’s example? How can you emulate that?

Life Group HEAR Journal - Weekly Reading: Matthew 13-Matthew 17:13

24 Jesus told them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. 25 But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. 26 When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared. 27 “The owner’s servants came to him and said, ‘Sir, didn’t you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from?’ 28 “‘An enemy did this,’ he replied. “The servants asked him, ‘Do you want us to go and pull them up?’ 29 But he said, ‘No, lest in gathering the weeds you root up the wheat along with them. 30 Let both grow together until the harvest, and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, “Gather the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.”

- Matthew 13:24-30

An easy, memorable way to learn how to read and process the Bible is through the HEAR journaling method. This process helps us read God’s Word with the goal of understanding it and applying it to our lives. The letters stand for Highlight, Explain, Apply, and Respond. 

• Highlight a scripture: Pick one verse (or pick a set of connected or related verses) from the Book of Matthew. Highlight this verse or write down the Book, chapter, and verse number.

• Explain the context: By asking some simple questions with the help of God’s Spirit, we can understand the meaning of a passage or verse. The following questions can help us understand the context of a passage: What’s happening in the story? Why was this written, and to whom? How does it fit with the verses before and after it? What does God intend to communicate through this text? 

• Apply it to your life: Application is the heart of the process! Answering a series of questions can help us uncover the meaning of these verses to us on a personal level. What is God saying to me? How can this help me? What does this mean today? How would applying this look in my life?

• Respond with action: This is the last part of the HEAR Journal. Your response to the passage may take on many forms. You may write a call to action. You can describe how you’ll be different because of what God said to you through His Word. You may indicate what you’re going to do because of what you have learned. You can even respond by writing out a prayer to God.

This week, you can share something from your own reading or focus on the Main Passage from Pastor Roland’s sermon: Matthew 13:24-30. We’ll write our responses and share them with our group. (If you journal some other way, feel free to do that!) Pay special to the Apply and Respond steps; that’s where God’s Word comes to life! 

Let’s encourage each other in God’s Word!

Lord of the Sabbath

Main Thought

The Sabbath was an important part of Jewish life. In The Old Testament, God made it one of the Ten Commandments. It was a day to remember His goodness and rest in His promises. Yet people forgot the meaning of the Sabbath over time. It became an oppressive religious ritual. The end result was that keeping the Sabbath became more burdensome for some than the days that were filled with work! When Jesus arrived on the scene, He revealed God’s heart behind the Sabbath. God’s compassion values people’s needs over religious rules. Sometimes, people need rest; at other times, people need help. God wants to meet our needs. He also blesses us with His best. But those gifts can become burdens when not used properly. Ultimately, God extends relief from our burdens when we rest in the finished work of Jesus. Jesus is the true fulfillment of the Sabbath. In Him, we can rest from trying to earn God’s love through work, receive it as a gift, and enjoy growing in it from a place of acceptance instead of fear.

Main Passages

9 He went on from there and entered their synagogue. 10 And a man was there with a withered hand. And they asked him, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?”—so that they might accuse him. 11 He said to them, “Which one of you who has a sheep, if it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will not take hold of it and lift it out? 12 Of how much more value is a man than a sheep! So it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.” 13 Then he said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” And the man stretched it out, and it was restored, healthy like the other. 

- Matthew 12:9-13

17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. 

- James 1:17

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. What stood out to you from God’s Word over the past week, either from your personal reading or the Main Passages above?

2. Why do you think God made the Sabbath one of the Ten Commandments?

3. What do you think it means for Jesus to be the Sabbath? How can that affect our lives as Christians?

Life Group HEAR Journal - Weekly Reading: Matthew 5:17-9:8

19 “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 22 “The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light, 23 but if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness! 24 “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.

- Matthew 6:19-24

An easy, memorable way to learn how to read and process the Bible is through the HEAR journaling method. This process helps us read God’s Word with the goal of understanding it and applying it to our lives. The letters stand for Highlight, Explain, Apply, and Respond. 

• Highlight a scripture: Pick one verse (or pick a set of connected or related verses) from the Book of Matthew. Highlight this verse or write down the Book, chapter, and verse number.

• Explain the context: By asking some simple questions with the help of God’s Spirit, we can understand the meaning of a passage or verse. The following questions can help us understand the context of a passage: What’s happening in the story? Why was this written, and to whom? How does it fit with the verses before and after it? What does God intend to communicate through this text? 

• Apply it to your life: Application is the heart of the process! Answering a series of questions can help us uncover the meaning of these verses to us on a personal level. What is God saying to me? How can this help me? What does this mean today? How would applying this look in my life?

• Respond with action: This is the last part of the HEAR Journal. Your response to the passage may take on many forms. You may write a call to action. You can describe how you’ll be different because of what God said to you through His Word. You may indicate what you’re going to do because of what you have learned. You can even respond by writing out a prayer to God.

This week, you can share something from your own reading or focus on the Main Passage from Pastor Matt’s sermon: Matthew 6:19-24. We’ll write our responses and share them with our group. (If you journal some other way, feel free to do that!) Pay special to the Apply and Respond steps; that’s where God’s Word comes to life! 

Let’s encourage each other in God’s Word!

Life Group HEAR Journal: Matthew 1-5:16

13 “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. 14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

- Matthew 5:13-16

An easy, memorable way to learn how to read and process the Bible is through the HEAR journaling method. This process helps us read God’s Word with the goal of understanding it and applying it to our lives. The letters stand for Highlight, Explain, Apply, and Respond. 

• Highlight a scripture: Pick one verse (or pick a set of connected or related verses) from the Book of Matthew. Highlight this verse or write down the Book, chapter, and verse number.

• Explain the context: By asking some simple questions with the help of God’s Spirit, we can understand the meaning of a passage or verse. The following questions can help us understand the context of a passage: What’s happening in the story? Why was this written, and to whom? How does it fit with the verses before and after it? What does God intend to communicate through this text? 

• Apply it to your life: Application is the heart of the process! Answering a series of questions can help us uncover the meaning of these verses to us on a personal level. What is God saying to me? How can this help me? What does this mean today? How would applying this look in my life?

• Respond with action: This is the last part of the HEAR Journal. Your response to the passage may take on many forms. You may write a call to action. You can describe how you’ll be different because of what God said to you through His Word. You may indicate what you’re going to do because of what you have learned. You can even respond by writing out a prayer to God.

This week, you can share something from your own reading or focus on the Main Passage from Pastor Roland’s sermon: Matthew 5:13-16. We’ll write our responses and share them with our group. (If you journal some other way, feel free to do that!) Pay special to the Apply and Respond steps; that’s where God’s Word comes to life! 

Let’s encourage each other in God’s Word!

Some Good News

Main Thought

Everyone loves receiving good news. We can be reminded of the greatest news ever declared to mankind each year on Easter. Jesus Christ, who is the Son of God, died in our place but rose again three days later. Jesus is alive! This “good news,” or gospel, reminds us of Jesus’s love and compassion for us. He’s not uncaring or aloof when it comes to us; He loves us. The good news of the gospel reminds us that we can have a restored relationship with God. Many of the things we search for - things like hope, peace, love, and purpose - are waiting for us in God. Finally, the good news reminds us that Jesus secured our victory both now and in the future. We can have peace knowing that nothing can change God’s love for us and our place with Him.

Main Passages

25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, 26 and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” 27 She said to him, “Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who is coming into the world.”

- John 11:25-27

8 but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. 10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life.

- Romans 5:8-10

54 When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: “Death is swallowed up in victory.” 55  “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” 56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

- 1 Corinthians 15:54-56

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought or Main Passages above?

2. What does it mean to be loved by God? What does it mean to have a relationship with Him?

3. How can we be victorious in Jesus, even when life is difficult? Does that change the way you live? Why or why not?

New Like Timothy

Main Thought

Much of the Christian life has to do with becoming new. God invites us into a new family: His own. He, as the all-knowing Creator, gives us a new foundation for our beliefs and identity. God even goes so far as to make us new people. That happens in at least two different ways. Our hearts, (or spirits, the core of our beings), are transformed when we place our faith in Jesus. But our habits, attitudes, and character still need to change over time. This process of growth requires our participation. If we resist or reject growth, then we can cause pain to ourselves, to others, and even to God. But there’s great beauty and purpose awaiting those who are willing to engage the process of growth as a Christian. We grow when we progressively move in a new direction by making new decisions. Every choice we make to pursue Christ and flee sin is a step toward becoming a new person who finds new purpose in Him.

Main Passages

19 But God's firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and, “Let everyone who names the name of the Lord depart from iniquity.” 20 Now in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for honorable use, some for dishonorable. 21 Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work. 22 So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.

- 2 Timothy 2:19-22

3 Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? 4 Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye.

- Matthew 7:3-5

7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.

- 2 Timothy 4:7-8

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above? Why?

2. In what way can your habits, attitudes, or character change in order for you to become more like Jesus?

3. What’s one practical thing you can do consistently to reinforce that change and move in a new direction?

Humble like Jesus

Main Thought

As Christians, we want to look like and be like Jesus. Jesus set the ultimate example of humility. We should be humble too! Becoming humble can be a painful process though. Our sinful pride reveals itself in more ways than we realize. When we’re upset or offended easily, it’s probably because of pride. When we’re angry that we didn’t get our way, that’s usually pride. When we scoff at the efforts of others, laugh at them, or judge them, it’s our pride. Did you know that God hates pride? That He actively opposes proud people? Realizing that should make us desperate to push the pride out of our lives! So how do we do it? Becoming humble begins with looking in the mirror and acknowledging our pride. Then, we need to act with an opposite spirit. Humility manifests itself in submission, service, and sacrifice. Becoming humble involves choosing at least one of those things, gritting our teeth, and doing it. When we do that with a heart that genuinely seeks humility, God meets us there. He will help us along the way.

Main Passages

5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

- Philippians 2:5-8

42 And Jesus called them to him and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. 43 But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all.

- Mark 10:42-44

6 But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”

- James 4:6

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought or Passages above?

2. Think of a moment over the past week in which pride might have revealed itself through your offense, anger, judgement, etc. What happened? Why do you think you reacted that way?

3. In the situation above, what might God be trying to teach you regarding humility? How can you act accordingly?

Serve like Jesus

Main Thought:

The act of washing feet was a customary practice during the time of Jesus, particularly before a communal meal. The men's sandals and feet would often be soiled with dirt, mud, and even animal droppings, making it necessary to wash their feet before dining together. This was the responsibility of the lowest-ranked servant in the household. However, Jesus did something unexpected. He wrapped a servant's towel around his waist, got on his knees, and proceeded to wash the feet of his disciples. This act exemplified Jesus' amazing humility, as he took on the role of a servant to serve others. It also demonstrated to his followers what true leadership in his kingdom looked like and he encouraged them to adopt a similar heart of service towards one another.

Main Text:

3 Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, 4 rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. 5 Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him. 6 He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, do you wash my feet?” 7 Jesus answered him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but afterward you will understand.” 8 Peter said to him, “You shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no share with me.” 9 Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!” 10 Jesus said to him, “The one who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but is completely clean. And you are clean, but not every one of you.” 11 For he knew who was to betray him; that was why he said, “Not all of you are clean.” 12 When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? 13 You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. 16 Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them. - John 13:3-17

But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, 28 even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” - Matt 26-28

Discussion Questions:

1. What stands out to you in the main thought or main passages above?

2. A common phrase in Jesus’ ministry was “the first will be last, and the last will be first.” What do you think He meant?

3. Who can you serve this week? In what ways can you serve them?

Leading like Moses

Main Thought

What is leadership? There are so many different opinions and definitions out there. One of the best ways to define leadership is to discover it in the lives of great leaders. Moses was arguably ancient Israel’s greatest leader. He was called by God to lead His people out of slavery in Egypt into God’s Promised Land. The journey was very difficult due to opponents, obstacles, and Moses’ own flaws. Yet Moses eventually positioned God’s people to inherit God’s promise. Through the life of Moses, we can learn this: “A Christian leader leads people through difficulty to a better place with God.”

Main Passages

7 The Lord said, “I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt. I have heard them crying out because of their slave drivers, and I am concerned about their suffering. 8 So I have come down to rescue them from the hand of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of that land into a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey…

- Exodus 3:7-8

15 And he said to him, “If your presence will not go with me, do not bring us up from here. 16 For how shall it be known that I have found favor in your sight, I and your people? Is it not in your going with us, so that we are distinct, I and your people, from every other people on the face of the earth?”

- Exodus 33:15-16

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 28:18-20

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?

2. What kind of difficulties have you experienced while trying to lead?

3. Who do you lead (or who can you lead) on a regular basis? How can you honor God in that?