This is Home: Jesus at the Center Study Guide

Connect

Go around the room and briefly talk about how you spend most of your time (probably your job, but whatever you are always busy with).

Engage

Scott asked us to do some introspection – to look inside our own hearts – regarding major areas of our lives. Now we have an opportunity to dig a little deeper.

Your work (job, or productive part of your day): What is your definition of success at work? Do you compare yourself to others that do the same work? Are you frustrated with your abilities to do your work well?

What word is in the center of your work life?

Your relational life: Are you loving the way you should? Are you receiving the love you deserve? Has sex become something that controls your behavior and decisions? Do you disappoint those who depend on you? Have you been disappointed by them? (If you have a co-ed group and if it’s helpful, consider breaking up the men and women to talk through this question in a more open/transparent way)

What word is in the center of your relational life?

Your financial life: Have you achieved financial security? Would you need more assets in order to feel secure? Are you possessive of you possessions?

What word is in the center of your financial life?

What would it look like to have Jesus be the center of your work, relational or financial life?

Scott made the point that Jesus brings life, and is Himself life. Do a quick tour of Jesus’ claims by reading and discussing John 1:4, 5:39-40, 6:48, 10:10 and 11:25.

Through the cattle ranch illustration, Scott made a significant point that Jesus empowers through attraction to Him, not through limiting our behavior. Life is drawn from the center. How does this affect your own priorities and list of do’s and don’ts in your life?

Apply
How can you bring life into your work, relationships and finances? Does discipline and determination bring you hope, joy, peace, contentment or significance?

Do you have a personal form of worship, study, service or meditation that makes Jesus attractive to you? Do you want Him to be the beautiful, attractive, life-giving force in the center of your life?

Challenge

Work, relationships and finances are essential for life, but are not the essence of life. Jesus says that He is the essence, the center of your life. Have you been convicted to allow Him in, drawing from his life at your center? Can you put this into words that might also encourage your group?

Close your time by praying together as a group as we head into 2020 about how to better keep Jesus at the center of our lives.