Message Notes
Series: Upside Down Living
Message: #20 - Outward Focus in a Time of Inward Focus
November 21-22, 2020
Dr. Kurt Bjorklund
Scripture | Matthew 7:12-20
12 So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
13 “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. 14 But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.
15 “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. 16 By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? 17 Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them. —Matthew 7:12-20 (NIV)
Notes
3 Ways to be Outward Focusing
Study Guide
Open
Read Matthew 7:12-20 and pray for your time together.
Discuss
- As you reflect on this weekend’s message, what made the biggest impact on you? Explain.
- When is it hard for you to extend good will toward others?
a. Who are you tempted to categorize in “out-groups” and “in-groups?”
b. What are the benefits of extending good will?
- What keeps you from inviting people to the narrow road?
- What belief system do you think is hardest to move past into genuine faith? Why?
- Most people think they are discerning enough to just know, yet many are duped. How do you personally keep yourself aware of false teaching?
- How does giving translate into being outward focused?
- What is one idea or action point from this week’s message that you will take away or seek to put into practice in your life?
Close in Prayer