INTRODUCTION
This week we are starting a new teaching series called The Big Three. What matters to God should matter to us. Thankfully He gave us instructions that are not hard to understand. He said we should live in humility, full of mercy, and uphold justice. These are not easy! The goal of this series is to trust the Lord to help each of us honestly assess where we are and then also trust Him to help us take steps in the right direction. These three areas are a challenge for all of us, but they are also connected to us fulfilling our purpose and to people getting an accurate representation of Christ. That’s why these three things are BIG!
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
If you have nothing as your goal you’re certain to hit that goal. One of the many great attributes of God is that he has given us clear expectations. Not only that, but those clear expectations lead to us living lives of fulfillment and purpose. When it comes to the area of humility what do you think God expects of you?
When we watch the Olympics we find out that there are certain specific criteria that separate the good from the best. Phrases like “no splash,” “perpendicular to the water,” “not coming out of the tuck position too soon” and “sticking the landing” become common phrases that matter a ton to those watching closely. These next three weeks will be focused on three specific areas of our lives that really matter to God. Why do you think these three are so important to Him?
I Corinthians 8:6 says “We exist for God.” What are some ways in your life that your purpose to “exist for God” conflict with the choices you naturally want to make?
John 1:4 says Jesus is the “Light of all mankind.” Your life might be the only source of light some people may ever have a chance to see. What hinders your light from being even brighter?
An accurate and biblical view of self is super important. You must not think too much, nor too little, of yourself. The Bible and the Holy Spirit will guide each of us to our sweet spot. How do you keep yourself in that sweet spot?
Romans 12:5 says that each member of the body “belongs to all the others.” What does this mean to you?
How can you serve the body better?
What members of the body have served you particularly well? Please explain.
What are gifts or qualities you see in the body that you honestly see as more valuable or useful than what you have to offer?
What are gifts or qualities you see in others in our group and how have they blessed your life?
We exist for God and others. Philippians 2:3 says we should “value others above” ourselves. We all have lots of room for growth here. What is a step you can take to grow in this?
Our enemy successfully distracts us from the very things that will bring us purpose and fulfillment. We will usually not naturally look to the “interests of others.” Name some “others” that you feel led to give more of your attention to.
MOVING FORWARD
Walk humbly. This will never be done perfectly. Jesus had disciples who seemed like they got it wrong more than they got it right. Yet they changed the world. God is looking for us to be willing to give Him the opportunity to have a right view of Him, of ourselves, and of others. Just taking the time to consider these areas is a huge win. Take time this week to keep considering how you can grow to live a life that is more humble in how you think, how you speak, and how you act.