The Abundant Life
Michael Ryan Stotler
Part of Ecclesiastes—The Quest for Meaning
February 19, 2025

Main Verse:

– John 10:10


1. Life Without Christ: A Perceived Abundance


2. Jesus’ Promise of Abundant Life


3. Living the Abundant Life Today

Practical Steps:
1. Rest in God’s Grace
- Key Verse:

(Ephesians 2:8).
- What does it look like to rest in God’s grace this week?
_

  1. Align Your Priorities with God’s Kingdom

  2. Experience Joy Through Faith


4. The Eternal Perspective

  • The abundant life begins now and is fulfilled in eternity.
  • How does this eternal promise encourage you today?

Reflection Questions

  1. What “thieves” have distracted you from the abundant life Jesus offers?
  2. How can you embrace the fullness of life in Christ this week?
  3. Where is God calling you to trust Him more deeply?

Takeaway Thought:
The abundant life is not about what you have—it’s about who you have in Jesus.


Bible Study: Living the Abundant Life

Main Text: John 10:10
Duration: 3-4 Days


Day 1: Understanding the Abundant Life

Scripture Reading: John 10:1-10

Reflection:
- Read verses 1-10 slowly, focusing on Jesus’ role as the Good Shepherd.
- What does Jesus mean when He contrasts the “thief” with Himself? What characteristics of the thief can you identify in your life (e.g., distractions, false promises, sin)?

Word Study:
The Greek word for “abundantly” (περισσόν, perissón) means “exceeding, beyond measure, more than expected.” This is not just “getting by” or “having enough” but overflowing fullness. Reflect on how Jesus’ promise of abundance surpasses worldly definitions of success or happiness.

Questions for Reflection:
1. In what areas of your life are you tempted to listen to the “thieves” instead of the Shepherd?
2. How does Jesus’ promise of abundance challenge the way you view your goals or priorities?

Prayer Point:
Ask God to help you discern the voices of “thieves” in your life and to trust in His abundant provision.


Day 2: Resting in God’s Grace

Scripture Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10

Reflection:
- Reflect on verses 8-9, which emphasize that salvation is a gift of grace, not earned by works.
- How does resting in God’s grace free you from the pressure to prove your worth?

Word Study:
The Greek word for “grace” (χάρις, charis) signifies unmerited favor, kindness, and divine enablement. Consider how this unearned gift shapes your understanding of the abundant life.

Questions for Reflection:
1. How can embracing God’s grace change the way you approach daily life?
2. Are there areas where you’re striving instead of resting in what Jesus has already done for you?

Action Step:
Write down one way you can rest in God’s grace this week, whether through prayer, silence, or letting go of a specific burden.


Day 3: Aligning Your Priorities with God’s Kingdom

Scripture Reading: Matthew 6:19-34

Reflection:
- Focus on verses 33-34. Jesus calls us to seek God’s kingdom and righteousness above all else. How does this priority shift your perspective on what truly matters?
- Reflect on the connection between anxiety and misplaced priorities. How can trusting God’s provision bring peace?

Word Study:
The Greek word for “seek” (ζητέω, zētéō) means to desire, search for, or pursue with intention. Consider how actively seeking God’s kingdom requires daily commitment.

Questions for Reflection:
1. What distractions keep you from focusing on God’s kingdom? How can you adjust your priorities?
2. How does trusting in God’s provision affect the way you handle stress or uncertainty?

Prayer Point:
Pray for clarity to discern God’s kingdom priorities and the courage to pursue them.


Day 4 (Optional): Living with Eternal Perspective

Scripture Reading: Revelation 21:1-7

Reflection:
- Meditate on the description of the new heavens and new earth. How does this vision of eternity shape your understanding of abundance?
- How can living with an eternal perspective bring joy and purpose to your daily life?

Word Study:
The Greek word for “new” (καινός, kainos) describes something fresh, unprecedented, or superior in quality. Reflect on how Jesus’ promise of a “new heaven and earth” offers hope and renewal.

Questions for Reflection:
1. How does the promise of eternity impact your decisions and priorities today?
2. Where can you bring a glimpse of heaven’s hope to those around you?

Action Step:
Write down one way you can share the hope of abundant life in Christ with someone this week.


Closing Challenge:

Over the next week, reflect on how the abundant life Jesus offers transforms your daily decisions, relationships, and goals. Prepare your heart for the upcoming sermon by focusing on how to align every aspect of your life with God’s eternal purpose.