Main Idea: Spaces & Places—Sermon on the Mount
Check-In (Highs & Lows) 15 min
A great, quick way to catch the highlights of what is happening in the lives of the people in your group is to take turns quickly sharing the “highs & lows” of your week. High: What was your biggest highlight since we last met? Low: What was the low point during this time?
Settle-In (Ice-Breaker) 10 min
The sermon mentioned the significance of the spaces and places where Jesus lived and taught. How would visiting these locations enhance your understanding of the Bible’s teachings?
Dig-In (Scripture) 35 min
1. The Sermon on the Mount, as described in Matthew 5-7, contains many challenging teachings. Which of these teachings do you find most challenging or counterintuitive?
2. Reflect on Matthew 5:1-2 where Jesus begins the Sermon on the Mount. What do you think it means that Jesus “sat down” to teach, and how does this set the tone for the sermon?
3. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus presents a series of challenging teachings, such as turning the other cheek and loving your enemies. How do these teachings go against the norms of the culture then and even today, and what do they reveal about living as followers of Christ?
4. Reflect on the parable of the wise and foolish builders in Matthew 7:24-27. How can this story be a metaphor for our lives and the importance of living out Jesus’ teachings?
5. Read John 15:5. What do you think it means to remain in Christ?
Gear-Up (Application) 15 min
1. Reflect on your own life. In what areas do you struggle to let Jesus be the ultimate authority? What steps can you take to give him more control in those areas?
2. Reflect on the three steps mentioned for living out Jesus’ teachings: giving Christ authority in all areas of your life, acknowledging your need for Christ, and giving the Holy Spirit access to your life. Which of these steps do you feel you need to work on most, and what practical steps can you take to do so?
3. Discuss ways in which your community or church can enhance its commitment to living out the teachings of Jesus from the Sermon on the Mount. What initiatives or actions can your group take to align more closely with these teachings?
Step-Up (Homework)
Read and meditate on the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) throughout the week. Pay close attention to the teachings of Jesus and how they challenge your life. Journal your reflections, questions, and any specific actions you feel led to take as a result of this study. Be prepared to share your insights and experiences in the next group discussion.