The Story & Way of Jesus: The Gospel According to Jesus (08.30.21)
Processing and responding to the Sunday sermon
Opening Prayer
After the group welcomes one another, have one person open in prayer and then take 2-3 minutes of silence. As you sit in silence, ask the Holy Spirit to open your heart in love toward God and your group mates.
The Gospel
Continuing in the Scripture from Mark 1:1-15, we’ll explore what Jesus meant by the good news or gospel. On Sunday, Dave taught on the many ways people might substitute their own understanding of the gospel so that it feels more like good news. He also talked about the difference between a 2-Part Gospel that emphasizes salvation from Hell to Heaven, and a Complete Gospel, which is Jesus’ proclamation: “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” This has ramifications for the renewal of all things on earth and in this life.
Today’s guide helps you re-examine your understanding of the gospel, seeking to believe the good news that Jesus himself preached.
Reflection and Discussion
Read aloud Mark 1:1-15, and then prayerfully and silently reflect on the passage and these questions.
- What are popular ways people adapt the message of the gospel to sound more like good news to the modern ear? Do you find any of these enchanting?
- How do you see the Kingdom of Heaven crashing into the other reigning powers of this world?
- How might your life be different if you more fully embraced the complete gospel and saw yourself more fully part of God’s renewal mission?
After silently reflecting, take these thoughts into a time of group discussion.
- What are the enchanting ways people adapt or substitute the gospel for an alternative that feels better to the modern ear?
- How do you believe Jesus might be calling you into a more complete life of discipleship dedicated to His renewal purposes?
Closing Intercession
Pray for one another, and then read aloud Psalm 23 together.