Branching In
Discussion Questions
In the ancient world being a “disciple” meant far more than following the teaching of a Rabbi or Master, it meant adopting their lifestyle. What insight does this give us into what it means to be Jesus’ disciple?
Read John 15:1 and 2. Jesus said that fruit-bearing branches would be pruned. Pruning is uncomfortable. Why would God make us uncomfortable? How could this be a benefit to us?
In what areas of your life is God making you uncomfortable right now?
Where are some places that you “abide” on a regular basis? Why do you abide there?
What are some ways that you abide in Jesus? What is one practice you could adopt to help you abide more deeply?
Searching for the Generous Life
Just like modest investments can grow over time, our investment into God's kingdom generates growth and produces eternal dividends. The apostle Paul presented the Macedonian believers as an example of generous giving to the Corinthian church and to us. Let's explore...
Searching for Reconciliation
Confronting others concerning biblical/theological compromise is never easy or pleasant. Such encounters must be handled with sensitivity to the needs of others, directed by spiritual wisdom and the Scriptures, and guided by the Holy Spirit. Paul closed chapter two of...
Searching for Courage
On the surface, hearing God and following His commands seems straightforward. However, when God calls us to do something that generates fear in us and feels daunting, second-guessing His call becomes reasonable. Finding the courage to obey such a call is overwhelming....
Searching for the Abundant Life
Jesus explicitly explained his purpose when He said “…I came so that they would have life, and have it abundantly” (Jn 10:10). He said similar things many times, and these ideas are repeated, over and over again, by those who wrote the New Testament. Yet many people,...
Searching for Real Friendship
Some relationships may imitate friendship, but there’s no substitute for the real thing. Exploring the relationship between David and Jonathan in the Bible, we’ll identify some distinguishing features of friendship that are often overlooked and discover how to infuse...