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?
Never Stop Listening to God
When we fail to listen to God, it’s a hearing problem for us not a speaking problem for God. Most notably, God has spoken in His Son Jesus. In the fifth and final warning in the book of Hebrews, the author warns us that it’s a mistake to turn away from God and ignore...
Avoiding Willful Defiance
Even Christians can behave badly. And the Bible acknowledges that a believer can walk away from Jesus all together. To treat God with this kind of contempt is a terrible act of defiance. In the fourth of five warnings in the book of Hebrews, the author tells us about...
The Danger of Falling Away
Salvation is guaranteed the moment one believes Jesus for it. But becoming a Christian never guarantees that we’ll live like one. Spiritual maturity is not automatic. It requires diligent engagement with Jesus if we hope to change and grow. In the third of five...
Beware of Your Unbelief
Even Christians can be people of unbelief. Given tempting circumstances, we might cave under pressure and cease to follow God wholeheartedly. This certainly was the case with the children of Israel who took a major detour of unbelief while on their journey to the land...
Pay Careful Attention
Like other people, there’s a chance you have entertained thoughts about returning to an easier, more comfortable way of life—one that pushes God aside. When the pressure is on, even Christians can become disillusioned with following Jesus. The book of Hebrews is...