1)Listen to Podcast here
2)GG Questions 05/06/2018
Seeking First: The Road Less Traveled Matthew 7:13-14
1. Close Reading: After praying for God to enlighten your mind, read through Matthew 7:13-14 a couple times, slowly. Look for these three things: LIGHTBULB – something that shines from the passage, draws your attention; QUESTION MARK – something difficult to understand; ARROW – a personal application. Share the results of your study with your group.
2. ‘Narrow’ – Minded: Why do people react so strongly against the notion that there is only one way to heaven (John 14:6; Acts 4:12)? Some believe there are many ways to heaven. How would you respond?
3. More than Safety: When we enter the narrow gate by Jesus, we are saved from our enemies (John 10:10). But none of us wants to be merely safe. The human heart wants infinitely more than safety. We want life. Abundant life. Joyful life. Where is joy actually found (Psa. 16:11)? What is the aim of Jesus’ commandments (John 15:10-11)? How valuable is Jesus (Phil. 3:8)? Are you currently pursuing joy in places and in the way the Bible says it is found? If so, how? If not, what needs to change?
4. Worth It?: Read Philippians 3:7-14. Paul, as a follower of Christ, lost many things — his high position, his health, wealth, reputation, and, in addition to this, was beaten and placed in prison multiple times (2 Cor. 11:23-28). How could staying on the narrow path and following Jesus really be “worth it” to Paul? How do our perspectives need to change so we can begin to think like Paul does and be strengthened to “press on toward the goal”?
