Group Notes | May 14
Not My Jesus: What Jesus Really Said
May 14, 2017
Pastor Jonathan Falwell
Video: Dr. Jerry Falwell, Sr., 1975
Open:
Thinking of driving on the Autobahn in Germany seems like a driver’s dream, especially when you’re stuck on a U.S. Interstate trapped behind cars going less than a stated speed limit. Why would no speed limit seem so tantalizing, and is that the way the Autobahn is in reality?
This week we want to carefully absorb some of the instructions for Christians, for a life blessed by God, from Jesus Himself. In this series, “Not My Jesus,” we’ve looked at the myths surrounding Jesus, the views the world has, Jesus’ own witness of who He is, and the witness of God the Father. Now we will look at several of His guidelines for happiness, apply those truths to our daily living and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas where we need to become more like Him!
Focal Passage: Matthew 5:1-12.
Discuss:
The Humble in Heart
- Read verses 1-3. Why does the Bible specifically say, “He opened His mouth and taught them”—does anyone remember?
- What characterizes someone who is “poor in spirit”? Why would they attain happiness?
The Mourners
- In verse 4, what type of mourners did Jesus mean?
- Read Luke 18:13, and 1 Tim. 1:15, 16. How do these two passages confirm the need for people to mourn their sinful state, and what does God do to comfort them?
The Inheritors
- What do you think of when you hear the term “meek”? What are some of the Biblical meanings of meek?
- When you think of something being “inherited,” what crosses your mind? How or why would these people inherit the earth? Someone read Phil. 4:11-13. How does being content within your circumstances give you blessings?
Those Who Hunger and Thirst
- Verse 6: When is the last time you were truly hungry, or extremely thirsty? How can you develop your spiritual appetite so that you desire God’s word daily, meditating on it even “in the night watches”?
- Read Job 23:12b. How does this passage illustrate verse 6 of Matthew 5? What will change in your life if you desire God’s word with the same craving you exercise in your food life?
Close:
You’re probably wondering, how does the Autobahn illustrate our spiritual life? Many live their lives as if there are no rules or consequences, which isn’t the true reality. Yet the world assumes following Jesus is a life of do’s and don’ts, and perceive it as taking away everything they think they enjoy—their “speed limits” if you will. The truth is, Jesus says following Him results in a life of being blessed (happy). In today’s sermon, we were so privileged to hear a forty-two-year-old message by Dr. Jerry Falwell, Sr., as he reiterated that blessings come on the lives of those who live in a manner that pleases God. Just as we are pleased to give our approval to our children when they obey with a great attitude, so God chooses to bless us when we strive to live holy, sanctified lives. Is that something you desire, as Job did? After hearing the message, did you weigh your lifestyle against the message Jesus taught on living a life of peace with God? It’s never about rules: it’s about the heart attitude, and the desire to please the God who bought us with His own blood! This week, as you go about your daily routine, take your spiritual pulse often to make certain your heart is beating in sync with His. Share His love when the opportunity presents itself. What if God has placed you here for such a time as this?
Memory Verse: Matthew 5:1,2: “And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to Him. Then He opened His mouth and taught them saying.”