This week, Todd kicked off a new sermon series on the book of Acts. Acts is a book that showcases the living God actively working through His Church to proclaim His gospel message to the world. Before the Church could embark upon this mission, Jesus needed to “explain to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning Himself,” (Luke 24:27). Todd does this very same thing for us in today’s sermon.
- Today Todd walked us through the “metanarritive” of the bible. Have you understood the “big picture” before? How did/will your being reminded of your place in God’s story affect the way you live this week? Has anyone in your group attended the core class our equipping ministry offers called “Cover to cover”? What other core classes are soon beginning that individuals in your group (or you entire group) should take together.
- We learned the beginning before the "In the beginning” of Genesis 1:1, is referenced in John 1:1-3 and described in Colossians 1:15-20. How does seeing that Jesus is the hero and focus of the story from beginning to end motivate you to know, serve and honor Him? Which of the characteriscs mentioned in these two passages Jesus mean the most to you right now in given your current circumstances?
- God’s first command to His people, a “cultural commission” is found in Genesis 1:28. How are you actively fulfilling this command in your home, church, workplace and community?
- In Exodus 19:4-6, God lays out His call and purpose for His people, the Israelites. As God’s chosen people, Israel was to be for Him a kingdom of priests and a holy nation, representing God to the world. The Church today has the same call and purpose from God, (see 1 Peter 2:9). How do you intentionally go about your day with the express purpose of representing God to the world? How well would others say you are doing at fulfilling this call? What changes need to be made, that you may best represent God to those with whom you come in contact?
- A “gaper's block” is a traffic jam resulting from a roadside distraction. Todd used the idea of a gaper's block to illustrate what happens when the Church sits around with its mouth open “looking into the sky” instead of “ACTing”. What would you say to someone who says they are a are a part of a “be” church and don’t like all the emphasis of “do” churches like Watermark?
- What distractions, (desire for comfort, fears/insecurities, disagreements with other believers…) are hindering your faithfulness to God’s call upon your life? Reflect on Timothy 2:3-6 for help.
- God is real, He is good and He is sovereign. How have you seen the reality, goodness and sovereignty of God displayed in and through you and your life? What is one area you need to grow the most in as evidence of your confidence that you will be ready for Christ “to come in the same way as the disciples watched Him go to heaven”. Reflect on 2 Corinthians 5:10.