I just stumbled across the brilliant idea of expanding our small group…to you! We’re shifting gears a bit and developing study questions ahead of time for the group to think through in preparation of our time together. And I thought I may as well spread the wealth.
So, to catch you up a bit, we’re part way through a study of what Jesus had to say about the Kingdom of God. As it turns out, he had a LOT to say about the Kingdom. But at the same time, us church go-ers do a LOT of ‘kingdom’ talk. I tend to think we’re only scratching the surface.
If you really want to be up-to-speed, read Jesus’ kingdom dissertation in Matt. 5-7 (yes, he was successful in defending it; he rose from the dead). And then check out his creative writing approach to kingdom-speak in Matt. 13.
Without further ado, join the dialog! Post thoughts, comments, discussion questions of your own…whatever. Wading Through Life has been one-way communication for too long!
- If the kingdom of God is TRULY like a valuable pearl or treasure-laden field that a man sells all he has for, are we missing something? Are we not clear of the quality of the pearl or value of the treasure?
- Is there a better ROI (return on investment) than the kingdom of God? Read Matt. 7 and think through some of the benefits entitled to kingdom residents. They aren’t all glaringly obvious…but they’re there! Also, remember that original investment IS required!
- What is God asking you to give up for the pearl…the kingdom?
- Read Matt. 13. Think about the narrow gate. Are you on the path? Does mainstream, status-quo “Christianity” lead people along the path and through the gate? Who did Jesus say was going to pass through the gate? Who wasn’t?
- What spiritual baggage are you carrying that could make it tough to squeeze through the narrow gate? Are you allowing God to show you the true path to the gate?
- Think through the commands of asking, seeking and knocking (Matt. 7:7-12). Are they one in the same? Or is it a process to engage?
- What good gifts does God want to give you? What do you desire that you simply haven’t asked, sought and knocked for?
