Are you making a difference?

In week two of It's Who We Are, Pastor Chip starts a two part sermon on our culture point We do Jesus.

Dive deeper into the message with these discussion questions!

General:

The saying “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me” isn’t true—our words have real power. How have you seen the impact of words, for better or worse, in your own life witness to the world?
“Be sure to taste your words before you spit them out." How often do you take the time to think before you speak?
What statistics cited by Pastor Chip from the Barna Group about reaching the unchurched concerned you the most? Why?
How does this message and Grace’s culture point "We do Jesus" impact the way you live you life or the way you communicate?
How would you summarize Jesus’ self-defense before and Pilate?
What does it mean for Jesus’ Kingdom to be “not of this world”?
How does Jesus’ response to Pilate challenge the way we often view Him or His mission?
How can we, as a church, embody the culture of “We Do Jesus” in our community?

Take Home 1: We will never fully understand the mission of Jesus until we stop viewing Him through the lens of this world (John 18:37)

In what ways do you view Jesus through worldly perspectives (i.e. politics, culture, personal agendas)?
How can we align our understanding of Jesus and His mission more closely with Scripture rather than the values of this world?

Take Home 2: When will we realize that the one who seems to have power, doesn't (John 19:10b)

What lies of the world have you bought into?
Pilate appeared to have power, but Jesus reminded him where true authority comes from. How does this truth encourage us when we face worldly powers or challenges?
How does the phrase “of the people, by the people, for the people” reflect the world’s values, and how does it contrast with God’s design (Col. 1:16, Rom. 11:36)?
How does trusting in God’s ultimate authority bring peace?

Take Home 3: We must decide once and for all what our message is (1 Cor. 2:1-5)

If the Church is called to win souls for Christ, how do you think we are doing?
If someone were to observe your life, what would they say your “main message” is?
What “lens” do you use to filter your message—such as what you read, listen to, or share—and how might it impact whether your message points others to Christ?

Take Home 4: What words will we use? (Gal. 6:14)

Paul says in Galatians to boast only in the cross of Christ. How can we be intentional about using our words to glorify God rather than ourselves or worldly things?
Reflect on a recent conversation: Did your words point to Jesus, or to something else? How can you grow in making Christ the center of your speech?
What practical ways can you use your words to proclaim the gospel and bring others closer to Christ this week?

‍

In this series

January 12, 2025