This Is Why (Part 1): Where Do We Start?
TO START
We had a cold day last week and for a second it actually felt like fall! To break the ice tonight pretend you’re a first grader in circle time and share your favorite fall activity. :)
TO DISCUSS
Let’s start our discussion with the question Justin asked at the start of his sermon: Truly, honestly, Why are you a Christian? (There’s no wrong answer here).
What was it that led you to this place/state/identity? Why have you stayed here?
Have you ever tried to lead someone into a relationship with God?
Where did you start? What were their questions?
In his teaser for this sermon on Facebook Justin wrote the following:
“What about evolution? What about whether the flood really covered the whole earth? What about that weird story about Jonah or Israel’s disturbing conquest of the promised land? What about the Bible’s teaching on LGBTQ issues? What about abortion? Can you be a Christian and still believe in science?
For too long, Christians have erected roadblocks on outsiders’ journey to faith. For too long, skeptics have set the terms of the debate about the legitimacy of Christianity. It’s time to focus on the one thing that’s the true foundation of our faith and the true linchpin for anyone exploring God.”
-Have you heard any of these questions from friends you’ve tried to bring to Christ? Did (or do) any of these questions serve as roadblocks on your journey to faith? Which ones do you struggle with?
-Can you follow Jesus even if you don’t have satisfactory answers to these questions? Why or why not?
We said on Sunday, “Christianity rises and falls on the resurrection, not ‘the Bible.’” What does that mean? Why is it an important distinction?
TO PRAY
This week, pray for your friends who need to follow Christ but haven’t made that decision yet.