Setting the Trap

February 12, 2023

When life approaches a tipping point, the decision-making process can feel overwhelming. Simple choices become more complex as every decision we make has the potential to instigate significant change. As Jesus entered Jerusalem, the religious leaders were at a tipping point. How they responded to Jesus could incite the people to riot or lead to war with the mighty Roman Empire. Join us for part five of Tipping Point, where Pastor Gary explores three questions every follower of Jesus should ask when approaching a tipping point.

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Passage

Luke 20:19-44

Principle

Don’t confuse the __________________ with the ____________.

Don’t confuse your earthly ______________ with your heavenly ____________.

Don’t confuse the ____________ with the ________.

Tipping Point

Three questions to ask when you’ve reached a tipping point:

What will the consequences of this decision be in 5, 10, 20, or 1,000 years?
Does my decision reflect faith in my Heavenly Father?
What does choosing life mean in this situation?

Small Group Questions

Use this outline for personal reflection, as a couples or family devotion, or with a small group.

GROUP ANNOUNCEMENTS

Our Deacon Ordination and Annual Chili Cook-off will be on Sunday, February 26, at 5:00 p.m.

Discuss your group’s plan to host a Jesus in the Passover meal during Lent (Feb. 22 – April 8). A training session will be offered on Wednesday night, February 22, from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. in the MFC for those who volunteer to host and/or lead the event for your group.

HANGOUT

What is the greatest act of faith you have ever personally witnessed? How did that affect your faith?

HEAR

Read Luke 7:1-10

What was unique about the centurion?
Does our faith have the potential to impact the well-being of others? If so, how?
Compare your faith to the faith of the centurion.

Read Luke 7:18-35

Why did John send his disciples to Jesus? How do you interpret the question they asked Jesus? Do you think this question reveals a lack of faith? Why or why not?
How did Jesus answer the question? What did His answer mean? Does Jesus indicate that John’s question revealed a lack of faith? Why or why not?
Based on Jesus’ parable, what was the difference between the ministries of Jesus and John? How did people respond to their ministries? What does this reveal about them? What does this tell you about God?

Read Luke 7:36-50

Compare the situations and the faith of the centurion, John the Baptist, and the sinful woman.
With which of these three do you most easily relate right now and why?
Finish this statement, “I am most like Simon when ….”

HUDDLE

What is the biggest challenge to your faith right now? Talk about it, invite accountability, and take time to pray together.

Daily Readings

This week’s scripture readings highlight Jesus’ interaction with religious leaders. As you read each passage, invite the Holy Spirit to show you how Jesus came to shut down religion and what that means for us today.

Day 1: Matthew 22
Day 2: Matthew 23
Day 3: Mark 12
Day 4: John 7
Day 5: John 8
Day 6: John 9
Day 7: John 10

Think Deeper

Have you ever tried to make a deal with God? What happened?
How do you understand the separation of church and state? Do you think Jesus agrees with you?
Based on Jesus’ teachings, how do you think we will relate to each other in heaven?