Reverse Psychology
6/5/2022
Have you ever tried to use reverse psychology on someone? Has anyone ever tried to use it on you? Changing someone’s mind can be the hardest thing to change. When Jesus described what it means to be His disciple, He was contradicting thousands of years of religious teachings. Still today, many who claim to follow Jesus haven’t fully embraced what it means to be His disciple. Join us for the final message of The Great Reversal where we will learn the difference between accompanying Jesus and following Him.
Passage
Luke 14:25-35
Principles
Three reversals every Jesus Follower must make:
- From Accompanying to Following Jesus
- From Witnessing to Participating in His Crucifixion
- From Beginning to Finishing the faith Journey
Practice
Answer the Following Questions:
- What is it costing you to follow Jesus?
- How will you participate in the crucifixion?
- What is your strategy for finishing the race?
Small Group Questions
Use this outline for personal reflection, as a couples or family devotion, or with a small group.
HANGOUT
Have you ever been involved in a building project of any kind? What was involved in that process? How long did it take from the beginning plan to the finished product?
The Apostle Paul embarked on a major renovation project in the church at Corinth. As we consider today’s passage, consider what is needed to build a firm foundation and enduring faith.
HEAR
Read 1 Corinthians 3:1-9
- What did Paul mean when he said he “could not address [the Corinthian church] as spiritual people? What was the evidence of their spiritual immaturity?
- Does church attendance make you spiritually mature? Why or why not?
- If Paul were writing to Aspire Church San Marco, could he address us as spiritual people? Why or why not?
Read 1 Corinthians 3:10-15
- How does Paul address the division of loyalties among the Corinthians? What was Paul’s role as their leader? What does he say is the foundation of the church? Why is that so important for the unity of the church?
- What does Paul say about the material used to build the church? What does that practically mean for a church today?
- How is the building tested? What should this teach us about pain and suffering? How has your faith been tested through times of trial?
Read 1 Corinthians 3:16-23
- What does Paul proclaim to be God’s temple? Is that “you” singular or plural “ya’ll”? What difference does that make?
- Why do you think Paul included his warning about wisdom and folly (vs. 18-21)?
- If we (Aspire Church) are the temple of God, what should that mean for our ministry in this community? What does that mean for you and your family?
- What are you doing to build an enduring faith and witness?
HUDDLE
Are you more or less spiritually mature than you were this time last year? How would you describe the quality of the building materials you are using in building your faith? Talk about it, invite accountability, and take time to pray.
Daily Reading
As you read these passages about the price others have paid to follow God, invite the Holy Spirit to reveal how God is calling you to follow Jesus in your current season of life.
- Day 1: Job 1 & 2
- Day 2: 1 Kings 18 & 19
- Day 3: Jeremiah 1
- Day 4: Ezekiel 2 & 3
- Day 5: Ezekiel 24
- Day 6: Acts 4
- Day 7: Acts 6
Think Deeper
- How intentional are you about your relationship with God?
- What steps could you take this week to be more intentional?
- What is the hardest act of obedience that God has required of you?
Suggested Resources
The Jesus I Never Knew, Philip Yancy
What’s so Amazing About Grace, Philip Yancy
The Hole in Our Gospel, Richard Stearns
How to Be Rich, Andy Stanley
Check out these and other suggested books at https://bit.ly/AspireSMB