Bridges
October 5, 2025
In the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus shows us that real love is more than sentiment—it crosses the street. In this opening message of our Bridges series, we’ll explore what it means to love our city by seeing the needs around us, showing mercy to those the world overlooks, and sharing ourselves in ways that build lasting bridges. Aspire Church is called to be more than a place of worship; we are a church that is for Christ, for the city, for good. We are called to bring God’s love across every street and into every neighborhood.
Passage
Luke 10:25–37
Principle
Love ##crosses## the ##street##
Practice
##see##, ##show## mercy, ##share## yourself.
Small Group Questions
Use this outline for personal reflection, as a couple’s or family devotion, or with a small group.
HANGOUT
What do you love most about living in your city or community? What are some challenges or broken places you see where God’s people could make a difference?
HEAR
Read Luke 10:25–36
- The Samaritan crossed cultural, racial, and religious barriers to love someone who was different from him. What barriers exist in our city that keep people apart? How might God be calling His people to cross those barriers today?
- The Samaritan took a risk—his safety, time, money, and reputation. What risks keep us from being good neighbors?
- In the story, the innkeeper also plays a role. What does his part teach us about partnership in serving the needs of the city?
Read Jeremiah 29:4–7
- God told His exiled people to seek the peace and prosperity (“shalom”) of the city where He had sent them. What does this teach us about how to live as God’s people in our own city?
- How might “praying for the city” change the way we see it and live in it?
- What are some practical ways your group can seek the welfare of Jacksonville (or your local community)?
Read Nehemiah 1:1–11
- When Nehemiah heard about Jerusalem’s condition, he sat down, wept, and prayed. How do we typically respond when we see brokenness in our city?
- What role does prayer play in beginning to build or rebuild what is broken?
- Nehemiah confessed not just the sins of others but of his people—including himself. How might confession be part of seeking God’s blessing for our city?
HUDDLE
Where is God calling you to “cross the street” in your own neighborhood or city?
How can your group commit to praying for and serving the welfare of your community together this month?
Daily Reading
As you read each passage, look for connections to this week’s sermon and small group discussion. Invite the Holy Spirit to be your teacher as you seek Him with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.
- Day 1: Luke 10:25–37
- Day 2: Jeremiah 29:4–14
- Day 3: Nehemiah 1:1–11
- Day 4: Isaiah 58:6–12
- Day 5: Matthew 5:13–16
- Day 6: Acts 8:4–8, 14–17
- Day 7: Revelation 21:1–5, 22–27
Passage to Memorize: Matthew 5:13–16
Think Deeper
- What keeps you from “crossing the street” to love your neighbor?
- Have you ever experienced the love of a Good Samaritan?
- What will you do this week to love a neighbor?
Suggested Resources
- Surprised by Hope, by N.T. Wright
- The Living Church, by John Stott
- Center Church, by Tim Keller
Check out these and other books from our suggested reading list at https://bit.ly/AspireSMB