This week our special speaker, Jonathan, told us about his journey from poverty to flourishing because he received help as a Compassion Child. Helping people reach economic, social, physical, and spiritual flourishing is simply the expectation Jesus has for those who follow him.
MY STORY
Describe a time when you needed something badly, and help came from an unexpected source. Tell us what happened.
WHAT DOES GOD WANT US TO HEAR?
When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. And he will place the sheep on his right, but the goats on the left. Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’
Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’ (Matthew 25:31-40)
Name all the people and heavenly beings present at this spectacular event.
Why is it important that all the nations are present here?
What is the basis of Jesus’ commendation of his followers, who are described as sheep?
Why do the sheep seem confused that Jesus is giving them this blessing?
What is Jesus’ assumption when it comes to the tangible, life-giving actions of his followers?
What does God want us to hear? Based on the passage and above questions, what “takeaways” do you think God has revealed to you?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT US TO DO?
In what ways are you flourishing economically, socially, physically and spiritually? In which of these areas do you need some help?
What are the legitimate needs in your extended family, local community, and in the global arena that you have the resources to meet (at least in part)?
How do you decide who you should help as an individual, or as a part of the Crossroads family?
What does God want us to do? Flowing out of reading and interpretation, what action does this passage or the Spirit’s leading, call you to?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT ME TO DO?
Look at the current distribution of your time, talents, and treasure, and take an honest look at how these things are being used to contribute to your own flourishing, those who are dependent on you, and the outside needs of which you’re aware.
Prayerfully ask God what changes or adjustments he’d like you to make in this distribution in order to address the needs that are important to him.
What does God want ME to do? What is the personal application and action step God is calling you, personally, toward?
Message Notes
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