Weekly Discussion Guide

GROUP DISCUSSION
1. Open with prayer. (2-5 min)
2. Share your story: Talk about a time when you found out someone believed a thing about you that wasn’t true. What was your emotional response to that discovery? (7-10 min)
3. Read Luke 19:41-44.
4. Discuss these questions with your group. (20-45 min)

Looking back at your notes from this week’s message, was there anything you heard for the first time, stuck with you, challenged or confused you?

When [Jesus] drew near and saw the city, he wept over it, saying, “Would that you, even you, had known on this day the things that make for peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes. (Luke 19:41-42)

Have you ever withheld the whole truth from someone because you were concerned with what he or she would do with the information?

If so, how did you make that decision?

Why does God keep some things a mystery? How does that motivate some people to seek out the truth?

Have you ever been tempted by a representation of Jesus you knew wasn’t accurate? Explain.

What are some “counterfeit-versions” of Jesus that people buy into today? How will they eventually be disappointed?

LIVING IN 4D
There are two popular perceptions of Jesus that aren’t accurate: The first is a “Soft Jesus” with whom it’s easy to make deals; the second version is a cruel “Harsh Jesus” who is unapproachable.

Is there someone in your life who believes in one of these two bogus versions of Jesus?

What questions could you ask to pull that version of Jesus into the light so that he or she can see what they’re trusting in?

What is the one important thing you will take away from this weekend’s message or our community group discussion? Is there any challenge, difficulty or praise that you would like to share with the group for prayer?