READ Matthew 18:10-14;
Luke 15:1-7; Matthew 9:36; Matthew 10:6
PRAY as a group for insight on these passages.
THINK about and ANSWER these questions as you study the verses above.
- What is your favorite sentence or verse from these passages? Why?
- What are a few of the most crucial words in these verses?
- Is there anything in these verses that's challenging or confusing? Why?
- How can we see Christ through these passages? Describe the characteristics of God as you view them through the shepherd.
- What insights do you see?
- What conclusions can you make?
Let's TALK about counting sheep. You likely came to the conclusion that Jesus cares for lost sheep. Sheep count to God, and we want to count sheep. You matter and others matter too. "We are God's masterpiece. He has created us so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago." Eph 2:10
At Jacob's Well, we're going after the lost sheep. You can help by letting us know you're here by filling out a super communication card if you haven't done so already. This fall we'll be calling those who don't respond to find out where they're at on their journey.
The big question: Are you the shepherd or the sheep?
*** Perhaps you're feeling like a lost sheep. We all have our seasons of feeling lost. We encourage you to lean on your small group for support and guidance. Truly, that's what a small group is meant for.
*** If you see yourself more as the shepherd, then how can you begin to go after the lost sheep? What's God calling you to? What's your next step?
WORSHIP
A shepherd is dependent upon weather, vegetation, and protection from predators. All of those are under God's control, therefore, the shepherd is dependent on God's grace. When we recognize the grace of God in our lives, it's only natural that we worship and thank Him. Is God calling you to worship more fully or regularly? Have you ever done a study of what it means to worship God? Hint: It's more than music. What does it look like to worship God with our whole life?
BELONG
Sheep belong together with other sheep and with their shepherd. This is how they survive and thrive. Since you're reading the small group study guide, you likely already belong to a group. How has your group helped you survive and thrive? Is God calling your group to reach out to other individuals to join your group? Is He calling your small group to get involved together to make an impact? Is He placing individuals in your lives that you can encourage and support emotionally, financially, or to take another step? THINK of one person? PICK one thing you can do this week to reach out to them by calling, writing or inviting them to come back to church.
This fall our church is going to be studying the book of Romans. We’re challenging you as a group to dig deeper into this amazing book. Also, the devotions will lead you to not just read Romans, but to begin a more serious Bible study. We’re encouraging you to BRING your Bible to church, MEMORIZE a verse of scripture every week, and MAKE a prayer commitment as part of this series. You can also CHECK OUT the @home Center for resources that will challenge you and help you grow. Will you and your group commit to study through the book of Romans with the church? If so, let Tony know at tony@jacobswellec.org.
READ 1 Samuel 17:34-37. You can bet when David needed to fight off the lion and the bear, he grew...stronger, braver, wiser. When a shepherd sets off to find a lost sheep, he's sure to grow as well...more caring, wiser, more courageous. How is God calling you to grow? Do you have a regular prayer or study time? Is there someone you can mentor? Do you need to invite someone to join you at church? Do you need to reach out to someone who's walked away from God and see how they're doing? SET a time this week to connect with God, and SET a time to connect with a friend or family member.
Maybe you're unsure of what God is calling you to do. This fall we are also offering Discover Your Design on September 23 and October 28. In this class you’ll learn how God has designed you with gifts, passions, abilities that make you a perfect fit in a ministry area. COME and LEARN more about yourself so that you can serve God, His church and others better. This teaching could improve every part of your life.
What does a shepherd sacrifice for the benefit of his sheep? How does he serve his sheep for their own survival and growth? What small way can you serve others in order to show you care for their well-being? Is God calling you to take a next step in sacrificing your time, talents, or treasure in a great way? We have Serve Tours on September 26/27&30 and October 31/November 1&4. Every week it takes hundreds of volunteers to make Jacob’s Well the amazing place we love. We’d love to have you join us in helping others take steps to know and become like Jesus.
SHARE
A church isn't just a denomination or a building or a staff. It's all of us who follow Christ. WE ALL are the church. In a way, we all are the sheep as Christ is the Good Shepherd. In another way, we are the shepherd tending the sheep for the Owner of the sheep. So as you think of yourself as a shepherd, what are some ways that you can draw others into the presence of the Owner? What are ways you can love others like the Owner loves them?
CONSIDER opening seats in the Auditorium for those who are new to Jacob's Well by moving to the North Venue. This is a great way to share Christ with others by ensuring people aren't turned away from a service. There are many who love the small coziness of the North Venue, and you may too!
In order for the church to be all that it can be, it takes resources to accomplish meeting all the needs within a congregation and a community. This fall at Jacob’s Well, we are asking people to recommit to giving the tithe. The giving of tithes and offerings is another very critical part of being the church. If this is a growth area for you, CONTEMPLATE going back and listening to a message from March 22, 2015 called the King of Skittles.
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Getting God’s view of money could change your whole life.
