11.1.20 - Does the Gospel Make a Difference? (Kenny Camacho)

SCRIPTURE: Matthew 28:18-20, 2 Thessalonians 3:13

REFLECTION/DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

  1. The central question this week was “is following Jesus making an obvious difference in your life”? Take some time to reflect on that question and talk it through together.

  2. What would an “obvious difference” be? What kinds of things about the kind of life Jesus lived would stand out in our world today?

  3. Kenny said on Sunday that there are at least 3 reasons why it might be hard to answer this question: 

    1. We’ve grown tired. For those who have been Jesus followers for a long time, it can be hard to see or remember much of a “difference” in our lives. But we need to remember that God is still working in us! How can we stay focused on allowing God to continue to transform us in obvious ways?

    2. We’ve stalled out. For some of us, the curiosity and interest which drew us to begin exploring Christianity in the first place can fade before we really make a genuine decision to become a Jesus follower. This leaves us with a general sense of Christian morality in our lives...but without a real relationship with Jesus. What might change if we were to take that next step? What fears might be keeping us from this?

    3. We are afraid. For others of us, shame or embarrassment about who we were before we became Jesus followers--and even shame and embarrassment about ways we still struggle!--keep us from being honest with ourselves or with others about our journey. This makes it really hard to see a “difference” in our lives. If we are more honest about our story, what do you think God might be able to do with that honesty? How might being more vulnerable lead to growth in your life...and maybe even in the lives of others?

  4. How does all of this connect to our responsibility, as Christians, to “share the good news” about Jesus? What are some questions you have for the sermon series ahead?

Kenny Camacho