Discipleship

Mark 4:26-29

He also said, "This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the ground. Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how. All by itself the soil produces grain-first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head. As soon as the grain is ripe, he puts the sickle to it, because the harvest has come."

SpiritualGrowth

Monday, August 20                                                                 Mark 4:26-28

What do you think Jesus' point is in this parable? What is the progression of the plant? How does that mirror spiritual growth? How do you think this all relates to what Jesus calls "the Kingdom of God?"

In your own life, how have you grown spiritually over the last year? What area would you say God is shaping most right now? How are you responding?

Tuesday, August 21                                                                          Mark 4:1-8

Again with the seeds...what are the different descriptions of what happens to the seed? What do the different descriptions represent in this parable? How would you describe the environment of your life? How good are you at letting the direction of God take root in your life?

What are some of the weeds in your life that try and keep you from growing into the person God wants you to be? Read verses 18-19 (later in this same chapter). How have you felt these things compete with your spiritual growth?

Wednesday, August 22                                                                         Ephesians 2:1-7

In your own words, what is Paul (the author) saying here? Where do we all start - in relation to God-according to this passage? Where are we supposed to end up (v. 6)? For what reason (v. 7)?

Verse 4 is a powerful verse. Read through it again slowly. What jumps out at you? Why? What are the truths that are communicated in this passage about God? About us?

Thursday, August 23                                                                                       Luke 13:6-9

If you consider that this passage is about spiritual growth, what can you assume about God's expectations for us in that regard? Why do you think our growth is so important to Him? How are you growing lately?

Who are each of the characters in this story representing? Why? Who in your life has invested in your growth-like the vineyard keeper does here? Is your church performing that duty at some level? How have you responded? Are you intentionally doing the same for someone in your life? Why or why not?

Friday, August 24                                                    1 Corinthians 3:1-3, Hebrews 5:11-14

Why do some people need milk vs. solid food spiritually? Where do you see yourself in that continuum? Why so? Where can you find the spiritual "food" that you need?

Read the Hebrews passage. What is the expectation for those who should be mature in their faith (v. 12)? Are you there yet? What would it take to get there? Who's responsibility is it to seek out instruction? Where are some places you can start that process?

Discipleship 

Monday, August 13                                                        John 8: 31 and 32
What is it here that Jesus wants to stress with His followers? What does He mean by disciple? Freedom? Truth? What teachings are they to hold to and live by? How are you doing at living a life that reflects His teachings?
What are you currently learning from Jesus? How is it challenging you? How is it changing your life?

Tuesday, August 14                                                  Mark 6: 8-12; Luke 9:3-5, 10:4-12
Who does Jesus call together here? What does He do before sending them out? What major issues does He address with them before sending them? What are they to do and what are they to NOT do? What are some of His warnings?

Why do you suppose Jesus sent them out in teams? Who in your life plays a significant spiritual role - like a teammate who knows you and challenges you to follow Jesus? If you don't have that person, is there anyone who could play that role for you?

Wednesday, August 15                                              John13:34-35
n What is this new command that Jesus gives? Is this a simple rule in life? Why is love the best evidence of their being a disciple of Jesus? When do you struggle the most to live this command out?

Where had these 12 come from - similar backgrounds? Similar places? What empowered their love for one another? How can you show your connection to Jesus this way this week? Who can help you?

Thursday, August 16                                                    2Tim 2:2, 11-13; Matthew 29:19-20
What is Paul telling Timothy to do? Who is he to entrust to be qualified teachers? Why is it important for Christians to tell others about Jesus? Who told you about Jesus in
a way that came to lead you to believe?

What was the commission give to us by Jesus in the Matthew verse? Was this a suggestion or a firm command? What have you done to live into this expectation? Are you bolder now than 5 years ago or more reserved in your efforts to reach out to others with the Good News? Why or why not?

Friday,August 17                                                                                 Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
What does this verse suggest about teamwork? Why? Do you generally agree with this idea? Why or why not? Do you have someone you work exceptionally well with? Who is it and what makes it work so well?

Verse 10 mentions "falling down", what are ways a friend or accountability partner helps a friend up? What is a key ingredient in a relationship like this? Trust? Love? What do you think the 3 strands are that make up the strong cord are in verse 12?