The Year of Jesus:
The Heart of God
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Start Talking: Find a conversation starter for your group or use one of these.
Think of an adult or childhood experience where you broke a rule (home, school or other arenas). Now, how did you feel at that moment and what did you learn from it? (experience needn’t be shared)
Please read Matthew 5:21-22 and Matthew 5:38-40 aloud.
• How can we apply these teachings in our own relationships, and what practical steps can we take to restore harmony and show grace even when we feel wronged?
Please read Matthew 5:27-29 and Matthew 5:31-32 aloud.
• Matthew wrote about Jesus’ words that explain the importance of purity in our thoughts, actions and the sanctity of marriage. Describe how we can integrate these teachings to live with integrity. How can we ensure that both our inner life and our relationships reflect God’s standards?
Please read Matthew 5:33-37 and Matthew 5:43-48 aloud.
• To some, these passages would seem conflicting. How can we balance truthfulness and compassion in our interactions?
• What does it look like to uphold both values in our daily lives?
Please read Matthew 5:17-20 aloud.
• Describe the relationship between the old Testament Law and Jesus’ teachings.
• What does it mean for our own walk in faith to pursue a deeper righteousness?
Please read Matthew 5:21-22 and Matthew 5:38-40 aloud.
• How can we apply these teachings in our own relationships, and what practical steps can we take to restore harmony and show grace even when we feel wronged?
Please read Matthew 5:27-29 and Matthew 5:31-32 aloud.
• Matthew wrote about Jesus’ words that explain the importance of purity in our thoughts, actions and the sanctity of marriage. Describe how we can integrate these teachings to live with integrity. How can we ensure that both our inner life and our relationships reflect God’s standards?
Please read Matthew 5:33-37 and Matthew 5:43-48 aloud.
• To some, these passages would seem conflicting. How can we balance truthfulness and compassion in our interactions?
• What does it look like to uphold both values in our daily lives?
Please read Matthew 5:17-20 aloud.
• Describe the relationship between the old Testament Law and Jesus’ teachings.
• What does it mean for our own walk in faith to pursue a deeper righteousness?
Start praying: Be bold and pray with power.
Almighty God, We come to You with open hearts open to understanding Your will. As we reflect on the teachings of Jesus, we ask for Your guidance in seeking reconciliation and pursuing purity. Help us keep marriage sacred, and let our words always be truthful. Teach us to forgo revenge and opt to love those who do not love us, reflecting Your compassion. May we also understand the depth of Your awe and the righteousness that You call us to. We pray that through these teachings; we may grow closer to You and reflect Your heart in all that we do. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Leader: Make time to pray for and with each other. Break into groups of three, take time for healing prayer or pray with individuals requesting prayer. This is important!
Start Doing:
Reread the Bible passages in this week’s notes (try a different translation, too?) What stands out to you? What do you think Jesus is saying?
Proverbs 4:23 NIV
"Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it."
Proverbs 4:23 NIV
"Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it."