Faith - Part 7: "Faith for Others"

In this series we have focused on the role that Faith plays in our daily walk with Jesus. We are all on a journey towards home. In today’s message we see that we are meant to help others along the way. Faith isn’t just about “my” journey; it’s “our” journey together. I’m called to provide hope, giving a helping hand, and invite outcasts into the love and presence of Jesus. So, who am I called to help lift up today? Key Verses: Luke 5:15-32, Matthew 16:15-19 Life Group Questions: 1) Can you recall a time in your life when others helped carry you to Jesus, when you couldn’t seem to get to him on your own? What were some of the key things they did that helped you get to Jesus? 2) As we help carry people to Jesus – what are some good do’s and don’ts to be mindful of along the way? (Leader’s: see the notes under section 1 in the sermon notes about the 4 friends for some ideas) 3) What was Jesus trying to teach us, by “forgiving” the crippled man first before healing him? Similarly, why did Jesus seem to spend so much time with sinners (like when he had dinner at Levi’s house), instead of hanging out with the scribes & Pharisees? What do you think this means for us? 4) How can we avoid becoming “Pharisee-like Insiders”, and keep a compassionate heart towards those who can be “outsiders”? What are some warning signs we might be slipping into becoming like the Pharisees? 5) How can we identify people around us that need a lift? Can you think of 1 or 2 specific people right now that maybe you are the one who should help lift them? What can you do about that now?