Weekly Reflections for the week of March 10, 2013: Teachings of Jesus
Monday: Wise and Foolish Builders Matthew 7:24-29 & Old Testament Promise that He would be betrayed for 30 pieces silver Zechariah 11:12
- It is easy for us to see the right answer as we read many of the parables that Jesus teaches. But the reality is it is much easier to fall into the trap of building on the sinking sand than we realize. What are some of the things that tempt you to build on the temporary things?
- Would you say that you are standing firm in your faith right now or sinking? What are some of the ways that you might “strengthen your spiritual foundation.” If you have questions or need suggestions ask a trusted friend or ask pastor Chris.
Tuesday: The Sheep and Goats Matthew 25:31-46 & Old Testament Promise that the silver would be used to buy a potter’s field Zechariah 11:12-13
- Sometime we are like the goats who truly don’t see the needs of others right in front of us. We have to change our perspective, we have to look with eyes like Christ. What needy group do you have a heart for?
- What is something that you, your friends or your small group could do this week to serve those in need.
- Bonus: take a picture of the needs you see around the community and email them to media@faithpointum.org
Wednesday: The Rich Young Ruler Mark 10:17-31 & Old Testament Promise that He would be hated without cause Isaiah 49:7
- Here we see Jesus’ call to faith that is more than following the rules. Jesus calls us to be in relationship with God and our neighbors. As we think about the sacrifice that Jesus calls this young man to ask yourself, “what could you not live without?”
- Lent is a time where we make sacrifices and give up hard things to focus on The Best thing (New Life through Christ). Try giving up ot fasting for 24 hours from something you feel you couldn’t live without.
Thursday: Paying Taxes to Caesar Mark 12:13-17 & Old Testament Promise that the disciples would scatter Zechariah 13:7:12
- On a scale of 1(totally obedient)-10 (totally disobedient) how would you rank your attitude towards authority? Why is this so?
- How do you understand Jesus’ words, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s?” What are you giving to God? (Hint: When talking about being part of the Faithpoint community we talk about time, talents, gifts, service and witness.)
Friday: The Widow’s Offering Mark 12:41-44 & Old Testament Promise that He would be beaten Mica 5:1
- This passage is a rather accurate picture of the trends we see in our society. Those who have less give a larger percentage of what they have than those who have more. Why do you think this is the case?
- What ways do you and your family keep perspective of what and why you give? If you would like to share these ideas pastor Chris is always looking for resources and ideas to share with others Chris@faithpointum.org
- In what ways have you felt the need to be stretched in your offerings (not just financial) to God?
Saturday: the Rich Man and Lazarus Luke 16:19-31 & Old Testament Promise that He would be given vinegar to drink Psalm 69:21
- This passage is one of the most vivid illustrations of life after death that we have in the teachings of Jesus. Notice that we see the rich man (who is not named even though he was powerful in his day) still wanting Lazarus (a nobody in his day and remembers for thousands of years) to serve him. How do you envision life after death? How do you talk about this topic outside of church?
- How does the notion of life after death bring you hope?