Surf Church

Look Back

What did you do this week to remember Jesus and to “be” the church He died for? What were the results?

Look Up

Read Matthew 28:16-20

1. What is the first thing Jesus said to His disciples when they met Him after His resurrection? What impact does this statement have on you personally?
2. What is required for someone to live out Jesus’ command in Matt 28:20? How easy is it for you to accept that you have a personal responsibility for “teaching” others? What helps, or hinders you from living out this responsibility in your daily life?
3. Why did Jesus end by reminding His followers that He would be with them always? What helps you remember that this also applies to you?

Read Luke 15:1-7

1. Pharisees were leaders of the Jewish religion. What did they criticize Jesus for doing? Why did they think it was wrong for Jesus to “welcome” sinners, and what point was Jesus trying to make by ignoring their criticism?
2. Jesus’ original listeners were familiar with watching flocks of animals. What would be the impact of leaving the “99” to search for the “1”? What would motivate a shepherd to do this, and how does this apply to people today?
3. What impact does Luke 15:7 have on how you view “sin” and “sinners”? How might this verse help or encourage someone who is currently far from God? How might it help you reach out to those in your life who have resisted following God?

Overall (Discovery Bible Study)

• What do these scriptures say about God?
• What do they say about people?
• How will I apply this to my life?

Look Ahead

Who is close to you and far from God? What specifically will you do to help them understand God’s love and desire for an intimate relationship with them?

Notes

Jesus broke down the social and cultural norms that separate and keep people from knowing God’s love and developing a personal relationship with God. He taught His followers that they were personally responsible for sharing God’s word and teaching all people. As followers of Jesus today, we continue to share the vision and responsibility of reaching out and welcoming those who may not be accepted by others in our society. When we are able to reach and connect just one person who is far from God, there is an indescribable celebration in heaven. Who is the “one” person that you will invite to this celebration?