Message Notes
Look Back
How did reflecting about what will happen to you after your last day impact your daily life this week?
Look Up
Read James 4:4-10 and Matthew 16:24
- Do you agree with James’ claims in verse 4? Why do you think people seek friendship with the world instead of with God and why do you think that James is so strongly opposed to friendship with the world?
- What specific actions does James tell his readers to take in verses 7&8? Have you ever experienced this in your life and what were the results?
- What 2 promises are made in verses 8-10? What does verse 9 say we will experience before we are lifted up in honor? Why is this significant?
- Try to summarize in your own words what James says is required and involved when a person decides to “deny” self?
Read Galatians 3:26-28
- What do these verses have in common with James 4:8-10? Is it easier for you to seek unity or division? What role does “pride” play in the process?
- Would you describe your identity as “united with Christ” (Gal 3:27) or “divided between God and the world” (James 4:8) right now? How would others describe you?
- Do you think there is a difference between having a relationship with Christ and having an identity in Christ? If so, what is the difference?
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
In what ways are you currently trusting yourself more than trusting in Jesus? Are there any areas in your life that you are reluctant to have God’s direction?
Notes
We are all searching for answers. When we look in the wrong direction we will find the wrong answers.Jesus invites us to live differently. His way is difficult and we must be willing to destroy a piece of our own heart. That’s what it means to die to self. The evil within each of us must die so that the good can thrive. Only when we do this, can we experience a new and different identity of peace and honor.
