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4 - Comparison: The Killjoy of Servanthood |
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LESSON FOUR - “Comparison: The Killjoy of Servanthood”
INTRODUCTION:
Great introductory concept in material (page 65). Strong statement at close of page:
“In our fallen world, however, the term chosen has a fourth implication that is not present in the heart of God. In our world, being chosen almost always means to be chosen at the expense of someone else. In our world, the scramble for chosen-ness becomes a competitive game. And the consolation prize for the losers is a malignant creature known as envy.”
The Germans have a word they use “schadenfreude / SHAHD-n-froy-duh which means “a malicious satisfaction in the misfortunes of others.”
Consider these two quotes from a famous writer, Gore Vidal, that describes a philosophy of life that many have adopted . . . and a culture that can be created within an organization and/or church - -
“It is not enough to succeed. Others must fail.”
“Whenever a friend succeeds, a little something in me dies.”
Have you ever experienced a time when comparison (envy) killed community? Describe.
DIG DEEPER:
* A picture of how it happens in church. Read – A Study of Envy (pg. 66).
* This week we have an opportunity for each of us to slay the dragon of comparison – or at least injure him. This week we need to make the focus of our prayers, “God, use others.”
“If you want to experience the flow of love as never before, the next time you are in a competitive situation, pray that the others around you will be more outstanding, more praised, and more used of God than yourself. Really pull for them and rejoice for their successes. If Christians were universally to do this for each other, the earth would soon be filled with the knowledge of God’s glory.”
Dallas Willard, The Spirt of the Disciplines
* Envy is one of the most common sins in the Bible (see page 71-72). Why do you think the Scriptures contain such dire warnings about envy? Why is it such a big deal?
* Read the section - Anatomy of Envy (three paragraphs – pages 66-67)
* James 3:13-16 explains some of the effects of envy. What are those?
James is blunt about the spiritual source of envy. In what ways is envy ultimately demonic?
* Read the section – A Certain Joy (pages 68-69)
CLOSING ACTIVITY:
Be a cheerleader (someone who seeks out signs of spiritual progress in others and makes some noise about it) in your class this Sunday. There aren’t a whole lot of places in this world where people’s spiritual progress is going to be recognized and celebrated. Offer some encouragement to one or more people in your class and model the gift of encouragement. Offer words that urge and give courage.
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