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LIFE GROUP DISCUSSION GUIDE Wednesday Night, April 21, 2004 “The Church in Absentia” 5 Minutes Welcome and Prayer 10 Minutes OPEN Who or what comes to mind when you hear the word, “commitment”? Is commitment a spiritual virtue that has application in all aspects of our lives?
From a worldly point of view, what are some things to which you have committed much of your time and attention? Do you think that people find it easier to commit to their careers, entertainment, civic and political interest, etc, than to their faith?
It is important to regularly ask the question, “Why am I here?” Many ask this question of themselves regularly, but live void of spiritual purpose. Do you agree this is a deadly strategy that Satan uses to defeat us? 15-20 Minutes DIG While it is true that “forsaking the assembly” (Heb. 10:25) is not the unpardonable sin, how does our negligence in this arena reflect a spiritual weakness?
Complacence, mediocrity and indifference do exist among us. When our religion is ornamental and “low impact,” when it doesn’t move us from self-serving faith to self-sacrificing action, when it doesn’t demand spiritual disciplines in our life, something is lacking. Read Mt. 10:37-39 and Mk. 10:17- 31. What did Christ say about the cost of commitment?
Should mediocrity be tolerated in the church? Read Luke 9: 57-62 and Rev. 3: 14-22 as you respond to this question. 15 Minutes REFLECT Give personal examples of the obstacles that sometimes stand in your way of 100% commitment. What are some practical steps you can take to overcome these obstacles?
The old physical training adage, “No pain, no gain” has truth in kingdom matters, as well. Though commitment is not easy, what will you gain as you make personal sacrifices for the sake of Christ? 10 Minutes PRAYER TIME Identify someone whose commitment level inspires you. What is it specifically that you observe in this person that is so inspiring?
On a scale of 1 to 10 (with 1 being a low level of commitment and 10 being a high level of commitment), how would you rank your commitment level to the Lord at this point in your life?
If you suffer from spiritual mediocrity, what should you do?
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