Living for the Will of God

What we expect when we go into suffering greatly impacts how we experience it. If we expect that following Jesus is going to be an easy journey, we will be unprepared for the suffering which is a normal part of the Christian life.

Sermon Outline:

I. Arm Yourself with the Mindset of Christ.

II. Leave the Past Behind.

III. Live in Light of the Future.

Sermon Discussion Questions:

1. What would it look like for you to consciously “arm yourself” with the mindset of Christ in your daily life? Can you think of a situation where choosing obedience to God would likely bring suffering or loss? How might preparing your mind ahead of time help you endure it?

2. Being a Christian isn’t primarily about what we avoid, but what we actively pursue. What might it look like to shift from a “don’t do this” mentality to a “pursue this” approach? For us who are parents, how can we implement this in our parenting?

3. In what ways should Christians look a bit crazy to the world around us? Are there areas where you’ve compromised to avoid looking different? What might it look like to more boldly dance to the music of the gospel?

4. What are some “respectable” ways people (including Christians) can live for themselves rather than for God? How can we recognize and resist these more subtle forms of self-focus?

5. How does keeping the future judgment and resurrection in mind help you endure present suffering or rejection for your faith? In practical terms, how can we live in light of the future this week?