Leader Guide
Have you ever asked yourself if there is more to this life? What happens after I die? So many times, in life we just feel something is missing. This world is so much bigger than what we can see. This week we will explore the answer to a few of these questions through the story of the rich young ruler.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start
Leaders: This section is designed to get discussions started, examine God’s truth, and apply it to our week. Life Group leaders should not assume everyone in their group is a Christ follower. Because they are taking part in a Life Group, they must have some openness to knowing more, exploring. Pray for the Holy Spirit to work and let Him lead you as well.
1. Do you sometimes wonder what your purpose in life is? Have you ever been on a mission trip locally or out of the country? How did it impact your life?
2. Read Matthew 19:16-20. What is the picture we get concerning this young man's life from the scripture? What part of this story shows us that he senses that he is missing something? Have you ever felt like something was missing in your life, like the young man in this story? Why or why not?
Leaders: The rich young ruler had probably grown up following all the Jewish laws and may have been somewhat of a golden child. He seemed to be blessed with wealth. However, he still senses that he is missing something in life. So much so that he goes to Jesus to ask about what he is missing. After Jesus told him to keep the commandments, he asked what he still lacked.
3. Read Matthew 19:21-22, Matthew 16:24. Why do you think Jesus ask the man to sell his possessions? Consider and discuss why the man walked away sorrowful? Have you ever experienced a time when following God required sacrifice? How did you respond?
Leaders: Jesus knew the heart of this man. His possessions and wealth had become his “god”. He followed Jesus more like we “follow” someone on social media. We do the same, we like Christian post, go to church, appreciate the messages, but do we truly follow God. Following Jesus will cost us something.
4. Read Matthew 28:16-20, Isaiah 6:8. How do these verses challenge us to go outside our comfort zone? After hearing the weekend message, will you pray and consider going or supporting a global mission trip? How can you “go and make disciples” locally?
Leaders: Global missions teach us how big this world really is, how big our God really is and how important all people are to Him. God may or may not be calling you to go on a global mission trip. However, we know He commands us all to “go and make disciples”. That part is not a suggestion. Our purpose in life is not just to obey commands and rules but to glorify His name by telling others about Him.
Action Steps: Ask God to help you not just be a “follower” but a real follower of Jesus. What next steps might He be calling you to do to “go and make disciples”?