Leader Guide
In life we can get comfortable in our world—our Christian bubble. And when we do, we can begin to avoid people who are different from us. Christ didn't avoid them—He moved toward them, sat with them, and saw them as sheep without a shepherd. That’s the model we’re called to follow. Are we seeking out those who are different, or are we silently asking God to keep us surrounded by the familiar? This Sunday we watched Jesus Revolution to start that conversation. Let’s continue together in group.
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
Leader: 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 know more and explore. Pray for the Holy Spirit to work and let Him lead you as well.
1. Which crowd would you survive better in: 70’s hippies or today’s influencers? What type of person do you tend to avoid...but probably shouldn't? (Examples: people who overshare in checkout line, neighbors who mow at odd times, coworkers who always talk about essential oils or debate politics, people who live differently than you.) What do our answers reveal about how comfortable we are with people who are different from us?
2. Read Romans 10:13-14, Matthew 9:35-36. What stands out about Jesus’ reaction to the crowds in Matthew 9? How does it compare with how we view “messy” people? Who in your own life might be a part of that crowd Jesus would feel compassion for—but you have kept at arm's length?
Leader: This weekend we were reminded that someone needs to tell others where to find true fulfillment and that can only be found in Jesus. We are to have compassion and point everyone to the Good Shepherd.
3. Read 1 Corinthians 9:19-23. How did Paul willingly set aside personal preferences or comforts for the sake of reaching others? How does Paul make it clear that this is not permission to sin? What might it cost you to live that way?
Leader: Paul is consumed with sharing the gospel, obviously because he himself was so radically forgiven. He becomes all things to all people to share the gospel. He does not, however, give permission to sin to reach people, as he clearly states that he obeys the law.
4. Read 1 John 3:18, Mark 2:15-17. Are there tables that you have refused to sit at—literally or figuratively? What influence does the truth of the gospel have in your willingness to engage with others, particularly those outside your comfort zone or typical circles?
Leader: Jesus didn’t just say “love your neighbor”, He literally sat at the table with them. Are we willing to do the same thing?
5. Read John 8:32, 14:6. Are there lies that you have believed about others that have confused you? Discuss how the truth of the gospel is simple.
6. Action Steps: Ask God:
Who have I been avoiding that You are calling me toward? What step are You asking me to take to break out of my Christian comfort zone, toward a relationship, a conversation, or even a place or person you have written off? Take one bold step this week. Send a message, make a call, ask someone for coffee, or eat lunch with a coworker. Ask God to use it.
Deeper Dive: Read Luke 10:25-37. Which character do you most relate to—the priest, Levite, or the Samaritan? Why? How do we define “neighbor” today—and are we really living that out?