Pew 2 You
Pew 2 You
May 29, 2016
Dan Fitzgerald
In A Boat
Highlights:
1.) We say we want “organic” relationships – what we mean when we say this is that we want relationships that happen spontaneously with little to no effort on our part to maintain them, as long as they are enjoyable and beneficial to us.
– This is not what organic means. Organic (in terms of farming) is intentional, risky, sacrificial and hard work.
2.) God’s version of intentional togetherness:
– Constrained: (Strong’s G315) to compel, whether by threat entreaty or force of persuasion. Constrained for a purpose: To get to Jesus.
– Contrary (winds): God has a way of putting us in relationships that cause the “real us” to come out – and thus, through revelation, cause us to change.
– Complete: We are not meant to live alone. God enjoys relationship.
3.) Small groups are meant to be a catalyst for us to go and meet Jesus, like Peter going to Jesus on the water. Those who were in the boat (who were constrained) got to witness Peter’s fervor and step of faith. In all this, God got the glory!
Discussion Questions:
1.) Do you seek out relationship with others? Why or why not?
2.) When we just “consume,” there is a cost to others and we miss out on the blessing of vulnerable, mutually-giving relationships. What do you have to give to others in a relational context? Are you currently giving/serving in that capacity?
3.) Share a story or a situation that you have had the opportunity to witness God moving in someone’s life or watched someone’s steps of faith in a small group setting. What did that opportunity do in your heart?
Key Scriptures and Quotes:
Matthew 14:22-33
It’s better to eat Twinkies with friends than to to eat broccoli alone.