Connection Group Questions April 25
Series: Signs of Belonging
Message: Server
“4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. 5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant.”
~ Philippians 2:4-7
Opening
“Jesus first. Others second. I’m third.”
The first three messages of our “Signs of Belonging” series make up the foundation of our mission, “Connect with your calling.” To connect with their calling a person must connect with God in worship, people in a group, and the world through service. Therefore we want you to be a bringer to worship so more people can meet Jesus. We want you to be a member of a Group where you are known and know others. And we want you to be a server. After all, Jesus said that even he came not to be served, but to serve (Matthew 20:28).
- If being a Bringer, Member and Server make a three-legged stool, how balanced are you?
Discuss
Read John 13:1-17
- George told the story of his friend Steve giving a kidney to their friend Jeff. Can you think of any “super heroes of serving” in your life? What is their story, and how do you think they became so selfless?
Most everyone wants to serve and has the capacity to serve. The problem isn’t intention, it’s follow through. Here are three enemies to the “I’m Third” lifestyle:
I’m Too Insignificant
Ben Franklin said, “No one is useless in this life who lightens the burden of another.” MLK jr. said, “Everyone can be great, because everyone can serve.”
- Do you agree that insecure people can often find it difficult to serve and live selfless lives?
- How is it that insecure people are so often only thinking of themselves?
- How did Jesus’ security in his Heavenly Father free him to serve?
I’m Too Important
All the disciples saw the basin and towel. None of them offered to serve.
- Be honest, have you thought of yourself as above some kinds of service?
- What are some of the “basins and towels” that you are looking past?
- Regarding the foot washing, Jesus says we are blessed if we do likewise. Not think about, preach on or have discussions, but “do”. Have you been blessed by doing as Jesus demonstrates?
I’m Too Busy
In the story of the Good Samaritan two people are too busy (too important) to save a mans life. It seems preposterous, but upon reflection it’s easy to see yourself making the same kinds of excuses.
- Are you too busy to see opportunities to serve?
- How could you uncluttered your life to make room for serving, or simply schedule more time to serve?
- How is serving always a sacrifice, and what is sacrificed when you serve?
Apply
How can your group/bible study become a “Bible Doing Group?” Can you make a plan to put some doing into action? Share ideas, names, dates, projects… and follow through!
“Jesus first. Others second. I’m third.”
