Simple Living: “Surrender”
This series will focus on themes like simplicity, presence, surrender, and gratitude in the re-ordering or our priorities as we seek to live a simpler, more generous life.
1.This week Pete shared from his heart about the “For Your Neighbor” initiative. It’s a vision for how God might be moving at St. Marks Community Church in the year to come. To read more about it click here.
Then, discuss or reflect on the following:
What excites you most about this vision?
What insecurities does it stir in you?
2. Pete also mentioned that this initiative is about so much more than just a building. It is a radical commitment to actively and sacrificially loving our neighbor. What is a step you can take this week to love your neighbor, or bless one of these new communities popping up all around us?
3. Pete shared a story about the bold leap of faith the congregation at St Mark’s took in the 1940’s. Where do you think we would be without the bold vision of those who have come before us? How does that story inspire you in this new season of ministry at St. Mark’s?
In his sermon this week, Pete listed three reasons for generosity:
1. It forms deeper dependence and identity in God’s grace
2. For the sake of others
3. To bring glory to God
4. In your experience, how has generosity (of time or resources) formed in you a deeper dependence on God? How has generosity formed your identity in God? (point 1)
5. How can your generosity invite others to experience the love of God How does your generosity bring glory to God? (points 2 & 3)
Read 2 Corinthians 9:12-13.
6. How does Paul see this generosity impacting God? How might we as a community see that same impact through our own radical generosity?
7. In his sermon, Pete shared about a season when medical bills were mounting, and generosity was hard. He was tempted to stop tithing, but he and Brittany chose to instead adjust their lifestyle. He said it was the first time that generosity truly formed his dependence on God. Do you have any stories like this? If so, take some time to share.
Pray to Close: Take time as a group to pray about how God is working at St. Marks Community Church. Pray about how He is working in our town. Pray for your neighbors and pray for the neighbors that are still to come!
(*Video available after Sunday services)
