Hope for the Nations

Part One      Part Two      Part Three


Part 1

We as disciples and the family of God are God’s plan A to transform His much loved world. We are God’s hands and feet and voice in this world. God has chosen to partner and work both in and through us.

Engage with God’s Word

Consider [bible]Matthew 28:16-20[/bible].
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Discuss

  1. When you hear Jesus’ mandate to His disciples of making disciples of all nations, what are your thoughts about God’s strategy?
  2. Read Acts 4:13 – What do you think it was that set these men apart?
  3. Does it encourage you that the people Jesus used are described as ordinary people?
  4. Does your life reflect the authority of God in this world? (Matthew 28:18)
  5. Does your life reflect the commission that God has given to you? (Matthew 28:18)

Respond

As you spend time with God this week, what is He saying to you in the area of prayer for our overseas workers? What is God saying to you in the area of “going” – wherever that is for you?


Part 2

Homelessness, exploitation, child mortality and child labour. Into this darkness, Jesus invites us to reflect His light by actions, not just words. Father, stir us to action so others find hope and life and freedom in You.

Engage with God’s Word

Consider [bible]James 1:22-27[/bible].
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Discuss

  1. How do you go in reflecting God’s image to your community?
  2. How might you help the powerless to see His power?
  3. Read Deuteronomy 10:17-19. How might your family be more vocal in defence of the fatherless and the widow?
  4. What opportunities are there to meet practical needs of migrant communities near you?
  5. See James 2:14-16. What does it mean to be generous in a country known for its affluence?
  6. As a group, brainstorm ways your life group might engage with arkaustralia.org or www.baptistworldaid.org.au. As you look through their online presence, what grabs your attention? What key needs or opportunities do you see? Take time to pray together.

Respond

This week evaluate areas of your own life (or your life as a group) in the light of the words, “Be Fair, Be Vocal, Be Generous.”


Part 3

There is wonderful clarity and freedom when we discover both who we are and the purpose that we have been designed for. That our creator God does not want to be a piece, a part or a priority for us, but He made us to know Him intimately and fully and to reflect the beauty of that relationship into our world.

Engage with God’s Word

Consider [bible]Ephesians 1:4-14[/bible].
Find out more about Discovery Bible Study.

Discuss

  1. How would you describe your purpose/role in life?
  2. Why do we as the children of God, struggle with our identity, who you are? Discuss.
  3. Is it a new concept for you to consider God as being humanity’s first priority, the only one who has the authority and right to call the shots for humanity?
  4. How did you reflect God today to your family or work colleagues?
  5. St Augustine said- “our hearts will be restless until we find our rest in You”. What does that look like in a practical way?

Respond

We exist for no other reason but to be in relationship with Him and to reflect Him to the world. What is one step we can take this week to advance both our intimacy with God and our reflection of Him into our network?


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