Kingdom Foreshadowed Part 14 with Discussion Guide

Kingdom Foreshadowed Part 14 Discussion Guide

Summary

Today’s sermon focused on the importance of having a transformed heart, as highlighted in Deuteronomy 6 and 30. The Shema, a central prayer in Judaism, calls us to love God with all our heart, soul, and strength. However, the sermon emphasized that merely hearing God’s commands is not enough; we must also act on them. This transformation is not something we can achieve on our own but requires a new heart given by God, as prophesied by Ezekiel and Jeremiah. The sermon also connected this transformation to the work of Jesus on the cross, who fulfilled the covenant and made it possible for us to have a renewed heart and live a life fully devoted to God.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You with open hearts, ready to receive Your word. We ask that You help us to not only hear Your commands but to act on them. Transform our hearts, Lord, so that we may love You fully and live according to Your will. Guide our discussion today and help us to be receptive to what You want us to learn. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Ice Breaker

What is one activity or hobby that makes you feel most alive and why?

Key Verses

1. Deuteronomy 6:4-7
2. Deuteronomy 30:1-10
3. Ezekiel 36:26-27
4. Jeremiah 24:7
5. John 3:3

Questions

1. What stood out to you the most from today’s sermon?
2. How do you understand the concept of a ‘transformed heart’?
3. Why do you think it’s easier to hear God’s commands than to act on them?
4. How does the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4-7) apply to our lives today?
5. What are some practical ways we can love God with all our heart, soul, and strength?
6. How has Jesus’ work on the cross made it possible for us to have a transformed heart?
7. Can you share a time when you felt God was transforming your heart?
8. What steps can we take this week to ensure we are not just hearers of the word but doers as well?

Life Application

This week, focus on one area of your life where you feel God is calling you to act on His word. Make a conscious effort to not only hear but also do what He is asking of you. Share your experience with the group next week.

Key Takeaways

1. Hearing God’s word is important, but acting on it is crucial.
2. A transformed heart is necessary to fully love and obey God.
3. Jesus’ work on the cross makes it possible for us to have a renewed heart.
4. God desires a relationship with us where we live fully for Him.
5. The Shema calls us to love God with all our heart, soul, and strength.

Ending Prayer

Lord, we thank You for this time of discussion and reflection. We ask that You continue to work in our hearts, transforming us to be more like You. Help us to not only hear Your word but to live it out in our daily lives. Guide us in loving You with all our heart, soul, and strength. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

This series may be taken as a course offered by the Online Bible Institute. For more information check out the Keys Vineyard Ministries Courses page.

Steve Lawes is a Church Consultant and also provides coaching for pastors, churches, ministries and church planters.