Permission to Change – Week Three
1. The sermon mentions “things we’ve always done this way.” What is one habit or pattern in your life that you’ve maintained simply because “that’s how it’s always been,” and after hearing this message, do you feel God might be calling you to reevaluate it?
2. What changes can you make in your life to resist this and instead focus on what truly matters?
3. In discussing 1 Corinthians 3:9-15, the sermon talks about building with materials that will last for eternity versus those that will burn up. Looking at your current time, talents, and treasure, which of your investments feel like “gold, silver, and costly stones” (lasting eternal value) and which might be more like “wood, hay, or straw”?
4. The message challenges us to examine whether our pursuits are self-centered or kingdom-focused. How do you distinguish between healthy personal goals (like the pastor’s example of wanting a lake house) and pursuits that have become too self-centered?
5. The sermon discusses finding God in mundane moments, like eating and drinking. What are some “mundane” parts of your daily routine where you could be more intentional about glorifying God? How might that change your perspective on these activities?
6. Looking at the examples of “kingdom fruit” mentioned in the sermon (helping the broken down car, visiting the lonely, making meals for the sick), which of these types of service comes most naturally to you, and which do you find most challenging? What might be holding you back from engaging more in the challenging areas?