Sermon Recap 🎬
The sermon "Into The Wilderness" by Pastor Michael Wurz explores the significance of wilderness in our spiritual journey, drawing from Jesus' testing in Matthew 4:1-4. Pastor Michael discusses how these testing periods are akin to refining gold, shaping our character. He emphasizes that wilderness experiences, though challenging, are opportunities for growth and transformation, not signs of God's absence. Furthermore, the sermon underscores the importance of spiritual disciplines like fasting, prayer, Sabbath observance, and giving to deepen our relationship with God and align with His purpose for our lives.
Ice Breaker 🧊
If you could instantly become an expert in any hobby, what would it be and why?
Discussion Questions 💬
1. How can wilderness experiences in our lives be seen as opportunities for growth?
- In the sermon, it was mentioned that wilderness periods are not signs of God's absence or punishment, but rather opportunities for growth and transformation.
- Can you recall a specific wilderness experience in your life where you saw personal growth or transformation? Share with the group.
2. What are some practical ways we can integrate fasting into our spiritual journey?
- Pastor Michael suggests starting with short fasts and gradually increasing the duration while also emphasizing the importance of proper medical guidance.
- How does fasting help refocus our dependence on God? How can you implement fasting in a meaningful and safe way in your own life?
3. Why is it important for us to truly study and engage with the Bible ourselves, rather than relying solely on pastors or leaders?
- Pastor Michael emphasizes the importance of reading and studying the Bible for oneself, rather than depending solely on the pastor's preaching.
- How can you create a consistent routine for studying the Bible and engaging with its teachings on a personal level?
4. Based on Matthew 4:1-4, how are temptation and testing used by God to refine us?
- Pastor Michael explains that the term 'tempted' can also be translated as 'tested,' and compares the testing of Jesus in the wilderness to the process of purifying gold or silver.
- How can we better embrace testing and challenges in our lives as opportunities to refine our character and deepen our relationship with God?
5. Why is it important to practice spiritual disciplines consistently and how do they benefit our personal walk with God?
- The sermon series covers spiritual disciplines such as fasting, prayer, Sabbath observance, and giving. These disciplines are meant to bring us closer to God and align us with His purpose.
- Evaluate your own personal discipline in these areas. Which disciplines could you improve and how might you implement a plan for growth in those areas?
Prayer 🙏
Ask for prayer requests.
• Ask God to help each person commit to spiritual disciplines such as fasting and prayer.
• Pray for strength to overcome doubts and challenges as Jesus did in the wilderness.
• Seek guidance to apply the lessons from the sermon to your daily life, reflecting more of God's presence in your actions.