Summary

The sermon focuses on the need to change our perspective and see others as God sees them, using the story of Jonah as a primary example. The pastor emphasizes how we often view others through our own biased lenses rather than seeing them through God's lens of love and mercy. He challenges the congregation to pivot away from judgmental attitudes and embrace God's perspective of grace and forgiveness for all people, regardless of their past or differences.

Intro Prayer

Lord, as we gather to discuss Your word, open our hearts and minds to see others as You see them. Help us put aside our own prejudices and biases so we can truly understand Your message of love and grace for all people. Guide our conversation and help us learn from each other. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Ice Breaker

When was the last time you changed your mind about someone after getting to know them better?

Key Verses

1. Ephesians 4:17-18
2. Matthew 23:34-40
3. Mark 2:17
4. John 13:34-35

Questions

1. How do our personal experiences and upbringing affect the way we see others?
2. What are some ways we might be wearing 'lenses' that distort how we see people different from us?
3. Why do you think Jonah was angry about God showing mercy to Nineveh?
4. How does our judgment of others reflect our own spiritual condition?
5. What does it truly mean to 'love one another as I have loved you'?
6. How can we practically show God's love to people we disagree with?
7. What prejudices might we need to pivot away from in our own lives?
8. How can we maintain a daily reminder of our own need for Jesus while extending grace to others?

Life Application

This week, choose one person or group that you typically view negatively or judge harshly. Intentionally pray for them daily and look for ways to see them as God sees them. Try to identify at least one positive quality or characteristic in them each day.

Key Takeaways

1. We must pivot away from our prejudices and lead with love
2. Christians should be known for looking through the lens of love, not judgment
3. We are all sinners in need of God's grace and mercy
4. Our perspective determines what we find - choose to look for beauty like a hummingbird rather than death like a vulture
5. Daily remind yourself of your need for Jesus while extending that same grace to others

Ending Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for showing us how our perspectives need to change. Help us to remove our judgmental lenses and see others through Your eyes of love and mercy. Give us the courage to pivot away from our prejudices and lead with Your love. Transform our hearts to be more like Yours, seeing the beauty and potential in every person we meet. In Jesus' name, Amen.