Locations & Times

Do you ever feel like your kids are speaking a different language? As a dad of four, Jesse has been there, trying to decode teenage slang to connect with them. But it's not just our families where we feel disconnected—it's society at large. We set up dividing lines: Democrat or Republican, Boomer or Millennial, Trucks or Hybrids. This message explores how Jesus' mission was about breaking these barriers and embracing unity amidst diversity. Jesse dives into the book of Acts, where the early church navigated through conflicts and tribalism to spread the good news. Let’s discover how we can apply these lessons today, ensuring no one feels like an outsider and how leaders are called to make sacrifices for the sake of unity and inclusion.

SETLIST 

Worlds Apart

Jesse DeYoung
June 2, 2024

// Bible References: Acts 2:42-47, 6:1-7, 7:55

// Community Question: What is your favorite movie about Outsiders/Misfits, and why do you like it? (Ex. Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer, Harry Potter, The Outsiders, Napoleon Dynamite, Wonder)

// Discussion Questions

1. Jesse discussed how even within families, it can feel like we are worlds apart due to political affiliation, age, music preferences, and even pet preferences. How can we overcome tribalism within our own families and friend groups? In what personal relationships do you experience tribalism, and how can you work to prioritize unity over differences?
2. Read Acts 6:2-7 The disciples addressed the issue of tribalism when appointing leaders for the Greek widows, emphasizing their character. Why is this important in our leadership roles? Evaluate your own leadership roles and consider how you prioritize character over personal preferences.
3. Read Acts 2:42-47 The early church faced challenges and conflicts but held together through their pursuit of unity when they held all things in common. How can we follow the early church's example in prioritizing unity despite differences? What steps can you take in your personal life to build bridges with those who are different from you?
4. Jesse shared stories of making lost and broken people feel welcome at Flatirons, regardless of their past or current struggles. In what ways can we prioritize reaching out to lost and broken people at Flatirons? What about our own community? What specific actions can you take to make Flatirons, your community, or small group more inclusive by inviting those who may feel like outsiders?
5. Jesse encouraged the congregation to reflect on what they are willing to sacrifice to include outsiders, just as Jesus sacrificed everything for us. What sacrifices can we make for the sake of reaching outsiders? In what areas of your life are you willing to make sacrifices for the benefit of others?

// Challenge: Sometimes connecting with an Outsider is difficult. You may have to sacrifice perception, time, social ease, and physical comfort to connect. Who is one person you feel God is asking you to invite into your community by getting to know them this week? Make it a goal to learn two unique things about the person you feel God is asking you to include.