Locations & Times

Are you prepared to transform your perspective on faith? In today's message, Ben guides us through the final weeks of Jesus’ life, focusing on the events where Jesus curses a barren fig tree and then purifies the Temple in Jerusalem. These actions are not just historical accounts but powerful metaphors challenging our conventional views on life, faith, and religion. He emphasizes that these narratives critique empty religious practices and the exclusion of others from faith communities. Ben's message is a call for us to embrace an inclusive, welcoming approach to our faith, one that aligns with Jesus' teachings of hope, love, and inclusivity for all, especially those who feel like outsiders. This transformation, as Ben suggests, starts within our own hearts and extends to our broader faith community. For weekly updates about upcoming messages, text "Next" to 80857 to connect with Flatirons Community Church.

SETLIST 

"Already Won" From Highland Worship

"Jehovah" Available on the album "CAN YOU IMAGINE?" from Elevation Worship

"Holy Forever" By Chris Tomlin

GROUP QUESTIONS

Death to the Secret Club
Ben Foote

March 17th, 2024

// Bible References
Matthew 28:19-20 Mark 11:12-14; Genesis 12:2-3; Isaiah 49:6

// Community Question: Have you ever been a part of a club? Why did you join? What is the best part of being a part of a club?

// Discussion Questions

1. Jesus entering Jerusalem on a donkey symbolizes that he is offering himself as the Messiah to the people of Israel. This act challenges both the religious leaders and the Roman occupiers, as Jesus is declaring himself king. How did this challenge contribute to Jesus’ eventual death and illustrate Jesus’ commitment to His mission of redeeming the world?
2. Read Mark 11:12-14. Ben explained that the fig tree Jesus cursed was a physical illustration of unfruitful religion, just as the temple in Jerusalem had become. Looking at our world today, what are some examples of unfruitful religious practices or attitudes that we encounter? How do these practices mirror the unfruitfulness Jesus confronted? Furthermore, what steps can we take as individuals and as a community to ensure that our faith remains vibrant and fruitful amidst the challenges of our time?
3. Read Isaiah 49:6, Mark 11:17. Part of God’s design for Israel was to be a light to the Gentiles (outsiders). Knowing this, Jesus confronted the money changers and merchants who were taking advantage of the Gentiles as they came to worship. What lessons can we learn from Jesus clearing the temple and standing up for the Gentiles? How can we apply these lessons in our lives today, especially in our interactions with those who might feel marginalized or excluded from a church and Christian community?
4. Ben explained that one of the hallmarks of the Pharisees unfruitful religion is the appearance of perfection. Ben said this emphasis on appearance leads to exclusivity, hypocrisy, and lack of personal transparency. What are some personal examples you have seen of Christian exclusivity or hypocrisy? How could a lack of transparency affect your ability to cultivate community and grow as a Christian?
5. The sermon emphasized Jesus' love for messy and broken people and the importance of welcoming everyone into the Kingdom of God. How can believers invite others into a community of faith while avoiding the pitfalls of exclusivity and hypocrisy? Can you think of specific actions or attitudes you can adopt to make your spiritual community more welcoming and inclusive to others?

// Challenge:

On a scale of 1 to 5 (with 1 being 'Exclusive Club' and 5 being 'All Outsiders Welcome’), how welcoming do you feel towards outsiders at Flatirons and in your daily life? Next, share one or two steps you can take to increase your rating by a point or two by Easter. Lastly, as a group spend some time praying about who each person will invite this week to an Easter Service? Let's aim to extend a warm invitation to others as we approach Easter.