High Stakes
Fruit Of The Spirit | Say Yes | Week 3
August 13, 2023 | By Ben Foote
People haven’t been leaving the church because of what Christians believe. They’ve been leaving in droves because of HOW they've been treated. They haven’t seen the fruit of the Spirit in Christians and so, they gave up on Christ. What if our communities knew that Flatirons was a beacon of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control in a world where people are starving for that kind of fruit.
SETLIST
Prodigals Available on "Our God Will See Us Through (Live)" from North Point from Centricity Music
Let The Redeemed Available on the CD "Live at Church" from Josh Baldwin
Good Grace
Living Hope Available on "Living Hope" from Phil Wickham
QUESTIONS
// Bible References
Gal 5:1-26; John 13:35
// Community Question
What does it mean to do the right thing in the wrong way? Describe a time when this happened to you, or you did it to someone else.
// Discussion Questions
- Ben emphasizes the importance of not only performing actions like Jesus but also embodying the same spirit in which He lived. In what ways can you personally work on embodying the same spirit as Jesus in your everyday actions and interactions with others?
- Read Galatians 5:1-15 Paul argues that external markers are no longer necessary for Christians, as following Jesus is about becoming more like Him in how we approach and treat others. What are some external markers or traditions in your own life that may not be as important as living in the spirit of Jesus, and how can you shift your focus to the more important aspects?
- Read Galatians 5:16-17. Paul in this passage is saying if we keep growing in our relationship with Christ our focus will be more on what to do instead of what not to do. What does this mean? How will understanding this affect the way as Christians we interact with our family and community?
- Read Galatians 5:22-26 Paul relates that Christians should be known for the fruits of the spirit, which Ben articulated if looked at in reverse order demonstrates HOW we serve others in love. In our personal relationships, how could focusing on Self-control lead to Gentleness? Gentleness to Faithfulness? Faithfulness to Goodness, etc.? Which fruit of the spirit do we wish we had more of? How can we demonstrate that more this week?
- Saying YES is about how we approach people and treat them. Ben stated this is the only way for Christians to have an influential voice in the world and show the world what Jesus looks like. What does it mean to 'say yes' as a Christian, and why is it important?
// Challenge: Where in the church do you feel God may be asking you to say YES and serve? What is a barrier that might keep you from serving? Take a step of faith and text Serve to 80857 (If you didn’t already) to see what area you may be a good fit to serve?