Worlds Apart
How to Stand Up in a Crazy Culture | Week 6
July 7, 2024 | By Mark Moore
How do we connect with a culture that seems distant from God? Mark Moore explores how Don Richardson's journey to reach the Sawi tribe with the gospel offers powerful insights. The Sawi's "peace child" tradition became a bridge to understanding Christ's sacrifice. Similarly, we look at Paul's approach in Athens, finding common ground with intellectuals by highlighting God's fingerprints in nature, history, culture, Jesus, and the church. Join us as we learn how to stand firm and share our faith in today's challenging culture.
SETLIST
"Praise" by Brandon Lake, Chandler Moore, Chris Brown, Cody Carnes, Pat Barrett, and Steven Furtick
"Made For More" by Blake Wiggins, Jessie Early, Jonathan Smith, and Josh Baldwin
"Goodness Of God" by Ed Cash and Jenn Johnson
"Gratitude" by Benjamin Hastings, Brandon Lake, and Dante Bowe
GROUP QUESTIONS
Fingerprints
Mark Moore
July 7th, 2024
// Bible References: Acts 17:16-34
// Community Question: What is the strangest way you have experienced/heard of people connecting to God?
// Intro: In the sermon Mark relayed Paul’s five “Fingerprints of God,” common threads in all creation and people’s hearts.
// Discussion Questions:
- Read Acts 17:24. Nature. Mark conveyed that nature is a testament to the majesty of God. Describe a time when nature reminded you of and drew you closer to God. What common interests involving nature could you share with people around you, both inside and outside of church, to help build connections?
- Read Acts 17:26-27. History. Mark relayed that God chose the perfect place and time in history to send Jesus, citing the roads, language, a climate of peace, and the synagogues. (Places of teaching). When we look back at our lives, how does looking at the big picture help us see God’s work in our lives? How can we use God’s personal fingerprints in our lives to reach others?
- Read Acts 17:28. Culture. Mark imparted that Paul used the pagan poets and the truths they articulated through their art and writings to connect his audience to God. What are some cultural touchpoints you can use initiate conversations about faith with those who might not know Jesus?
- Read Acts 17:30-31. The person of Jesus. Mark communicated that despite the resurrection of Jesus being the most historically verified event, it remains a barrier to most people. What are some personal barriers that prevent you from connecting with others about Jesus, and how can you overcome them?
- Read Acts 17:34. Church. Mark relayed that virtually any humanitarian effort had its origins from the people of the church. (i.e. Medicine, Education, Women’s Rights) Think about the people in your life who influenced your faith journey. What common ground did they use to connect with you, and how can you replicate that in your interactions with others?
// Challenge: Identify one person in your life—whether it's a coworker, neighbor, or acquaintance—whom you share a common interest or experience with. This week, make a deliberate effort to connect with them.