Locations & Times

Have you ever felt like an outcast, judged, or unwanted? One thing Jesus was criticized for was befriending people that culture wanted nothing to do with. Today we will explore why Jesus constantly chose to befriend "sinners" and how this applies to our lives. If you've ever felt lost, broken, or need grace, we have good news for you today.

SETLIST

We Praise You By Bethel Music Available on "Revival's In The Air" from Bethel Music 

Who You Say I Am By Hillsong Worship Available on “There is More” from Hillsong Church

What a Beautiful Name By Hillsong Worship Available on "Let There Be Light" from Hillsong Church

Homecoming By Bethel Music Available on Homecoming (Live) from Bethel Music

GROUP QUESTIONS

// Bible References
 Luke 19:1-10, Ezekiel 34:1-6, 11-12, 15-16

// Community Question
Has anyone ever had a moment where you have woke up one day and looked at your life and asked, “How did this happen?” Where the dreams and plans you had for life started well and then went wrong? Did you feel judged by others for it? What is one thing you wish you could communicate or receive from others while going through that?

// Discussion Questions

1. Why do you think Jesus consistently befriends people who are broken, confused, or outcasts?
   
2. Read Luke 19:1-3 In this passage we are introduced to Zacchaeus, who, as a chief tax collector has become wealthy from exploiting his own people. This makes him an outcast and hated in his own community. What do you think happened in Zacchaeus’ life where he was willing to turn his back and betray everything/everyone in his Jewish “family”?
3. Read Luke 19:4-7 Why do you think Jesus would be willing to have dinner/be friends with Zacchaeus, thereby risking His reputation and taking on a social stigma? What does this say about Jesus’ values?
4. Read Luke 19:8-10 In these passages Zacchaeus, who no one thought was redeemable, took two baby steps in following Jesus, and reclaimed his identity as a member of the Jewish “family”. What does this say about how Jesus looks at us in our brokenness, or in contrast, people we may have written off?
5. Read Ezekiel 34:1-6, 11-12, 15-16 In this passage God is condemning the religious leaders for exploiting, punishing, and rejecting His vulnerable “sheep.” Jesus references this passage to proclaim that His mission is to seek and save the broken and lost sheep the religious leaders rejected. What do we think about that passage? Have you ever acted like a religious leader? Or have you ever been the one who is rejected? What is God telling us about both situations?

// Challenge: Who do we know in our life who are lost and broken, and we feel God asking us to invite to church next week? How can we demonstrate through our actions that the lost and broken are welcome with us and at church?