Locations & Times

What do you feel when you imagine standing face-to-face with God? Fear? Doubt? Hope? This message dives deep into the scandal of God’s Kingdom—a Kingdom not built on being "good enough" but on Jesus’ grace, available to everyone, right here, right now. From Mary’s fear to Peter’s doubt, we’ll see how Jesus flips the script, offering life and purpose to those who think they’re too broken to belong. The Kingdom of the Heavens is closer than you think—come on, get in.

Set List

Discussion Questions

The Kingdom of Heaven is Here

Jim Burgen
 Dec 15th, 2024

// Bible References: Luke 1:26-33, 5:8-11, Matt 11:2-6,12, Rom 5:6-8,

// Community Question: What do you think of when you think of the Kingdom of Heaven?

// Discussion Questions

1.     Jim discussed his own feelings of fear when considering standing before God, despite knowing he is saved by grace. What emotions do you feel when thinking about standing face to face with God? Why do you think those feelings arise?

2.     Jim mentioned that the Kingdom of God is where God's rule and reign are applied and can bring blessings to people's lives. How does understanding this affect your understanding of daily life? In what areas of your life do you feel you could allow God's rule to make a difference, and how might you start that process?

3.     Read Luke 1:26-33. Jim pointed out that Mary felt troubled and afraid upon receiving a message from the angel. Reflect on the story of Mary in Luke 1. How does her reaction of fear to God's message of blessing connect with our own fears when faced with God's call? What is something God might be calling you to do that feels intimidating, and how can you approach that situation with trust instead of fear?

4.     The sermon explained that Jesus's invitations to the Kingdom are for everyone, regardless of their past or mistakes. Jim  mentioned the scandal of the Kingdom being open to everyone, not just the 'good' people. How might this change your perception of yourself and others? How can this understanding influence how you treat others who feel unworthy or outside of God's grace?

5.     Jim emphasized the simplicity of Jesus's offer to be part of His Kingdom and how it reflects grace. How does it make you feel knowing Jesus invites you to join His Kingdom by simply asking, 'Need a ride, come on, get in'? How has accepting Jesus’ invitation affected your life? How can you also invite others to experience that grace?

// Challenge: Read Romans 5:6-8. Think about a broken, unclean, sinful, or confusing part of your life. How can you invite Jesus’ into that part of your life? How can your group support you this week as you begin to walk through it?