Transformative Journey: Following God Through Discipleship
Summary
### Summary
At Bethesda, we are excited about the new discipleship strategy that emphasizes following Jesus, becoming like Him, and doing what He did. This initiative will revitalize our small groups, focusing on discipleship and community, and is set to launch in September. We encourage everyone interested to get involved.
Our summer series, "The Exodus: A Journey of Transformation," draws parallels between Israel's journey through the wilderness and our spiritual journey today. Life is a journey, and we are either moving forward in Christ or regressing. This series will explore Israel's transformation from a newly liberated people to a nation ready to enter the Promised Land, emphasizing that our journey with God is also transformative.
In 1 Corinthians 10:1-14, Paul highlights that Israel's experiences in the wilderness serve as examples for us. Christ is the link between their story and ours, showing that the same God who led Israel is leading us today. We face similar temptations and challenges, and like Israel, we must learn to trust and follow God.
The Exodus story teaches us that God is our Father who sets us free, goes with us, and guides us. He delivered Israel from Egypt, fulfilling His ancient promises, and He will deliver us from our oppressions. The cloud that led Israel symbolizes God's presence, showing that He is always with us, guiding us even when the path seems unclear.
Our daily lives are the arena of God's activity. God uses the natural elements of our lives to display His glory. We are encouraged to engage with Scripture through reading, studying, memorizing, and praying it. Praying with Scripture helps us hear the Holy Spirit and transforms our lives.
As we embark on this journey together, we have resources like family devotions, a podcast called "Praying on the Way," and a Spotify playlist to support our spiritual growth. We are not just living for God but with Him, and He is guiding us on a path that leads to good.
### Key Takeaways
1. Discipleship and Community: Our new discipleship strategy focuses on following Jesus, becoming like Him, and doing what He did. This initiative aims to revitalize our small groups, emphasizing discipleship and community. We encourage everyone to get involved and grow together in Christ. [01:04]
2. Life as a Journey: Life is a journey, and we are either moving forward in Christ or regressing. The Exodus story parallels our spiritual journey, showing that transformation happens step by step, day by day. We must embrace the journey, trusting that God is leading us to become the people He wants us to be. [04:44]
3. Christ as the Link: Paul in 1 Corinthians 10:1-14 highlights that Israel's experiences serve as examples for us. Christ is the link between their story and ours, showing that the same God who led Israel is leading us today. We face similar temptations and challenges, and we must learn to trust and follow God. [09:04]
4. God's Presence and Guidance: The cloud that led Israel symbolizes God's presence, showing that He is always with us, guiding us even when the path seems unclear. Our daily lives are the arena of God's activity, and He uses the natural elements of our lives to display His glory. [19:18]
5. Engaging with Scripture: Engaging with Scripture through reading, studying, memorizing, and praying it helps us hear the Holy Spirit and transforms our lives. Praying with Scripture is a powerful way to listen to God's voice and align our hearts with His will. [42:52]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:04] - Discipleship Strategy
[02:49] - Introduction to the Exodus Series
[04:44] - Life as a Journey
[07:03] - Israel's Journey as an Example
[09:04] - Christ as the Link
[10:46] - Temptations and Challenges
[12:09] - Transformation through the Journey
[14:34] - Resources for the Journey
[18:19] - Follow the Cloud
[19:18] - God's Presence and Guidance
[23:19] - God Sets Us Free
[27:17] - God in Our Daily Lives
[31:21] - God Never Leaves Us
[33:57] - God Guides Us
[37:37] - Trusting God's Path
[39:56] - Engaging with Scripture
[42:52] - Praying with Scripture
[47:48] - Following God's Lead
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. 1 Corinthians 10:1-14: "For I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, that our fathers were all under the cloud and all passed through the sea, and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea, and all ate the same spiritual food, and all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank from the spiritual rock that followed them, and the rock was Christ. Nevertheless, with most of them God was not pleased, for they were overthrown in the wilderness. Now these things took place as examples for us, that we might not desire evil as they did. Do not be idolaters as some of them were; as it is written, 'The people sat down to eat and drink and rose up to play.' We must not indulge in sexual immorality as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell in a single day. We must not put Christ to the test, as some of them did and were destroyed by serpents, nor grumble, as some of them did and were destroyed by the Destroyer. Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come. Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall. No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry."
### Observation Questions
1. What are the three main aspects of the new discipleship strategy mentioned in the sermon? ([01:04])
2. According to 1 Corinthians 10:1-14, what are some of the experiences of Israel in the wilderness that serve as examples for us?
3. How does the cloud that led Israel symbolize God's presence and guidance? ([19:18])
4. What are the four approaches to engaging with Scripture mentioned in the sermon? ([40:41])
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Paul emphasize that Israel's experiences in the wilderness are examples for us today? ([08:06])
2. How does the concept of life as a journey relate to our spiritual growth and transformation? ([04:44])
3. In what ways does the cloud that led Israel reflect God's ongoing presence in our daily lives? ([19:18])
4. How can praying with Scripture help us hear the Holy Spirit and transform our lives? ([42:52])
### Application Questions
1. The new discipleship strategy focuses on following Jesus, becoming like Him, and doing what He did. How can you personally get involved in this initiative to grow in your faith? ([01:04])
2. Reflect on your own spiritual journey. Are there areas where you feel you are regressing rather than moving forward in Christ? What steps can you take to embrace the journey and trust God's leading? ([04:44])
3. Paul warns against idolatry and other temptations that Israel faced. Are there modern-day idols or temptations in your life that you need to address? How can you take practical steps to flee from them? ([09:04])
4. The cloud symbolized God's presence and guidance for Israel. How can you become more aware of God's presence in your daily life? Are there specific practices you can adopt to seek His guidance more intentionally? ([19:18])
5. Engaging with Scripture is crucial for spiritual growth. Which of the four approaches to Scripture (reading, studying, memorizing, praying) do you find most challenging? How can you incorporate it into your routine this week? ([40:41])
6. The sermon mentioned various resources like family devotions, a podcast, and a Spotify playlist to support spiritual growth. Which of these resources can you utilize to enhance your spiritual journey, and how will you incorporate them into your life? ([14:34])
7. The journey of transformation for Israel involved learning who they were before God and with God. How can you deepen your understanding of your identity in Christ and live it out in your daily interactions? ([13:34])
Devotional
Day 1: Following Jesus in Community
Our new discipleship strategy at Bethesda focuses on following Jesus, becoming like Him, and doing what He did. This initiative aims to revitalize our small groups, emphasizing discipleship and community. By engaging in this strategy, we are encouraged to grow together in Christ, supporting one another in our spiritual journeys. This approach is not just about individual growth but about building a community that reflects the love and teachings of Jesus. We are called to be active participants, not passive observers, in this transformative process. [01:04]
Bible Passage:
"Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing." (1 Thessalonians 5:11, ESV)
Reflection:
How can you actively contribute to the growth and support of your small group this week? What specific actions can you take to encourage and build up others in your community?
Day 2: Embracing the Journey of Transformation
Life is a journey, and we are either moving forward in Christ or regressing. The Exodus story parallels our spiritual journey, showing that transformation happens step by step, day by day. We must embrace the journey, trusting that God is leading us to become the people He wants us to be. This journey is not always easy, but it is through these experiences that we grow and are transformed. By looking at Israel's journey, we can see that our own path with God is filled with opportunities for growth and change. [04:44]
Bible Passage:
"And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit." (2 Corinthians 3:18, ESV)
Reflection:
What is one area of your life where you feel God is calling you to grow? How can you take a step forward in that area this week, trusting in His guidance?
Day 3: Christ as Our Guide
Paul in 1 Corinthians 10:1-14 highlights that Israel's experiences serve as examples for us. Christ is the link between their story and ours, showing that the same God who led Israel is leading us today. We face similar temptations and challenges, and we must learn to trust and follow God. By understanding that Christ is our guide, we can navigate our spiritual journey with confidence, knowing that He has already walked the path before us. This connection to Christ provides us with the strength and wisdom to overcome the obstacles we face. [09:04]
Bible Passage:
"For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin." (Hebrews 4:15, ESV)
Reflection:
What temptations or challenges are you currently facing? How can you rely on Christ's example and strength to overcome them?
Day 4: God's Ever-Present Guidance
The cloud that led Israel symbolizes God's presence, showing that He is always with us, guiding us even when the path seems unclear. Our daily lives are the arena of God's activity, and He uses the natural elements of our lives to display His glory. By recognizing God's presence in our everyday moments, we can find comfort and direction, knowing that He is always with us. This awareness helps us to trust in His guidance, even when we cannot see the way forward. [19:18]
Bible Passage:
"And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead them along the way, and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, that they might travel by day and by night." (Exodus 13:21, ESV)
Reflection:
In what ways have you experienced God's guidance in your daily life? How can you become more aware of His presence and direction in your current circumstances?
Day 5: Engaging with Scripture
Engaging with Scripture through reading, studying, memorizing, and praying it helps us hear the Holy Spirit and transforms our lives. Praying with Scripture is a powerful way to listen to God's voice and align our hearts with His will. By immersing ourselves in God's Word, we open ourselves to His transformative power, allowing His truths to shape our thoughts, actions, and attitudes. This practice not only deepens our relationship with God but also equips us to live out our faith more fully. [42:52]
Bible Passage:
"Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God." (Colossians 3:16, ESV)
Reflection:
How can you incorporate Scripture into your daily routine this week? What specific steps will you take to engage more deeply with God's Word?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "OK, first of all, we're all on a journey through life, a walk with God. Bethesda as a community is always on a journey. Always. Has always been. OK, because life is not static. Right. In fact, we don't want life to be static because if actually there is no such thing as static, it's either going forward or backward in life. You are either moving forward. Forward and growing and being renewed and being composed and recomposed in Christ, or you are going backward and decomposing. So there's just no there's no static." (43 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "God will make things right. He will set his people free. And whatever that oppressor is. Whether it is a person. Whether it is a system. Whether it is an addiction. Whether it is demonic powers. God will set you free. Why do we know this? Because he's actually. Already broken those powers. Through his son. Through the death and resurrection of Jesus. And it's just a matter of things. Working them out. Freedom is just the way it is. It's just the way it's going to be." (43 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Our daily lives are the arena. Of God's activity. In the world. Sometimes we get this spirituality. Where we just want to escape out of it all. And we just want to. Just take me up to some higher plane Jesus. Get me out of all of this. And I get the idea of coming away. I'm all for that. I do that. Come away. But we come away to come back. Into this time. Into this place. Because it's here and now. It's your home. It's your family. It's your job. It's your work. It's your finances. It's your body. It's there that God wants to show up." (41 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "God isn't waiting for you to just show up in heaven one day. He's breaking forth in glory now. So the stuff of your life. Might just be natural stuff. But God can make it a pillar of fire. And a cloud. His glory can show up. And set your natural stuff ablaze. Just like the he goes with us in every situation. He never leaves us." (37 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "God send us out on a journey and say, I'll watch you. He says, I will go with you. With you. You're not just living for God. You're living with him. You're not just doing for God. You're doing with him. We're on a journey. We're on a journey, not to God. We're on a journey with God." (48 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "The key here to catch is that Paul says they put Christ to the test in the wilderness. Now, wait a minute. Jesus doesn't show up until long after the Exodus, right? Right? I mean, we put a timeline out here. Exodus, thousands of years, Jesus, okay? Yet, Paul says it was Christ that they put to the test. Right? This is a stunning statement. God is linking Christ to the God of Israel. Or, excuse me, Paul is linking Christ to the God of Israel right here. Making it clear that what is happening in Israel's journey is relevant to us because we are all dealing with Christ." (45 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Now, the Exodus is a journey of transformation. And this is what's beautiful. When Israel began their journey. They were a newly liberated people. A people who had lived in slavery for hundreds of years. And they were just set free. Listen, the kinds of mindset that you adopt. That goes on for generations. Doesn't disappear. The moment the bondage is gone. Think about this. Generations upon generations upon generations. Of being enslaved. To Egypt. Of being immersed in Egyptian culture. The moment that Pharaoh says, fine. Get out of here. And they leave. And they cross the Red Sea. Doesn't make all of that way of thinking. They're still thinking like enslaved people." (55 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Sometimes God takes us on turns that seem to meander. Seem to go up. Seem to go away this way and that way. And you think, Lord, I'm trying to follow you. Why does it seem we're going the wrong direction? Sometimes the Lord will take us on meandering routes because he sees what we cannot see. But trust that his road leads to the destination he intends. And the journey itself might be the very means that makes you ready for the promised land. The twists and the turns that you don't understand, it's on those twists and turns that he's doing things in you and drawing you closer to you. He's showing himself how faithful he is." (50 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "How do we follow? How do we learn to discern the signs of God's presence and his guiding? How do we learn to follow him? We do that. This is not the only way. But one of the key ways, and I don't have time to talk about all the ways. But we have a lot of time in life to talk about all the ways. One of the key ways is we begin with Scripture. Now we've been challenged last couple of weeks to pay more attention to Scripture. To get into Scripture. To look at Scripture. And I find that there are four approaches, four basic approaches to Scripture that should be part of our regular rotation." (41 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "When we learn to begin to pray with the scriptures, we are hearing the Holy Spirit in the text. We are beginning to talk with the Lord as he reveals our hearts through the scriptures. And this is what the podcast that we're delivering to you every week is. It's called Praying on the Way. We've put together a weekly podcast where you'll be able to listen in, repeat it throughout the week, and you'll be listened in and you'll be guided to listen to a text of God's Holy Word. To pray about what you're listening to. To talk to God. To listen to what the Holy Spirit might be saying within the text to you." (42 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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