2_Gods_Plan_for_Compass_pt_1.pdf

**Bible Study Discussion Guide**

**Bible Reading:**
- Matthew 16:18 (NLT): "I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it."
- Ephesians 2:20: "Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the chief cornerstone."
- Matthew 28:19-20: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

**Observation Questions:**
1. What parallels did the pastor draw between the construction of the Eiffel Tower and the building of the church by Jesus Christ?
2. According to the sermon, what are the three key characteristics that should define Compass Church?
3. How does the sermon describe the role of Jesus in a Christ-centered church?
4. What examples were given in the sermon to illustrate a caring community?

**Interpretation Questions:**
1. How does the vision and resilience of Gustave Eiffel relate to the spiritual journey of a believer, as described in the sermon?
2. In what ways does being Christ-centered in worship, teaching, and living impact the life of a church member?
3. How does the sermon suggest that a caring community can demonstrate Christ's love to the world?
4. What does it mean for Compass Church to be commission-focused, and how does this align with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20?

**Application Questions:**
1. Reflect on your personal vision for your spiritual journey. How can you align it with Jesus' vision for His church?
2. In what specific ways can you contribute to making Compass Church more Christ-centered in its worship and teaching?
3. Think of a recent opportunity you had to show care and compassion to someone in need. How did you respond, and what might you do differently next time?
4. How can you actively participate in fulfilling the Great Commission in your daily life? Identify one person you can reach out to this week.
5. Consider the role of resilience in your faith journey. What challenges are you currently facing, and how can you trust in Jesus' plan to overcome them?
6. How can you be more involved in your church community to ensure no one feels alone or forgotten?
7. What steps can you take to ensure that your generosity is intentional and joyful, as described in 2 Corinthians 9:7?

Day 1: Vision and Resilience in Our Spiritual Journey
In our spiritual journey, having a clear vision and resilience is crucial. Just as Gustave Eiffel faced criticism and challenges while constructing the Eiffel Tower, we too encounter obstacles in our faith journey. Jesus, the Master Architect, has a bold and enduring vision for His church. We are called to trust in His plan, knowing that His church will withstand any storm. By aligning ourselves with His vision, we become part of His eternal masterpiece, contributing to a legacy that lasts beyond our lifetime. Embracing this vision requires persistence and a steadfast commitment to His purpose, even when faced with trials.

Jesus' vision for His church is not just about survival but thriving amidst adversity. It calls for a community that is resilient, adaptable, and unwavering in its mission. As we look toward the future, we must cultivate a spirit of resilience, trusting that God's plan is perfect and His church will endure. By committing to this vision, we can impact lives and communities for generations to come, building a church that stands as a testament to His glory.

Isaiah 40:31 (ESV): "But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint."

Reflection: What is one challenge you are currently facing in your spiritual journey? How can you trust in Jesus' vision and resilience to overcome it today?


Day 2: Christ-Centered Living
A Christ-centered church is built on the foundation of Jesus as the cornerstone. This means that in all aspects of church life—worship, teaching, and daily living—Jesus must be at the center. By focusing on Him, we ensure that our faith is not fragile but firmly rooted, allowing us to reflect His love and truth to the world. A Christ-centered life is one where every decision, action, and thought is aligned with His teachings and example. It is about living in a way that honors Him and draws others to His light.

Being Christ-centered involves a daily commitment to prioritize Jesus in everything we do. It requires intentionality in our worship, seeking His guidance in our decisions, and embodying His love in our interactions with others. As we strive to live Christ-centered lives, we become beacons of His grace and truth, drawing others to the transformative power of His love.

Colossians 3:16-17 (ESV): "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. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."

Reflection: In what area of your life do you struggle to keep Christ at the center? What practical steps can you take today to refocus on Him?


Day 3: Building a Caring Community
The defining characteristic of Jesus' followers is love. A caring church reflects Christ's love by supporting one another and reaching out to the community. This involves practical acts of service, encouragement, and compassion, demonstrating to the world that we are His disciples through our love and care. A caring community is one where individuals feel valued, supported, and empowered to grow in their faith. It is a place where love is not just spoken but actively demonstrated through actions.

Creating a caring community requires intentionality and a commitment to living out the love of Christ. It involves being present for one another, offering support in times of need, and extending grace and forgiveness. As we build a caring community, we become a reflection of Christ's love, drawing others to Him through our actions and relationships.

1 John 3:18 (ESV): "Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth."

Reflection: Who in your community needs your support and care today? How can you show them Christ's love through your actions?


Day 4: Focusing on the Great Commission
Being a commission-focused church means taking Jesus' mandate seriously to make disciples of all nations. This involves being missional, adapting to reach lost people, and partnering together for a greater impact. By going where Jesus sends us and being generous with our resources, we can share the gospel effectively and fulfill the Great Commission. A commission-focused church is one that is outward-looking, always seeking opportunities to share the love and message of Christ with others.

Fulfilling the Great Commission requires a willingness to step out of our comfort zones and engage with the world around us. It involves being intentional in our relationships, sharing our faith, and partnering with others to reach those who have not yet heard the gospel. As we focus on the Great Commission, we become active participants in God's mission, impacting lives and communities for His glory.

Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV): "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."

Reflection: What is one way you can actively participate in the Great Commission this week? How can you partner with others to share the gospel more effectively?


Day 5: Commitment to God's Vision
As we look toward the future, we are called to align ourselves with Jesus' vision for His church. This requires living with vision, persistence, and trust in His perfect plan. By committing our hearts and church to Him, we can build something that lasts for eternity, impacting lives and communities for generations to come. A commitment to God's vision involves a willingness to surrender our own plans and desires, trusting that His ways are higher and His purposes are greater.

Living in alignment with God's vision requires a daily commitment to seek His guidance and follow His lead. It involves being open to His direction, even when it challenges our comfort or understanding. As we commit to His vision, we become co-laborers in His kingdom, building a legacy that reflects His glory and transforms the world.

Proverbs 16:3 (ESV): "Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to align more closely with God's vision? How can you commit this area to Him today?

1. "The Eiffel Tower reminds us that great things require vision, persistence, and a solid foundation. How much more can we trust Jesus, the Master Architect, as He builds His church?"


2. "Whether you’re walking through Seasons of Victory or Valleys of Difficulty, God is in control. His presence will guide you, giving you confidence and peace to move forward, no matter what happens."


3. "A Christ-centered church keeps Jesus at the center of it all. Without Him, the church is like a house built on sand—fragile and destined to collapse."


4. "Worship isn’t about personal preferences or performances; it’s about lifting up the name of Jesus. When He is lifted up, He draws people to Himself."


5. "A caring church reflects the love of Christ in how we treat one another and those outside our walls. Love is the defining characteristic of His followers."


6. "A commission-focused church doesn’t stay within its own walls—it goes out into the world. We are called to share the good news of Jesus with everyone."


7. "Generosity is a key part of living out our faith and advancing God’s kingdom. When you give with an open heart, God uses your generosity to pour blessings back into your lives."


8. "The question is not whether Jesus will fulfill His vision—He will. The question is whether we will align ourselves with His plan."


9. "True success this year will come from focusing on godly values, biblical priorities, and consistent spiritual habits in both your professional and private life."


10. "Let’s decide today to live with vision, persistence, and trust in His perfect plan. Together, we can build something that lasts for eternity."