New Life
Devotional
In a culture of hedonism, digital instant gratification, and postmodern propaganda, Jesus’ call to follow him and die to ourselves sounds bizzare. But in yielding control to God, in trusting love, we enter the kingdom. At first this sounds hard, but what if control is actually an illusion? What if yielding is actually the path to freedom and joy?
17 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”
MARK 1:17
20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
GALATIANS 2:20
Questions:
- What do you learn about Jesus’ invitation in Mark 1:17?
- How does the greek word for “follow” (parakoloutheó) change how you follow Jesus?
- In your own words, how would you describe being “crucified with Christ” in Galatians 2?
- What are you fighting to keep “crucified” in your life? Please explain.
- “We can’t live as Jesus and live as ourselves at the same time.” What are your thoughts or reactions to this quote?
- In what ways, have you been tempted to live for both yourself and Jesus at the same time?
- How can this group help when this temptation arises? Explain.
Practice The Way of Jesus:
This week, we want to focus in on the reality that Jesus calls us to a new life. Spend some time honestly engaging parts of your life where you need to "die". Consider sharing with God and someone in this group your plan for repentance.