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‘I want to be a disciple of Jesus’

For the powerpoint slides of Paul's talk, please click here. (If you do not have a PDF reader, you can safely download a free version by clicking here).

Discovery

As a memory-jogger for what Paul spoke about please listen to the audio recording on the website, and/or have a look at the powerpoint link above, and read Acts 1:1-10.

Understanding

The context for this teaching is our sermon series ‘Jesus first’ and our first section ‘Being disciples of Jesus’.  In endeavouring to learn how to be a good follower (disciple) Paul (H) explained that we need to first focus on our motivation for following.  Paul attempted to explain (briefly!) why it is that our motivation for following determines how we actually follow and the quantity & quality of the fruit we produce. Paul went on to suggest that it is ‘God’s grace to us in Christ’ which is the best motivation for following Jesus and determining both how you will follow and the fruit that will be produced.  It is possible to change your underlying motivation for following Jesus, 1] by correctly understanding (and believing!) God's Word and 2] being baptised by the Holy Spirit and continuing to be led by him.

• Why is our motivation for following Jesus important? 

• Paul identified 3 ways in which we can understand God how God relates to us, only one of which is healthy - can you remember the three ways Paul spoke of ?  

(Law = We 'should and must' live God's way;  Licence = I'm able to 'get away with' living my way;  Liberty = I want to live God's way)

• Can you explain why grace is a healthy motivation and understanding of God ?

• In what ways would a healthy appreciation of God’s grace to us in Christ help us live in true liberty ?

Application

• Which of the three descriptions most closely approximates to your motivation for following Jesus ?

• What, if anything, needs to change ?  What might help you to grow in this area ?