Keys to the Kingdom (Week 3)
In our series Keys to the Kingdom: The Secret Language of the Parables, we’re exploring Jesus’s teachings—hidden in story form—found in the gospel according to Mark.
Ice-Breaker: Have you ever discovered something surprising when a light was turned on—either literally or figuratively? What happened?
Read John 3:19-21.
1. Jesus says that some people avoid the light because it exposes what is hidden. Why can it be difficult to allow God to shine light into every area of our lives? Why do you think people sometimes prefer darkness to light?
2. Are there areas where you find yourself resisting God's examination or correction? If you feel comfortable, bring them “into the light” by talking about them.
3. The gospel reveals both God's love for us and our identity as people created by God. When have you experienced God's truth bringing clarity, hope, or confidence to your life? In other words, how has the gospel illuminated your true identity?
4. In his sermon, Pete described three ways we can obscure the gospel: Diluting, Polluting, or Substituting. Which of these do you think is the greatest temptation for Christians today? Which is the greatest temptation in your own life?
Read Mark 4:21-25.
5. Pete suggested our calling is to live in a way that demonstrates God's love, mercy, peace, and joy. What does it look like to "put your lamp on a stand" in everyday life? What are some practical ways we can make Christ visible in our homes, workplaces, neighborhoods, and relationships?
6. How should Christians respond when we realize we have obscured or diluted the gospel through our actions? How can we balance honesty about our failures with confidence in God's grace?
7. This week, what is one specific way you can "flip the bowl over"—removing something that obscures Christ's light and allowing God's work in your life to become more visible to others?
(*Video available after Sunday services)
