Free to Be . . .
Following last month’s look at materialism (and the chains that come with that to weigh us down), this month we will be taking a look at freedom. Of course. The name of this week’s study is “Selfless: Freedom in Christ leaves no room for selfishness.”
Read:
Philippians 3:17-21; 2 Peter 2:4-22
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians%203:17-21;%202%20Peter%202:4-22&version=NIV
(Yes, NIV, published by Zondervan!)
Do you struggle with entitlement? How about people around you? People standing in line at the check-out counter? Our lesson writer says: “focusing on freedom can easily turn into a self-indulgent focus on ‘my rights.’ In this week’s session, we’ll look at what Peter and Paul wrote about the difference between self-indulgent ‘freedom’ and the personal rights of people truly free in Christ.”
1. Combatting Entitlement (2 Peter 2:10b-14)
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Peter%202:10b-14&version=NIV
2. A Challenge to Change (2 Peter 2:15-19)
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Peter%202:15-19&version=NIV
3. Freedom Exemplified (Philippians 3:17-21)
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians%203:17-21&version=NIV
In exercising our freedom, we will be faced will choices. Our lesson writer states: “Choosing the kingdom is at odds with our nature. It means allowing someone else to rule and lead our lives. It requires abandoning our will and control. But we do it because we know there’s a better way, and we know we can make a difference. Following Christ gives us a desire to change our ways and for the gospel to be known. And a life lived with that goal in mind is a life lived freely in Christ.”
Remember, God who created everything is still in control of His creation. Keep praying for each other, caring for each other and take care of your families. John
Doing LIFE together.
Homebuilders LIFE Group: Learning the Scripture / Involvement in Service / Fellowship – Sharing Life / Evangelism of Seekers