Discipleship Bootcamp Week 3 - Wednesday Nights

Week 3: Become Like Him Text: Matthew 18:1-6, Matthew 22:34-40Objective: Discuss the transformation that occurs when we become more like Jesus.Thesis: God's ultimate goal is our transformation into the likeness of Jesus, evidenced by the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. Outline: Opening Illustration: Metaphor of a sculptor shaping a masterpiece. Scripture Reading: Matthew 18:1-6, Matthew 22:34-40 Application: Identifying areas where we need to grow to be more like Jesus. Practical steps for spiritual growth (community, accountability, spiritual disciplines). Conclusion: Encouragement to embrace the process of becoming like Jesus. Reminder that transformation is gradual and requires patience and perseverance. Introduction Theme: Spiritual discipline of becoming more like Jesus Scripture: Matthew 18:1-6 and Matthew 22:34-40 Purpose: To understand how humility, love, and ethical living are essential in our journey to be like Christ.   1. Redefinition of Greatness (Matthew 18:1-6) Verse: Matthew 18:1-4 Greek Word Study: Στρέφω (strephō) (stref'-o) – “Change” Emphasizes a fundamental transformation in attitude Significance: Redefinition of Greatness: Jesus highlights humility, simplicity, and dependence over status and power. Value of Humility: Believers are likened to children, who depend entirely on God. Application: Challenge societal values of power and status. Embrace a counter-cultural attitude of humility and service. Reflect on how we can embody childlike humility in our daily lives. 2. Responsibility to Protect and Nurture (Matthew 18:5-6) Verse: Matthew 18:5-6 Greek Word Study: Σκανδαλίζω (skandalizō) – “Stumble” Highlights the seriousness of influencing others negatively Significance: Responsibility to Protect: Jesus warns against causing others to stumble, especially the humble and vulnerable. Identification with the Humble: How we treat the lowly reflects our attitude toward Christ himself. Application: Actively protect and nurture the faith of others. Be mindful of our actions and their impact on the vulnerable. Foster an inclusive and welcoming attitude towards all.   3. Centrality of Love (Matthew 22:34-40) Verse: Matthew 22:37-40 Greek Word Study: Καρδία (kardia) – “Heart” Ψυχή (psychē) – “Soul” Διάνοια (dianoia) – “Mind” Highlights the comprehensive nature of our love for God Significance: Centrality of Love: Love is placed at the core of the Christian ethic. Unity of Commandments: True religious devotion is inseparable from ethical behavior towards others. Comprehensive Devotion: A holistic, undivided commitment to God. Application: Reflect on how we can love God with all our heart, soul, and mind. Understand that loving our neighbor is an expression of our love for God. Implement practical ways to love others as ourselves, promoting justice, kindness, and empathy.   4. Practical Implications and Spiritual Discipline Humility and Dependence: Embrace the humility and dependence exemplified by children. Recognize our need for a fundamental transformation in attitude (strephō). Protection of the Vulnerable: Be vigilant in our responsibility to protect others from stumbling (skandalizō). Nurture a welcoming and inclusive community. Comprehensive Love: Integrate the love for God and neighbor into our daily lives. Foster a holistic commitment to God that encompasses our heart, soul, and mind.   Conclusion Unified Theme: Becoming more like Jesus requires a commitment to humility, protection of the vulnerable, and comprehensive love for God and neighbor. Call to Action: Reflect on personal attitudes and behaviors. Commit to the spiritual discipline of embodying these values in everyday life. Strive to create a community that mirrors the kingdom of heaven through humility, protection, and love.