Connect

Main Idea: Kingdom builders have the King’s favor, and we serve the King above all others—God Himself.

Introduction: This week was the launch of Faith Promise Bristol! We are all kingdom builders, growing God’s kingdom by sharing the good news about Christ. We each have unlimited access to God’s favor, but not all of us reach for it.

Discussion Starter: Think of a time when you received human favor, for example, praise from a coach, approval from a parent, or a good review from a boss. How did being viewed with favor make you feel?

Grow

Primary Scriptures:   Matthew 16:19, Colossians 1:13-14, John 10:10

Discussion Questions:

1. What is required of a kingdom builder? What are some ways one helps build God’s kingdom?
2. Read Colossians 1:13-14, and discuss how Jesus changed our lives with His sacrifice. What grace, mercies, and favor have you found within that sacrifice?
3. Read John 10:10. Not only have we been given life but life abundantly. Considering that God stands ready to flood us with an abundance of favor, why do we instead choose to live in the slums of worry, self-reliance, envy, or bitterness?  How do we access God’s favor? What do you think an abundant life through the eyes of the Father looks like?

Protect

Suggestion: Consider breaking the group into twos or threes for this section. 

Read Matthew 16:24-28 together. Jesus flipped the script for us, so that we could have eternal life. The journey doesn’t end after we’re saved. Now that we’ve been given this eternal life, how are we to use it? We all have our own gifts with which God has empowered us, enabling us to be a light in the darkest of places. Consider how a builder moves from one task to another when constructing something. In the same way, God wants to equip and use us in so many different areas. How do you think God has equipped your group members? How can you pray for growth in those areas? How can you learn from each other? Discuss how we can help each other grow in Christ and shine bright as kingdom builders.