DISCUSSION QUESTIONS for Sermon Series 90 Ninety - Week 2

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“Might makes right” is the default setting for the world. Those with wealth and power write the rules, and they usually write them to favor themselves. That was true in Jesus’ time as well. But he came to turn everything upside down. 

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1. What are some examples from culture or your own life of powerful people going off the rails morally, ethically, or financially?
    

2. In what ways are you tempted to put yourself ahead of others? What does it take for you to resist those temptations?
    

3. Read Matthew 4:1–10. What stands out to you in this story of Jesus resisting temptation? What details are surprising or new to you?
    

4. During the message, Jon said, “The moment you try to get God to do your bidding, your religion has become superstition.” Have you ever caught yourself trying to manipulate God? If so, what happened?
    

5. Read Mark 10:24. Is it difficult for you to believe that Jesus came to serve you? Why or why not?
    

6. Read Luke 9:25. In what ways are you currently striving to “gain the world”? What is one thing you can do to let go of the striving and embrace Jesus’ upside-down kingdom? How can this group encourage you?
    

Jesus established a new, upside-down kingdom. Power would be leveraged for the powerless. Wealth would be leveraged for those in need. Influence would be leveraged for those without a voice. The first would be last and the last would be first. 
 

Spend some time this week reading and reflecting on Matthew 3–4. 
 

Pray