– When was the last time you received “Good News?” How did it make you feel?

– How does the concept of Jesus proclaiming the “Gospel of the Kingdom” (Matthew 4:23, Mark 1:14-15) differ from seeing the Gospel purely as a personal salvation experience?

– In what ways does this broader view of the Gospel impact how we live our daily lives?

– Luke 19:9-10 and Acts 4:12 highlight different aspects of salvation. How do these passages contribute to a fuller understanding of what salvation entails?

– How does recognizing that Jesus is “the way” (John 14:6) rather than just pointing the way affect your personal faith journey?

– In what practical ways can we become “messengers of heaven” here and now, as the video suggests?

– Reflecting on the idea that “Jesus is Lord” and “Jesus is Savior,” how does this dual role shape your view of your relationship with Him and with others?

– When you think of power what comes to mind? 

– Consider how you see Jesus use his power in Scripture. What is his posture towards power? 

Read 1 Corinthians 1:18

– What does this verse mean? Why do you think the cross looks “foolish” to the world? 

– What is “right power”? How can you model it in your life? 

– After this series, has your view of politics or this election season shifted at all?

– Can you share a time when you felt pressure to prioritize popular opinion over your faith during a political discussion?

Read Matthew 4:5-7

– What tactic(s) did the enemy use to tempt Jesus? How have you seen these tactics play out in political conversations?

– What are the “voices” that shape your perspective in political matters? What does it look like to discern and prioritize Christ’s teachings over these influences in our political conversations?

– How can this faith community help you stay focused on Christ and resist the pull of self-interest and division in political conversations? Share an idea with your group.

Read Philippians 2:1-8.

– From this text, what stands out about Jesus’ way? What’s one thing you want to try this week to grow more in Jesus’ way?

Read Matthew 4:1-4

-In what ways could Satan’s temptation of Jesus to “be relevant” and fix an earthly need in the wrong way be expressed in our own perspective on politics?

 Read Matthew 7:1-5

-What are some of the ways you have judged others?

-How have you tried to remove the speck from the eye of someone who disagreed with you politically? What are some of the political planks in your own eye?

For Kids: What are some examples of a time you have tried to do the right thing (solve a problem) in the wrong way?

What brought you to Shepherd?

List what sorts of things get in the way of serving God and others?

Read Mark 10:35–45. In this passage, what are the disciples of Jesus failing to understand about His Kingdom and its values?

What is the Christian disciple’s central motivation for serving and ministry?

Can you think of any benefits that come through serving?

-Who is someone in your life who has been a minister to you?

Read 2 Corinthians 3:4-6

-Describe a time when you have felt unqualified as a follower of Jesus? What does this passage have to say about our qualifications for a life of service?

Read 2 Corinthians 5:17-20

-Through whom does God make his appeal to the world? How have you received this ministry of reconciliation? How can you live it out more fully?

– When have I felt most safe and secure? 

– How has God used others in your life to help you understand your own story in light of his grace?

– Who in your life are you called to be a secure base and safe haven for? How might God want to do in you to that end?

Read Luke 15

– From the perspective of the circle of security. How is the Father acting as a secure base and a safe haven for each son?

– Which son do you identify with and how might God be inviting you to consider his work in your story?