Connect:
- Pray first.
- What do you prefer: Pancakes or waffles? Bacon or sausage? Why?
Discussion:
- Read Mark 2:13-17.
- What would job in our society today do you consider as the equivalent of a tax collector? Why?
- Do you identify in any way with Levi? If so, how?
- What was it about Jesus’ lifestyle and attitude that made the Pharisees so uncomfortable? Does it make you uncomfortable? Why or why not?
- What was commendable about the Pharisees’ teaching and practice? What aspects does Jesus condemn? In what ways do Christians sometimes act like Pharisees, whether in good or bad aspects?
- If it’s right to say sin is a sickness, Jesus is the doctor, and the church is the hospital, what are the implications for how we do mission out of the church and how we live together in the church?
- Who do you know who doesn’t realize they are spiritually sick? What part of your Jesus story could you share to help them see the severity of their condition?
Prayer:
- In sentence prayers, have the group thank the Lord for His salvation and kindness towards them when they were sinners.
- Then spend time silently in prayer, confessing any Pharisaical attitudes that may be present, bubbling underneath the surface.
- Take time to pray for the “Levi” in everyone’s life, asking God to help each person find ways and spaces to connect more deeply with this individual.
Community Involvement: There are many different way to serve at Break Free Outreach Ministries in the core of Regina. Check out their website to see what might fit for you! https://breakfreeoutreach.ca/volunteer/
Global Request: Pray for the Fulani, an unreached people group in Africa. Father, we thank you for the love you have lavished on us! Please bless the Fulani people with your banner of love. We long for the Fulani to come into your family and we call forth their destiny as children of God. Pour out your love on entire families. Bless Fulani marriages to be whole and healthy. We call forth the new things you are doing. Make a way in the wilderness and let rivers of blessing flow in the desert. We bless Fulani believers who are being persecuted and rejected to have great endurance. Bless the Fulani with a new name as your beloved children. Amen.
