Under the Surface
Facing the Lies

Pastor Kirk, Sept 15^th, 2019

Scripture: Matt 3:16-4:11

Summary:    When we slow down, we will come face to face with the lies that we allow to define us. In those moments you have a choice, to continue to believe the lies or believe what God says about you.

Main Thought: What defines you drives you

Getting to Know Each Other (Start Here): 

• What is your favorite season of the year? Identify what it is about the season you love.
• Which of Jesus Miracles or Parables is your favorite?

Going Deeper: 

1. In Matt 4:1-11 Jesus is led by the Spirit into the wilderness (desert) before He begins His earthly ministry. How was Jesus provided for during this time? What was the well (God’s Providence) that was waiting for Him in the desert or that He took with Himself into the wilderness?
2. Pastor Kirk shared a story where his identity was shaken by a late-night phone call that poked at a lie about himself that he believed. Have you had a similar experience where your identity was shaken by someone poking at a lie you believe about yourself?
3. When people in the bible enter a deeper relationship with God they receive a new name. Revelations 3:12 says that we will have a new name written on us. What do you make of this theme and how does it apply to your life? How has God renamed you by salvation through Jesus?
4. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says that when we are in Christ, we are a new creation. How are we described in the Bible when we are in Christ? Share with one another what you know about your identity in Christ. (Help: Eph 1:3-6, John 15)
5. Which of the lies that Jesus faced in the wilderness are you facing? 1)That you are nothing without power 2)That you are not loved 3)That you are what you do.

Apply it:

• Take time to see if there is a lie that is driving you. Look into your actions, your words, and your priorities.
• Bring the lie into the light of God’s truth about who you are.

Pray without ceasing:

 Pray for our Seamless Link partners Curtis and Patricia Peters. They have moved to the Eastern Canadian District because Curtis is the new District Superintendent there. Pray during this time of transition that they will become settled in their new home. That they will be able to fully grieve and process saying goodbye to their work and lives in Cuba. That their kids will become settled quickly and that they will be open about struggles.

Community Reading Plan: 1 Samuel 13-18

This week add 1 Samuel 13 to 18 to your devotions. Read a chapter a day up to and including chapter 12. Look at the relationships that are present in these chapters and keep two questions in mind.

• What do I need to know from this chapter (a truth about my reality or God or a life lesson)?
• What do I need to grow (Is there something God is trying to teach me through His Word)?

Keep a journal nearby and write down any questions or thoughts you can share with your Community Group. Remind and encourage each other to participate in this group devotion.