Overcoming our fear of commitment

Luke 12: 2 - 12, 22 - 31, 33 - 34, 39 - 40, 42 - 46, 51 - 53, 57 – 59

What would you say are the most important changes that need to happen in this city?

Read verses 2 – 12.
Why does Jesus start this talk by reminding people that their hidden thoughts will be brought to light?
What does it mean to fear God? What is it about God that makes him worthy of our trust and respect?
Describe the kind of loyalty that God expects from his people.
Why is it considered high treason to speak against the Holy Spirit.
When are some times that you tend to be disloyal to God?
How can you develop a better attitude towards God in your life?

Read verses 22 – 34.
Describe Jesus' over-all perspective on material possessions.
Why is it ridiculous for a Jesus-follower to worry about their needs?
Why is it so likely that we do exactly that every day?
What are some activities that Jesus would argue help to cure materialism.
Why is generosity in general such a powerful tool against valuing things too highly?
What is a worry that you need to entrust to God tonight?
What is an asset that you need to share with someone else this week?

Read verses 39 – 46.
How does the reality of an immanent return of Jesus effect the everyday lives of those who are his disciples?
Based on this passage what does it mean to be ready for Jesus' return?
How does your life need to change to be prepared for his arrival?

Why might some scholars consider some verses in this sermon as editorial comments by Luke? Why does that not change the way we view those verses?

Read verses 51 – 53 and 57 – 59.
Is Jesus a divisive or uniting character? Why is he at peace with causing confrontation?
How have you seen Jesus create tensions in your relationships?
Why are we so uncomfortable with that kind of tension?
Contrast Jesus' teaching in verse 57 – 59 with his tone in 51 – 53.
Why does he encourage us to resolve our personal conflicts through plea bargains?
What is the difference between personal conflicts and conflicts based on the Kingdom?
What is a personal conflict that you need to resolve this week?