Room for a pony

Lent 3B

First Sunday at St Peter’s by the Lake, Paynesville

Sermon Summary 🎬

Dennis explores the themes of cleansing, resurrection, and wisdom in John and Corinthians during a Lent 2024 sermon. Jesus cleanses the temple and foretells his resurrection, symbolising the purification needed in our hearts. Paul contrasts divine and worldly wisdom, cautioning against idolatry in a materialistic society. Believers are urged to embody humility, love, and faith, reflecting the transformative power of God.

Icebreaker Question

What’s the funniest or most memorable cleaning mishap you’ve ever had?

Discussion Questions 💬

1. What does Jesus’ cleansing of the temple symbolise in our lives and hearts?
   • The sermon mentioned that Jesus seeks to cleanse the temple of our hearts so that we can be free from distractions and focus on our relationship with God.
   • How can we identify and eliminate the distractions and impurities in our own lives that hinder our relationship with God?
2. How can we apply the hope of resurrection to our daily lives?
   • The sermon mentioned that the promise of resurrection is not just a future event but a present reality that can transform our lives.
   • How can we live in the hope of resurrection, and how can it change our perspectives and actions?
3. What does Paul’s contrast between the wisdom of the world and the wisdom of the cross teach us?
   • In 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Paul highlights the dangers of idolatry and the folly of human wisdom, reminding believers to prioritise the wisdom of the cross.
   • How can we discern God’s wisdom and worldly wisdom in our lives? Provide specific examples.
4. What are some ways that the church can address the issue of idolatry, specifically the idolatry of money, and promote transparency?
   • The sermon discussed the need for the church to be transparent about its finances and to address the discomfort around talking about money.
   • How can we, as individuals, promote transparency and conversations about money and idolatry within our church communities?
5. How can we become faithful disciples who witness God’s transformative love in the world?
   • The sermon encouraged listeners to cultivate pure and hopeful hearts, prioritise God’s wisdom, and practice humility, selflessness, and sacrificial love.
   • What practical steps can we take daily to embody these qualities and show God’s love to others?

Prayer 🙏

Prayer Prompt for Small Group Session:

• Begin by sharing any prayer requests or concerns group members may have.

• Ask God to help us cleanse our hearts, removing distractions, worldly desires, and impurities that hinder our communion with Him.

• Pray for a deeper understanding and experience of the hope of resurrection, recognising that it is not just a future event but a present reality that transforms our lives.

• Seek God’s wisdom and discernment, asking Him to help us identify and reject the idols of our society, particularly the idolatry of money and worldly success. Pray for a renewed focus on true wealth in a genuine relationship with God.

• Close by praying for each other’s continued growth as faithful disciples so that we may witness the transformative power of God’s love in the world.

Link to Sermon