Before We Get Started

For our discussion today, we will be using the sermon series discussion guides. If you would like to follow along you can access this discussion guide on the website at mosaicchurchaustin.com and then select “community group resources” in the menu options.

Prayer

Because the primary goal of our time together is to establish relationships and learn how to walk with one another in all that God has called us to be and do, we’d like to begin by praying for one another. So, does anyone have anything you’d like us to pray for or anything to share regarding how you’ve seen God moving in your life that we can celebrate together?

This Week’s Topic

Today’s Topic

The Generous Jesus Creed

Discussion Questions

Acts 9:36-10:8

Now there was in Joppa a disciple named Tabitha, which, translated, means Dorcas. She was full of good works and acts of charity. In those days she became ill and died, and when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him, urging him, “Please come to us without delay.” So Peter rose and went with them. And when he arrived, they took him to the upper room. All the widows stood beside him weeping and showing tunics and other garments that Dorcas made while she was with them. But Peter put them all outside, and knelt down and prayed; and turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. And he gave her his hand and raised her up. Then, calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive. And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. And he stayed in Joppa for many days with one Simon, a tanner.

At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion of what was known as the Italian Cohort, a devout man who feared God with all his household, gave alms generously to the people, and prayed continually to God. About the ninth hour of the day[a]he saw clearly in a vision an angel of God come in and say to him, “Cornelius.” And he stared at him in terror and said, “What is it, Lord?” And he said to him, “Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God. And now send men to Joppa and bring one Simon who is called Peter. He is lodging with one Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea.” When the angel who spoke to him had departed, he called two of his servants and a devout soldier from among those who attended him, and having related everything to them, he sent them to Joppa.

What does it mean to live like a Christian?

Francis Schaeffer

If we do not show love to one another, the world has a right to question whether Christianity is true.

John of the Cross

A Christian should always remember that the value of his good works is not based on their number and excellence, but on the love of God which prompts him to do these things.

What is one thing all Christians throughout history share in common?

When someone does something sacrificial or generous for you, do you care why they did it?

How can we ensure our good acts are motivated by God’s love and not our own agenda?

Is there anything you feel God is asking you to give away or be more generous with?

Why does it matter?

Acts 9:41-42

And he gave her his hand and raised her up. Then, calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive. And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord.  

Matt. 28:18–20 

All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age. 

Carrie Stephens, Jesus, Love, & Tacos 

Seen through this [Matthew 28:18-20] lens, God’s mission is about making sure no one is left alone, and it’s accomplished wherever we gather in a purposeful effort to draw more people into the dance of the triune community of God…. as we dance around one another, learning to empty ourselves and give away what God has blessed us with, we spin toward the possibility that God will send us to fill someone and send someone to fill us. People are not exclusively “missionaries” or “missional targets.” We are both at the same time. We are full of need and full of provision. 

 

What do you consider to be God’s primary concern on the earth?

How does generosity build unity and community?

What can help us remain aware of those in need around us?

How can we do what matters most?

William Carey

Expect great things from God; attempt great things for God

 

Billy Graham

The church holds the key to revival. It is within our grasp.

 

What talents, resources, and gifts do you possess that could be helpful in providing for people in need?

What are some challenges or hurdles helping you from serving or giving more? 

How can this group support and facilitate greater generosity in the lives of its members?

Closing Thought

Tim Keller, Generous Justice: How God’s Grace Makes Us Just

What is the definition of “love”? Jesus answered that by depicting a man meeting material, physical, and economic needs through deeds. Caring for people’s material and economic needs is not an option for Jesus. He refused to allow the law expert to limit the implications of this command to love.

Take some time to share your needs or the needs of people in your life, and pray for God to meet those needs.