Simple Reminders
The primary idea you need to keep revisiting during this Following Jesus Pathway is that we are following and being formed by Jesus. This pathway can be learned simply or in great depth. We trust that you as a leader know your people and the dynamics of your group well enough to adapt and impart this topic with grace and wisdom.
This guide is designed to help you and others follow and be formed by Jesus. Remember to keep it Jesus-Centered.
We pray that you will be Spirit-Led and Spirit- Empowered as you lead and learn together. Anyone new in your home church?
Brief Commentary and Context
(Answer this question here: What did this mean in the original context and how is it set in the larger story of the Bible?)
The Gospel- The gospel means ‘good news’- the good news of who Jesus is and what Jesus has done. It is the message that Jesus is Lord and the Kingdom of God is now accessible on earth as it is in heaven through him unto a whole new creation. The gospel is the power of God for the salvation and transformation of all who put their trust in Jesus.
Brief Commentary for Luke 24:36-53 Resurrection and Ascension
Crucified at the hands of Roman soldiers, the Son of God breathed his last after surrendering his spirit into the hands of the Father. Jesus’ body was taken from the cross and laid in a tomb on Friday afternoon. He lay lifeless through that night and the long slow hours of Saturday. His disciples and family were shattered and shocked, their hopes seemed to be crushed. In the early hours of Sunday morning, on the third day, the greatest miracle in history quietly transpired in that dark grave. Jesus of Nazareth opened his eyes as God’s power filled and transformed his body raising him from death to life. Sin had been atoned for and death defeated once and for all! Over the next forty days Jesus appeared to his fearful and bewildered friends in a renewed resurrection body imparting hope, peace, faith and healing love into the depths of their hearts. In Luke 24:36-53 we are given a unique window into one of these magnificent encounters. Jesus found the fearful disciples hiding in a room and came with the proclamation of “peace”. We are given a profound glimpse into the physical nature of Jesus’ tangible resurrected body as he eats with them and welcomes them to touch his scars. Jesus opens their minds to the ancient prophecies found in Scripture that promised both his death and resurrection. He instructs them to wait for the Holy Spirit and commissions them to be his witnesses to the ends of the earth. As they watch, he is taken up to heaven right before their eyes. A throne was waiting for the humble King where he would be seated as Lord to reign at the right hand of the Father until the end of the age. Jesus continues to build his church. He is present through the Holy Spirit and waits patiently to return to “make all things new.”
Core Truths from the Topic and Summary Scripture
Summary Scripture: Ephesians 1:19b-22- “That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”
“Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.” (1 Cor. 15:20)
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” (Matt. 28:18)
God will “bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ.” (Eph. 1:10)
“Jesus is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.” (Romans 8:34)
“Jesus is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy.” (Col. 1:18)
“God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church.” (Eph. 1:22)
“Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool.” (Ps 110:1)
“God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus.” (Eph. 2:6)
Learn the Tool: The Gospel and the Gift
Anyone new in your home church?
Things to Consider:
Is the new individual, or family organically connecting with anyone in your home church? Suggest a coffee hang to begin a deeper connection, or consider having the individual/family over for an easy dinner to get to know them better.
Is the new individual, or family interested in receiving communication via text, or email? If so, have them email admin@navahchurchkc.com with their name and phone number.
Do they plan to attend All Navah Gatherings? If yes and it is a new family, they can email admin@navahchurchkc.com with their name, their children(s) name, DOB and grade to make for a smooth kids ministry check-in process.