The Gift Overview
‘The Gift’ is a shorthand description used in the apostles' letters to the churches describing the lavish grace of God given to all who repent and place their trust in Jesus as Lord, believing the gospel. The gospel is who Jesus is and what he has done. ‘The Gift’ is what we freely receive in Christ and continually experience through the Holy Spirit!
Forever
Eternal life begins when we are spiritually reborn through faith in Jesus and come into union with God who is life. Those who are born again become partakers of the divine nature and though they die will remain in Christ and at the return of Jesus receive renewed glorified bodies to be with God forever in a new heaven and new earth.
REMEMBER (30 min)
Remember God: Worship, Prayer or Communion
Lectio Psalm 8
Remember each other: Care
Optional- break up into smaller groups for 10 min Hi/Lo check in
Remember the Liturgy:
Remember what we learned and put into practice last week: Accountability
Topic: The Gift- 4. Found in the Father/Formed in the Family
Who you are receiving in God’s family to help you grow in God’s love and maturity?
REFLECT (30 min)
Prepare (See the Leaders Guide for a brief commentary and context for the scripture and core truth from the topic)
Introduce today’s topic and any commentary or context for the scripture
Topic Title- The Gift - Forever
Share the Summary Scripture for the topic : Romans 6:23
Share “Core Truths from the topic” in the leaders guide where needed
Share context for Scripture/Story: Luke 23:32-43
Discover
Read the Scripture: Luke 23:32-43
Discussion Questions
What is the biblical and historical context?
What does this reveal about God and People (optional)
What does this story teach us about the gift of grace?
What did Jesus mean when he said, “today you will be with me in paradise”?
How does the assurance of ‘being with God forever’ affect how you live now?
RESPOND (30 min)
Experience and Encounter
Take some time to wait on the Lord asking for a fresh revelation of eternal life. Share back with one another for encouragement.
Lord’s Supper (Communion)
Practice and Obey
Ask for the Lord to help you perceive and experience eternal life in your daily life this week. How could this truth affect people and issues you experience this week?
Pray
The Lord’s Prayer