Welcome to week four of our summer series, Dinner with Jesus. This week, we discuss when Jesus said “no” and how valuable it is for us to learn to practice as well.
SHARE LIFE
Building healthy and life-giving relationships.
Updates
What has been new or challenging in your life since last time the group met? Spend 20–30 minutes checking in with each other.
Share Part of Your Story
What is one of your favorite July 4th traditions?
Care
What does it look like for your group to care for each other during the summer? Discuss some ways to stay involved in each other’s lives.
PURSUE GOD
Taking next steps toward Christ together.
Jesus Said No To Peter
Have someone read John 13:1-10 aloud. What does Jesus say “no” to in this story? Why would some say that Peter’s request is ridiculous?
What are some other ways and times in the Bible that Jesus said “no”? Who do you know that is an example of balancing saying “yes” and “no”?
God Says No
Have someone else read Philippians 2:6-7. What is the “no” in this passage and how do you think it connects with the verses in John that you read?
Our culture and many of the people around us tend to put an emphasis on always being busy and doing everything. How often do you or people you know get stuck staying “yes” to too many things? Why do you think this is so common?
Is there something in your life you feel like you should get better about saying “no” to?
Every No is a Yes; Every Yes is a No
Read John 13:6-10 again. Why were Jesus’ actions so surprising?
How does an intentional “no” free us to say “yes” to things that matter more? When have you made the choice to do this and what was the result?
How can you get better at saying “no” to things so you can say “yes” to serving opportunities? How can your group say “no” to some things so you can serve together?
We Say No Because God’s Word Leads Us
Read Matthew 4:1-10. What things did Jesus say “no” to in these verses?
God wants to help us say “no” to temptation. What are some ways that we can practice this so that we obey God instead?
What do you need to say “no” to right now and how will this bring freedom and peace? How can your group support each other with saying “no”?
Learn to Say Yes to God’s Kingdom and Will
Read Matthew 6:9-13. What do you notice in these verses In the context of saying “no” versus saying “yes”?
God’s will doesn’t necessarily look like big life-changing choices, but rather the regular over-and-over choices of obedience. What do you need to say yes to today in your daily choices that will help align you with God’s will? How can the group help each other with saying “yes”?
This week we have talked about how Jesus had to say “no” in order to say “yes” in obedience. What is one thing that stuck out most to you in this sermon or conversation? What is one next step in saying “no” and one step of saying “yes” that you will make this week?
INVEST IN OTHERS
Valuing people outside the group and outside the faith.
Discuss how you and your group can better engage the people in your life outside your small group.
Serve
Summer is often a busy time, but is also a good time to begin planning to serve as a group. Discuss ways your group serve together this summer. Maybe you can serve together at church or in the community. For ideas, visit adabible.org/serving.
Download a printable PDF here.