Discipleship Bootcamp Week 3 - Wednesday Nights

Week 3: Become Like Him

Text: Matthew 18:1-6, Matthew 22:34-40
Objective: Discuss the transformation that occurs when we become more like Jesus.
Thesis: God's ultimate goal is our transformation into the likeness of Jesus, evidenced by the fruit of the Spirit in our lives.

Outline:

1. Opening Illustration:
• Metaphor of a sculptor shaping a masterpiece.
2. Scripture Reading:
• Matthew 18:1-6, Matthew 22:34-40
3. Application:
• Identifying areas where we need to grow to be more like Jesus.
• Practical steps for spiritual growth (community, accountability, spiritual disciplines).
4. Conclusion:
• Encouragement to embrace the process of becoming like Jesus.
• Reminder that transformation is gradual and requires patience and perseverance.

Introduction

• Theme: Spiritual discipline of becoming more like Jesus
• Scripture: Matthew 18:1-6 and Matthew 22:34-40
• Purpose: To understand how humility, love, and ethical living are essential in our journey to be like Christ.

1. Redefinition of Greatness (Matthew 18:1-6)

• Verse: Matthew 18:1-4
• Greek Word Study: Στρέφω (strephō) (stref'-o) – “Change”
• Emphasizes a fundamental transformation in attitude
• Significance:
• Redefinition of Greatness: Jesus highlights humility, simplicity, and dependence over status and power.
• Value of Humility: Believers are likened to children, who depend entirely on God.
• Application:
• Challenge societal values of power and status.
• Embrace a counter-cultural attitude of humility and service.
• Reflect on how we can embody childlike humility in our daily lives.

2. Responsibility to Protect and Nurture (Matthew 18:5-6)

• Verse: Matthew 18:5-6
• Greek Word Study: Σκανδαλίζω (skandalizō) – “Stumble”
• Highlights the seriousness of influencing others negatively
• Significance:
• Responsibility to Protect: Jesus warns against causing others to stumble, especially the humble and vulnerable.
• Identification with the Humble: How we treat the lowly reflects our attitude toward Christ himself.
• Application:
• Actively protect and nurture the faith of others.
• Be mindful of our actions and their impact on the vulnerable.
• Foster an inclusive and welcoming attitude towards all.

3. Centrality of Love (Matthew 22:34-40)

• Verse: Matthew 22:37-40
• Greek Word Study:
• Καρδία (kardia) – “Heart”
• Ψυχή (psychē) – “Soul”
• Διάνοια (dianoia) – “Mind”
• Highlights the comprehensive nature of our love for God
• Significance:
• Centrality of Love: Love is placed at the core of the Christian ethic.
• Unity of Commandments: True religious devotion is inseparable from ethical behavior towards others.
• Comprehensive Devotion: A holistic, undivided commitment to God.
• Application:
• Reflect on how we can love God with all our heart, soul, and mind.
• Understand that loving our neighbor is an expression of our love for God.
• Implement practical ways to love others as ourselves, promoting justice, kindness, and empathy.

4. Practical Implications and Spiritual Discipline

• Humility and Dependence:
• Embrace the humility and dependence exemplified by children.
• Recognize our need for a fundamental transformation in attitude (strephō).
• Protection of the Vulnerable:
• Be vigilant in our responsibility to protect others from stumbling (skandalizō).
• Nurture a welcoming and inclusive community.
• Comprehensive Love:
• Integrate the love for God and neighbor into our daily lives.
• Foster a holistic commitment to God that encompasses our heart, soul, and mind.

Conclusion

• Unified Theme: Becoming more like Jesus requires a commitment to humility, protection of the vulnerable, and comprehensive love for God and neighbor.
• Call to Action:
• Reflect on personal attitudes and behaviors.
• Commit to the spiritual discipline of embodying these values in everyday life.
• Strive to create a community that mirrors the kingdom of heaven through humility, protection, and love.