WEEK 2 SERMON DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR GROUPS

Practicing the Way of Jesus Together: Naming your stage of apprenticeship.

Introduction:

Apprenticeship to Jesus is a journey from immaturity to maturity. But if following Jesus is a journey, is there a map? Or landmarks by which we can navigate? Have those who’ve gone before us left behind their thoughts on how to stay the course, avoid detours, and chart our progress? All journeys are different, but all journeys are similar. To name your stage of apprenticeship to Jesus and your season of life is better to recognize God’s invitations for you in everyday life.

Something To Talk About:

Naming apprenticeship stages emphasizes identifying and reflecting on one’s current level of learning and growth within a particular journey, whether spiritual, professional, or otherwise. This initial step encourages introspection to better understand the process and identify areas for development. It’s about recognizing the present stage and acknowledging the journey ahead.

Purgation: Practicing the way of purgation involves intentionally cleansing your spirit, heart, mind, and will from the effects of sin and disobedience, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of God’s grace and forgiveness. It’s a process of actively working towards spiritual growth and freedom by addressing worldly attachments, developing virtues, and surrendering to God’s will. The purgative way is often seen as the first stage of the spiritual journey, a time of conversion and initial growth in faith. Preparing the soul for more profound spiritual experiences and union with God is necessary. One can gradually move towards greater spiritual maturity and freedom by diligently practicing the purgative way. Engage in practices like fasting, silence, and simplicity to detach from worldly desires and cultivate a dependence on God. Release bitterness and anger toward others and yourself to experience inner peace and healing. Learn to trust in God’s plan for your life and surrender control, even when it feels difficult or painful.
Illumination: “Practicing the Way Illumination” is a set of practices and rhythms, inspired by the life and teachings of Jesus, that aim to create a more intentional and meaningful life, These practices are designed to help individuals develop a deeper connection with God and others, and to live more intentionally in line with Christian values – things like Sabbath, a day of rest and worship, often including church attendance. Simplicity, or structuring life to be more freeing and less burdened by possessions or distractions. Silence and solitude are practicing quiet time and reflection. Then there is engaging in prayer and conversation with God, and engaging with scripture. Another is living in community by cultivating relationships and a sense of belonging. And finally, practicing generosity towards others materially, in time, and in energy.
Union: In spiritual apprenticeship, “union” refers to a growing sense of intimacy and oneness with God. It signifies a stage in the spiritual journey where one experiences a deepening relationship with the Lord, characterized by a sense of freedom from attachment and anxiety, and a growing awareness of God’s presence. It is the last step as you progress from purgation (cleansing), through illumination (understanding), and finally to union. In the context of apprenticeship to Jesus, “union” suggests a move beyond simply knowing or understanding about Jesus, and into a more intimate and embodied experience of His presence. As one progresses towards union, there’s a deepening awareness of God’s presence, not just as a distant figure, but as a living and active force in one’s life. The process of moving toward union is transformative, marked by changes in habits, attitudes, and perspectives.

Discussion Questions:

Is the concept of identifying your stage of apprenticeship new to you?
Why is naming your stage of apprenticeship important? How is that helpful information?
If you want real spiritual growth, it will happen through apprenticeship: agree or disagree, and why?
What does it mean to be cleansed in a spiritual sense?
How does the concept of cleansing relate to the work of Jesus Christ?
What practical steps can we take this week to follow Jesus more closely or begin our journey to follow Him?
How can we support each other in our walk with Jesus, especially when facing challenges?
What does it mean to be “in union” with God? How does this concept shape your understanding of your relationship with Him?
How does the Bible describe our union with Christ? What are some of the key images or metaphors used to illustrate this?
In what practical ways can you grow in your union with God? What spiritual disciplines can help you deepen this connection?
What is one thing that stood out to you from this week’s message? What challenged you?

Take one thing home with you:

Virtually every person admires someone, but that someone could be anybody from a parent to a larger-than-life figure in history. They may be well-known like Abraham Lincoln or not so well-known like Mary Seacole. We often admire figures for their qualities, but true following involves more than just admiring. A follower is actively striving to be like the one they admire. It is well known that Christ consistently used the expression “follower.” He never asks for admirers, worshippers, or adherents, but followers of His life.

Christ came into the world to save, not to instruct. At the same time, He came to be the pattern, to leave footprints for the person who would join Him and become a follower. What, then, is the difference between an admirer and a follower? A follower is or strives to be what he admires. An admirer, however, keeps himself personally detached. He fails to see that what is admired involves a claim upon him; thus, he fails to be or strive to be what he admires.

John Ortberg said the difference between an admirer and a follower is this “An admirer is impressed. A follower is devoted. An admirer applauds. A follower surrenders his life. A lot of people admired Martin Luther King. Some marched with him. Not many went to jail with him. A lot of people admired Mother Teresa. Not many people followed her to live among the destitute and dying.”

To follow Jesus is not just to acknowledge His teachings, but to actively integrate them into our lives. This means denying ourselves, taking up our crosses, and pursuing a life of service and love.