WEEK 5 SERMON DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR GROUPS

Practicing the way – Part 5

Introduction:

This series is meant to reshape how we live as followers of Jesus. Becoming an apprentice of Jesus requires we actively work to be with Jesus, become like Jesus, and do what He did. We want to follow in His steps so closely that we become covered in the dust of our Rabbi. This week we look at transformation.

Bottom Line: The things we do do something to us.

Something To Talk About:

Deep, lasting spiritual change is a process. It rarely happens overnight. It involves training, testing, and time. There are no shortcuts. Transformation flows out of an intimate relationship with Jesus. The more we love Jesus, the greater our motivation to obey Him and to make the choices that please Him.

So what does transformation mean? Transformation is to change into another form or image. It means changing something from one state to another, from one substance or form or whatever it might be. This isn’t just a spiritual or New Testament concept; we see this in our world, right? Probably the most straightforward example of this is a caterpillar to a butterfly. Think about water—water exists in three states: solid, liquid, and gas. To be transformed as a Christian means to be changed from within by God, becoming more like Christ. This transformation is a lifelong process that involves renewing your mind and growing in your relationship with God. Transformation happens through the power of the Holy Spirit, by letting go and surrendering to God and by taking up spiritual practices, such as reading the Bible, meditating, and praying. Those who believe in Jesus Christ and live for Him have been transformed. They strive to live wholesome lives and look to the Lord for their direction with every step. They begin to think differently, and their behavior takes on Christlike attributes—their “nature” changes.
What is being transformed? What, then, is a transformed life? A transformed life is an improved version of an old life. A transformed Christian is an improved Christian. Note that transformation is a process, and we have a part to play. When you are truly transformed, you will know it, and the world will know it. People around you will see and know you are a transformed person. Your neighbors, friends, and parents will all know it. You can’t pretend to be transformed for long; it will show. An example is Paul. He was changed dramatically. He was a new man. Then, some practical things needed to be adjusted as he went, and the transformation continued. Because you see, the transformation is a process of being conformed to Jesus Christ, which will finally be complete when we see Him face-to-face. The transformed life begins with faith in the Savior. Paul further noted that the more our minds are set on the Word of God, the more we are transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2). The more our minds stay on the things of Christ, the more God’s Spirit can change our thought process, which will cause us to transform to our new nature in Christ. Therefore, if we want to change our behavior or habits, we must change our thinking, which can only be done by renewing our minds with the Word of God. In so doing, God’s Spirit will continually enable and empower us to live a life that is pleasing to God.

Discussion Questions:

How have you been transformed by the message of the Gospel?
What does it look like, practically, to live a life of reformation and transformation? In what ways would you say Jesus has transformed your heart?
How have you experienced transformation in your life as you’ve drawn closer to God?
Psalm 139:23-24 reminds us to invite God to search our hearts and reveal what’s holding us back. What are some things that come to mind?
What does it look like practically to shift your focus away from earthly distractions to spiritual priorities in your daily life?
What would your life look like if it was truly “abundant” or “full?”
How has meeting with other believers contributed to your spiritual transformation? In what ways can you be more intentional about encouraging others in their faith journey? In what ways can you be more intentional about meeting with and encouraging other believers?
An important part of embracing the gospel is living for the world to come instead of living for this world we’re currently in. How are you practically living for the world to come through obedience to God?
What changes could you make this week so that you would be living it out better?
How have you experienced God’s desire to transform you in your own life? What role does self-awareness play in our spiritual transformation?
What are some ways a Christian can actively participate in their spiritual growth this week?

Take one thing home with you:

Another aspect of transformation we must remember is that transformation is a process. We don’t live in a culture that likes process. We can door dash about anything to our house. “Spiritual transformation” is a process of significant inner change, leading to a deeper connection with oneself, others, and a higher power, typically characterized by personal growth and a desire to live a more meaningful life; it’s not a single event. Transformation is not something that happens to us overnight. It is a process – a process of change. For this process, some things are absolutely necessary. To be transformed, we need a teacher. Jesus as your Teacher? Perhaps you claim Him as your Savior and even acknowledge Him as Lord of your Life, but do you see Him as your Teacher? The early disciples did. They wanted to learn from Him. They wanted to be like Him. So, they spent much time with Him – listening and practicing. Jesus alone is qualified to lead us into Christlikeness. We need to spend much time with Him – listening, interacting, and practicing if we want to be transformed.