Pastor Anthony compared us to the crowds and the authorities on Palm Sunday, suggesting that, like them, we try to make Jesus be more like us. How do you try to conform Jesus to your … Read More
The Last Week – Jesus and the Moneychangers
What response does Jesus’ anger produce in you? How well are you at distinguishing healthy from unhealthy anger? Pastor Hulst noted that the moneychangers were occupying the space reserved for gentiles and the unclean, and … Read More
The Last Week: The Story of the Ten Bridesmaids
Pastor Jim suggested that we live like Christ’s return could be any moment, but love like it could be a long time off. How well do you balance this tension between the immediate and the … Read More
The Last Week: The End of the World According to Jesus
Questions for the current sermon series at Monroe Community Church
The Last Week: At the Table with Jesus
Looking at what Jesus said and did during three meals, Pastor Jim described Jesus’ approach to the table in three ways: as a hospital where people get healed, as a bank where debts get cancelled, … Read More
Practicing the Way of Jesus – Community
Pastor Anthony noted that, unlike Jesus, we affiliate with people who share our values but avoid fellow believers with different values. Does that describe your pattern of association? What would help you follow Anthony’s suggestion … Read More
Practicing the Way of Jesus – Simplicity
“Jesus knows that money / possessions can hijack our identity, our security, our joy.” (Pastor Jim) If a stranger were to survey the number and kind of your possessions, what evidence would they have that you’re … Read More
Practicing the Way of Jesus – Silence and Solitude
Pastor Jim suggested that each of us is like a shaken jar and said we need to sit long enough for the sediment to settle. How well do you recognize that need? Is the water … Read More
Practicing the Way of Jesus – Fasting
Pastor Jim used this analogy in his sermon:Like children with their parents, we’re hardwired to seek the attention and love of God. Do you sense what he called “a primal need to be connected to … Read More
Practicing the Way of Jesus – Sabbath
Pastor Katherine suggested that being able to engage in Sabbath rest depends on trusting that God is in charge. Do you have difficulty having such trust? What would help you trust him with the concerns … Read More