Watch the video above and talk about it with a group or mentor. Learn more.
The mission of every church and individual believer is simple: to help people pursue God (Matthew 28:19). The resources in our library use a simple framework for understanding that pursuit of God, based on three foundational truths. These truths will give you a clear, well-defined way to think about how to live as a Christian, and how to help others do the same. Here’s the image:
“Truth One” Believer
No matter who you are or what you have done, you can start a relationship with God by trusting Jesus. The Bible says that our default position as human beings is to trust ourselves, whether it be trusting our opinion on how to live or trusting our ability to save ourselves. Either way, according to a plain reading of the Bible, we are condemned by our own sin. Trusting in our opinion on how to live elevates our own thinking above the truth of a holy God who deserves our respect and obedience. Trusting our ability to save ourselves turns us into presumptuous and self-reliant individuals who will someday realize that we are not as strong as we think we are.
Romans 3:22 We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are.
A believer at this first stage of faith has trusted Jesus for salvation but still has a lot to learn about honoring God in life.
“Truth Two” Believer
Those who put their faith in Jesus are given a new purpose and perspective on life. Now, instead of trying to live according to our own desires, we have a new desire deep within us to live in a way that honors God. The Holy Spirit in us empowers us to live out this new lifestyle. The Bible guides us as we seek to understand the new boundaries that God has lovingly given us. And other believers help us to stay on the right track, encouraging us as we all pursue God together.
2 Corinthians 5:17 This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!
A believer at this second stage has trusted Jesus and is honoring God but still has a lot to learn about helping people pursue God.
“Full Circle” Believer
The Christian life is not just about a new perspective and a new lifestyle. God has invited us into his family for a purpose. He has a mission for his children to accomplish, and he invites everyone to participate. God wants us to look outward and help others pursue him, inviting them to join us on the same journey that we have taken. This is the single greatest thing that we can do with our lives, more important then earning money or playing sports or raising a family. In fact, our very maturity in Christ depends on it! The only way to truly grow up in our faith is to mentor someone else in their faith.
Matthew 28:18-19 Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations…”
A believer at this third stage has trusted Jesus, is honoring God, and is actively helping other people pursue God.
[Related: How to Really Mature in Faith]
Truth Seeker
Some people have not yet even started their pursuit of God. These people are investigating the Bible and have not yet made a clear decision about Jesus and faith. Those who are seeking the truth of God can be confident that they will find it if they continue with a authenticity and an open heart.
Jeremiah 29:11-13 For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.”
- What is your initial reaction to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Have you had your defining moment of faith? If not, are you ready? If so, how have you learned to trust Jesus in other situations in life?
- Talk about how your life has changed since you came to faith. Give a few specific examples. When is it difficult for you to honor God in life?
- Who mentored (discipled) you in your faith? How did they do it?
- Do you think you can help someone else pursue God? Why or why not?
- Explain why the pursuit of God is a circle instead of a line. Which stage are you at in your pursuit of God?
- Write a personal action step based on this conversation.
