Followers of Jesus will experience people in the real world who have vastly different worldviews. Jesus shows us how to engage those outside our faith with truth and love.
Talking Points:
- When Jesus was confronted with an opposing worldview, he didn’t jump to conclusions and start pointing fingers. He simply paused and gathered his thoughts. John 8:6
- When you go into the world with a biblical worldview, you’ll meet some people like the Pharisees: arrogant, self-righteous, and ready to pick a fight. Others will be more kind but just as clueless about Jesus’ grid. Learn to tell the difference, speak the truth with confidence, and trust God to change their hearts. John 8:7-9
- Though Jesus was a great preacher, he recognized that people need individual attention. This is his plan for reaching the world: sending out mentors who are equipped to share the truth in the context of a personal relationship. John 8:10-11
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- When you interact with other worldviews, do you tend to be more of a coward or more of a jerk? Explain.
- Give some examples of unattractive zeal you have seen from Christians – on social media or in person.
- Read John 8:6. What is likely to happen if you don’t pause before confronting someone about their sin?
- Read John 8:7-8. How did Jesus throw the Pharisees a curveball in this interaction? How did that approach change the tone of the situation?
- Read Acts 1:8. What is the Holy Spirit’s role as we engage with people far from God? Why is it important to understand what is our job and what’s not our job in dealing with others?
- Read John 8:10-11. How did Jesus respond to the woman? What does that tell us about how we should approach the people in our lives?
- Read 2 Corinthians 2:14-16. How is the good news of Jesus like a fragrant perfume? Why do some people reject the aroma and others embrace it?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
