Passage

Matthew 4:12-25

Sermon Summary

The initial ministry of Jesus illustrates two foundational truths: You don't find Jesus; he finds you. And when he finds you, you follow him. Following him means embracing the reality that his death and resurrection really has inaugurated the Kingdom of God. It's here, and it will not be stopped. Repentance, then, is not so much about looking back in regret as it is changing your mind, turning around, and running in the direction of the Kingdom. Participating in the kingdom includes all three elements of Jesus' ministry: preaching, teaching and healing—whether as channels of supernatural power or as channels of ordinary, natural infuence.

Discussion Questions

1. What stood out or stuck with you from the sermon?
2. How did Jesus find you? How has he held on to you? Tell a part of your story.
3. Describe an area of life you most long to be healed and renewed in the Kingdom of God. Use your imagination.
4. What negative associations do you have with the word "repent"? How is Jesus' call to repentance actually hopeful to you?
5. Which element of Jesus' ministry—teaching, preaching and healing—is it most natural for you to participate in? Which is least natural? Why?

Resources Consulted:

• Africa Bible Commentary, ed. Tokunboh Adeyemo
• True to Our Native Land, ed. Bryan K. Blount
• The New Testament in Color, ed. Esau McCauley
• Matthew for Everyone, NT Wright
• The Message of Matthew, Michael Green
• The Cross and the Machine (article), Paul Kingsnorth
• The Hound of Heaven (poem), Francis Thompson

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