Small_Group_Discussion_Guide_Risking.pdf
Sermon Summary: Imitating Jesus and Embracing Risk
Introduction
At Redemption Life Fellowship, we prioritize expositional preaching, but occasionally we address topical issues. This sermon concludes a series on "Imitating Jesus: Healthy Marks of a Disciple." The focus is on what it means to be a fully equipped disciple, which essentially means looking like Jesus. Today, we explore the concept of risk in the life of a disciple, using Matthew 14:22-33 as our primary text.
Understanding Risk
In contemporary terms, risk often means exposure to danger or a crisis of belief. In business, it refers to the chance that the return on investment will be lower than expected. Historically, terms like danger and potential loss were used instead. Today, we examine how a fully equipped disciple is willing to be obedient despite popular opinion and invites others into a risky faith.
The Call to Risk
The Western world, including the Western church, is often consumed with safety. While comfort in Christ is a good gift, it can paralyze us from following Jesus and make us lean into self-sufficiency or apathy. One of our biggest idols can be comfort or control, which can come before following Jesus. To follow Jesus means to be on mission with Him, live in community with other believers, and allow the gospel to transform us from the inside out. This inevitably involves seasons of uncertainty and risk.
Biblical Examples of Risk
The Bible is filled with stories of individuals who took significant risks in obedience to God:
- **Noah** built an ark despite never having seen a flood.
- **Abraham** left his homeland and was willing to sacrifice his son Isaac.
- **Moses** led the Israelites through the Red Sea.
- **Joshua** led the Israelites across the Jordan River during flood season.
- **Esther** risked her life to approach King Xerxes.
- **David** trusted God during Absalom's rebellion.
- **Elijah** confronted King Ahab and the prophets of Baal.
- **Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego** faced the fiery furnace.
- **Daniel** faced the lion's den.
- **The Early Church** continually faced risks as they spread the gospel.
Peter Walking on Water
In Matthew 14:22-33, Peter provides a powerful example of taking a risk. After Jesus fed the 5,000, He sent His disciples ahead in a boat while He prayed. During a storm, Jesus walked on water towards them. Peter, seeing Jesus, asked to come to Him on the water. Jesus invited him, and Peter stepped out of the boat. However, when Peter saw the wind, he became afraid and began to sink. Jesus immediately reached out and saved him, questioning his doubt.
Lessons from Peter's Experience
1. **Humbly Trust in God's Control**: Peter's initial step out of the boat required humility and trust in Jesus' command. Trusting in God's control means acknowledging that His plans are higher than ours.
2. **Value Based in God's Worthiness**: Peter's value was not in his ability to walk on water but in his relationship with Jesus. Our worth is derived from God's perfect nature, liberating us from the fear of failure.
3. **Seek Wisdom in Decision-Making**: Peter asked Jesus to command him before stepping out. This shows the importance of seeking God's guidance. Wise decisions are rooted in God's direction.
4. **Jesus' Ultimate Risk for Us**: Jesus took the ultimate risk by laying down His life for us. His sacrifice assures us of eternal life and compels us to take risks for His kingdom.
Application
Risk is an essential part of the Christian life. A fully equipped disciple is willing to be obedient despite popular opinion and invites others into audacious and risky faith. Peter's story shows that while the outcomes of our risks are uncertain, God's control, our identity in Him, the wisdom we seek from Him, and Jesus' sacrifice provide the foundation we need to step out in faith.
Personal Reflection
- Are you currently experiencing a crisis of belief or a call to take a risk? What is God asking you to do?
- How does your present walk with God reveal what you believe about Him?
- What is the evidence of God at work in and through your life?
- Is there something in your life that you struggle to turn over to God?
Conclusion
Faith and action go hand in hand. As we look to Jesus and take the next step, we must humbly trust in God's control, remember our value in His worthiness, seek His wisdom, and be inspired by Jesus' ultimate sacrifice. Let us be a people who learn to trust God, value His worthiness, seek His wisdom, and follow His example in taking risks for His glory and our good.
Prayer
Thank you God for for your guidance and give us strength to take the next step in faith, trusting you are in control and you are worthy of our following you.