This is the first sermon in our new series on the Priorities of Jesus. This sermon is ‘CALL: Repent, Believe, Follow’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Mark 1:14-20
This is the first sermon in our new series on the Priorities of Jesus. This sermon is ‘CALL: Repent, Believe, Follow’. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: Mark 1:14-20
DOWNLOAD the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).
After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”
As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” At once they left their nets and followed him.
When he had gone a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John in a boat, preparing their nets. Without delay he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed him.
CONNECT: In what ways could you grow in the knowledge of God and humility?
WARM-UP
As the people of the world set priorities and goals for the new year, how do you think they go about it? What drives their decision making?
As we consider the year ahead, who and what should drive our priorities for the year?
Read Mark 1:14-15
What is the good news of God according to Jesus?
What does he mean by saying that the time has come and that the kingdom of God has come near?
How has Jesus been promised to his people before he came? What is the kingdom of God?
On the basis of this statement of fact, what are the two things that Jesus calls us to do?
When the world hears the word ‘repent’ what do you think they think it means? What is a more biblical definition of repentance?
How would you describe repentance to a friend who doesn’t know Jesus yet on your frontlines?
In what ways is belief different to just an academic acknowledgment; a shot in the dark; or a leap of faith?
How would you describe belief to a friend who doesn’t know Jesus yet on your frontlines?
Why is what we believe in good news? Does the world see the gospel as good news?
Is there anything that is stopping you or holding you back from repentance and belief in Jesus?
Read Mark 1:16-20
What is the third call of Jesus? How is following Jesus different to following a celebrity, a politician, or even a brand?
What are we to follow Jesus with? How does this shape the way that we prioritise things this year?
Is there anything that you tend to prioritise more before following Jesus? Bring it to him in prayer and maybe ask a good friend to keep you accountable.
APPLY: Spend some time considering how to prioritise Jesus this year, and think of 3 ways to go about it.
Gracious God, thank you for the amazing hope that we have in Jesus. As we look ahead for the new year and the rest of our lives, please help us to prioritise you and respond to your call faithfully. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
On Your Frontline This Week: What daily rhythm is going to help you live for Jesus in 2022?
Listen, Watch, and Read:
SERIES Resources:
BOOK: “Resilient Disciples” by Rick Hill
BOOK: “Need to Know” by Gary Millar
ARTICLE: “What is a Whole-Life Disciple” by LICC (London Institute of Contemporary Christianity)
Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home. Join the livestream and then spend 30 minutes to work through these together.
Families: Read, Chat, Do, and Pray
High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions
Kids’ Talk: Watch the Kids’ Talk
eBook: Watch the eBook
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