Catch up on how things have been over the past week (over drinks and snacks if possible). Then ask group members to:
This term, we’re exploring some of the meals Jesus shared. Not only is this helping us get to know Jesus better, but we’re seeing how the way he shared meals has loads of implications for how we experience student life today.
Ask for a volunteer to read Luke 14:1-14 to the group, praying a short prayer that, however much they’ve come to know Jesus, they’d know him better as a result of your time together.
If you’re not gathered in person, the leader should project the video for the group through sharing their screen. If you’re using Zoom, make sure you have optimized your screen share for video. You can download the video to watch offline.
Suggested questions to help your discussion.
What does Jesus mean when he says that those who offer hospitality to those unable to pay them back will be ‘repaid at the resurrection of the righteous’?
Jesus is referring to the time in which those who are right with God will be resurrected to physical eternal life, when Jesus returns again. On that day, Jesus says those who have held parties for those least likely to normally be invited, will be rewarded by God.
Jesus isn’t saying that we can earn eternal life – it’s only through his death and resurrection we are made righteous. Yet, in some way, our godly actions now will be honoured by God in eternity. This provides extra motivation not to merely care about present popularity and status, but to sacrifice these things now, knowing that God will ensure we do not at all lose out in eternity.
For more on the idea of heavenly reward, check out this article from John Piper.
Jesus has shown extraordinary generosity in inviting us to his banquet: life with him in the new creation. Our response begins in gratefully receiving the grace of God – yet this gratitude should then overflow in showing generosity to others.
Jesus uses the word ‘invite’ seven times in verses 8-14.
Feedback on how you got with last week’s activity, then choose another to undertake together this week (ideally a different category to whatever you did last time).
Get nourished: for group bonding
Make a list of everyone’s birthday in your Impact Group. Each time someone’s birthday occurs, mark it by gathering or going for a meal, actively remembering to invite those it’s easy to miss.
Offer a taste: to do together
Do your CU or the churches in your city run a café for befriending international students away from home? Consider volunteering together to help out one week. You may make some wonderful new friendships, or find you get the bug for volunteering more regularly!
Add spice: a personal challenge
Think about someone God has put in your life who’s probably rarely invited to join in with others. Go out of your way this week to make a start in inviting them into your life and growing a friendship.
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