November 10, 2024
The Story | Has Your Leader Failed? | Chapter 10
Beginnings: How God Got Things Started, A Chosen People.
The first human king of Israel was a flop. Saul had loads of promise, but he never learned to keep his eyes on God. God was a duty to Saul, not a friend, which meant Saul was always thinking of himself, what people thought of him, and what he needed to look good.
Expert fire inspectors can tell what started a fire even after it has been put out. They do the forensic work to prevent future fires. As we sort through the ashes of Saul’s life, stay alert to God’s cautions about your life and leadership.
Songs for this week: Spotify
Chapter 10: 1 Samuel 13:5-15
- Who would be three leaders that you admire most? Explain your choices.
- Why would God revoke the kingdom from Saul just for offering some sacrifices?
- Why is being afraid of what other people think so crippling for humans and so dangerous for Christians?
- Is there an area in your life—such as forgiveness, money, or relationships—where you may not be fully obeying God and feel you’re exempt from obeying Him?
- What does your ‘kingdom’ feel like these days? Ask those closest to you about the qualities they see at the core of how you live and lead.
- Jesus came announcing the Kingdom of God. Describe the Kingdom of God that Jesus brings. What matters most in that Kingdom? What matters least? Does this align with your life?
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Recent Sermons
Luke 1:39-45-Unexpectedly pregnant before she was married, Mary’s life was in upheaval. God sent her to Elizabeth, who would encourage her with a blessing.
Luke 1:26-38 - This Christmas, discover how God is on the move—sending Gabriel to Mary in Nazareth and inviting ordinary people into the greatest story ever told. Explore Mary’s costly yet courageous “yes” and what it reveals about the Christian life.
Luke 1:5-17 - The first Christmas bursts to life with promise and purpose—God sets His plan in motion, beginning in Jerusalem with an elderly priest and a miraculous birth announcement. Excitement is rising, and the story is just beginning.
Mark 3:32-35 - Discover why community is the most essential practice for following Jesus. This week’s passage highlights the kind of people we’re called to walk with—those who do the will of God.
Jn. 15:5-17 - Discover how staying connected to Jesus—the true vine—produces lasting spiritual fruit. Learn how a simple Rule of Life, shaped by practices like prayer, Scripture, sabbath, solitude, community, and service, helps us remain rooted in Him.
Mark 2:17 - Jesus came to call sinners—those who know they miss the mark. Following him begins with humility and self-awareness, not perfection.
