Announcement: Have people been able to get things for the Foster Drive? Discuss as a group how you can join the church family in supporting the Foster Care Ministry's backpack drive. https://bfreechurch.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/2384312 Icebreaker: Who would you nominate for the “Good Samaritan Award”? Sermon Discussion - Read Matthew 7:1-5
Who do we consider the "Samaritans" in our culture today — those often viewed as incapable of good and unworthy of compassion, much like how the Jews regarded Samaritans?
Describe the difference between sympathy and compassion.
How do we see Jesus demonstrate compassion in the gospels?
How can we apply those examples to other people in our lives?
Going Deeper
Give an example of suffering that is the easiest for you to experience compassion for.
What kinds of suffering are least likely to elicit compassion in you?
What are some reasons we use to justify refusing to have compassion for someone else?
What are the reasons our hearts struggle to offer compassion to people that Jesus does?
Next Steps
What relationship do you feel God is asking you to practice compassion with in a more active way?
Prayer Time: Spend some quiet time praying for that specific relationship, then pray out loud for God to grant us hearts of compassion for others. “Lor, show us how to be a neighbor”. Reminder for next week - Read Luke 16:1-13
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
Our offices are closed from December 23 to January 1.