Many different things move us to tears. But does that which sadden God also sadden us? Pastor Austin Watts looks at a passage in Luke to see what moves the heart of Christ.
Key Scripture
Discussion Questions
Don’t be afraid to add to this list, skip questions that don’t work for your group, or branch off with additional questions as discussion unfolds. Conversation is key! This is the time to work through the application of scripture and have group members figure things out together.
- Before you knew or accepted Christ, how much Bible knowledge did you have? Was there a time when you knew who Jesus was but you didn’t step over the ‘line of faith’ and accept Him as Lord and Savior? Why was that? What changed in your life to finally accept Jesus into your heart?
- Do you often picture Jesus as being stoic as He is typically depicted in artwork? Why do you think that is? Does knowing that He showed great emotion at times change your image of Him? If so, how?
- Luke 19:41 tells us that Jesus wept over the city of Jerusalem. Pastor Austin explained to us that the verb used in this verse means that He wept loudly or that He wailed. Have you ever wept over someone who was lost? What would it look like for our hearts to feel such a strong reaction for those whose souls have not yet been redeemed?
- Pastor Austin mentioned how the most crucial point of this sermon is to remember the following statement: “that which breaks God’s heart should also break my heart.” He also explained how the tears of Jesus teach us much about the heart of Jesus. What practical steps can we take to allow God to transform our hearts to be more like Jesus? What can you do to change yourself if you just don’t feel that way?
- We can sometimes categorize people as undeserving of salvation (based on their actions/behavior). We forget that all of us are lost and merit eternal punishment if not for the grace of God. Do you ever find yourself thinking a particular person (whether in your personal life, a celebrity, a politician, etc.) doesn’t deserve God’s grace? If so, remember your state before Jesus opened your eyes and ask for a heart that breaks for everyone, regardless of who they are or what they have done.
- Read Luke 19:45–46. The term “den of thieves” describes the hypocrisy that took place inside the church. People were hiding behind their religious activities and not there to worship God truly. This even hindered others from worshipping God. As you reflect on your life, what is distracting and potentially hindering you from worshipping God? How do these distractions impact those around you? How can your life group help you surrender these distractions to Jesus today?
Accountability
- Where are you reading in the Bible this week? What has God been revealing to you through your quiet time with Him?
- Discuss any struggles you may be going through with your group.
- How can you pray for your group this week? How can they be praying for you?