Your Personal Grow-Pray-Study (GPS) Guide

Context:

Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness follows His baptism, where He was publicly affirmed as the Son of God. Immediately, the Spirit leads Him into the wilderness for forty days, paralleling Israel’s forty years of wandering. Unlike Adam, who succumbed to temptation, and Israel, who failed in the wilderness, Jesus remains faithful. The devil challenges His identity and mission, offering Him shortcuts to power, provision, and glory. Yet, Jesus overcomes by relying on God’s Word.

Icebreaker:

What is one food, habit, or distraction that you find hard to resist? Why is it so tempting?

After the icebreaker, read Luke 4:1-13 aloud.

The devil tempts Jesus with three things:

• physical satisfaction (bread),
• power (authority over kingdoms), and
• spectacle (jumping from the temple).

Each time Jesus is tempted, He responds with Scripture. What does this teach us about the role of God’s Word in overcoming temptation? Have you ever experienced a time when recalling Scripture helped you resist a temptation or endure a trial?

These temptations offered Jesus a way to claim His kingship without the cross. Why is suffering often part of God’s plan for our growth? How can we shift our perspective to see trials and temptations as opportunities to grow in faith rather than obstacles? In what ways do we sometimes seek shortcuts to God's promises rather than trusting His timing and plan?

What small next steps do you need to take in combatting your temptation, knowing that God is on your side? How can your Life Group/other Christians help?

Close with prayer, inviting everyone to pray for strength in their areas of temptation, asking God to pour out His grace and help them remain faithful, just as Jesus was. Close our prayer time by remembering God’s promise from Deuteronomy 31:8 -  “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave or forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”

Context:

This passage is known as the “Transfiguration of Jesus,” a pivotal moment in the Gospel narrative. It occurs after Jesus predicts his persecution and follows Peter's confession of Jesus as the Christ. The Transfiguration is a foretaste of the glory in the Kingdom of God. It also deepens the understanding of Jesus' identity as God’s Son, the Chosen One.

Icebreaker:

What’s the most awe-inspiring or 'mountaintop' moment you’ve experienced, physically or spiritually?

After the icebreaker, read Luke 9:28-36.

What stands out to you in this passage? How does the presence of Moses and Elijah enhance our understanding of Jesus' mission and identity?

The passage mentions that Jesus' appearance changed, and His clothes became dazzling white. Then, a voice from the clouds says, “Listen to Him!” How does the voice from the cloud affirm Jesus' identity and mission?

Have you ever had a "mountaintop" experience in your faith journey where you felt incredibly close to God? How did it impact you? Peter wanted to stay in this mountaintop experience… but that wasn’t the plan. What does moving down the mountain look like and letting that experience carry you daily?

What does it look like to "listen to Him" in our daily lives? What practices help you stay attuned to Jesus' voice? Where have you heard, maybe not the audible voice of God, but sacred echoes?

End with a prayer thanking God for revealing His glory through Jesus and asking for His help to live out the truths discussed.

Context:

In Luke 6:27-38, Jesus turns the world's standards upside down, teaching that God’s mercy must define the way we live and interact with others. This passage calls for loving one’s enemies, acting generously without expecting anything in return, and forgiving freely. Disciples are to reflect God's nature through their actions—acts of mercy, grace, and love—even toward those who reject or mistreat them.

Icebreaker:

What’s a time when you did something kind for someone who didn’t deserve it or didn’t return the favor?

After the icebreaker, read Luke 6:27-38.

Reflect on Verse 27: “But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you.” How do Jesus’ words sit with you? How do they challenge the way the world teaches us to handle conflict? What might it look like to actively “do good” for someone wronged you? How do you do this while still maintaining boundaries to protect your heart or your safety?

Verses 29-30 describe how we should respond to personal insults, theft, or being asked for something. How do these teachings challenge your instincts when someone wrongs you or asks for something you’re unwilling to give? Jesus doesn’t call us to be passive victims but to act with generosity. Why is it important to “give freely,” as Jesus describes here?

In Verse 31, Jesus teaches the Golden Rule: “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” Do these words shape your life and interactions (be honest)? What might this look like in situations where we are tempted to judge or criticize?

In Verses 37-38, Jesus speaks about mercy, forgiveness, and giving without judgment. What do these verses tell us about God’s character? How can you show mercy to someone who may not deserve it or who you may have been holding a grudge against? Who has shown you mercy when you didn’t deserve it?

End with prayer, thanking God for the day, and asking for whatever you need in the week ahead.

Context:

Luke 6:17-26 presents what is known as the "Sermon on the Plain.” This sermon differs from the Sermon on the Mount found in Matthew, with Luke’s version focusing on societal and economic reversals brought about by the kingdom of God.

Icebreaker:

What has truly surprised you or “flipped your world upside down” in the last several months or in 2024?

After the icebreaker, read Luke 6:17-26.

Before going further, reflect on and discuss this:

The most important feature of the Beatitudes is that they are Christological. All God’s blessings are found in Christ, and Christ is the source of every blessing. Therefore, it would be a misuse of the Beatitudes to suggest that they are principles or guidelines that inform people of the way they should live so that God will reward their efforts with blessings. That would turn the Beatitudes from the Gospel into Law. Instead, the purpose of the Beatitudes is to instill and strengthen faith in Christ alone.

Jesus says, “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.” In contrast, the woes are directed at the rich, well-fed, and comfortable. In our world, where comfort and wealth are seen as signs of success, how can we remain focused on eternal priorities while living in an affluent society? Do we need to be poor in order to be God-pleasing people? (Hint: no)

Jesus mentions that those who are hated, excluded, and rejected because of Him are blessed. How can we find comfort in this promise when we face opposition or persecution for our faith? Have you ever experienced rejection or exclusion because of your faith in Jesus? How did you respond, and what did you learn from that experience?

In what ways do you see yourself in either the blessed or woe categories in this passage? Is God calling you to change how you use your resources, time, or energy to align with His priorities and topsy-turvy Kingdom?

End with prayer, thanking God for the day, and asking for whatever you need in the week ahead.

Context:

In Luke 5:1-11, Jesus calls Simon (later Peter), James, and John to be His disciples after performing the miraculous fish catch. This event happens after Jesus has been preaching and healing in the region, setting the stage for His calling of these fishermen to become "fishers of men." The passage highlights a physical miracle and the spiritual transformation that begins with Jesus’ call. Overwhelmed by the miraculous catch, Peter recognizes his own unworthiness in contrast to Jesus’ holiness, yet Jesus calls him into a new purpose: to follow Him.

Icebreaker:

Have you ever experienced a moment where you felt God was calling you to step out of your comfort zone? What was your response?

Read Luke 5:1-11.

What stands out to you about the miracle itself? After a fruitless night of fishing, Peter obeys Jesus' command to cast the nets again. Why do you think Peter responded in obedience despite his experience? Have you ever felt like you were doing something in your strength that wasn’t working, only to see God do something when you relied on Him?

Peter says, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” How did Peter’s reaction to the miracle reveal his understanding of who Jesus was? What does his response tell us about the nature of Jesus and the call to discipleship?

What does Jesus mean when He tells Peter, “From now on, you will fish for people”? What does it mean to be a “fisher of people” today? What might Jesus call you to leave behind to follow Him more fully? How can you take small steps to trust Jesus in areas where you’re hesitant to follow fully?

Jesus calls each of us to a unique role in His Kingdom. Whether it’s through serving others, sharing the gospel, or simply living faithfully in our daily lives, we are called to be His disciples. Where do you think you can be most helpful in building God’s Kingdom?

End with prayer, thanking God for the day, and asking for whatever you need in the week ahead.

Context:

In this passage, we see the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry in Galilee, where He demonstrates His authority through teaching, healing, and casting out demons. Jesus’ authority, recognized first by the unclean spirit, is not only about His divine power but also reveals His mission to usher in the Kingdom of God, fulfilling the prophecies of Isaiah.

Icebreaker:

What are the situations where someone has had authority over you (e.g., a boss, teacher, or parent)? How did you react to their authority? Why?

After the icebreaker, read Luke 4:31-44.

Jesus teaches with authority in the synagogue, and people are amazed. His teaching is not like the scribes but with power that makes them wonder about the source. What do you think made Jesus' teaching so different from the other teachers of the law? Since Jesus is not physically present now like he was then, how do we recognize His authority in our lives today? Where do we struggle to recognize it?

The demon recognizes Jesus as the "Holy One of God" and acknowledges His authority over the spiritual realm. Jesus rebukes the demon and heals the man, demonstrating that the Kingdom of God has power over evil. Why do you think the demon immediately recognizes Jesus as the "Holy One of God"? How can we understand spiritual authority today, especially in a world where many might dismiss the reality of the spiritual realm?

Jesus moved on from the town to proclaim the Kingdom of God to other cities, emphasizing that this was the purpose for which He was sent. Why is Jesus’ mission described as "proclaiming the Kingdom of God"? What does that phrase mean to you? Jesus’ authority extends to individuals and entire communities (notice that the emphasis is never on a personal relationship, per se…). What does it look like for you to join Jesus on this mission?

Wrap up the session by praying together, asking God to strengthen each person’s understanding of Jesus’ authority and how His Kingdom is alive and active today.

Context:

Jesus returns to His hometown of Nazareth after being tempted in the wilderness. He enters the synagogue and reads from the book of Isaiah, proclaiming that He is fulfilling the prophecy. His declaration shocks the people of Nazareth and causes a rift as they struggle with the idea that the Messiah, who they expected to bring blessings to Israel alone, might instead bring salvation to all—especially to Gentiles.

Icebreaker:

Have you ever been surprised by how God answered a prayer or worked in your life in a way you didn’t expect?

After the icebreaker, read Luke 4:16-30.

Why do you think Jesus started His public ministry by reading this prophecy from Isaiah? How does this passage reveal God’s heart for the poor, the oppressed, and the captives? Jesus leaves out the part about vengeance in Isaiah 61:2. Why might this be significant?

Initially, the people of Nazareth are amazed, but their amazement quickly turns to rejection when Jesus challenges their assumptions about who deserves God’s blessings. Jesus references Elijah and Elisha, pointing out that God’s blessings were sometimes extended to outsiders—Gentiles—rather than just to Israel. What is the crowd’s reaction to Jesus’ message, and why do you think they respond this way? When have you viewed others as “unworthy” of God’s love, blessings, or salvations?

The people in Nazareth rejected Jesus because He didn’t meet their expectations. Are there ways we may have wrong expectations about how God works in our lives? How can we learn to embrace God’s surprises?

Jesus was anointed to proclaim good news, heal the brokenhearted, and set people free. How can we be part of His mission to share this message of hope with others?

Wrap up the group time with a prayer, asking God to help everyone live out the mission of Jesus, proclaiming good news to those in need, and embracing His surprising ways.

Context:

In the Gospel of John, Jesus’ first miracle occurs at a wedding in Cana, where He turns water into wine. This miracle is one of seven “signs” in John, demonstrating Jesus' power and His identity as the Savior. Unlike the Synoptic Gospels, which focus on Jesus’ acts of healing and feeding the hungry, John highlights this miracle as an extravagant sign of grace, demonstrating God’s abundant provision.

Icebreaker:

What’s the most memorable party or celebration you’ve ever attended? What made it stand out to you?

After the icebreaker, read John 2:1-11.

Jesus tells His mother, “My hour has not yet come.”

• How does this statement point to His ultimate mission?
• How does this miracle at Cana anticipate the “hour” of His death and resurrection?
• How does understanding the “hour” of Jesus’ glorification deepen your appreciation for this miracle?

Jesus meets a “need” here, but it seems relatively minor (the wine running out at a party).

• What does this tell us about the nature of God's provision in our lives?
• Is God concerned with the “big” and “small” things in our lives?

In verse 6, the servants fill six stone jars with water, each holding 20-30 gallons. That’s over 150 gallons of wine!

• Why do you think Jesus provided such an abundant amount?
• How does the abundance of wine reflect the nature of the salvation Jesus offers?
• What does this tell us about God's generosity and grace?
• What does it reveal about the ABUNDANT life God wants for us (John 10:10)?
• What do you need to turn over to Jesus to have joy again?

End with prayer, thanking God for the abundant life offered through Jesus. Ask for help to live in that abundance daily and share love and generosity with those around us.

At Jesus’ baptism, the Holy Spirit comes upon him publicly for his messianic work  according to the trinitarian plan. Jesus’ baptism and his fulfilling of that divine mission are the  basis for and give significance to John’s baptism and to all subsequent Christian Baptisms and  outpourings of the Spirit upon the baptized. As the Spirit is poured out on Jesus, so also he will  pour out the Spirit on those he baptizes—those who are baptized in his name.

Why do you think people like to celebrate big moments in their lives publicly? 

Context:

Epiphany is a season of revelation, where the Savior, the light of the world, is unveiled to the nations. The story of the magi highlights their dedication and sacrifice as they sought the newborn King, Jesus. These astrologers traveled great distances, bringing costly gifts and kneeling in worship. Their actions help us to ponder what worship really is.

Icebreaker:

What’s the most effort you’ve ever gone through to give someone a gift or surprise them? How did they react?

After the icebreaker, read Matthew 2:1-12.

The Magi probably came from modern-day Iraq to worship Jesus. That’s a journey of around 500 miles. Note that the Magi were not followers of Yahweh, the God of Israel … and yet they followed the star. King Herod was also not a follower of Yahweh. How do Herod’s and the magi’s responses to Jesus differ? What can we learn from this contrast?

Verse 11 says the magi “fell down and worshipped him.” What does this teach us about the posture of worship—physically, emotionally, and spiritually?

The magi brought costly gifts (gold, frankincense, myrrh). Though there is undoubtedly a lesson regarding how we approach Jesus in worship, the greatest treasure present at the Savior’s side was the souls of the magi. Reflect on St. Paul’s words in Romans 12:1-2 – “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”

Think about how you spend your time, talents, and resources. What might it look like to “worship Jesus” in the ordinary aspects of life? How can we guard against worshipping other things (e.g., careers, entertainment, possessions) instead of Jesus?

Close with prayer, thanking God for revealing Jesus to the world. Ask that we, like the magi, may continue to seek God diligently, offer our best, and worship wholeheartedly.