This message invites us to follow Jesus in full surrender, experiencing the safety, love, and joy of living as God’s beloved children.
REVIEW: The Old Life is Over
- READ: Matthew 3:13-17 (NLT) "Then Jesus went from Galilee to the Jordan River to be baptized by John. But John tried to talk him out of it. 'I am the one who needs to be baptized by you,' he said, 'so why are you coming to me?' But Jesus said, 'It should be done, for we must carry out all that God requires.' So John agreed to baptize him. After his baptism, as Jesus came up out of the water, the heavens were opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and settling on him. And a voice from heaven said, 'This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy.'”
- DISCUSS: How does understanding baptism as a declaration of surrender impact the way you view your relationship with God?
REVIEW: You Are Safe
- READ: 1 John 3:1 (NLT) "See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are! But the people who belong to this world don’t recognize that we are God’s children because they don’t know him."
- DISCUSS: How does knowing that you are safe in God’s love change the way you face challenges in your life?
REVIEW: You Are Wanted
- READ: 1 John 4:7-8 (NLT) "Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love."
- DISCUSS: What are practical ways you can live out God’s love in your relationships this week?
REVIEW: You Bring God Joy
- READ: Zephaniah 3:17 (NLT) "For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs."
DISCUSS: How can recognizing that you bring God joy transform your perspective on yourself and your purpose?
ASK:
What else did you get from this week's sermon? What actions or next steps can you take to apply it to your life?
PRAY:
"Father, thank You for reminding us that in You we are safe, loved, and a source of joy. Help us surrender fully to You, letting go of our old ways and embracing the new life You have for us. Teach us to live in Your love and reflect Your joy to those around us."
INVITATION TO RESPOND
Encourage your group to consider taking the next step in their faith journey, whether through baptism, a renewed commitment to surrender, or embracing God’s love and security. Mention upcoming baptism opportunities on March 2nd and direct them to sign up online.