STUDY GUIDE – Unselfing

Icebreaker: What is the most “unselfish” thing you have done recently?

Sermon Title – The Jesus Platform – “Unselfing” – Matthew 16:24

Group Discussion

Read John 10:11 & Mark 10:45 – Consider Jesus: He gave up glory; He gave up dignity; He gave up His life. In our own lives, how can we completely embrace the idea of “unselfing;” what does this mean to you? What should it look like in our lives to serve Jesus and others sacrificially? Provide some practical examples.

Read Matthew 16:24 & Hebrews 12:1-3 – Following Jesus is sacrificial: full surrender and self-denial. What are some specific areas in our lives where we might feel called to practice self-denial? What are potential barriers hindering people from living a fully surrendered life? Discuss strategies for overcoming these barriers.

Read 1 John 4:7-12 – Consider others. What should it look like in your own life to love others as Jesus loves you, to see people like Jesus sees you? Share some ways we can show this kind of love in a way that reflects Jesus’ presence in our lives. It is easy to love people who love us: Share some strategies for loving people who might not love us (e.g., people who are hostile to Christians – people on the other side of the political isle).

Read 1 John 2:3-6, 1 John 4:13-17, & Matthew 16:27 – Consider yourself: declutter, fix your eyes on Jesus, run the race, persevere with joy. In what areas of our lives might we need to “declutter” or let go of things that distract us from “getting outside of ourselves?” What can it look like in your own life to “fix your eyes on Jesus” and “persevere with joy,” especially in challenging times or in the throes of social media jungles? What role can “faith” play in helping us to prioritize and embrace joy rather than an endless pursuit of “happiness?”

Spiritual Discipline: Take time to study our additional sermon resources that support this message on unselfing located on our Church Center app at: Church Center / Home / Sermon Resources

Action Steps: Take time to prayerfully apply these principles: (1) Practice Unselfing – Identify areas in your life where your “Self” interests are barriers to total surrender, (2) Cultivate an “Unselfed” Mentality – Daily, make a conscious effort to consider the needs and feelings of others before your own, and (3) Persevere with Joy – Remind yourself of the purpose for following Jesus. Set aside time each day to “fix your eyes on Jesus” by reflecting on His example and lean on faith to find lasting joy beyond temporary happiness.