STUDY GUIDE – A Twist on Gratitude

Icebreaker: How do you feel when people fail to show gratitude after you have done something nice for them?

Sermon Title – The Jesus Platform – “A Twist on Gratitude” – Luke 17:11-19

Group Discussion

Read Luke 17:11-19 – Gratitude is not a given. In the sermon, Justin shared this, “While I really do want to do the next right thing, I really do like to be appreciated for doing the next right thing,” which is a natural emotion. With this in mind, how should we respond when others fail to express gratitude? How can we stay faithful and persevere in serving others when our efforts go unacknowledged or unappreciated?

Read Matthew 6:1-4, Matthew 23:5, & John 5:44 – God’s affirmation and appreciation are more valuable. In your own life, what does it mean “to seek the glory that comes from the Lord?” In what practical ways can we shift our focus from seeking human praise to living for the Lord’s approval? What are some potential barriers?

Read Matthew 25:40 – The people you serve most frequently usually say thanks most infrequently. How can the attitude of “serving God as an expression of praise rather than expecting to be praised” reflect a heart of worship? Now, share an example of someone who serves you so consistently that it is easy to overlook their selflessness. How can you shift your own expressions of gratitude to honor the Lord and show appreciation to those people who you may not even consider are serving you?

Read Hebrews 6:10-12 – We can be grateful that the Lord notices even when nobody else does. These verses emphasize the truth that the Lord is just, and He will remember our good deeds. How can this perspective inform and influence the way we approach serving others and advancing His kingdom? How does this truth impact us when we fail to serve the Lord and miss opportunities to advance His kingdom? What practical ways can we live out this truth in our daily interactions so we recognize and act on opportunities?

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

Action Steps: (1) Bless someone this week in a way so that no one will notice, (2) Serve others with intentionality remembering that every act of kindness is ultimately serving Jesus, (3) Focus on the Lord’s approval and shift your motivation from seeking recognition from others to honoring Jesus.