Sermon: Summary
This sermon focuses on Jesus’s last words on the cross from John 19, specifically examining how to grow in love for God. Pastor Mike outlines four main ways to deepen one’s relationship with God: stop striving (because Jesus fulfilled every promise), start trusting (your debt is paid in full), keep surrendering (continuously giving control to God), and continue sharing (everyone needs Jesus). The message emphasizes Jesus’s fulfillment of over 300 prophecies and the importance of trusting in God’s promises.
Opening Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your Word and the sacrifice of Your Son, we ask that You open our hearts and minds to receive what You want to teach us today. Help us to grow deeper in our love for You and understand how we can better surrender our lives to Your will. Guide our discussion and fellowship. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Share: Get Talking
What’s the most meaningful promise someone has ever made to you, and why was it significant?
Study: Go Deeper
Which of God’s promises mentioned in the sermon resonates most with you right now and why?
What does it mean to you personally that Jesus said ‘It is finished’ on the cross?
How do you typically respond to the idea of surrender in your spiritual life?
What areas of your life do you find most challenging to surrender to God?
How has understanding that your debt is paid in full impacted your relationship with God?
What prevents you from sharing your faith with others?
How can we balance accepting God’s promises while still pursuing spiritual growth?
What practical steps can you take this week to grow in your love for God?
Support: Accountability & Application
This week, identify one area of your life that you need to surrender to God. Write it down and spend time each day specifically praying about releasing control of that area to Him. Also, make a commitment to invite at least one person to church or share your faith story with them.
How can we support and pray for you this week?
Closing Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for paying our debt in full on the cross. Help us to live in the freedom of Your finished work while continuing to grow in our love for You. Give us the courage to surrender those areas we’re holding onto and the boldness to share Your love with others. May we walk in the confidence of Your promises and the assurance of Your presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Additional Resources
KEY VERSES:
John 19:28-30 / Colossians 2:14 / Romans 6:23 / Deuteronomy 31:6 / Hebrews 13:5
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Jesus fulfilled over 300 specific prophecies, proving His divine nature
Our spiritual debt has been paid in full through Christ’s sacrifice
The Christian life requires ongoing surrender to God
We are called to share Jesus with others because everyone needs Him
God’s promises are trustworthy and dependable