Sermon Summary, Sermon Outline and MC Discipleship Guide

Sermon Summary

In the sermon "Redefining Resurrection," Pastor Steve Marfia delves into the transformative significance of Jesus' resurrection, emphasizing its physical reality and eternal implications. He stresses the need for the resurrection to shape believers' lives, noting its defining impact on our understanding of God, history, and personal experiences. Pastor Steve calls for a bold and authentic proclamation of the resurrection message, rejecting compromises for cultural relevance and highlighting the importance of sharing the truth with others. Overall, the sermon challenges listeners to embrace the resurrection as the ultimate defining event that should guide their faith, actions, and relationships.

Sermon Outline

FCF - Everyone experiences defining events.

Big Idea - The resurrection of Jesus is the defining event.

1. Understand the resurrection.

2. Trust the resurrection.

3. Allow the resurrection to define you.

MC Discipleship Guide

FIRST THIRD = LOOK BACK - Use up to 45 minutes to build community by caring for one another.

1. Opening Question: What's the most hilarious or embarrassing thing that has ever happened to you during a family gathering or holiday celebration?

2. Check-in on everyone. (You can ask about "highs and lows" or "struggles and excitements" or whatever works to get people sharing about their lives with one another.)

3. Pray with and for one another as the Spirit prompts you.

SECOND THIRD = LOOK UP - Take about 45 minutes to review and discuss the Scripture(s) and sermon from Sunday:

4. If you trust in the resurrection of Jesus, surrendering your life to Him, then it has the power to become the ultimate defining event in your life, surpassing all successes, failures, heartaches, or sins you have encountered.

Q: In your own experience, how has the resurrection shaped your understanding of yourself, your relationships, and your actions?

5. If we respond to misconceptions and challenges to the resurrection by demonstrating historical, medical, and biblical evidence, while respecting the beliefs of others, then we can effectively counter the arguments against the resurrection.

Q: What personal experiences or insights can you bring to a discussion about the resurrection with non-believers?

6. If we maintain boldness and unwavering commitment in proclaiming the gospel authentically and creatively, disregarding temptation to dilute the message, then we can trust in the power of the gospel to shape our lives, bring hope and salvation, and boldly impact others with the truth of Jesus, standing firm against worldly pressures.

Q: What changes can you and your church make to effectively share the gospel message while still bridging cultural gaps?

THIRD THIRD = LOOK FORWARD - Take the last 30 minutes to pray and discuss how God is calling each person to live on mission with Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit in the upcoming week.

7. Is there something specific from the Scriptures, sermon or discussion that God wants you to share with someone in your life? What is it and who does He want you to share with?

8. How will you live out the missional BLESS rhythms in the week ahead?

9. Do you or someone you know have a need that we can serve this week?

*BLESS Rhythms are practical ways in which disciples of Jesus live on mission, empowered by the Holy Spirit in their daily lives.

BEGIN WITH PRAYER: Start each day by praying and listening to the Spirit. Continue listening to the Spirit throughout the day, living surrendered to Jesus as your Savior and King.

LISTEN: Listen attentively to the Spirit's guidance and to those you encounter where you live, learn, work and play.

EAT and/or DRINK: Build friendships with others by sharing meals or drinks together, fostering connections and opportunities for meaningful conversations.

SERVE: Look for practical ways to serve your neighbors, co-workers, and those around you, demonstrating the love of Jesus through acts of kindness and compassion.

SHARE: Boldly share the gospel message and your personal testimony with those you engage with, expressing your faith with confidence and sincerity.