Hot Pursuit

Read Matthew 13: 44-46.

1.This week Chan invites us to do some serious self-examination. In the workbook he says, “Most likely, this will be the most uncomfortable session.” Why do you think he says that? Why is self-examination so uncomfortable?


2.In the book this week, Chan juxtaposes the parables of Ma hew 13: 44-46 with the “lukewarm” passage from Revelation 3: 14-22. How are these texts different? Why do we need both?


3.Pastor Mick shared an “atypical interpretation” of Ma hew 13: 44-46 in which each of us represent the hidden treasure and pearl of great price and Jesus gives everything for us. Have you ever thought of the gospel like that before? Are you able to see yourself as so valuable? Why/why not?


4.Christians in other parts of the world are s ll being persecuted, even killed, for their faith in Jesus. How does their faith exemplify the behavior in today’s parables?


5.Chan describes the incredible faith and willing sacrifice of persecuted Christians in today’s video. He quotes a missionary friend who compares their faith with ours, saying, “What we call sanctification, they call pre-requisite.” What is your gut reaction to that quote? In the spirit of true self-examination, what does that mean to you?


6.When have you been so crazy in love with Jesus that you were willing to pay any price to follow him? When have you been lukewarm? What do you think causes the difference?


7.The “lukewarm” passage from Revelation 3 is a difficult passage. But it does not end in despair. It ends with Jesus knocking at the door waiting to be invited in so He can dine with us. How can we move from periods of “lukewarmness” to inviting Jesus in to dine with us?


8.On this World Communion Sunday, how might you allow the faith of our persecuted brothers and sisters around the world to rekindle the re in your heart and your love for Jesus?

Prayer of the Week:
Lord Jesus, thank you for seeing us as a treasure of such great value that you willingly paid the ultimate price for our redemption, so that we will never be separated from you and your love. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, help us to love you the way you deserve to be loved. Forgive us for the times we become lukewarm. Please don’t spit us out. Please keep knocking on the door of our hearts un l we excitedly welcome you in with a rekindled re and love for you. And help us to take that re and love out into the world, so others will hear you knocking and open the door of their hearts to you as well, no ma er the cost. We love you so much, Lord Jesus. We pray all of this in your strong and holy name. Amen.