Sermon Series: What Disciples Do: "Wrestle with Scripture/Faith"

What Disciples Do: "Wrestle with Scripture/Faith"

Key Takeaways

1) You belong here on purpose: God has intentionally placed each person in the community of believers — and in this church — and that belonging is foundational to discipleship

2) Identity precedes action: Rather than beginning with what we do, the message underscored that our identity as children of God and members of Christ’s body is the starting point; from that flows the ways we live as disciples.

3) Belonging leads to connection and participation: We must move beyond simply attending to embracing belonging — to engage in the life of the church, to connect with others, and to serve, as integral marks of discipleship.

4) Discipleship is both gift and responsibility: Because we belong by grace, there is a call (and privilege) to live that out: to be present, to share with others, to live in community and mission — knowing we do not do it alone but as part of the body.

Reflection Questions

--- In what ways do I experience a sense of belonging at First Presbyterian Church? In what ways might I be holding back from fully belonging?

--- How does understanding my identity as “belonging” change how I view my role in the church community — my presence, my gifts, my relationships?

--- What’s one practical way I can move from “just being present” to “fully participating” in the life of the church this week?

--- Who in my life (within or outside the church) might need to hear or experience the message that they belong — and how might I be an instrument of that belonging?