| Text: Matthew 16:13-23 Theme: The Question, The Confession, The Cross-Shaped Mission Open The Scriptures 1. How does the setting of Caesarea Philippi (a center of Pan worship and called the “gates of Hades”) shape the meaning of Jesus’ question in Matthew 16:13? 2. What answers did the crowds give about Jesus in Matthew 16:14, and what do those answers tell us about common expectations of the Messiah? 3. How does Matthew 16:21–23 contrast Jesus’ announcement of suffering and death with Peter’s expectations? Open Your Lives 1. Who do you say Jesus is for you personally right now? 2. Can you describe a time when you wanted success or blessing without the cost of obedience or sacrifice? What did you learn from that experience? 3. What is one practical step our discipleship group could take this month to be more outward-focused and serve people outside the church? 4. What is one specific action you will take this week to live out a “cross-shaped” life (an act of service, sacrifice, or witness)? |
| The Bridge Church at Bear Cr |
