Are you Spirit-Centered?
Watch: Pastor Cam’s message entitled “Living a Spirit-Centered Life”, and then work through the following.
Scripture Reading: Matthew 12:38-50
Summary: Jesus addresses the demand of the scribes and Pharisees for a sign to prove His authority. He condemns their unbelief, stating that no sign will be given except the sign of Jonah. Just as Jonah spent three days in the belly of a great fish, Jesus would spend three days in the grave. Jesus highlights that the people of Nineveh and the Queen of Sheba (2 examples of Gentile/pagans) recognized God's truth without miraculous signs, in stark contrast to the current generation's rejection of Him despite witnessing many miracles.
Jesus then teaches about spiritual emptiness through the parable of the unclean spirit, emphasizing that moral reformation is not enough without the Holy Spirit's indwelling. Lastly, He redefines true family as those who do God's will, indicating that spiritual bonds surpass biological ties. Overall, Jesus teaches us that a Spirit-centered life will be one that believes and responds to the Word of God, is constantly filled by the Spirit of God, and walks in obedience to God in all He gives us to do. Following these three steps will drastically grow your faith in God!
Key Scriptures: Matthew 4:7; Jonah 2; 1 Kings 10:1-13; Hebrews 11:1; 1 John 5:19; Ephesians 5:18; Ephesians 3:16-17; Galatians 5:25; 1 Thessalonians 4:3; Romans 10:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, 23.
Discussion Questions:
Why did Jesus refuse to give the scribes and Pharisees the sign they demanded, and what does this reveal about the nature of faith?
How does the story of Jonah serve as a prophetic symbol for Jesus' death and resurrection?
What does the parable of the unclean spirit teach us about the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit?
How can we prioritize our spiritual family without neglecting our biological family?
In what ways can we apply Jesus' teaching about doing God's will in our daily lives?
Personal Application:
Root Your Faith in God's Word: Establish your beliefs and actions on the Bible rather than seeking signs or miracles. Reflect on Romans 10:17, "So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ."
Seek the Holy Spirit: Continuously invite the Holy Spirit to fill your life. Meditate on Ephesians 5:18, "And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit."
Embrace Repentance: Regularly evaluate your life and repent from anything that separates you from God. Remember that repentance is a turning away from sin and towards God, much like the people of Nineveh.
Value Spiritual Relationships: Invest time and effort in relationships with fellow believers who encourage your faith and hold you accountable, as emphasized in Hebrews 10:24-25.
Live Out God's Will: Actively seek and obey God's will in every area of your life, including your work, relationships, and personal conduct. Reflect on Micah 6:8, "He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?"
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the wisdom and guidance found in Your Word. Help us to root our faith deeply in Your promises and seek the constant filling of Your Holy Spirit. May we value our spiritual family and strive to do Your will in all aspects of our lives. Strengthen us to live out our faith with integrity and love, bringing glory to Your name. In Jesus' name, Amen.
