CONNECT: Spend some time considering how to prioritise Jesus this year, and think of 3 ways to go about it. WARM-UP

1. Do you think you have more of a ‘head’ or ‘heart’ approach to priority-setting?
2. In our culture, how do we typically place ourselves at the centre of decision-making when it comes to priority setting? How does a Gospel approach to priority-setting differ?

Read Mark 8:27-29

1. What is the question that Jesus first asks the disciples? What were the range of answers?
2. What were some of the other ideas about Jesus’ identity reported elsewhere in the Gospels? What are some of the most common ideas today about who Jesus is?
3. How does Jesus make the question personal? How is this question also personal to us?
4. If you have not really considered this question before, how might you explore it in 2022?

Read Mark 8:29-33

1. What is Peter’s response to Jesus’ question? Does this mean Peter understands correctly?
2. How does Jesus fundamentally connect his Messiahship with the cross (and resurrection)?
3. Why would the news that Jesus had to die (and rise) been so shocking to those listening?
4. Why does Jesus rebuke Peter’s response so harshly? Why must Jesus die?

Read Mark 8:34-38

1. What does it mean to deny ourselves and to take up the cross? What does it not mean?
2. In what ways is following Jesus costly? Are there examples of people who come to mind?
3. Why is it worth laying down our lives for Jesus?
4. How have you embraced the cost of following Jesus? How does it involve your time, talents, and treasure?

APPLY: In 2022, what is one way in which you need to bring the use of your time, talents, and treasures more into line with the priorities of Jesus?

On Your Frontline This Week: What daily rhythm is going to help you live for Jesus in 2022?

Listen, Watch, and Read:          

• AUDIO: What does it mean to be a Christian by William Taylor
• AUDIO: Identity: Who do you say I am by Chris Wright
• AUDIO: The King on a Cross by Tim Keller

SERIES Resources:

• Series overview
• BOOK: “Resilient Disciples” by Rick Hill
• BOOK: “Need to Know” by Gary Millar
• ARTICLE: “What is a Whole-Life Disciple” by LICC (London Institute of Contemporary Christianity)
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