What Makes the World, “World”?
Sermon Series
Sermon Study Guide
Scripture
John 17: 14-16; Acts 20:33-35
Speaker
Pastor Joey
Sermon Study Guide
Q1: Icebreaker: Who is the most worldly person you know? Who is the least worldly person you know? What is it about him/her that quantifies that?
Q2: ”Cosmos” is the Greek word for “world.” In John 17, it is not talking about creation or society as a whole. “World” here refers to “human society organizing itself without God” (quote William Barclay). So, what makes the world “world” is not the presence of pleasures, fun, or shallow/material things, rather what makes the world “world” is the absence of God. Can you give some examples around you that are “world”?
Q3: The first repercussion of a society organizing itself without God is that divisions happen. We have many differences that can divide us. What is the basis for Christians to be united? How can we guard against becoming isolated?
Q4: The second repercussion of a society organizing itself without God is the corruption of the world by the ruler of the “world” (John 17:15). The evil one does this through accusation, temptation, and deception. Which one of these tactics is most relatable for you?
Q5: When it comes to the world, Jesus does not pray for us to leave the world or abandon it, rather He sends His disciples into the world (John 17:18). Do you think the world needs disciples of Jesus? Why or why not? How does this make you feel about your inclusion in God’s restorative mission? How can we guard against becoming distracted?
Q6: In John 17:21-23 describes the oneness that Jesus has with the Father, and also the oneness in Christ. The Christian life is not just for God, or with God, but it is IN God. It is IN Christ that we are sent into the world. IN the one who has overcome the world (John 16:33). How would you describe the level of closeness you have in relationship with God? How can we guard against becoming distant?
Q7: Sanctified means to be “set apart.” Like Pastor Joey’s casino story, have you ever thought of being sanctified, a.k.a set apart, from the world? If not, why not? If yes, why would you want that kind of life?
Q8: Which part of this message on being “in the world not of the world” resonated with you the most? Which part surprised you the most?
