Dangerous Word Night, June 17th-23rd

Acts 11

What is a "Christian"?  Why do people call themselves that?

-Because my parents are
-because I believe in the same moral premises
-my behavior models it
-because I go to a Christian church
-I line up with the theology

Stats say that almost 9/10 Americans consider themselves "Christians."

-If your life was the only Bible that your friends ever read, how many pages would the book be?  How closely would it line up with what Scripture says?

Let's look an a list of biblical descriptions of "Christians."

vs. 18-
Repentance of Sins
(1 John 1:9)

-How is repentance a positive?  Do you view it as a privilege or something you are forced to do?  What is the alternative to repentance?
-Why is repentance a significant characteristic of Christians?

vs. 19-
Facing the reality of problems and persecution

-How can hard times in your life be an incredible testament to your relationship with Jesus?
-Have you ever wasted a conflict or problem in your life?  Didn't capitalize, didn't take the opportunity to grow deeper or increase your faith in Jesus?
-What are some problems that you have faced, and how can you help others that may be going through those same problems now?  Don't miss an opportunity to help others lean on Jesus during their conflicts.

vs. 20-
Intentional Spiritual Growth
(John 13:35)

-As you continue to follow Jesus, what are you doing to focus on your personal spiritual growth?
-The church broke from their normal routine to reach a different people in a different place under different circumstances.  What norms do you need to break in order to get out of your routine in order to reach people for Jesus?

vs. 21-
Personal Relationship with God

-Followers of Jesus have a personal relationship with Jesus.  Sounds easy right?
-What's the difference between making a decision to follow Jesus and pursuing a real relationship with him?  Which one does your life look like?

vs. 22-24
Remain Faithful

-Barnabas was sent to encourage the church in their faith, to keep trusting and relying on God, and to continue to use their abilities to glorify God.  What areas of your life do you need a pep-talk in?  What areas do you need encouraged to remain faithful?  Help encourage your group members weekly to remain faithful.

vs. 25-26
THE MAIN POINT:  How you live indicates what you believe about Jesus.

-What does your life tell others about Jesus?  Your finances, your family, your lifestyle, your decisions.
-What does your "evangelistic urgency" tell others about Jesus?  If you aren't telling people about Jesus, then it's hard to convince them that he's really as important as you say he is.
-The unchurched looked at the church at Antioch and called them "Christians."  If you asked your friends to list 5 words that describe you, would "Christian" be one of them?

A Dangerous Church isn't known for it's numbers or location or pastor.  A Dangerous Church is known for having people that look and act like Jesus.  Is your rGroup Dangerous?