Discussion Questions: Luke 6:46-49

For the message, Building Upon the Right Foundation given by Pastor John Ferguson at New City Church on October 20, 2013

These discussion questions are designed to help you reflect upon and apply the message from the Scriptures. You can use these by yourself for reflection, or you could use these with your family or small group for discussion.

Introduction: Christianity is, no doubt, at an all time low in Western culture, yet Jesus seems to be popular at a popculture level. Why do you think this is? What do you think is the difference between someone who is merely a fan and someone who is a follower? What does that look like? Questions: 1. Jesus asks a crowd-thinning question when he asked his disciples, Why do you call me Lord, Lord, and not do what I say? (vs. 46).

Why is this question so disruptive? So revealing? So merciful? 2. Pastor John quoted the late missionary & author, Lesslie Newbigin, saying, The Christian commitment is distinguished in that it is a commitment to a belief about the meaning of the whole of human experience in its entiretynamely, the belief that this meaning is to be found in the person of Jesus Christ, incarnate, crucified, risen, and destined to reign over all things.

If confessing Jesus as Lord carries this import, then describe why it is inconceivable that we would not do what Jesus says. In other words, why does obeying Jesus necessarily follow from confessing him as Lord?

3. Look at verses 47-49. Here Jesus paints a word picture for us. Compare and contrast the two fellows in the parable.

4. Both of these men faced a storm they tried what they built upon. In what ways do trials reveal who we are and what our foundation is? Can you give an example?

5. Compare the words of James, the brother of Jesus in James 1:22-25. What is the big danger that concerns James? What is promised to us if we are doers of the word?

6. Pastor John said that it would be a good idea in light of this question & parable from Jesus for us to ask search-ing questions. What did he mean by that?

Look up Psalm 139:23-24. What does the Psalmist want? Why does he pray this way? What can we learn from this prayer?

7. Homework: In what areas of your life do you sense Jesus pressing you with the question, Why do you call me Lord, Lord, and not do what I say? Conclusion: What is the one thing you want to take away from this study to remember or to make a change in your life? How does this text help you understand your need for Jesus? How does this text challenge you to follow him?

Renewing your mind: John 14:15, If you love me, keep my commandments.