Open Wide
The kingdom of God is far bigger than our egos! This Sunday, Rev. Jared Co urges us to stop trying to shut the doors that God has opened, and to abide by His will when Jesus opens what we tried to keep shut. Let us embrace, celebrate, and support the fellow believers God has called to HIs expansive kingdom.
Read Today’s Scripture Passage
Mark 9:38-41
Life Group Discussion Guide
1. Start with a prayer
2. Engage one another (15-30 mins)
– Share about a time when you felt excluded or not “good enough” to be part of something. How did that experience shape the way you treat others today?
3. Engage the mind (15-20 mins)
– Read the passage. What misunderstanding did the disciples show when they tried to stop the man casting out demons in Jesus’ name (v.38)? How does Jesus’ response to John (vv.39-41) reveal God’s perspective on cooperation versus competition in His Kingdom?
– What does it mean that “the kingdom is wide open”? Who can enter and serve in it?
4. Engage the heart (15-20 mins)
– In what ways do you tend to “close” what Jesus has opened (maybe because of pride, comparison, or exclusivity)?
– What situations trigger your desire to prove yourself, be noticed, or feel “better than” others? What does that reveal about your heart?
5. Engage the hands (15-20 mins)
– How can you practice humility and cooperation this week, especially in your ministry, school/workplace, or relationships?
– What practical step can you take to open your heart to someone you’ve been critical of or distant from?
6. Engage with God in prayer (20-30 mins)
– Praise the Heavenly Father for opening wide the doors of His Kingdom through Jesus Christ. Thank Him that no one is too small, unworthy, or unqualified to receive His love and to serve in His name. Rejoice that in His Kingdom, every act done in faith—no matter how small—is seen, valued, and rewarded. Celebrate His grace that frees us from striving for importance and welcomes us to simply belong to Him.
– Repent for the times you have allowed pride, comparison, or insecurity to close what Jesus has opened. Ask forgiveness for using the good things God has given you to elevate yourself or exclude others. Pray for a humble heart that rejoices in others’ victories and honors Christ above all. Ask the Lord to open your mind to a kingdom mindset and to free your heart from pride, so you may serve together with others in faith, love, and unity for His glory.
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