Stop Waiting to Exhale

Matthew 25:31-46 & II Corinthians 5:16-19

1. Read Matthew 25:31-46. When you read about the "overlooked and ignored" what people immediately come to your mind? Discuss your challenges or successes in being able to see those individuals as Jesus. What ways are you intentionally or relationally involving yourself with the "overlooked and ignored"?
   
2. Read II Corinthians 5:16-19. Have you ever considered before that God has given you a ministry to reconcile? What are your challenges or successes in being a steward of this ministry?
   
3. Refer back to II Corinthians 5:18 and read I Corinthians 1:3-4. Can you think of some instances where God brought you comfort and you were able to provide that same comfort for the "overlooked and ignored"? How easy is it for you to remember or share your own experience when presented with an opportunity to help the "overlooked and ignored" in the same situation? What are some of the consequences that happen when we decide to let the opportunity pass?
   
4. Refer back to II Corinthians 5:19 and read Isaiah 50:4. Is it really important to talk to God first about preparing you for the people you may encounter throughout the day who are "overlooked and ignored"? What has been your experience when you practiced this? What has been your experience when you have not? How has God used your "Turning Point" when having a conversation with others?
   
5. Refer back to II Corinthians 5:16-19 and read John 3:17 and John 15:12-13. What have been your challenges or successes in "regarding no one from a worldly point of view" and "not counting people's sins against them" but seeing them as new people? How challenging is it to love an individual who you may be offended by, don't understand or disagree with?
   

2012 Study Series • Copyright © 2012, Lake Avenue Church