This message sets up the series by making a case for the fact that our faith in God should connect with our ordinary lives, then gives focus to it by drawing attention to our pursuits and priorities as we start the year.
(Matthew 6:33 and Various Others)
Sermon Outline
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)
Introduction
- 2026 and new year’s resolutions
- This series on everyday ordinary faith
- Where we start with this series
First Things First (Matthew 6:33)
- Seeking first as before all other pursuits
- Seeking first as integrative with all other pursuits
Letting God Speak Into Our Pursuits and Priorities
- In light of the Great Commandment (Matthew 22:36-40)
- In light of the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7, esp. 7:24-27)
Living in Light of the End
- Living for what matters most and not for what is meaningless (Ecclesiastes 1:3; 12:1, 13)
- Living for what will last and not for what will not endure (Luke 12:13-21; 1 Peter 4:7-11)
- Living in light of the final day (Hebrews 9:27; 1 Corinthians 3:10-15)
Practices for Everyday Ordinary Kingdom Priorities
- Keeping first things first
- Living in light of the end
- Place every domain of life before God as we walk through this series: finances, engagement with the world, work, relationships, raising children, marriage
- Praying our way into a new beginning
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
- Do you make new year’s resolutions? If so, what are some of yours for this year? If not, why not?
- This week we begin a new sermon series entitled “Everyday Ordinary Faith.” This first week we will focus on faith-shaped pursuits and priorities. Whether on your own or with others, begin your study in prayer, asking God to speak to you through His word.
- Read Matthew 6:33 (you may find it meaningful to look at the entire context in 6:25-34). What stands out to you about this verse? What is challenging for you with this verse?
- What do you think it practically looks like to seek God’s kingdom first in your everyday life?
- Now read Matthew 22:36-40 where Jesus outlines the two parts of the greatest commandment. How do you think these words can be a helpful guide in showing us what we should and should not pursue?
- Have you ever felt the tension between appropriate care for yourself and love for others? How have you navigated that?
- Whether in your small group or on your own, read the following verses and reflect on how they speak about living in light of the end: Ecclesiastes 1:3, Ecclesiastes 12:1, 13, Luke 12:13-21, 1 Peter 4:7-11, Hebrews 9:27, 1 Corinthians 3:10-15.
- What is one thing you sense God calling to your attention personally through this week’s study? If you are with a small group, discuss that with one another and then pray about what you shared. If you are on your own, write it down, pray about it, and consider sharing your thoughts with someone this week.
DIG DEEPER
Exploring Faith
- What matters most to you in life? What would you say is your most significant pursuit? Do you think God has anything to say about these things?
- What will you do this year to explore who God is and what He has to say to about what really matters in our lives?
Growing in Faith
- Take more time with the verses mentioned above in question 7. Is there one that God is really drawing to your attention? Take some time to write down why you think God is drawing this to your attention and what it would mean to live your daily life in light of that.
- Memorize that verse and recite it to yourself daily this coming week.
Centered in Faith
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How might pouring into others for their growth in faith shape your life pursuits and priorities this year? Are there specific people God is bringing to mind?