THE LIFE OF LIMITS |2.9.25| JUSTIN KENDRICK

From 1 John 2, Pastor Justin Kendrick defined the love of the world as those systems of thinking that only takes into account the material universe. He discussed idolatry as the default setting of our hearts, and our need of "internal guardrails” to keep us within the Father’s love. By exploring the temptations of the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, he reminds the congregation that these idols lead to spiritual emptiness and chaos. Ultimately, Pastor Justin calls for embracing the limits set by God and deepening one's relationship with the Father, as this is the pathway to true fulfillment and lasting joy.

If you could invite any three fictional characters to a dinner party, who would they be and what outrageous dish would you serve that would surely confuse them?

HEAD: Read 1 John 2:15-17

• In this passage, what are we warned against and why?

• What is the key distinction between loving "the world" and loving the Father, according to verse 15?

• Explain the meaning of "the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life" as listed in verse 16.

• What action is commended? How does John embed his instructions within the gospel message?

HEART:

• How does our resistance to limits reveal hidden idols?

• Think about a limit that you've resisted. What do you think that resistance says about what you were truly holding onto or afraid to let go of?

• When you're faced with the temptation to disregard limits or boundaries, how does reminding yourself of the Father’s love for you shift your perspective?

• What specific habits can you implement to help you form healthy limits this week?

• How will your plans for the week need to change in order to incorporate these into your routine?

Option: Consider breaking your group down into pairs or small groups of people of the same gender this week.

• Pray for insight into your personal idols and the grace to address them.

• Ask for God's guidance in establishing healthy limits in your life.

• Seek strength to support one another in spiritual growth.

 Pastor Justin spoke of the importance of establishing a Sabbath in our life cadence. Spend time meditating on God’s invitation in the Sabbath: Genesis 1:1-2:3; Psalm 103:19-23, Deuteronomy 5:12–14, Exodus 31:14–17, Leviticus 25:1-7, Isiaah 58:13-14

- What did God demonstrate for us in establishing the Sabbath and how did He intend us to use the Sabbath in our life with Him?

- What challenges you about establishing or strengthening a Sabbath cadence into your week?

- What is one change you can implement in the next week?

Consider these Sabbath practices from Bury the Ordinary.