Preparing for Sunday - Matthew 10:16-25

October 10, 2013 by Bret Capranica Preparing for Sunday

Read Matthew 10:16-25
What is the overall main idea of these verses?
How do these verses compliment the theme of the instructions given in chapter 10?
In light of the main idea of this passage, in regard to what should we be wise and innocent?
Make a list of what the disciples of Jesus should expect to happen to them. Can you think of instances in the New Testament where some of this happened?
Make a list of the ways Jesus tells the disciples to respond to what they should expect to happen to them.
Why will people have so much hatred toward disciples of Jesus?

Do you know of any instances of this kind of severe persecution around the world? How would this passage assist you in praying for those who are persecuted?
To what degree have you faced the animosity of the unbelieving world because of your explicit relationship with and respresentation of Jesus? How have you responded? How could this passage assist you?
Why don't we experience this degree of persecution in our own culture today?
What keeps you from being more open in your representation of Jesus to non-Christian friends, co-workers, neighbors, and familiy members?

Go to www.persecution.org and find specific ways to pray for those being persecuted for their faith in Christ.
Pray for specific insight into ways your life has only been a mild, rather than explicit, representation of Christ to the non-Christians around you. What should change? How could you be more open in a wise and yet innocent manner?
Pray for our congregation as a whole to respond biblically and Christ-centeredly to the increasing hostility toward biblical expressions of loyalty to Christ. List ways you see this hostility building and use it as a list to pray for believers to respond well.
Pray for non-Christians who will attend this Sunday, that they will have their eyes opened to the value of Christ and their need for him.
Pray for those leading the service this week, that they will edify the body in how they serve us: Dawson Bryant, music; Rob Stouffer, Elders' Prayer and Scripture reading; Bret Capranica, teaching.
Meditate on the lyrics of the songs we will sing this Sunday and prepare yourself to sing with focused zeal with the church.