We see in the bible that God’s people rejected Him as their king and demanded a human king like the surrounding nations. God granted the request of His people, giving them over to their disobedience. Let us learn from God's people the mistakes in putting our hope in a man, and let us focus on the true king we need, King Jesus.
This week Pastor Jesse concludes “The People Wanted a King” series. Being exposed to agendas that contradict and oppose the Word of God should “not” move us to adapt and follow; it should provoke us to stand and challenge. The word of God is how we should measure what a leader says. We are fortunate to live in a nation where we have a free election and one that allows its citizens to participate in. We can choose to adapt and follow or stand and challenge.
(The goal is to grow in our relationship with Christ and each other. It is ok if you don’t cover every question.)
1. Share about a time when you deeply disappointed or hurt your parents as a child.
2. Has someone close to you ever deeply disappointed or hurt you? How did you respond?
3. Have a volunteer read 2 Chronicles 33:10-17. When Manasseh would not respond to the Word of the Lord, how did God get his attention (v. 11)? How did Manasseh respond (vv. 12-13)?
4. Why do you think God warned Manasseh (v. 10) before raising up the Assyrians to capture him? What does this tell us about God?
5. How has God disciplined you in the past to help you see your need for Him?
6. According to these verses, who changed the course of Manasseh’s life? How does that give you hope for your own children? For your lost friends and family members?
7. How might you need to embrace the discipline of the Lord this week?
8. How might we as a group encourage and help each other in the process of discipline your children, or a wandering friend, or a person who rejects the Gospel?”
No one is beyond hope. We cannot write anyone off before their time. The most wicked people can still find God’s grace. The most undeserving can still be forgiven. The awesome grace of God is available to anyone willing to repent. Manasseh’s repentance, sadly, was too late to change the great damage that he had done to Judah over his long reign.
“One day, America and all its presidents will be a footnote in history, but the kingdom of Jesus will never end.” John Piper
Thank God for loving us so much that He is willing to discipline us when we are headed down destructive paths. Pray that we would fervently and persistently point our children to Christ with our words and actions. Pray for your group members, that they would embrace God’s discipline in their lives as a means of deepening our delight in Him.
Wherever you are in life, you have a purpose. At Upward Church, we want to help you become the person God created you to be.
A church isn't a building—it's the people. We meet in locations around the United States and globally at Upward Church Online. No matter where you join us, you'll find friendly people who are excited to get to know you!
