Message Big Idea

In order to BLESS our neighbor, Jesus invites us to listen.

Scripture

Luke 18:35-43

Icebreaker & Opening Thought

1. Have you ever misread a lyric, like really misheard? Would you sing the song as you’d heard it?
2. Christ-followers are known more for talking than for listening. Additionally, as a society, we seem to be losing the skill of listening, treating it as an afterthought instead of a vital part of relationships. The art of having a conversation requires deep thinking and authentic listening, something that can be cultivated and taught. What do you think it takes to be a good listener?

Bible Discussion

3. Read Luke 18:35-43, what stood out to you?
4. Read John 5:1-9, what struck you about this interaction with Jesus?
5. If Jesus, the Son of God, stopped to listen to the people around him, what’s stopping us?

Life Application

6. Read this quote from David Augsburger and discuss your experience with being heard: “Being heard is so close to being loved that for the average person, they are almost indistinguishable.”
7. We often fake-listen, just waiting for our turn to talk or to turn the conversation to something that affects us. How hard is it to listen without actively formulating a response?
8. Listening is a humbling act; it requires admitting that perhaps we can’t anticipate what the other person wants to talk about or that maybe their needs are different than we’d thought. What does it feel like to actively listen?

Challenge

Make a plan this week to truly listen to the people in your life by beginning to pray, “Jesus, help me to listen today.” Have a conversation where your only goal is to discover what your friend or colleague needs. As you listen, ask yourself if this is a practical, emotional, or spiritual need? Can you meet their need?