Big Idea

We make room for God to have center stage in our lives through repentance.

Scripture

Luke 1:76-80, Luke 3:1-6

Opening Questions

1. How have you been able to B.L.E.S.S. others recently?
2. How do you get ready when guests are on their way to your home, office, or any other place where you are the host?
3. In all the Gospels, the one who was sent to prepare the way for Jesus’ coming was John the Baptist. His message was about repentance. When you hear the word repentance, what comes into your mind? How does it make you feel?

Bible Discussion

4. Read Luke 3:1-6. What do you notice in the text? What phrases stand out to you in verses 3-6?
5. In the original language of the New Testament, the word for Repentance (metanoia) means “a change of mind.” To repent means to start thinking differently. Or, as New Testament scholar N.T. Wright puts it; Repentance is a call “to rethink your entire view of reality in light of the person of Jesus.” In what ways would Jesus call us to “rethink our view of reality?”

Life Application

6. John’s message included mountains being brought low, valleys being filled in, and paths being made straight. What needs to be moved, filled in, or straightened out in your life? What needs to become different? (See some examples John gave in Luke 3:10-14).
7. When we practice repentance, there are three steps we can take. We can get honest with God and with others. We can notice where we are resisting needed change. Finally, we can start small and take a small step toward a new reality. When we ask God for help and take small steps, we can experience transformation. How could you practice repentance right now?
8. How can we support each other as we make room for Jesus?