Connect Group Study Notes: 10 April 2022
Theme: The Lord needs it
Readings: Psalm 31:9-16 and Luke 19:28-44
Fellowship (10 min)
Begin with general conversation and sharing about how the past week has gone. Try not to go over time.
Worship and Prayer (15 min)
Click on the link below on your smartphone, Smart TV, or computer, to select songs to sing; and then spend a few minutes in song and prayer.
PLETT METHODIST YOU TUBE CHANNEL SONG’S PLAYLIST:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbsAkwbV_S1vXdZVPkZ0_tQW5n9RqeZX0
And if you need to check on the Message for the week again, then click on:
PLETT METHODIST YOU TUBE CHANNEL (MESSAGE):
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbsAkwbV_S1tV7iRJDkpH0RZOF0UYKVAv
This time of worship and prayer will encourage you to move your thoughts from daily worries and pressures to our time of Bible study and prayer.
Introduction:
Our scripture reading today is the story of Jesus riding into Jerusalem and his weeping over Jerusalem. While we read the scripture, put yourself in the story as a witness. Imagine you are close enough to see, hear, and smell what is happening.
Read: Luke 19:28-44
Discussion Questions (Approx. 30 min)
• During Holy Week, we will see many images of Jesus. Choose one of the following images – why is it a meaningful image to you?
Jesus beaten as a false Messiah and then enduring suffering on the cross.
Jesus willingly arrested and mocked.
Jesus hailed as king of the Jews.
Jesus as humble king.
Jesus as teacher of the new law.
Jesus gloriously resurrected.
• Kings and Caesars would ride warhorses into cities as signs of victory. What point is Luke emphasizing by noting that Jesus rode into town on a colt?
• What point is Luke emphasizing by observing that the people placed cloaks before Jesus (and not waving palm branches as in other gospel accounts)? Do you think it might have been to deemphasize the joyous nature of Jesus’ arrival, and to give a more sacrificial and humble tone to the story? Could it also be to asks us what we are willing to lay down for this Messiah?
• Place yourself in the story of Palm Sunday. What do you notice? What would you tell the crowd shouting “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord”? What would you like to tell the group of Pharisees trying to calm the crowds? What would you say to Jesus?
• Why did Jesus weep over Jerusalem? Was he pronouncing judgement on the city?
Faith Building – to think about this week:
How has your Lenten journey impacted you? What are you looking forward to during the coming Holy Week? How will you prepare for crucifixion? The Resurrection?
Prayer (10 min). Share prayer requests and then pray together.
Sending Prayer (2 min). End by praying the following or a similar prayer:
God of humility and power, we confess that like many others before us, we have at times made you into our image instead of being in awe of your glory. This coming week, help us to see you anew and afresh. Help us to be amazed and to shout ““Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven, and glory in the highest heaven!” Amen.
Have a great week.
God bless,
Tim.
With grateful thanks and acknowledgment to: https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/…. -small-groups