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Group Study Guide: A Passion for Christ

Opening Question:
What's the most expensive gift you've ever given someone? What motivated you to give it?

Key Takeaways:
1. Mary's act of anointing Jesus with expensive perfume demonstrated her deep passion and devotion to Christ.
2. Jesus commended Mary's act as beautiful, despite criticism from others.
3. We often settle for "cheaper perfume" in our devotion to Christ, both as a church and as individuals.
4. True passion for Christ should be reflected in our priorities, actions, and sacrifices.

Discussion Questions:

1. The sermon mentions three types of people in the passage: the expressive (Simon, Martha), the excessive (Mary), and the expulsive (Judas, apostles). Which category do you think you fall into most often in your faith journey? Why?

2. How do you think the church today might be settling for "cheaper perfume" in its devotion to Christ? Can you give specific examples?

3. The sermon critiques various aspects of church life (e.g., traditions, extremism, missions). Which of these critiques resonated with you most? Why?

4. In what ways might we as individuals be prioritizing worldly concerns over our devotion to Christ?

5. How can we cultivate a deeper passion for Christ in our daily lives?

6. The sermon mentions that Mary's act is still remembered today. What legacy do you hope to leave in terms of your faith and devotion to Christ?

Practical Applications:

1. Self-Reflection: Take time this week to honestly assess your priorities. Are there areas where you've settled for "cheaper perfume" in your relationship with Christ?

2. Sacrificial Giving: Consider making a sacrificial gift (time, money, or talents) to God's work this week as an act of devotion.

3. Family Devotion: For parents, plan a special time to teach your children about key figures or stories in the Bible.

4. Church Involvement: Identify one area in your local church where you can increase your involvement or service.

5. Evangelism: Make a commitment to share your faith with at least one person this week.

6. Bible Study: Dedicate extra time this week to studying God's Word, perhaps focusing on passages about devotion to Christ.

Closing Prayer:

Father in heaven, help us to cultivate a deeper passion for You. May we not settle for less in our devotion, but instead offer You our very best. Teach us to live lives that demonstrate our love for You in tangible ways. In Jesus' name, amen.

Daily Devotionals:

Day 1: Extravagant Love
Reading: Mark 14:1-9

Devotional: Mary's act of pouring expensive perfume on Jesus exemplifies extravagant love and devotion. Today, reflect on how you express your love for Christ. Are you holding back, or are you willing to give your very best? Consider areas in your life where you might be settling for "cheaper perfume" - perhaps in your worship, service, or personal devotion. Pray for a renewed passion that compels you to offer your finest to God, regardless of the cost or others' opinions.

Day 2: True Discipleship
Reading: Matthew 16:24-26

Devotional: The sermon highlighted the danger of allowing personal preferences or traditions to replace genuine discipleship. Today's passage challenges us to take up our cross and follow Jesus. Examine your life: Are there areas where you've prioritized comfort or convention over Christ's calling? Reflect on what it truly means to lose your life for Jesus' sake. Ask God to reveal any "cheaper perfumes" you've accepted in place of full surrender to Him.

Day 3: Unity in Christ
Reading: Ephesians 4:1-6

Devotional: Dan's lesson touched on divisions within the church. Paul's words to the Ephesians remind us of the importance of unity. As you read, consider how you contribute to unity or division in your faith community. Are there attitudes or actions you need to change? Pray for the humility and patience needed to maintain the "unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace," even amidst differences.

Day 4: Shepherding God's Flock
Reading: 1 Peter 5:1-4

Devotional: The sermon addressed the responsibilities of church leaders. Whether or not you hold a formal leadership position, we're all called to care for one another. Reflect on how you "shepherd" those around you. Do you know the needs of your brothers and sisters in Christ? How can you better serve and encourage them? Pray for a shepherd's heart, attentive to the needs of others and willing to sacrifice for their well-being.

Day 5: Living as Salt and Light
Reading: Matthew 5:13-16

Devotional: The lesson challenged believers to be "salt and earth" and "light of the world." As you read Jesus' words, consider your influence in your community. Are you distinctively Christian in your conduct and conversation? Think about specific ways you can shine Christ's light more brightly in your daily interactions. Pray for courage to stand out for Christ, refusing to settle for a diluted or hidden faith.