Discovering Jesus Part 4: Let Compassion Lead

Discovering Jesus Part 4: Let Compassion Lead

Why are we caring less?

Discussion Questions

Start Talking

What has your experience with church been like? Did you grow up around it, or is it newer for you?
Can you relate to the feeling of being “a lot to handle” or misunderstood? What did that feel like?
Have you ever had someone in your life like Don Walker—someone who saw potential in you when others didn’t? What impact did that have on you?
Why do you think compassion seems to be decreasing in the world today?
Which of the reasons mentioned (busy schedules, distraction, social media, desensitization, etc.) feels most true in your life?
When you see suffering or need, what makes you want to turn away or keep scrolling?

Read This

Read Psalm 103:8, Psalm 103:13, and Lamentations 3:22
- What do these verses tell us about God and compassion?
Read Luke 15:11-32 and Luke 10:25-37
- The Gospels describe Jesus as being "moved with compassion." What stands out to you about the way Jesus saw and responded to people?
- In the parables of the Prodigal Son and the Good Samaritan, how is compassion different from pity or sympathy?
- Why is it important that Jesus experienced human pain, grief, hunger, and sorrow?
  - How does that change how we see Him?

What Now

What are some of the biggest barriers that prevent you personally from showing compassion to others?
Do you ever view God the way the speaker thought others viewed him—as annoyed, frustrated, or disappointed?
- How does Scripture challenge that belief?
What does it mean to “get in tune with your own heart”?
- How might this help you become a more compassionate person?
Can you think of a time when understanding your own pain or struggle helped you better relate to someone else?
What is one simple action step you can take this week to get more in tune with your own heart?
What is one simple action step to become more aware of God's empathetic heart toward you?
Who in your life right now might need to experience compassion from you?
- How can you respond?
Henry Nouwen says, “Compassion means full immersion in the condition of being human.” What does this quote mean to you personally?
How does this sermon change or deepen your understanding of what it means to follow Jesus?

Sure compassion interrupts, it costs…but it is life changing!

Additional Series Resources

Bible Reading Plan