Read John 10:9-10 in your personal Bible or at the link provided.
Review
- How does Jesus describe Himself in verse 9?
- What is the thief’s purpose?
- What is Jesus’ purpose?
Reflect
Jesus paints a stark contrast between His purpose versus Satan’s purpose (described as “the thief”). Satan’s intentions are to “steal and kill and destroy.” He’s refined his tactics over centuries of time, and he fights dirty. Jesus, on the other hand, wants to give us abundant life. He doesn’t want to hinder our lives but enhance them.
People are searching everywhere for abundant, fulfilling life, and they’re coming up empty. All the promises of science, financial prosperity, and success don’t deliver. The world needs to hear and experience the hope of abundant life in and through Jesus. That happens through us, His Church.
When you’re on spiritual cruise control, that’s exactly where Satan can rob you of life, not to mention those who could receive hope through you. Corrie Ten Boom famously said, “If Satan can’t make you bad, he’ll make you busy.” Add to that distracted, distant, fearful, anxious, bitter, and selfish. Stepping into God’s plan of redemption for this world requires fully surrendered faith. It means refusing to let the enemy “steal and kill and destroy” your purpose. God’s plan of redemption isn’t a building, pastor, or church staff. It’s YOU.
Respond
- Based on today’s reading, what strikes you most about the life Jesus offers? Do you find yourself living that life? Have you thanked Him lately for providing it?
- Have you searched for an abundant life in places that have only left you empty? What might God be asking you to surrender to Him in faith?
- Reflect back on some of the ways Satan can rob you of life – busyness, distraction, distance, fear, anxiety, bitterness, selfishness, etc. Which one are you most vulnerable to right now? What safeguards could you put in place to keep the enemy from stealing your purpose in God’s redemptive plan?
As you process these questions, use page 53 of your Awaken Guidebook to jot down any key reflections or next steps. Be sure to bring your guidebook to your group! Page 54 is a great place to write down things that you want to process together.