Greatest Hits-Week 1

An Open Invitation, Responding to God's Call
based on the sermon preached by Tim Bach, 9/7/25

Opening Prayer:

"Heavenly Father, thank you for bringing us together today. Open our hearts and minds to your Word as we explore its meaning for our lives. Help us to understand the importance of your invitation and our role in your kingdom. We ask for your guidance in our discussions today. In Jesus’ name, Amen."

Scripture Readings:

1. Luke 14:1-4
2. Luke 14:16-23
3. 2 Corinthians 6:2
4. Luke 9:59-62
5. 2 Corinthians 5:20

Discussion Topics and Questions:

1.The Invitation to God’s Table:
   - Read Luke 14:16-23.
   - Discussion: What does the invitation to the banquet represent in our lives today?
   - Question: How do we sometimes make excuses instead of accepting God's invitation?

2. Excuses and Priorities:
   - Read Luke 14:18-20 and Luke 9:59-62.
   - Discussion: How do excuses reveal our priorities?
   - Question: Share a time when you made excuses that kept you from responding to God's call. How did you overcome them?

3. Obedience and Timing:
   - Read 2 Corinthians 6:2.
   - Discussion: Why is the concept of "now" significant in the context of salvation?
   - Question: What steps can you take to ensure you're responding to God’s call today instead of delaying?

4. Responsibility to Invite Others:
   - Read 2 Corinthians 5:20.
   - Discussion: What are some obstacles we face when inviting others to experience God's love?
   - Question: How can you personally overcome the discomfort or stigma associated with sharing your faith?

5. Role as Ambassadors for Christ:
   - Discussion: Reflect on the statement, "Everyone you know is someone Jesus died for."
   - Question: What practical actions can you take this week to embody being an ambassador for Christ?

Follow-Up Exercise:

- Spend some time this week identifying opportunities where you can invite someone to “God’s Table,” whether that means inviting them to church, sharing your personal faith journey, or simply demonstrating Christ-like love through your actions.
- Journal about this experience and be prepared to share with the group at the next meeting.

Closing Prayer:

"Lord, thank you for the time we’ve shared in your Word. Help us to leave here with renewed determination to accept your invitation and extend it to others. Give us courage to set our excuses aside and show your love to everyone we meet. In Christ’s name, Amen."