Discussion Guide | Mar. 16, 2025

March 17th, 2025

Introduction

"Lift Your Expectations" - Sermon Summary

This week's sermon discusses the biblical story of Jesus calling Peter and other fishermen to be his disciples, found in Luke 5:1-11. Pastor Bill uses this narrative to encourage believers not to give up on their spiritual aspirations and dreams, even when they feel they've exhausted all possibilities. He emphasizes how Jesus met the fishermen in their everyday work environment and transformed their ordinary task into a miraculous catch of fish, ultimately calling them to a greater purpose of 'fishing for people.'

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your Word, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to receive what You want to teach us today. Help us to recognize areas where we may have given up hope or stopped expecting Your movement in our lives. Give us the courage to cast our nets again in faith. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Ice Breaker

Share about a time when you were ready to give up on something, but decided to give it one more try. What was the outcome?

Main Study

Key Verses

Luke 5:4
Luke 5:5
Luke 5:10
2 Chronicles 15:7

Questions

What areas of your life have you 'washed your nets' and given up expecting God to move?
How do you think Peter felt when Jesus asked him to cast his nets again after a night of catching nothing?
What's the significance of Jesus calling them to go into 'deep water'? How does this apply to our spiritual lives?
How do you typically respond when God asks you to do something that seems contrary to your experience or expertise?
What does Peter's response to the miracle (falling at Jesus' knees) tell us about encountering God's power?
How does the concept of 'fishing for people' translate into our modern-day Christian walk?
What's the difference between operating in 'survival mode' versus 'surrender mode' in our spiritual lives?
How can we maintain expectancy for God's movement in our lives even when we don't see immediate results?

Life Application

This week, identify one area where you've given up expecting God to move. Make a commitment to 'cast your net again' by taking a step of faith in that area. This might mean renewing your prayer life, reaching out to someone you've stopped praying for, or pursuing a God-given dream you've put aside.

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Closing

Key Takeaways

God often works through ordinary circumstances to produce extraordinary results
Obedient steps, even when they seem illogical, can lead to unexpected blessings
True discipleship requires leaving comfort zones and going into 'deeper waters' with God
God can use our professional skills and everyday experiences for His kingdom purposes
We serve a God of second chances who can restore our faith and expectations

Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for reminding us that You are the God of new seasons and fresh starts. Help us to move beyond our comfort zones and into the deeper waters of faith where You can work miracles through our lives. Give us the courage to cast our nets again in those areas where we've lost hope. May we be faithful disciples who follow You wholeheartedly, trusting in Your perfect timing and purposes. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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