The Ways, Words, and Works of Jesus
Overview: This teaching guide is designed to help individuals and small groups understand and live out the holistic apprenticeship to Jesus by focusing on His ways, His words, and His works. The goal is to cultivate a life patterned after Christ in relationship, character, and mission.
Becoming Like Jesus
Key Theme: Discipleship is about being with Jesus, becoming like Him, and doing what He did. This requires intention, surrender, and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit.
Prayer: Invite the Holy Spirit to lead you deeper into the ways, words, and works of Jesus.
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Session 1: The Ways of Jesus – How He Lived
Key Idea: Jesus lived with intentional rhythms of abiding, rest, compassion, and dependence on the Father. We are called to follow His lifestyle, not just believe in His message.
Scriptures:
- 1 John 2:6 – “Whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.”
- Matthew 11:28–30 – “Come to me… and you will find rest for your souls.”
- Luke 5:16 – “But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray.”
Discussion Questions:
- What practices or rhythms marked Jesus’ life?
- How does your current lifestyle reflect or differ from Jesus’?
- What is one way you can begin to imitate Jesus’ way of life this week?
Spiritual Practice: Implement a rhythm of Sabbath, silence and solitude, or intentional prayer.
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Session 2: The Words of Jesus – What He Taught
Key Idea: Jesus’ teachings are central to discipleship. We are not just called to know His words but to live by them.
Scriptures:
- John 8:31 – “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples.”
- Matthew 7:24 – “Everyone who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man…”
- Matthew 24:35 – “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.”
Discussion Questions:
- What teaching of Jesus challenges you the most?
- How do you regularly engage with the words of Jesus?
- Where in your life is Jesus calling you to obey His teaching?
Spiritual Practice: Daily reading of the Gospels. Choose one teaching of Jesus to meditate on and practice this week.
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Session 3: The Works of Jesus – What He Did
Key Idea: Jesus healed, served, preached, and made disciples. His followers are empowered to continue His mission in the world.
Scriptures:
- John 14:12 – “…whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do…”
- John 20:21 – “As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.”
- Luke 4:18 – “He has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor…”
Discussion Questions:
- How do you see the works of Jesus being lived out today?
- What gifts or opportunities has God given you to participate in His mission?
- Who can you serve, pray for, or share the gospel with this week?
Spiritual Practice: Engage in a tangible act of service or mission—prayer for healing, serving the poor, or sharing your testimony.