Tough As Nails (1) – In the Beginning

Welcome to CROLCC, we are so glad you are here worshiping with us. For the past two weeks we have talked about what it would look like for us to live out our faith in this country. I hope if you were not here you would take the time to listen to the message online. Recently a Christian mentor told me this, “the days that we can just say we (Christians) love people are gone. We must now show people how we love. People don’t want to hear us talking about how we love anymore, they want to see it in action.” It’s a challenging statement, yet that’s exactly how Jesus called us to be his disciples, to love God and love others like we love ourselves.

Today I want to start a new series that will expand on the past two weeks. Life is full of danger and uncertainty. I think we feel it more so than we have ever felt in this nation. We see news reports almost daily about violence and terrorism. Not only that, sometimes we feel like our faith is constantly under attack. Did you know that 2015 was the worst year in modern history for Christian persecution? More than 7,100 Christians were killed for faith-related reasons; 2,400 churches were damaged or destroyed. Surrounded by uncertainty, it’s difficult not to be afraid. How do we respond? We can continue to shut our eyes and pretend nothing has happened. But Jesus offers us another option, a much better option.

Moving Forward

Uncertainty is for certain. It’s unavoidable. It’s beyond your control. But living in fear is optional. Remember that Jesus—your Savior—was born into, lived through, and walked into the jaws of uncertainty. Arrested and crucified, yet God raised him from the dead. That is the cornerstone of our faith. That’s why living in fear is optional.

Changing Your Mind

Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Matthew 10:29–31

Discussion Questions

1. Do you have a phobia? If so, what is it?

2. How do you usually respond to uncertainty? Do you try to control your circumstances? Do you feel overwhelmed and shut down? How effective has your approach been throughout your life?

3. Read Matthew 10:28–31. What are some reasons it can be difficult for us to live as though God values us so much that he’s numbered the hairs on our heads?

4. Read Luke 9:23. Think of a person or group that views or treats you unfairly because of your faith. What would it look like for you to “deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Jesus” in the way you respond to that person or group?

5. Talk about something—culturally, politically, professionally, or relationally—that makes you afraid. What is one thing you can do this week to replace fear with faith in your heavenly Father? What can this group do to support you?