June 20, 2021

Matthew 14:13-21

June 20, 2021

Anders Clark

Anders provided us with 3 broad points to think about:

• "Let us not be put to shame by people who didn't even know who Jesus is."
• "Jesus is the ultimate Creative in both senses...mind and hands."
• "Lack of wonder"

1.  Remembering that Jesus and the disciples were most likely looking for rest from ministry as well as distancing themselves from Herod, when this miracle was wrought...what aspect of Jesus Christ's willingness to work while weary leaves you in wonder? How does His care and concern for the crowds impact you? How does this impact an area of service in which you are struggling?

2.  Why were 5000 plus people willing to walk to find Jesus in a desolate place?

3.  The crowd believed that Jesus "can supply their needs and help them."  Do you?  What need have you yet to ask Him to provide?  What spiritual help do you need in this season?

4.  How might you ask the wrong questions of Scripture?  Anders gave the example of asking "What does it mean that He (Jesus) broke the loaves?" If we sometimes want answers to questions that the Bible is unconcerned about, what are better questions? How can Bible study point us to worship, wonder and a deeper understanding of God? For what Biblical accounts has "familiarity bred contempt" or maybe numbness for you?

5.  Considering point #1: what needs to change in your life for you to address your spiritual sickness? How seriously do you take prayer, service, your spouse...the ministries and people the Divine Logos gives you?

6.  Considering point #2:  Jesus creates out of nothing: ex nihilo.  We learned it is a misnomer to say that Jesus "multiplied bread"...He "created bread and fish from nothing, in the moment."  Read and/or meditate on Gen.1, John 1 and Col.1...What is your repsonse?

7.  Considering point #3:  "The attrition of wonder is something that plagues the sick heart."  If you've lost your wonder for the Gospel, "the grace of God is the only remedy for the sick heart."  What Scriptures help us regain our sense of wonder of God? (Anders mentioned Job 38-42 and Revelation 4-5). Have you ever prayed to ask God to break old patterns of unfeelingness and ask Him to teach you to wonder, marvel and love Him?; to send the Spirit to cultivate your "hard, stony ground and leave you with the wonder of the Gospel?"  Share the results with your group.