Unfinished, Part3: Sacrifice
November 3, 2024

Download a printable version of this guide

Message Review

Big Idea: The second posture we must take for God to “carry on to completion” His unfinished transforming work is sacrifice. Discover what sacrifice is and why sacrifice positions us for transformation. God uses generosity to generate transformation because true generosity is sacrificial.

Scripture References: Philippians 1:6; Mark 12:41-44; 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Discussion Questions

• What were your initial thoughts or takeaways from the sermon?

• The concept of sacrifice often becomes distorted when it comes to giving.
  Wrongly, sometimes people will say you should “give until it hurts.” That actually isn’t in scripture. Pain and cost are two very different things.
  Sacrifice should cost us something, but it should still be done willingly and with joy. How would you describe your own experiences with sacrificial giving?

• Sacrifice is often referred to as “giving up something I love for something (or someone) I love more.” As a follower of Jesus, we might say that sacrifice is “giving up something I love for something (the mission of God) or some One (God Himself) I love more.” What is something you have sacrificed in your life – possibly even non-financial – driven by your love for the mission of God and for God Himself? What was this experience like?

• Read 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 as a group.

  • Why do you think Paul describes following Jesus as a race?

  • What does the concept of self-control in a race have to do with sacrifice?

• As you are running your race for Jesus, where are the roadblocks in the race of life that you are currently experiencing? What seeks to “trip you up” in your self-control and faithfulness in your race?

• When Paul refers to not running aimlessly but with purpose as to be an example to others, what are some of the things that drive you and encourage you in your race following after Jesus?

• Read Mark 12:41-44. While most of our giving is thought of as private, why did Jesus feel it necessary to publicly let people know what this woman’s giving meant to Him?

• Often times our true sacrifice is only known by us and by God – and possibly by our spouse if applicable or a close friend. What is the challenge in this? What is the encouragement in this?

• Does what you give currently represent sacrificial generosity? As you have been praying about what God may be leading you to do in regard to your Unfinished generosity commitment, does it represent sacrificial generosity? How so?

• What are ways specifically we can pray for you as you seek to take next steps in sacrifice in this Unfinished season, possibly even specifically as it relates to your Unfinished commitment? Be as personal and specific as you feel comfortable being without using any specific financial numbers and consider what next steps God may be asking you to take.

To watch or listen to Sunday’s sermon, visit our Sermons page.