Likeable, “Be With”
February 5, 2023

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Message Review

People who were nothing like Jesus liked Jesus, and He like them too, but do people like his followers? As followers of Jesus, we are the salt of the earth, the light of the world and Christ’s ambassadors sent on a mission to draw the world to God. The way that many people who would say they’re not followers of Christ perceive those of us who are is making us unlikable. One common perception is that followers of Christ are sheltered. We live in our own world, and we don’t interact with anyone outside of it. To change this perspective we must think differently, not about what your positions are but about where you are standing. You don’t have to compromise what you believe to impact people for Jesus, but you do need to change your approach by thinking differently about where you are standing and saying YES to the relationship.  

Main Point | The potential for influence is created within the context of relationship. 

Scripture References | Luke 15:1-2, 19:1-10; John 17:15-18 

Questions      

  • “People who were nothing like Jesus liked Jesus and he like them too.”  Why do you think Jesus like people who were nothing like him?  

  • In your words what does it mean to be the Salt of the Earth, Light of the world, and Christ Ambassadors?  

  • Read Luke 15: 1-2. What does this verse say about the reason Jesus came to this world?  

  • Why do Non-Followers of Christ perceive Followers of Christ as Sheltered? What are some of the ways they can perceive us as Sheltered?  

  • Relationship impacts influence because influence happens within the context of relationship. Why do we need to have the relationship to be able to have influence?  

  • Read the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19: 1-10. What can we take from this story on how we should be “in the world”?  

  • Why did Jesus say yes to the relationship with Zacchaeus?  

  • What are ways that we can stay plugged into Jesus so we can continue to take next steps as we continue to be in the world?  

  • Why is seeking to Glorify God so vital when we are saying YES to the relationship?  

Challenge Question | Who do you need to say “Yes” to the relationship with? 

Application

Who do you need to say “Yes” to the relationship with? Take a step this week to get out of your shelter by saying YES to them, as this is the only way they will know you love them. This is the best chance you influence them as this happens in the context of relationship and you can only have a relationship if you are likeable. 

Verse to Remember: Luke 19: 1-10

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