Summary

Refuge is built around the idea of being a church of God’s unconditional love, where lives are transformed and changed as we partner with God in accomplishing His will in the world. The word church, or ecclesia in the original text, means those who are called out. The church is not a place; it is a people who have been called by God for a task.

Sermon Questions

1. In your way of thinking, should the church see itself as a house of refuge? Why or why not?
2. The church can be a place where the broken, hurting, and hopeless can find a reason to live. Do you agree with that statement? Why or why not?
3. Read these words of Jesus...And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” 12 But when he heard it, he said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. 13 Go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.” In your opinion, what does Jesus mean by this statement? How is this statement convicting of the local church?
4. A church of Refuge is where transformation is expected, welcomes anyone, but it isn’t apologetic about holding one another spiritually accountable. Sin (which means to miss the mark) separates man from God. Any spiritual journey that does not address sin’s destructive power will not result in transformation. It is the very definition of being renewed. Are you comfortable holding someone accountable? Why or why not?
5. In your opinion, what is the difference between a busy church and a purposeful church?