Main Scripture Reference – Matthew 28:16-17
Other Scripture References: Mark 9:20-24; Luke 17:5-6, Mark 10:15; John 21:15-17;
Acts 2:1

Read Matthew 28:16-17 & Mark 9:20-24.  It is easy to forget that Easter begins with a painful funeral, scattered followers, and no doubt many disciples questioning God.  Just like that first Easter, major challenges to faith sometimes come upon you as you live this life, especially from big unanswered questions and circumstances.  But faithfully following Christ while living in the tension of belief and unbelief keeps you from becoming paralyzed and actually increases your trust in God.

➢    Do you have any unanswered “why” questions in your life right now?

➢    How have you learned to believe past some of your doubts?

Read Luke 17:5-6 & Mark 10:15.  Working past doubts means increasing your faith, and Jesus taught that even a small amount of faith is powerful enough to move trees and mountains.  You were created by God to have faith and it’s by trusting in God without knowing all the answers or steps in life that you begin to really live the adventurous Christian life God is calling you to live.

➢    Does your relationship with God reflect childlike faith or are you still trying to figure everything out before you feel safe?  Explain.

➢    What area of your life do you trust God the most?  What about the least?

Read John 21:15-17.  In order to increase your faith you must exercise your faith.  When you activate your faith it makes your faith stronger just like physical activities increases your strength and endurance.  One of the ways is to begin serving and ‘feeding’ the people Jesus sends to you; and Jesus’ heart is always with the least, the lost and the broken.  When we serve the least, we will find Jesus there as well.

➢    Have you ever encountered Jesus while serving others?  Explain.

➢    What specific faith experience have you had or seen that helped you believe in God’s resurrection power?

Read Acts 2:1.  Activating or exercising your faith should always be done in a community of believers who are able to keep you accountable, support you, and hold you up in times of trial.  Doubt has more power in your life when you are isolated but in the community of belonging you have encouragement as well as adventure together.  This is the model Jesus left for his disciples and the way God intends for all followers in God’s kingdom to live.

➢    Who is in your community of belonging?  Have you been on any adventures together?

➢    What would it look like for you to take your mustard seed of faith and activate it today?  Who will keep you accountable to this God-dream you have been given?