Read James 2:1-4 & Genesis 11:1-9.  If asked, "Are you prejudice?" most people react with a quick no.  But if the question is turned around to ask, "Who or what kind of people do you favor?" then all people would probably have an answer. According to James, prejudice can be defined as becoming judges with evil intentions, for your own way, your own kingdom. But James makes it clear that Jesus Christ is the only king and Lord and you are to follow him exclusively and diligently.

• Do you think you are prejudice in any way? 
• What kind of favoritism of people do you show in your daily activities?

Read Isaiah 9:2, 6-7 & Colossians 1:15-20. Even though humanity is naturally drawn to show favoritism and prejudice, God promises a more perfect kingdom in which to live. This kingdom of God not only is counter cultural to the world’s order and values, but demands full allegiance to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. It is only when you live out the principles and values of Jesus that you will be able to come against and begin healing the divisions and oppression that comes from personal prejudices.

• Name some Jesus values that are counter cultural to this world’s values?  Which values do you practice and which do you struggle?
• What parts of your life: thoughts, ideas, values, or actions, are totally under the authority of Jesus Christ? Which aren’t?
• Is Jesus Christ your Lord  How can other people tell?

Read Acts 2:4-6 and Galatians 3:28. Just as the world was divided at the tower of Babel, it was restored on the day of Pentecost by the coming of the Holy Spirit. Now in Christ Jesus there is no longer any race, gender, socio economic classes, or creeds. As a follower of Jesus, you are to take this message, reversing the curse, and begin restoring the world into the kingdom of God. This is the life you are called to live.

• Since God is a god of restoration, what has God restored in your life?
• Do you think you are able to say that you would literally die for Jesus Christ? If not, how close are you?

Because you are under the Lordship of Jesus Christ and a part of Christ's body, the Church, you are also a conduit of heaven’s power and resources. You have the authority to come against the demonic forces in the world that continue to divide and oppress people as it lifts up wrong and evil values. Your two mandates as a Christian continue to be, to proclaim the kingdom, and to heal the sick. And Jesus calls you to go out without fear but in faith as he will provide you with both power and perseverance.

• Have you ever been a conduit of God’s power and resources to people around you?  Explain.
• How are you currently fulfilling the two mandates to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick?
• Will you commit to fasting and praying this week for Ginghamsburg Church and for what Jesus will do through you in this community?