Small Group Questions: Elastic Faith Luke 5:33 - 6:11 Summary: In these stories, we are presented a choice between two ways. One is an old way of rigidity in mourning, traditionalism, and legalism. The other is the new dynamic way in Christ of joy, his lordship, and his love. We must choose Christ’s way through joyful ministry. Optional Ice Breakers - As a child, what rules did you consider stupid? How do you see these rules now? - What is a tradition you valued but have now given up? Explore 1. What issues did the Pharisees have with Jesus? Why do you think they were filled with rage (literally: folly/madness)? 2. Did Jesus break the Sabbath by continuing his work on the Sabbath? Did the Pharisees have a legitimate gripe with Jesus? Why or why not? 3. Why did Jesus provoke the Pharisees by healing on the Sabbath? Why not wait a day? 4. The Pharisees had generations of rabbinical teaching, wisdom, and expertise behind them. In their eyes, Jesus was a “new-comer” on the scene. What do you suppose it would have taken for them to realize they were off base? 5. What point(s) was Jesus making with the analogies of the new, un-shrunken cloth and the new wineskins? From these analogies, what does it appear the Pharisees root problem(s) may have been? Apply 6. When was a time it was difficult to accept the “new wine” God needed to put in you? Was it a belief, an action, or something else? 7. Since preconceptions are sometimes so difficult to recognize, what would it take for you to perceive and dispense with preconceptions that prevent you from taking in God’s “new wine” and grow spiritually in ministry and kindness? 8. What area in your life do you have the most difficulty in taking in “new wine.” Is it a ministry? A change of mind toward someone or something? etc.? Prayer Use Jeremiah 18:1-6 as a guide to your prayer