True Commitment | Discussion Guide
Summary
This sermon explores what true commitment to Jesus looks like, using the story of Hernan Cortez burning his ships as a metaphor for complete dedication. The pastor examines Luke 9:43-62, where Jesus teaches his disciples about genuine discipleship through three key principles: embracing humility instead of pride, extending mercy rather than judgment, and maintaining unwavering focus on following Christ. The disciples struggled with arguing about greatness, wanting to call down fire on those who rejected Jesus, and making excuses when called to follow. Jesus consistently redirected them away from self-centered concerns toward humble service, merciful love, and total commitment. The message challenges believers to examine what ‘ships’ they haven’t burned – the comforts, securities, and backup plans that prevent them from going all-in with Jesus.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather together today, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to what You want to teach us through Your Word. Help us to be honest about where we stand in our commitment to You, and give us the courage to hear what You’re calling us to. Lord, we pray that You would speak to each person here according to their need, and that we would be receptive to Your Spirit’s leading. Prepare our hearts to receive whatever You have for us today. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Ice Breaker
What’s one thing you’ve had to fully commit to in your life (like a sport, hobby, or relationship) where you had to give up other options to succeed?
Key Verses
Luke 9:44
Luke 9:48
Luke 9:62
Mark 1:17
Questions
The disciples argued about who was the greatest right after witnessing God’s amazing power. Why do you think pride so easily creeps in even during spiritual highs?
Jesus used a little child as an example of greatness in His kingdom. What qualities do children have that Jesus wants us to embrace?
When the Samaritans rejected Jesus, the disciples wanted to call down fire from heaven. How do we sometimes react similarly when people reject our faith or values?
Jesus told the first man that following Him meant having no place to lay his head. What comforts or securities might Jesus be asking you to surrender?
The second man wanted to bury his father first, and the third wanted to say goodbye to his family. What legitimate responsibilities or relationships sometimes compete with our commitment to Jesus?
What does it mean practically to ‘burn the ships’ in your relationship with Christ? What would that look like in your daily life?
How can we tell the difference between being a ‘fan’ of Jesus versus being a truly committed follower?
The pastor mentioned that discomfort and conviction are God’s grace in our lives. How have you experienced this to be true?
Life Application
This week, identify one ‘ship’ in your life that you haven’t fully surrendered to Jesus – whether it’s a comfort, security, relationship, or backup plan. Pray about what it would look like to ‘burn’ that ship and trust Jesus completely in that area. Take one concrete step toward full commitment in that specific area of your life.
Key Takeaways
True commitment to Jesus requires burning the ships – eliminating backup plans and going all-in with Christ
Genuine discipleship embraces humility rather than seeking personal greatness or recognition
Those who have received God’s mercy should be quick to extend mercy to others, even when rejected
Jesus calls us to focus outward on serving others rather than inward on our own comfort and status
Following Jesus means being willing to sacrifice earthly securities and comforts for the sake of the kingdom
Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, we thank You for Your patience with us as we learn what it means to truly follow You. Forgive us for the times we’ve held back, keeping one foot in the world while trying to follow You with the other. Help us to burn the ships of comfort, pride, and self-reliance that keep us from full commitment to You. Give us the courage to embrace humility, extend mercy, and focus completely on Your kingdom purposes. Where else would we go, Lord? You have the words of life. Help us to follow You anywhere, whatever the cost. Make us a people who are known not for our political positions or personal achievements, but for our love and commitment to You. In Your precious name we pray, Amen.