Counting the Cost

DISCUSSION GUIDE Read Matthew 10:32-42

Although our relationship with God is personal, our conversion is not
a private matter. We must publicly confess (acknowledge, proclaim, declare) that Jesus is our Lord and Savior. Romans 10:9-10 says, “That
if you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord’ and believe in your heart that God has raised him from the dead you will be saved. For it is
with your heart that your believe and are justified and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.” This is the simple message of the gospel.

A Test of Confession

According to Romans 10:9-10, what do you need to do to be saved?

Have you confessed Jesus is Lord in a public way? If yes, when was that? If not, what is holding you back from doing so?

Have you ever taken the step of believers baptism since trusting Jesus for salvation?

A Test of Commitment

Sometimes those closest to us do not understand our faith and can be the hardest people to share with. How have you experienced that with your own family or friends?

Have you ever had a time where you had to follow God and do what was right, even though others were telling you differently?

A Test of Consecration

“If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” Matthew 16:24

The word deny means to disregard, lose sight of, and forget your own self and interests. How do you deny yourself each and every day?

Taking up the cross is not a one time, single event. How do you take up your cross each and every day?

Pray that your family and friends would come to know God and experience his love, grace, and forgiveness. If you have never confessed Jesus is Lord and asked God to forgive you for your sins, this is a good opportunity to pray with someone in your group.