The Threshold
Introduction
Life is full of moments where we stand on the edge of something greater. We feel the call to step forward, to trust, to fully commit—but something holds us back. A fear. A doubt. A sense of safety that keeps us where we are. The question is, what step of faith is God calling you to take?
In the second message of The Journey series, we explored The Threshold—the moment in our spiritual walk where we must decide if we are willing to leave everything behind and fully trust God. We looked at Matthew 14:22-33, where Peter took the ultimate step of faith—stepping out of the boat and onto the water.
Discussion Questions
In the midst of the storm, fear had taken over the disciples. When they saw Jesus, they thought they were seeing a ghost. Tell us about a time where fear took over and you did or said something that didn’t make sense.
When Peter recognized Jesus, he faced his fear of leaving the boat. As a fisherman caught in a storm, this was a big deal. What are some of the roadblocks you’ve had to deal with to follow Jesus? What are some roadblocks you’re still dealing with?
Read Matthew 14:29. With one word from Jesus, Peter left the safety of the boat to go to Jesus’s side. Last week Pastor Keven said, “When you’ve answered the call, staying put isn’t safe anymore.” Why is it safer to go out into the storm toward Jesus than to stay in the boat?
For many Christians, taking that first step into the un known is the most difficult step to take. What risks do we take if we choose to stay in the boat instead? How can the church better equip people to find the courage to take those first steps?
Read Matthew 4:19 and then Matthew 14:28-29. What’s the difference between these two moments of calling? Why is it important that we know the difference between simply following and actively going toward Jesus?
When Peter stepped out of the boat, there was no going back. He had to go to Jesus to survive. Why is it important for all Christians to have a “point of no return” moment? How does the illusion of safety in the boat keep people from following their call?
CALL TO ACTION: Memorize Joshua 1:9. Talk with some one about the biggest roadblocks you have in following your calling. Make an action plan to take steps of commitment toward your calling.