Not That Jesus: Political Jesus
Sunday, April 26, 2026
Not That Jesus #4 - Political Jesus
WELCOME (15 minutes)
Ice Breaker: What’s one thing from your experience that can divide a room almost instantly—sports team, brand, food take, political issue, etc.?
WORSHIP (10 minutes)
Use your favorite streaming service & sing, “Hymn of Heaven” by Phil Wickham.
WIN (15 minutes)
Pray for people you know who don’t know Jesus as their Savior.
WORD (25 minutes)
- We don’t just want Jesus to save us. We want Jesus to side with us. What do you think about that? Where do you see that tendency in people? In yourself?
- Read aloud John 18:33-37. What kind of king is Jesus? What is Pilate really asking Jesus? Why is it a political question? What stood out to you from Jesus saying, “My kingdom is not of this world”?
- Read Mark 12:13–17 Participation cannot become devotion! Why is that such an important distinction? How can politics become a rival throne in a person’s life?
- What did you think about this line: “Once your cause starts excusing what Jesus forbids, it’s become your king.” How does that ring true?
- Read Matthew 6:31–33. Which Kingdom Are You Seeking First? How can someone care deeply about politics, justice, and culture without being owned by them?
- Where are you most tempted to ask Jesus to side with you instead of rule over you? Finish one of these sentences:
- a) “One area where I’ve wanted Jesus to side with me instead of rule over me is ________.”
- b) “This week, I need to stop giving my heart to ________ and seek first God’s kingdom in this area.”
- c) “If I’m a Christ-follower, one way I need to have conviction without contempt this week is ________.”
WORKS (25 minutes)
- Break down into groups of 2 or 3
- Pray this simple honest prayer together: “King Jesus, forgive us for wanting You to side with us instead of rule over us. Forgive us for giving parts of our hearts to lesser kingdoms. Help us seek first Your kingdom and Your righteousness. Amen”