1.         SERMON RECAP

(Visit  pmc.org.sg  to listen to the sermon and download a copy of the Powerpoint slides)

a.       Religious practices and religious knowledge do not necessarily lead to faith in God.

b.      We need to distinguish between the form and the substance of religion.  It is possible for one to master the Word without recognizing the Master of the Word.

c.       Not only does religion not save, it might actually prevent us from being saved!

2.         LIVE IT OUT

a.       Try and remember some “good intentions”(e.g. exercise, kicking a bad habit) that you had wanted to carry out last year but did not.  What are possible reasons?  Share it with the group.

>In what ways can your LG help you to fulfill your heart’s desire for growth?

>If possible, pair up with a fellow member for accountability.

b.      If you noticed transformation in a member of your LG, i.e. his/her faith has not been just talk but real – take time and effort to affirm this person.

c.       "God's name is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you." (Rom 3:24)

As we enter the season of Lent and begin our reflection on the Cross, let us prayerfully consider our witness to the world around us. Are we pompous and basking in false assurance?  Or are we genuinely seeking God on a daily basis, allowing our transformed lives to shine forth?

>This week, ASK a non-Christian colleague what he/she thinks about your faith as a Christian.  Let the response encourage you, or spur you to be a better witness for Christ.

3.         PRAY

Please refer to the PMC Mobile App, “MyPMC”, for our weekly prayer guide.  [Click on “PRAY”, then “Let’s Pray”]

Questions for Personal Reflection

> Is going to church for us a religious routine, or an act of faith?

> Is our primary concern in life, praise from God or approval by men?

> Are we Christians only in form, or also in power?

> Has all our years of Christian activities brought about a real change in our heart, and formed in us the love and humility of Christ? 

4.         GOING DEEPER

a.       "Sacraments are empty signs if they are not matched by the inner reality they symbolise." - David Cook

Discuss this statement in the light of some Christians' attitude towards Baptism and the Lord's Supper - e.g. baptism is not important because it’s only “outward”; it is alright to miss any service but not the Communion Service. 

Is it also true that while religion should be of the heart, outward observances do have their value and place in our faith?