1. Jesus’ attitude toward people. With His superior intellect and constant desire to minister to others, couldn’t Jesus have derived great joy just from being popular among those around Him? What was His choice instead? We don’t place a high value on salt today, although salty foods such as popcorn, potato chips and French fries go a long way to satisfy our hunger these days. Then there’s the gift of light. How does this gift in this dark world witness to God’s unselfish love to each of us? 
2. Jesus’ treatment of people. Our lesson points out that Jesus always spoke with grace. Why was the career army officer so impressed when Jesus quietly said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of heaven”?  How did Isaiah’s prophecy about Jesus not breaking “a bruised reed” give us an idea of how we should deal with those who hear our witness? Should we perhaps spend more time thinking about how we make a point to a newcomer to our faith rather than allowing that person to “take it or leave it”?
3. Jesus’ healing ministry, part 1. You are probably delighted to play even a small role in our church’s healing ministry. But you may not be medically trained or equipped with healing skills. Does that lack disqualify you for a role to play in healing? What about spiritual healing? Is there a healing ministry for you and me to do with or without medical training?
4. Jesus’ healing ministry, part 2.  What is the threefold ministry in Christ’s life on earth? What is the purpose for bestowing a life of superabundance on us? The multitudes were eager for still more healing when Jesus left them Why did He do go away when He did? Was there something even more important for His followers to take care of?
5. The Second Coming matters. The parables in Matthew 25 focus on the end time, but are loaded with suggestions for us to pay attention to now. Talk about some of the ways you believe Christ is especially concerned for His people as we face the last days. Notice the stark difference in God’s people who are preparing for eternal life and those who are pursuing their own agenda and risking eternal life.  Pray one by one and in groups for God to lead us to meet the needs of those around us.

The above topics are presented to encourage group discussion and individual exploration of this week’s theme.

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