Cypress Groups
Group Norms
Be courageous.
Be compassionate.
Be connected.
Be a cog. (Not a hog nor a log)
Making Sense of Life
A Life Sent - Oct. 26
Summary:
In this week’s message, A Life Sent, we looked at Jesus’ conversation with Peter in John 21, where the risen Jesus restores Peter after his failure and calls him to “feed my sheep.” Through this exchange, we saw three powerful realities come to the forefront: Jesus’ unshakable love for Peter, Peter’s renewed love for Jesus, and the response that love produces — joining Jesus in His ongoing mission. Just as Peter was sent to continue Jesus’ work, we too are sent to reflect His love in the world around us. A life of fullness isn’t just found in receiving God’s love but in living sent by that love — because a life sent is truly a life that makes sense.
Icebreaker:
What’s a “mission” you’ve been on lately — big or small — that gave you a sense of purpose or accomplishment?
Discussion:
When have you experienced God’s love become tangible through another person? What made that moment so meaningful?
Read John 21:15-17: Why do you think Jesus asked Peter three times, “Do you love me?” What does this tell us about Jesus’ heart for Peter — and for us?
Where has God placed you right now — at home, work, school, or in your community — where you might be “sent” to reflect His love in an everyday way?
What’s one step you can take this week to live sent — to intentionally bless, serve, or encourage someone in your life with the love of Jesus?
What is one take away from the teaching?
Prayer:
Spend a few moments thanking Jesus for His love that restores and sends us. Ask Him to open your eyes to the people He’s sending you to this week and to give you the courage to go in His love, on His mission.
Making Sense of Life
Life Imitated - Oct. 19
Teaching Summary:
In this week’s message, Life Imitated, we were reminded that the full life Jesus promised isn’t found by doing life our own way, but by doing it His way. While our culture prizes originality and authenticity, Jesus invites us into something far deeper—an apprenticeship with Him. As the Good Shepherd, He calls us not just to believe in Him, but to walk with Him, learn from Him, and live like Him. True fullness of life comes as we embody His way of life—serving others, forgiving freely, and loving sacrificially. Because life only makes sense when we do it His way.
Icebreaker:
What’s one “imitation” product you’ve tried that was surprisingly good—or hilariously bad?
Discussion:
Why do you think we’re so drawn to the idea of being “original” or “authentic,” and how can that desire sometimes work against following Jesus?
Read Matthew 11:28-30 MSG: “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”
What do you notice about Jesus’ invitation to “walk with Me and work with Me”? How does this change the way you think about following Him?
In what areas of life do you find it hardest to “do it His way”? What might it look like to imitate Jesus in that area this week?
If Jesus were living your life—your schedule, your relationships, your responsibilities—what’s one thing He might do differently, and what would it take for you to follow His lead?
Dallas Willard said, “ Jesus does not call us to do what he did, but to be, as he was, permeated with love. Then the doing of what he did and said, becomes a natural expression of who we are in him.” Respond to this quote.
What’s your take away from the teaching?
Prayer:
Spend a few moments in quiet reflection, asking Jesus to show you one area where you can imitate His way of life more fully this week. Pray for courage to walk with Him, work with Him, and learn His unforced rhythms of grace—trusting that life only makes sense when you do it His way.
Everyone is Welcome.
Seriously. Every week at Cypress, Christians and non-Christians, seekers and skeptics, fired-up and burned out all come together in search of answers to life’s great questions. There’s always room for more. We hope to see you soon!
