Open Doors
Connection
Make sure to spend some time catching up with one another and share your highs and lows of the week.
Worship
Bible
Verse 10 says, "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake." How does this verse redefine what it means to be blessed? How might this challenge our view of success and blessing in a culture like ours?
What do you think Jesus meant by "rejoice and be glad" in verse 12 when facing persecution? Why is it important for Christians to see persecution as an opportunity to share in Jesus' sufferings?
In verse 13, Jesus calls us the "salt of the earth." What are some ways that the persecuted church embodies this role as they persevere? How might they act as "salt" in places where faith costs them greatly?
Jesus calls His followers the "light of the world" in verse 14. How do stories from the persecuted church challenge or inspire us to be more open about our faith here, even in places where it is easier to do so?
How does knowing about the struggles of our brothers and sisters in places like Yemen help us understand verses 14-16? What might it look like for us to let our "light shine before others" with the same commitment they show?
Jesus warns in verse 13 about losing our saltiness. What does this look like for us in Newcastle, where following Jesus is generally safe and accepted? Are there ways that comfort or apathy can dilute our faith?
Challenge
After hearing John’s story on Sunday, who has risked everything to follow Jesus despite being from Yemen where being a Christian is illegal, how can we become people who are truly "salt and light" in Newcastle? What small, brave steps can we take this week to live out our faith publicly—because we have the freedom to do so?
Action
Take two minutes as a group to invite your MP to the World Watch List 2025 launch.
Prayer
Pray for our brothers and sisters around the world who are persecuted for their faith and for the work of Open Doors.