6-28-2026: Child-Like Dependence

Sermon Title: Child-Like Dependence  

Scripture Reading: Mark 10:13-31  

Sermon Focus: It doesn’t take long into childhood before we begin to desire independence and learn our society’s way of self-sufficiency. But Jesus says the Kingdom of God belongs to those who come to him as little children. What does that mean? And how can we cultivate a child-like dependence upon God and others? Pastor Melissa Lowther explores Jesus’ teaching and invites us into the counterintuitive nature of God's Kingdom. 

Thank you for going deeper in conversation with your small group. Use the following questions to help guide your small group discussion:  

1. Ronald Rolheiser uses the phrase “illusion of self-sufficiency” to describe the mindset of thinking I’m in control and can accomplish what I want all by myself. In what ways do you notice the “illusion of self-sufficiency” surfacing in your own life or in the lives of others in our society? 

2. Read Mark 10:13-16. Imagine parents bringing children to Jesus to receive a blessing. What kind of attitudes, emotions, and conditions do you think the children may have had? How does that inform our view of how God wants us to come to him? 

3. Now read the story of the rich young ruler in Mark 10:17-31. What stands out to you in this story? 

4. The rich man is asking how he can be part of the “age-to-come” life when God’s Kingdom is reigning over the earth and there is wholeness and justice and abundance and all are in right relationship with God and one another. But he is seeking dominion apart from dependence. Why won’t this work? What is the greater life God has in store for those who are in communion with him (consider verses 21 and 29-30)? 

5. Coming to God as a child involves recognizing our dependence (not having too high a view of ourselves) and being sure of our acceptance (not having too low a view of love of Jesus). Which one of these do you tend to struggle with? What truths about God and humanity do these Scriptures reveal that help address that struggle? 

6. Jesus Christ is the true and better rich young ruler who made a way for us to inherit God’s Kingdom life by giving of himself for our sake. Take a moment of silence to reflect on this reality and ask God how he is inviting you to respond. Melissa suggested some actions that may help orient our hearts, including prayer, practicing surrender, and spending time with those who are vulnerable. Is the Lord drawing you to one of these or speaking to you in another way? How might God want you to use whatever resources you have to elevate others? 

7. Close in prayer for one another.