KE Group Questions
Week of April 26, 2026

Summary
Pastor Joel delivers a powerful message on the cost of discipleship from Luke 9:23-25, emphasizing that following Jesus requires more than casual belief—it demands complete surrender. He explains that Jesus calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross daily, and follow Him wholeheartedly. The pastor challenges the congregation to move beyond partial commitment to radical discipleship, comparing our dedication to Christ with the discipline shown by other religious groups. He emphasizes that discipleship means surrendering personal sovereignty to Christ's lordship, accepting death to self as a daily lifestyle, and being willing to suffer for righteousness. The message concludes with a call for revival readiness and deep intimacy with God, urging believers to become serious about their walk with Christ in these critical times.

Ice Breaker
What's one daily habit or routine that you've committed to that requires discipline, and what motivates you to stick with it?

Key Verses
  • Luke 9:23-25
  • Galatians 2:20
  • Romans 8:13

Questions
  • What does it mean to 'deny yourself' in practical, everyday terms? How might this look different for each person?
  • Pastor Joel mentioned that many want the benefits of Christ but few want the cost of following Him. What are some benefits people seek from faith, and what costs might they be avoiding?
  • The sermon compares discipleship to living under a monarchy with Jesus as King. How does this perspective change the way we approach our relationship with Christ?
  • What does 'taking up your cross daily' mean in our modern context? How is this different from occasional sacrifice?
  • Pastor Joel emphasized being 'spirit-led' rather than 'flesh-led.' Can you share an example of when you had to choose between what your spirit was leading you to do versus what your flesh wanted?
  • The pastor talked about being disciplined in our faith like Muslims are with their prayer times. What can we learn from the dedication of other religious groups?
  • How do we balance personal ambition and goals with complete surrender to God's will? Is it possible to have both?
  • Pastor Joel mentioned being ready for revival and welcoming people from all backgrounds. How can we prepare our hearts to love and accept people who are very different from us?

Life Application
This week, identify one area of your life where you've been holding back from complete surrender to Christ. It might be your career ambitions, a relationship, your finances, or your time. Practice daily denial in this area by consciously choosing God's will over your own desires. Each morning, pray specifically about this area and ask the Holy Spirit to guide your decisions throughout the day.

Key Takeaways
  • True discipleship requires complete surrender, not casual belief or partial commitment
  • Following Jesus involves three essential conditions: deny yourself, take up your cross daily, and follow Him
  • Denial means surrendering personal sovereignty to Christ's lordship and rejecting self-centered living
  • Taking up your cross daily means accepting death to self as a lifestyle and being willing to suffer for righteousness
  • We must be spirit-led rather than flesh-led, making decisions based on what pleases God rather than our selfish desires

Importance  of KE Groups

Growing spiritually takes a daily personal walk with God and a gathering together in fellowship with other believers.

Our corporate gathering is for equipping the saints, but meeting in small groups allows regular individual
participation so that personal needs can be addressed.

Small groups also foster growth in ministering the gifts of the Holy Spirit, accountability, and the support
necessary to be a healthy member of the family of God.

The leadership of Praise Tabernacle has encouraged group leaders to be missional and evangelistic
in their approach to leading these groups.

The ultimate goal is Kingdom Expansion.

Learn More

KE  (KINGDOM EXPANSION)  
GROUP LOCATIONS


Egg Harbor Township
Wednesday Nights @ 6:30 pm - Andy & Lori Holman's home -

1st & 3rd Wednesday Nights @ 7:00 pm - Terry & Sue Luma's home -


Mays Landing
1st Wednesdays, 7 pm - Host: Pastor Josh & Loraine Kennedy;

3rd Wednesdays, 7 pm - Host: Matt & Elise Lucas;

4th Wednesday, 7 pm - Host: Caleb & Tahlia Wilkes;

Reach out to Pastor Josh if you have any questions: (609) 402-8869

Egg Harbor City
2nd & 4th Wednesday Nights @  6:30pm - Eddie Aponte's home -


Galloway
2nd & 4th Wednesday Nights @  6:30pm -Greg & Regina's home


Ocean View
Sunday Nights (Every 1st & 3rd) @ 6pm - Joanne Utt's Home  -