One Line at a Time: Deliver Us from the Evil
In this message, Pastor Robyn Elliott explores the concept of the Lord’s Prayer, particularly the demand, “deliver us from the evil,” emphasizing the difference between tests that prove character and temptations that destroy it. It examines how evil manifests both personally and systemically, urging us, as Jesus followers, to consider our complicity in such forces and our role in addressing them as a community. The prayer calls for solidarity as the church, and challenges us to see life’s trials as opportunities for growth or temptation.
Discussion Questions:
- How do you differentiate between a test and a temptation? Think of a challenge you’ve faced in your life – was it more of a test that helped you grow, or a temptation that led you astray?
- If Jesus doesn’t tempt us, how does that shape our understanding of God’s nature? Can you relate to this idea through personal experiences?
- In your opinion, what are the forces that try to divide and enslave people today? How do you see these forces showing up in your own life or community?
- When you pray “deliver us,” do you focus more on your personal needs, or the needs of others? How does this shift when you consider the church as a collective body in need of deliverance?
- What are some forms of evil – whether personal or systemic – that you might be complicit in, either knowingly or unknowingly? How do you think God might be calling you to act differently?